AI 09 vs 2010 differences

I am looking to buy AI, dealer has 09 and 2010, any advantage for the 2010?

2010 has a different seat back support and upgraded rudder pins I believe. Both boats are great, just do it!

Unless you're getting a great deal, you might also want to consider a 2011. 2011's have the larger rudder, updated AKAS (design like TI), and offer the Dune color (although some may consider RED a faster edge)

Turbo fins standard? This has been covered before.

At the dealership, keep circling back to the 2011, like you are all in love with it. You may get a better price on the older stock. BTW, 2011 AI's have a higher starting MSRP.

I don't know if the 2011 rudder is any larger, but it is reshaped and attaches via the new TI style gudgeon bracket.

All this is subject to change over the next few months, as Hobie sharpens their design pencils. So if you do spring for the 2011, don't get too attached to the twist and stow rudder in its current form.

The 2011 prefaded Dune color is wicked nice, but in bright latitudes you may find the glare from a light colored yak to be distracting.

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The Wind Is Your Friend...

I bought a 2009 in June at a 10% discount. The only differences from a 2010 mentioned by the dealer were a better seat back, a higher quality paddle and bungees on the pedals to keep them upright. I think the cushioned pedal pads are standard now, too. In my case, none of those were worth the US$350-ish savings so i went with a 2009. Within 2 days my savings were lost when the AI rolled in surf and destroyed both aka bars on the hull. Sigh.

Peter is selling a full set of aka very reasonable here: http://www.hobiecat.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=76&t=32328

If someone else that really needs them doesn't buy them shortly I'll have to.

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Hobie Island Sailing since 2006

Pictures Please!! Start a new thread.

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The Wind Is Your Friend...

Are you looking for pictures of my broken bars or the akas for sale?

Broken Akas! I know what new ones look like.

And sorry for your accident. - (Now lets see the crime scene photos).

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The Wind Is Your Friend...

Thanks for all the responses, I now own a 2010 Al, can,t wait to get it on the water. I Already have a i12s inflatable w/sail and have enjoyed kayaking with it. I would love to take it to FL in Jan and find a group to sail and kayak with.
Ken