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lcopps
 
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Default Feathercaraft

I have a Klepper Arius II which is nearly identicle in size to the
Greenland II. It does not weathercock so long as the seat is in the
center position, or the front is weighted. But it feels like an awful
lot of excess boat when I solo paddle it. I normally just paddle it from
the rear seat when I take it out solo. If there is not a lot of wind or
latteral wave action, it handles just fine.

You might also look at the Folbot Yukon. I was very impressed when I
test paddled one in Charleston. It is very nimble and has lots of room
for a single, and has a large cockpit opening. It is also reasonably
priced.

The Klepper Arius II and Longhaul Mark II are similar to the Greenland
II. They both have durable beautifully fashoned varnished wood frames
that have a very solid feel. The Klepper is a bit more pricey because it
is a legendary boat with a colorful history. Still the only stock boat
to cross the Atlantic ocean. The Longhaul Mark II is a new boat designed
from the Klepper, but with several improvements like feathercraft style
hatches. It also costs much less.

I have both a Wood framed Klepper and a composite framed Feathercraft
and like them both for differing reasons. I enjoy the smell, beauty and
solid workmanship of the wood frame. They assemble easier, but should
not be left togeather for long periods of time since standing water in
the hull can wear the varnish and rot the wood. Composite frames can be
left togeather for up to a couple of months if the joints are properly
lubricated. But, they assemble a bit harder, and do not have that
classic look and feel.

http://www.longhaulfoldingkayaks.com/
http://www.klepper.com/


back40 wrote:
On Sun, 15 Feb 2004 20:18:08 -0600, "Dave"
wrote:


The GII is a great boat. Get the solo kit and you should be fine. Check out
the solo sprayskirt mods on http://www.folbot.com/forum.html for sturdier
options.

Dave


Red Greenland II
http://webkatz.net/kayak/gII.html


Thanks for the input! You say, "go for it!", and Mike H. says,
"Don't!", but my mind is pretty much made up. Spent much time reading
the messages on the Folbot Forum, and everything I read there said,
"Yes!"
If I find it is a handful when paddling solo, I can always place an ad
in the personals - "Wife wanted, must have own paddle."