Re: [Paddlewise] A question of trim

From: Melissa Reese <melissa_at_bonnyweeboaty.net>
Date: Mon, 5 Nov 2007 23:10:02 -0800
Hi Mike,

On Sunday, November 04, 2007, at 10:06:44 AM PST, you wrote:

> How does one tell if their kayak is trim, is the something I should
> be aware of?

It seems to me that the important thing about trim is boat behavior
and handling. In some of the Mariner boats, Matt and Cam installed a
sliding seat, so that the trim could be adjusted with the
placement/weight of the paddler (in addition to careful packing).

For boats without a sliding seat like that, careful weight
distribution in packing is the way to go. You really have to get to
know how your boat is balanced "as is", and how it behaves, then
adjust accordingly.

Most of my paddles are local day trips, so my boats are usually very
lightly packed to begin with; just the stuff I might need for the day.
Since my boats can have a tendency to weathercock in certain
conditions, I might put a bit of ballast just behind the aft bulkhead,
shifting the CB slightly aft. Some People will place ballast even
further aft...it all depends on the boat, the conditions, and what
you're happy with in terms of boat handling.

-- 
Melissa
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Received on Mon Nov 05 2007 - 23:09:59 PST

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