Re: [Paddlewise] Looksha

In a message dated 9/3/99 6:09:21 PM, nickjean_at_speakeasy.org writes:

<< My experiences paddling the Looksha iv, without the rudder, was that it
tracked fine in light winds but that it weathercocked (turned toward the
wind) in winds of 10 knots or more, unsless I put the rudder down and
countersteered.  The boat turns fairly easily, so if you are used to
boats that track very well it might seem harder to keep on track, but if
you are having a real problem getting the boat to track in light winds
you may have a bent boat, the seat might be in the wrong spot, or you
may paddle unevenly.  If you are used to a very straight tracking boat
it may have been masking slight unevenness in your paddling. >>

Hummm, if it is my paddling how do I find out? I usually paddle my CD Breeze, 
a short boat with a lot of rocker that I think tracks beautifully, short boat 
or not. She can turn on a dime so I don't know what that proves. I admit to 
having paddled only a few boats so I can't say I have enough experience to 
tell much.
    The Sea Lion had no problem and the little Dagger Bayou, a recreational 
boat, tracks like an arrow for me but I don't know that tells me much. This 
Looksha is the only boat I've ever had any problem with. No wind, no problem 
but even the slightest wind and there she goes. I have to choke up on my 
paddle and sit with both legs on the right side of the boat to even approach 
pointing the direction I want to go, without the rudder. With the rudder, of 
course there is no problem. 
    I just keep forgetting which foot to push to go in which direction, very 
frustrating. I avoid the rudder whenever I can. When I do use it, it keeps me 
pushing very gently. Makes my paddling a bit hesitant because I'm so used to 
having my feet on firm pegs and I can just see me flopping over when I forget 
that I don't have those pegs to use.
    Can you suggest a way to test my paddling? Or is there something others 
could look at to tell if I'm off balance?

Thanks for the reply,
Joan
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