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HOBIE CAT® INTRODUCES TWO MIRAGEDRIVE® INFLATABLE KAYAKS

 

HOBIE CAT® INTRODUCES TWO MIRAGEDRIVE® INFLATABLE KAYAKS

 

Hobie Cat introduces the Mirage i-12S single and Mirage i-14T tandem inflatable kayaks powered by their patented MirageDrive technology that lets kayakers pedal, leaving their hands virtually free for other activities like fishing or taking photos. Each boat inflates and deflates quickly and comes standard with a rolling travel bag. They are designed to transport in cars, trucks, and RV’s, on boats, and store in condos or any other place where space is limited. Both are within allowable dimensions for air travel with a slight surcharge for extra weight. These new inflatables can be pedaled, paddled, and/or sailed. MSRP: $1799/Single. $2499/Tandem.

 

The hulls are constructed of durable 1000-Denier PVC with a drop stitch floor. Each boat has three inflation chambers with one-way valves.  Wear-guard material protects the bow, stern, and hull centerline. The cockpits are self-draining with dual scuppers. Both models feature the patent-pending, kick-up Twist and Stow rudder that can be lifted and turned to lay flat on deck when not in use, whether in the water, on top of the car, or in the rolling travel bag. Storage is available in the bow, accessed by a patent-pending eight-inch Twist and Seal hatch that opens and closes effortlessly with a simple turn of the handle, is highly water resistant, features a smooth surface, and has a compression O-ring.

 

The defining feature on both inflatables is Hobie's MirageDrive pedal mechanism, connected to two underwater flippers, much like penguin wings. Kayakers will enjoy the fact that they can propel themselves faster using the pedals rather than a traditional paddle. (The tandems both come with two MirageDrives for increased speed and fun.) Steering is controlled via the left side, fingertip-controlled Twist and Stow rudder system. The rudder can be rotated out of the way in very shallow water and for transport or storage. Rudder steering lines are made from Spectra, the world’s strongest fiber, up to 15 times stronger than quality steel of the same size. The combination of the MirageDrive rudder system and the hull design ensures a stable ride and enables pedalers to cover long distances with little or no fatigue, even against the current or in windy conditions.

 

There is a wide variety of optional fishing, sailing and other accessories available for each boat. Both are available in Sage green or Sundance yellow with color-coordinated graphics.

 

Hobie i-12S

HOBIE i-12S

 

Length: 12’     Width: 36”     Hull Weight: 53 lbs    
Mirage Drive
Weight: 6.6 lbs   Capacity: 500 lbs.

 

Dimensions of Travel Bag: 40”x26”x16”

 

Standard Features: Eight-inch “Twist and Seal” hatch on bow storage chamber. “Twist and Stow” rudder that can lie flat on deck. Rear cargo area with bungee® strap. Mid-ship carrying handles on both sides. Bow and stern carrying handles. Repair kit. Rapid-inflate Hobie hand pump. Rolling travel bag. Adjustable deluxe highback padded seat with lumbar support and detachable fanny/waist pack. Self-draining cockpit with dual scuppers.  Four-piece paddle with on-hull storage. On-deck Mast Base and Shroud/Forestay Attachment Points to Accept Optional Sail Kit, etc. Dry bag.

 

MSRP:  $1799

 

Hobie i-14T

HOBIE i-14T

 

Length: 14’     Width: 36”   Hull Weight: 61 lbs    
Mirage Drive
Weight: 6.6 lbs  Capacity: 600 lbs.

 

Travel Bag Dimensions: 48”X28”X16”                    

 

Standard Features: Eight-inch “Twist and Seal” hatch on bow storage chamber. “Twist and Stow” rudder that can lie flat on deck. Rear cargo area with bungee® strap. Two mid-ship carrying handles on both sides. Bow and stern carrying handles.  Repair kit. Rapid-inflate Hobie hand pump. Roller travel bag. Two adjustable deluxe highback padded seats with lumbar support and detachable fanny pack/waist packs. Self-draining cockpit with dual scuppers. Two four-piece paddles with on-hull storage. On-deck Mast Base and Shroud/Forestay Attachment Points to Accept Optional Sail Kit, etc. Dry bag.

 

MSRP:  $2499

 

For a wide array of additional accessories and parts, log onto www.hobiecat.com and click on “Hobie Parts.”

 

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks, fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories.

 

 

 www.hobiekayaks.com