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[evgenk]

Hi all, I've been researching inflatable kayaks for a good three months now and have my mind pretty much set on the AF Convertible model. I am planning on using it for camping trips and occasional paddling on lakes... either solo or with my girlfriend. The fact that this model can do both is pretty amazing!

Only issue is that I am a big guy - 250lbs ... If I go solo, would that much weight cause taco chipping? What would help reduce it (or remove it) better? Backbone or the drop stitch floor? And no ... losing weight is not an option!

Based on some of my canoeing experience the heavier person should be in the back. Does the same idea apply to inflatable kayaks? Since my girlfriend is 140lbs ... would that cause any issues with weight distribution? Also, on average we would be hauling just about 100lbs of gear for a 2-3 day camping trip.

Thanks in advance for all your feedback!

[dspid2404]

I know with a backbone you won't have an issue. However I always use the backbone so I will let someone else answer the question for the kayak without the backbone. Plus the benefits of the backbone are worth the additional cost. In my opinion.

[evgenk]

Thanks! Based on all research I've done I was thinking of getting the backbone ... you think it can hold the weight?

[dspid2404]

Definitely. The Convertible hold up to 550 lbs. In regards to the backbone, you don't really sit on the backbone. Yes its directly underneath the seat but the floor distributes the weight outward. You won't even feel it under you. Note: it should be on the water when sitting in it.

I also do quite a bit of white water canoeing and I understand completely about weight distribution. But, I have to be honest I am not sure about weight distribution in inflatibles. Anyone else know about this one?

[Ryno]

Im about 250 as well and there are no issues with the kayak turning into a taco. I don't use a backbone.

When the wife and I go tandem, she is about 160 and sits up front. There is no issue with us doing a wheelie.

[evgenk]

Appreciate your feedback guys! Very helpful!

I guess as far as weight distribution goes I'll just try to load it as even as possible and see what happens.

Thanks again. I think AE Convertible with a backbone it is

[Domdog31]

I just was out today with a friend on my convertible. I weigh 185 she weighs about 125 and I did have the backbone installed and we were moving! Could not feel the backbone at all. Honestly I notice a bigger improvement with the backbone on the convertible than the expedition. Especially with two people in a raft the effect is even more so.

[evgenk]

I guess if two people make it track better then it's probably a good idea to equally distribute the weight when loading it with gear ... thanks for the insight.

I placed an order from airkayaks.com last night ... can't wait now!

[DarkCatt]

I am 6'2" and over 200 and I take my boat out with my girl friend who is a about 130 with gear and never have a problem. Get the back bone ane you should have no problems

[evgenk]

thanks for the tip
Had my AF Convertible with backbone for few weeks now and it's great

[pandaDan]

Hi evgenk, I'm also from Toronto and have a AF Convertible. Just wondering where did you get the backbone from? I am currently looking for the backbone.

Does anyone know where I can purchase the backbone in the greater Toronto area? I'd like to see it first before I purchase

Thanks in advance...

[evgenk]

Hey pandaDan, I ordered the backbone with my kayak from AirKayaks.com.

You can try Fogh Marine in Etobicoke, looks like they have it: http://shop.foghmarine.com/browse.cfm/4,3812.html

I come out for a paddle on Humber river in Etobicoke couple of days a week so let me know if you want to see it in action and we can meet up.