Here are some quotes from WaterTribe users of the "prototype" new rudder:
Dogslife aka Paul Kral:
Quote:
I really like the new Hobie Rudder. It is much more responsive and easier to maintain if you need to adjust the line tension.
As far as the rudder report: There is a noticeable performance difference in the new rudder. It is much more responsive. I hit some high winds and heavy seas. The rudder did not let me down. Going into Placida I ran over some shallows. The rudder did kick up.
The great new change is that all the adjustments are made at the rudder. You center the rudder and control handles. Take up the slack. Tighen the screws. Tie off excess line above the rudder.
Bosab aka Charlie Fast:
Quote:
the new rudder design is excellent. I dragged bottom, I caught crab trap buoys and never had a problem. It just kicks up and you have to reset it. Holding it in the up position is another step (cleating it up) and you have to remember to uncleat the up before you cleat the down. You can even steer thru shallow water with it dangling out but takes lots of hand power to steer much this way.
Brogan aka Paul Myers (Brogan piloted an AI)
Quote:
The new rudder worked very well in the heavy wind and waves in Tampa Bay and upwind as I moved down the coast. I felt I had more control in the waves and the boat reacted faster (of course this is just an impression).
I did have a problem on day two as I was going through Pine Island Sound, it was about 9:30pm, dark, when I lost control of the boat in big waves and rounded up. I feared that the rudder had kicked up from too much pressure, but when I checked I found rope from a crab pot float wrapped around it. I untangled the rope and continued on my way. In the morning I did tighten the rudder line just to be sure it had not stretched from this mishap.
My only complaint is that the rudder will turn almost to a 90 degree angle to the hull if you are not careful. I think it needs some type of stop to prevent this as it interferes with steering.
Matt Miller (not a WaterTribe user):
Quote:
The rudder will be much stronger on the new rudder system.
The molds are ready. Test parts being run soon. Then some extensive testing. Ready for distribution to all owners in a few months if all goes well.
Keith