wfish wrote:
I am starting to wonder about the Hobie product. I know that the roto moulding process is not an exact science and that problems with hobie products is only a very small percentage, but it is letting the brand and product down.
If you follow the forums...
You will know that most issues with drive wells have been resolved. We see VERY few failures in boats built in the past number of years. It's getting close to 5-10 years ago that we saw most issues.
It has been getting better for many years. The leading culprit has been the plastic quality, not our design. We had to become trade experts on the material itself. With extensive years of study and testing we now have more control over raw materials being sold to us.
Following the forums, you also would know that drive well issues are handled by extended warranty terms. The standard warranty is two years. Back in 2009 we offered extended terms for drive well related issues. If you have an issue, see your dealer. We are always willing to review a case... old or multiple owners. Just ask.
As noted, the Hobie MirageDrive does put a lot of stress on the hull. More than other manufactures see in a paddle kayak. But, guess what? These other manufacturers see failures as well. What also has to be considered is the shear number of Hobie kayaks out there. More butts in boats means more use.
You are certainly correct though:
wfish wrote:
I know that the roto moulding process is not an exact science
But we have a pretty good handle on it!