Hobie Cat Forums

I'm a long-time Revo owner looking at an AI.

I have a choice to buy a like-new 2008 AI or a brand new 2012. Other than the warranty, what are the important improvements that I'd get with the 2012? For instance:

Does the 2008 have the V1 mirage drive?
Did Hobie change to standard ST Turbo fins between 2008 and 2012?
Are there any weak points in the 2008 that have been strengthened?
Did the rudder up/down mechanism change?
Mirage drive mounting changes?
Other performance or convenience improvements?

It may all boil down to dollars, but I'd like to get a better sense of what I'd give up by being cheap.

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2x Revo
17' Grumman Ultralight

Many (all that you described and more) changes between the first year AI (2008) and the latest (2012). The 2008 was a great boat, but by the 2012 model Hobie has fixed most issues than some people have encountered.

A 2008-2010 in good shape is probably worth between $2000-$2600us used, depending on any upgrades (some were free) and additions included (carts, sprayskirt, etc.)

Good luck deciding, but go for it (which ever you decide).

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http://KayakingBob.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2007, 2009 & 2010 Hobie AIs and a 2010 TI