Naples Dennis wrote:
I got bounced around pretty good today by boat wakes on a local river. While a single wake from a good sized cruiser is fun, steep wakes crossing from several directions stimulate Sidekick thoughts when the panic subsides.
...[do] you foresee a disadvantage in terms of hull balance (or otherwise) to mounting Sidekicks via the mast bracket holes forward of the Mirage Drive?
With the forward location it would be much easier to put proper backing plates under the brackets and perhaps use the cross arm for mounting other brackets or holders. Any thoughts would be most appreciated.
Merry Christmas
Thanks, Dennis, and Merry Christmas to you as well!
I have not mounted the Sidekick, but from what I have read, the location doesn't matter as long as the mounting is secure and out of your way. If you go forward, you want to make sure it won't interfere with your paddle stroke, boarding or pedaling. There might be a small difference with rudder response, but it shouldn't be noticeable.
Since the Sidekick is adjustable, you may want to keep it within reach in case you want to change the ama height while underway. In any event, you can relocate the Sidekick if you need to -- leave screws in the old holes or fill the holes with plastic (Hobie has "welding sticks" available for that purpose).
The sidekick is great for sailing, standing or any use where stability enhancement is desired. That having been said, in choppy conditions and confused seas, the Sidekick may toss the boat around (and you out), as it keeps the hull perpendicular to the ever changing water surface.
If your only concern is stability in boat wakes, I would suggest you spend a little more time becoming familiar with the hull before making your decision; you can counterbalance against unruly swells, etc. quite nicely with the Adventure by your upper body lean and weight shifting. After awhile, you acquire a pretty decent reflex to unexpected disturbances!