theoretically there is a weight distribution problem and a power
limitation so it would not perform as well as a boat designed for solo
use. the double will ride higher and have more windage when paddled solo.
then there is the added length making paddling in a cross wind more work.
the desinger's expected performance numbers won't be met. it's not
possible with the current state of kayak knowledge to say by how much.
so it's pretty much a subjective judgement and when that is the case there
are conflicting opinions as we've read in this newsgroup. if you look
at calculated theroetical hull resistance numbers for solo and double kayaks
at different speeds and convert to horespower you can get an idea of the
different power requirements. There is a double kayak plotted with a group
of solo kayaks at www.oneoceankayaks.com/kayakpro/kayakgrid.htm

there is a couple with identical solo kayaks and a dog whom I've seen
paddling locally. the dog, looks like 40-50 lb animal, sits in the rear
hatch of the fellow's kayak. as the two kayaks go by it's easy to see the
effect of the added weight in the stern. the stern is almost awash on one
while it had 3-4 inches of freeboard on the other. on the kayak with the
dog the bow rides high. they are just out for a liesurely paddle in calm
weather so it doesn't matter. if you assume the fellow is stronger than
the girl then it sort of evens things out.

mark ) writes:
Is there a tandem kayak that also performs well as a solo?


--
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
William R Watt National Capital FreeNet Ottawa's free community network
homepage: www.ncf.ca/~ag384/top.htm
warning: non-FreeNet email must have "notspam" in subject or it's returned