CBass,
It seems to be a recurring theme but I am also the owner of both an outback (mine) and a Sport (hers).
I am too heavy at 100 kg (220lb) for the Sport. I tried to use it more than the outback at the beginning, as I appreciated the ease of use, it fits through the door into the shed while on its trolley.
However, the outback is THE boat for fishing. I find it much better. I have an esky (ice box?) that fits behind the seat perfectly, and the extra length
means I am actually a bit faster than my missus when we are sailing
.
I also had a crack in the hull, where the mirage drive fits. But the hull was replaced immediately, no questions asked.
(The problem is well documented and is a problem of the past - should only affect used hulls not new ones).
I also suffered a broken chain on the mirage drive, it was replaced immediately.
I also had a worn out rudder string, but this was caused by overtightening of the rudder pull down string. Replaced immediately.
When I first bought the Hobies in Jan 2005 I got home to discover that one of the eskys was crushed, obviously during transit from Canada to Australia. The vendor (Sunstate Hobie) immediately sent me a replacement by courier and I sent the crushed one back.
If you expect perfect equipment in every detail every time, then maybe you should buy a surf ski or something. The Hobie is cutting edge, the on-going development is exciting, the product is amazing, the service has been extraordinary, and I live in Australia! What else do you want?
Mate, if you havent got one yet then what are you waiting for?
Cheers,
Jake