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riverman

wrote:
I am looking at a Lincoln Concord canoe it is 15 years old and kevlar.
It is 16'6", I was wondering if anyone had any experience with this
boat? How does it handle?
I am looking for something to go with either my son or daughter or be
able to manage it myself.
Would be used mostly on slower creeks rivers.
Thanks
Toby

As a boat, it sounds perfect. The shallow arch bottom will give it good
stability, the symmetric hull means you can paddle it solo or tandem,
the length and beam are good for a fla****er or slower stream
situation. Overall, it sounds like an excellent choice.

However, you need to look closely at the Kevlar hull and the trim. Are
the rails and thwarts wood (ash) or vinyl? If they are vinyl, they are
probably fine, but if they are ash then you should look closely to see
if there is any rot or cracking. Woodwork is easily replaced, but you
should plan on redoing it if it needs it for two reasons: first (and
foremost), to ensure it is safe and will ensure that the boat is stable
and solid. Secondly, for pride of ownership. Nothing like doing a
little maintenance on a boat to make it 'yours'.

Inspect the kevlar closely. If it has a foam-filled kevlar hull, be
sure there are NO cracks into the foam core. Kevlar is not as easy to
repair as fiberglass, and any failure of the hull can be the beginning
of the end. A new boat of this type is about $2000, so if it is being
sold for substantially less, look very closely at it. You don't want
ANY weak spots or cracks.

Let us know how it looks: if there are any spots that look suspicious,
you can post a picture of it and some of the technicians here can give
you feedback.

Good luck;
--riverman