At 09:45 AM 23/09/2004 -0400, Kirk Olsen wrote: > > conditions, and not speed, (when flex and inherent bumps and dents of SOF > > hull might become a hindrance). > >Are you sure that the flex of a SOF is a hinderance in rough conditions? > >For a "well built" SOF the dents are between the stringers and should >not impede >the flow of water when the kayak is underway. "dents" or dimples built into them. I'm sure I'm using the wrong word here. The theory, as I understand it, is similar to the dimples on a golf ball. The indentations purpose is to break the solid plane of water that flows continuously over a smooth hull surface. This plane of water creates friction. Bust up the plane and there's less friction. The same thing occurs on float planes. Ask any pilot and they'll tell you it takes less power to take off of choppy water then smooth flat calm water as there is less drag on the pontoons. If the theory is correct a SOF kayak should enjoy a positive gain from the indentations along the hull. I suppose the size of the indentations might have a negative affect on this. Now as for the flexing I'll leave that to more knowledgeable kayakers. As an aside I'm faced with an interesting choice to make. This fall/winter I want to start in on building another boat. This will be boat number three. My choices are, a skin on frame, a surf boat or a rowing sailing dingy. Maybe I could combine the two and design and build a SOF surf boat. ;-) The dingy will have to wait. *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************Received on Thu Sep 23 2004 - 08:32:04 PDT
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