Hobie Cat Forums

The new handle is way more comfortable on the new pro angler. I have an early model 2012 pa 14. Dealer will attempt to get one for me but they couldnt make any promises. Can anyone comment or point me in the correct direction?

gsellers,
I've been plenty happy with the old style bow handle but am curious to know what changes have been made to those on the PA 12.

I hope you find what you're looking for but if not, maybe you can modify your existing handle with some type of neoprene wrap/sleeve of some kind, held in place by velcro.

Good luck,
GR8 Laker

The new handle is ergonomic. It has the dimples like brass knuckles. The old handle has the slots in it which cut into your hand especially on the long walk to some of my launches. The new handle is one piece and completely smooth.

I have an early 2012 and a later 2012 here are a couple pics showing the differences of the front handle.
old style

New style

While I don't have any issues with my current 2012 PA14 handle (old version), that new one does seem like it would be easier on the hands. To me it boils down to how much you have in the PA when you go to lift it or pull in on the cart that would affect whether you got discomfort from the edging of the older version handle.

I'm assuming Hobie changed it to be a little easier on the hands for those reasons.

_________________
Steve Stubbs
USAF (retired)

2012 Pro Angler - Dune
2012 Revolution 11 - Papaya

I really wished i had the new handle today. The beach launch was 100 yards from the truck and 40 yards of it was an incline with soft sand. Got a nice blister. But i made it.

Thanks for the pics john

Obviously a very small thing, but it shows how much consideration Hobie puts into constant upgrades. There was nothing at all wrong with the original handle, but they made it better anyway.

The new design handle was just a running change - and is current production on both the PA12's and the PA14's. As well, if you wanted to buy one for your existing boat, the part number is 84504501 - available from any Hobie Kayak dealer.

thx

_________________
Jacques Bernier
http://www.hobiecat.com/
http://www.facebook.com/HobieCatCompany

$13.99 in teh Spring 2012 catalog.

_________________
The gods do not subtract from the alloted span of men's lives the hours spent fishing.

Hey guy's, I am just new here and been looking a new bow handle.. I like the new handle with a brass knuckle like style,, I think it's more comfortable to use.

_________________
Logic is like the sword - those who appeal to it, shall perish by it.
Samuel Butler 

Just a tip for those long hauls...

Rig up some shoulder straps. Just a couple of duffle straps with a large d-ring to your bow handle. Walk it like you have a pack on. MUCH easier in soft sand

good tip ....... thanks

Yeah great idea! Got any pictures to help us?

How about baloon wheels? Does anyone have a good lead on aftermarket wheels that are good in sand? I only have about a 20 ft pull, but it sure takes the wind out of my sails.

move the trolley cart to the front scuppers. It makes a big difference.

Hope that helps,
MM