[Paddlewise] opinions sought on folding canoe

While the list seems to hold folding kayaks in high regard, I'd appreciate 
an opinion or two about the Pakboat folding canoes (or any others- the only 
folding canoe manufacturer I know is Pakboat).

>From the pictures I've seen, the Pakboat looks a bit flimsy and without 
a skin completely surrounding the frame as on a kayak I would expect this.

The frame appears to have more chine and keel bars then a 
folding kayak but only two small cross bars.  Lacking are the plastic ribs of
the folding kayak, which provide much of the kayak structure.
Of course, not having to install the ribs in a tight skin would make 
assembly easier I assume.

It looks like you are restricted to paddling from the one position where 
the knee pads and seat are mounted.  Sitting on the frame bars looks to be
very uncomfortable.

Are these boats stable?

Is performance acceptable?     Say relative to conventional canoes of 
similar dimensions.

Let me add that I'm primarily interested in such a boat for just
recreation and day trips on flatwater so use under more extreme 
conditions is not an issue.

Any information or experience you can relate would be appreciated.

Elmer Beachley
etb_at_cs.pitt.edu

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