Inflating And Stowing The i9 Inflatable
This is a follow-up report for the i9. The operational report is found here:
http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewt ... 6036#56036
Note: the boat includes a Mirage Drive, standard rudder, seat, four part paddle, manually inflatable pump, patch kit and storage bag. Wheel cart (shown), electric pump (not used) sailing kit, sailing rudder (not shown) and accessory bag are optional.
Unpacked, it looks a bit wimpy
But after 1 minute, 45 seconds the i9 looks much more like a boat. Notice the tapered hull, unlike its larger stable mates. The bilge drain (located in the bow) should be open during inflation and closed when done. Hobie makes it simple, easy and quick.
Dimensions and specs (as measured). Note: weights are taken with a bathroom scale which my wife insists is too heavy:
Overall length 9" 7" (rudder up)
Maximum width 36"
Bare boat 40 lb. (Hobie lists 39 lb. Maybe my wife is right.)
Empty storage bag 7 lb.
Air pump (manual) 3 lb.
Paddles, seat and cart 7 lb. combined
Mirage Drive with Turbofins 7 lb.
Packing it all up, the pictures tell the story. Remember to open the bilge drain first to release any air or water. Just open three valves.:
No waiting necessary as folding begins:
Toss the bag on and tuck the corners
Flip the package and stuff the rest of the boat in
Looking pretty neat:
Why waste all that space? Lets add some accessories, and don't forget the pump:
Once upright, just roll it away:
Darned amazing how easily it fits in a compact truck:
That's about all there is to it!