Re: [Paddlewise] Feed the Need

Well yeah, "need" is one of those "filter trip" code words that in the 
context of rudders, always generates a response from you Jerry. I forgot 
that. :-)

However, my wordology when it comes to kayaks is pretty defined in degrees 
of reasonable use and I retain the right to use the word need in the context 
that most of us understand this word being used, just as there is a lot of 
kayaks that seem to benefit objectively well from the inclusion of a skeg. 
Of course, there is the Mariner Elan. Now, that kayak hull doesn't "need" a 
skeg - but then, it has one built into the keel line, so in effect it does 
have a skeg. I can't imagine paddling a squirrelly, hull-extension skeg-less 
Elan, though it could be done of course.

I like the Point 65 kayaks that can have a rudder installed super-sano at 
any point.

My Nordkapp HS was an ideal candidate for a deep-draft rudder with its 
intrinsic maneuverability (compared to the HM) and directional control with 
the rudder. But yeah, Matt has a point about rudders being a hassle 
mechanically, safety wise and rescue inhibiting, and the white-knuckle 
experience when a round bilge hull lets loose into a broach when the rudder 
comes out astern in following seas.

If my next kayak will benefit from a rudder for longer crossings (obviously, 
a kayak I would be earmarking for some cruising as opposed to a strictly 
playboat), I'd go for a full foot bar plate with articulating pedals now 
that I have also decided to go to an electric bilge pump as opposed to a 
mid-mounted bulkhead foot pump. Some of the top-rated fitness kayaks like 
the Marlin by KayakPro use a foot brace that spans the width of the cockpit 
with hinged pedal above.

Doug Lloyd




> Doug wrote:
>
>> Well, if I can find one that doesn't need a rudder, I can always add one 
>> when I find it does. :-)
>
> I have long objected to the use of the word 'need' in this context.  Many 
> boats can be readily managed in most conditions without a rudder, so do 
> not 'need' one.  Nevertheless, a rudder will save a small but significant 
> amount of energy in a long straight passage through windy chop. 
> Especially if it is a modern one with a foil blade and fixed footbraces. 
> However, not every boat is suitable for mounting a rudder; for example a 
> boat with a large amount of stern rocker.
>
> Jerry
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