Return to Hobie.com
Hobie Forums
It is currently Thu Mar 28, 2024 2:29 pm

All times are UTC - 8 hours [ DST ]




Post new topic Reply to topic  [ 3 posts ] 
Author Message
 Post subject: Drafting
PostPosted: Sat Sep 18, 2010 9:46 pm 
Offline
Hobie Approved Guru

Joined: Sat Nov 12, 2005 10:46 pm
Posts: 3017
Location: Escondido
Drafting can be just as useful in kayaking as it is in bicycling. Times when you might want to draft include:
-- Keep the group integrity when one boat or operator is slower than the other(s)
-- a group is heading out to the fishing grounds
-- extended trip or expedition

Of course on the water you're riding the swell or wake of the boat in front of you. The best place is on the perpendicular swell directly behind the boat, offset slightly from the fin turbulence (if you're pedaling). Here's a good view of the swell generated at fast cruise speed:
Image

The best place to ride is just ahead of one of the humps, as near the lead boat as possible -- just like riding downhill. Here's what it looks like if you're in the wrong spot (you're facing an uphill battle):
Image

This is a much better location:
Image

Here's a slower kayak taking advantage of the opportunity. Notice his position with respect to the swells.
Image

With a little practice, you'll feel it when you get into the groove. You can get a nice rest in this position.
Image

Drafting is not limited to kayaks. Anything moving near your speed will do (stay out of the prop wash):
Image

When the wind picks up it can be harder to see the swell, but it's still there and available. 8)


Top
 Profile  
 
 Post subject: Re: Drafting
PostPosted: Sun Sep 19, 2010 9:06 am 
Offline
Site Rank - Admiral

Joined: Sun Sep 13, 2009 6:35 pm
Posts: 152
Location: Pensacola Florida
Excellent post. After reading I thought,,, hmmm very good post with explanations and pictures. HMMMMM, who was that post author. Scrolled up and,,,, BING,,,its RoadRunner,,,,of course.. :D :D :D :lol:

_________________
http://s909.photobucket.com/albums/ac294/gsammy925/


Top
 Profile  
 
 Post subject: Re: Drafting
PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2010 9:31 am 
Offline
Site Rank - Captain

Joined: Tue Aug 24, 2010 4:51 pm
Posts: 57
This'll help my wife keep up. Thanks :) .

Keith


Top
 Profile  
 
Display posts from previous:  Sort by  
Post new topic Reply to topic  [ 3 posts ] 

All times are UTC - 8 hours [ DST ]


Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 2 guests


You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum

Jump to:  
© Hobie Cat Company. All rights reserved.
Powered by phpBB® Forum Software © phpBB Group