Re: [Paddlewise] Sailing Kahuna

----- Original Message -----
From: "ralph diaz" <rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com>
> Yes, the Kahuna can be rigged for upwind sailing now.  I know because I
was
> instrumental in a very small way in the development of that rig.  /skip/>
> Years earlier (1991) I had seen a Batwing sail that Mark Balogh had set up
> on a Feathercraft Short Touring model.  It had been set up as a sail to
the
> rear of the paddler/sailor (something that Mark had also done for himself
on
> an old fiberglass hardshell).  I discussed this with Alan as well as ways
> that he came up with for making the overall travel package smaller to meet
> airline regulations.  /skip/
> BTW, Mark worked closely with Feathercraft to do modifications that
> facilitate attaching a Balogh sail to the Kahuna.  Feathercraft, for
years,
> had entertained the thought of having an upwind sail but pretty much gave
it
> up as one too many projects.

Now I recall that Feathercraft did offer me a modified aft top
stringer (most likely aluminum ring or flange welged to the stringer),
though quoted price was pretty steep and it wouldn't fit, since was not
intended for mast going through the aft hatch.  I guess this part was a
result of their experimenting with Balogh rig.
I have never seen any signs of Feathrcraft's interest in upwind rigs,
unfortunately.  Though, I see just the opposite, which, I agree, looks
like they have given up this idea. For example, they have decreased rudder
blade size on their doubles and started using plastic
rudder bracket on Kahuna (now aslo on K1, if I'm right).  I had to replace
it with a metal one from K2. Notorious rudder pedals need some attention
too.

Making overall package smaller sounds interesting, especially it if this
was a recent discussion. Mark's version of Kahuna upwind rig, as I
understand, affected the foldability, most likely due to permanently
installed strut bases.  Still, Balogh mast, sail and crossbar fit into
airline size restrictions (they usually tolerate overfilled bags that
would've been within their limits if properly filled). Packed Kahuna should
fit as well, even after those permanent alterations done on the Alan's boat.
I don't have problems fitting into size restrictions with my upwind rig.
Problems begin when I add bulky expedition gear to Kahuna backpack, and
smaller or longer items - into sail rig pack. Then
Kahuna backpack becomes very close or above airline's weight
limit (and can hardly be closed), and Balogh sail rig bag can't be used at
all, I have to use another one, slightly wider and with sturdier handles.
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************