Re: [Paddlewise] Good deal on used gear?

John,
Sounds like you've got a good plan for preparing for your trip.  However I
would strongly suggest that you don't buy any kayak until you've gained some
experience.  I'm sure I'll not be the only who says that.... ;)

Those kayaks do not seem appropriate for an expedition level trip of your
ambition.  A 15' kayak is going to be slow, and have limited space for gear.
Also, it is likely to be a plastic kayak, which is slow compared to
fiberglass.  On a long trip like yours, even minor differences in speed can
make a HUGE difference.  You should be looking for something in the 17-18'
range. Also, do not even consider a goretex spray skirt, you will need a
neoprene one for durability and safety in rough water.

You seem like an athletic couple, so I would strongly encourage you to learn
basic edging and paddling technique so that you won't need a rudder for
basic boat control.  A long trip like yours is likely to cause problems in
delicate mechanical contraptions like a rudder.  Rudders are only necessary
if the boat design is lousy and/or the paddler has no skill.

You might want to check out a few kayak manufacturers that make excellent
designs.  On a long trip, the little things make a difference.  Two manuf.
that I like are Kajaksport and Mariner.  British boats are generally okay
too.  If saving money is a big thing, then you might consider making your
own kayak.  Pygmy kayaks are a good option, and if you are careful, a wooden
boat is just as durable as any fiberglass boat, but they only cost around
$700.  If doing something "cool" is important, then make your own Baidarkas
and paddle those to Alaska (very apropos). See www.skinboats.com.

New Zealand is awesome place to paddle.  I think there are a few NZ list
members who may be able to give you some good local advice on where to
paddle. Just be careful, as most Kiwis appear to be pro-rudder heretics ;-)
I'm thankful that I got to you before they did...

Cheers,
Kevin
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Fox" <jsfox_at_cisco.com>
To: "Paddlewise" <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net>
Sent: Saturday, February 09, 2002 10:47 AM
Subject: [Paddlewise] Good deal on used gear?


> Hello Group,
>
> Me again -- the newbie asking about paddling the inside passage! :-)
>
> As an update to our plans...  since our bike trip is taking us to
> New Zealand, we're thinking about taking some lessons there.
>
> Does this sound like a good setup for learning on?  Good price?  Good
> kayaks?  Think I'd be able to sell the kayaks in a year or so without
> losing too much money?
>
>    2 Dagger Edisto Expedition models - 15ft w/ watertight bulkheads
>    retractable rudders controlled by foot rests. Plus the following
>    gear (most still in original packaging and NEVER used).... CARBON
>    FIBER paddles - fully adjustable (lightest & stiffest),2 LOTUS life
>    preservers (best made), and a ton of other gear - bilge pumps, lots
>    of dry bags, waterproof deck compasses,GORTEX spray skirts (so your
>    body can breath while you keep the elements out),etc.  The kayaks
>    are big enough for open ocean but are maneuverable enough for the
>    lakes or rivers and all of the gear is top shelf - a lot NEVER used.
>    New, all this gear is worth >$3,5000 - I know I just bought the stuff.
>    I will part w/ ALL kayaks & gear for $1,600. Only call if you're
>    serious so we don't waste each others' time.  Beat the cost of 3
>    weekend rentals and OWN all the gear!
>

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