MIRAGE TANDEM ISLAND 2014 vs 2017

Hello Everyone, I'm very interested in buying a new TI but after doing some research I'm not sure whether to buy a brand new 2014 model or the new 2017 version. At the dealership they are offering me a TI 2014 $2000 less than a 2017 but although the price difference is attractive, I'm not sure if is worth buying the 2014 model considering all the new upgrades on the new 2017. Since this my first TI, would appreciate very much if anyone can give some input in order to make the right decision. Thank you!

The only real differences would be the seats, 180 drive, and sail color. If you can live without the newer seats I would offer them $3k less than the 2017 and see if they bite.

Sent from my SPH-L720T using Tapatalk

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2015 Hobie Tandem Island Hibiscus
"Third Normal Form"

• Trampolines
• Hobie cover
• Davis Spar Fly
• Kayakbob's Sprayskirts
• Spine Board Hakas

Where are you planning to sail, lake or salt water ? Will you launch from a trailer or the beach ? I have a 2014 TI and sail mostly in the Gulf - off the beach - some lake/boat ramp sailing too. Personally I like the '14 soft seats. Launching in the surf, sailing solo, things happen quickly and it's easier jumping into a soft seat vs. the 'framed' seat on a '17.

The money saved will allow you to buy a trailer, and more gear and still not run the price up to a '17 model. Your call.

bill

I had a similar choice 1.5 yrs ago. I went with the 2014 because (1) it is lighter, and (2) it has handles on the side. I have a 2015 AI 2, so I know the difference between seats. I don't have a problem (I like them) with the cloth seats of the 2014. Put an inflatable Hobie i-cushion in, and they are very comfortable.

Keith

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2015 AI 2, 2014 Tandem

"Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex ... It takes a touch of genius and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction." A. Einstein

"Less is more" Anon

Thank you for this post and for the replies. I have exactly the same dilemma/opportunity. I was planning to buy a '17 TI within the next month or so from my dealer here in Santa Cruz. He has a "unused, in the wrappers" 2014 model he very much wants to sell me. He's offered it for a little over $4k. I'll ask him about the Mirage Drive retrofit and will see if he will come down even a bit more or may be willing to throw in some i-cusions or a PFD. Lemoche, have you made your decision (and do you happen to live in Santa Cruz)? Whatever your choice, happy sailing! Gary

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Tandem Island (Spring 2017)
Ivory Dune
Timely Intervention

A little over $4000 for an in-the-wrapper 2014 Tandem is an excellent price.

Keith

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2015 AI 2, 2014 Tandem

"Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex ... It takes a touch of genius and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction." A. Einstein

"Less is more" Anon

GarySC,

Are you talking about the kayak connection? I know last fall when I talked to them they had two unopened 2014 models. I bought one of them. And you maybe bought the other one? Or did you go with the 2017?

David