[Paddlewise] modifying mirages

to any new zealanders out there.

Mirage sea kayaks from sydney have a certain reputation among some sea kayakers. I suspect this could be improved by a number of small modifications such as rear VCP hatch, slightly stronger layup etc. I've seen one mirage crack when bottoming in mild surf (about 1m). One of the criticised points is the integral rudder which is often seen as vulnerable.

I heard on the weekend of NZ paddlers cutting off the rudder mount 'overhang' at the rear and replacing the rudders with standard flip over rudders. Any exeperience or knowledge of this modification?

thanks
nick

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