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Having 2x The Adventure With Origami Kayaks AND Bikes!

Do you love to go biking and kayaking, but never have the room in your car to take both? Well, there is a way to do that, and it’s with both folding kayaks AND folding bikes! Today, we will be discussing origami kayaks AND origami bikes, though “folding bikes” is the proper industry term. Hopefully, you get the idea.

You can conveniently fit both a folding bike and a folding kayak in your trunk or back seat, and also have room for your other gear and friends or family. Life can be pretty simple and amazing, if only we think outside the box. Why take up more space than you have to, when more compact items have been created to make things easier on us?

You could ride a bike for a nice leg workout, and then fold it up, put it in the car, and carry your kayak to the water in a backpack, or the other way around: all thanks to origami technology.

Let’s take a look at the two in closer details:

History of Folding Bikes

Folding bikes, which are designed to facilitate easier storage, as well as transport, have a history that can be a bit confusing. That’s because a lot of people mistake actual folding bikes to bikes that are merely separable or portable. While William Grout is often credited for creating the first folding bike, his creation was more of a portable bicycle, since only the front wheel could be folded and the frame had to be disassembled.

It is Emmit G. Latta, an American inventor, who created the first documented folding bike. He even had his invention patented in the U.S., which was successfully granted in February of 1888. Following that, he sold the patent for his folding bike to the Pope Manufacturing Company. However, no one really knows if Pope ever produced bikes based on Latta’s patent.

Aside from Latta, American inventor Michael B. Ryan also invented another version of the folding bike, the patent for which was granted in April of 1894.

However, it is to French military officer Captain Gérard that the invention of the first folding bike is often attributed to. The only problem is that Gérard’s prototype didn’t really work. Charles Morel, a wealthy Frenchman who was completely sold on the budding bicycle trend, and Gérard then got the help of a mechanic called Dulac to perfect the design. Once it has been perfected, Morel and Gérard started manufacturing and commercializing the folding bike.

Morel and Gérard’s joint venture was a success and soon after that, even the army bought into the idea of using folding bikes. Gérard was put in charge of a regiment of soldiers using folded bikes and was eventually promoted to Captain. Later on, Morel and Gérard had a falling out due to an issue with profit shares. The patent for the bike was then sold to Peugeot, Michelin who took over the production in 1899.

It can be said that while it was Captain Gérard who made the folding bike famous, it is still Latta who created the first documented folding bike.

So, how did such a cool invention come to be? Well, here’s a succinct video:

A Fine Example: The Montague Paratrooper Highline 20 Speed Bike

Designed for the country rider, this rugged folding 20 speed mountain bike is a favorite of many. Foldable within 20 seconds, it can easily fit in one’s truck or car, a closet or any small storage area you choose. It really is a convenient bike for many. This means that you can ride up to your destination and fold it to either walk with it or put it in a case or backpack for carrying.

The Paratrooper Highline comes in two sizes: medium for riders who are 5’7″-5’11” and large for those who are 6′-6’4″. The medium has an 18″ frame and the large has a 20″ frame. When the folding process is complete, the bike measures out to be 36″x 28″x 12″, and it weighs about 30 pounds.

The frame is aluminum and the rest is alloy and steel, with front and rear hydraulic disc brakes. It’s perfect for mountain biking and areas where there a lot of rocks, as the 27.5″ tires allow you to roll over them easily.

History of the First Origami Kayak

We have to firstly thank Anton Willis for inventing this amazing product: the Oru Bay line of origami kayaks. Boats can be big and occupy a lot of space, and that’s where the origami kayak comes to the rescue by being light weight, easy to fold, strong and can carry up to 300 pounds or more.

Origami kayaks are made up of a single sheet of polyethylene which, when folded, becomes a single box with straps. That means that the boat becomes the box and the box becomes the boat! The folded kayak can easily be carried on one’s back as a backpack or as a shoulder bag.

Of course, there are a couple of other origami kayaks including the MyCanoe.

Imagine Cruising Freely Alongside The Water…

Picture this: You are riding your Montague Paratrooper Highline bike alongside the water on a trail. You are beginning to envy the thrill of the people on the lake who are kayaking as you watch. So the idea hits you, why not kayak too?

Instantly, you remember that your kayak is in the car, so you decide to ride back and get it. You could strap it onto your back and head back to the spot where you want to go kayaking. Then unfold it from its case, stretch it out and lock the parts into place.

You can fold your Montague Paratrooper Highline, put it in its bag and take it with you wherever you want to go on the water, it’s just that easy.

But The Origami Kayak Is Too Heavy For Me!

Not all of us have those biceps and muscles to even lift the cases of either the folded bike or the origami folding kayak. In that case, take your car to the kayaking spot instead of riding the bike to it, if that’s at all possible. When you reach your destination, decide which activity you would enjoy doing first. Many people would rather go biking first. Once the hot sun shines on you for a while, you will need the refreshing breezes of the lake while floating on the water.

Once you are through with riding, come back to your car, fold your Montague Paratrooper bike and put in the back. Remove the origami kayak, strap the case onto your back and walk over to the water and start the assembly. You could always do it the other way around as well. When you get tired of kayaking, carry it back in its case and get your bike out of your car.

Is It Safe To Carry My Folded Bike On A Kayak?

The following would be the scenario if you can carry the kayak on your back while riding the folding bike, then put the bike into the assembled kayak and go out on the water. If that’s not possible, there are inflatable kayaks as well that fit into smaller backpacks, but might not have room for a bike case and could be more prone to punctures. But for now, let’s take a look at this particular combo.

The folded Montague Paratrooper bike weighs approximately 30 pounds. The Origami kayak can carry up to 300 pounds. Adding an average person’s weight of between 130-200 pounds, it means that the total max weight loaded onto the kayak would be 230 pounds. So it is definitely possible to take the bike on your kayaking trip.

Just fold it, put it in its bag and load it into the storage area of the kayak or between your legs and off you go. Make sure the bike bag is stored properly so that it doesn’t scratch the surface of the kayak.

Important Tips For Using Both Vessels Together

1. The folded bike is made of aluminum. Be careful when putting it in the kayak, so as to avoid scratches. Also, the bag for the Montague is water resistant, so a few drops of splashing here and there should not be a problem. It’s a somewhat risky venture to take the bike, but some people need to do that if it’s a long adventure.

2. The Montague Paratrooper Highline 20 speed bike comes with 27.5″ wheels. These are very strong and sturdy on the road, providing a firm grip. You can ride along with no fear of sliding or skidding while carrying the folded origami kayak on your back.

3. The need for lightning fast brakes is taken care of in the Paratrooper, with hydraulic disk brakes. This is essential, especially when on country trail rides where emergencies can appear at any moment.

4. The Oru Kayak Beach LT is very sturdy and lightweight, with more room than the other Oru models. The material that is originally used to make the kayak is designed to accommodate both heavy weights and light weights while being streamlined. The weight is distributed evenly across both sides. With its 12′ length and weight of 26 pounds, it is easy to paddle through water, even when carrying the case containing the folded mountain bike!

CONCLUSION

Yes, you can interchange both mountain bike riding and kayaking. You do not have to worry about when to carry each on your trip. The Montague Paratrooper can be folded easily into a case and so can the origami kayak, which can be folded into a box itself and strapped onto one’s back, if not shoulder carried.

The good thing about both is that they are designed for the sporty person who wants to enjoy life to the fullest. Go on, switch between kayaking and mountain bike riding, and experience double the thrill!

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl – Considerable Improvement Over Previous RL Models?

Sea Eagle Boats has made a name for itself in the inflatable boats market niche. A lot can be written about the company’s keen attention to the quality of its boats without specifically zeroing in on any particular model.

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl review below seeks to concentrate on this lightweight tandem kayak as one very competent boat, both in sight and functionality.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl Frame

For starters, this kayak is space-centric, like most of the best kayaks on the market. Measuring at a length of 15’6″, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473 rl inflatable kayak is long enough for tactile functioning. Its width of 2’6″ gives it a narrow build which enhances its bullet shape. Those two factors are good enough to make the boat cut through water more efficiently than other kayaks within the same category.

[Check out our other Sea Eagle articles here: Sea Eagle 370, Sea Eagle Fast Track Tandem, and Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker.]

Important to point out are the tough plastic molds that make Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s stern and bow. The good thing about having such a build is the fact that you can be sure that those rocky spots won’t cause you any worries. Additionally, the double concave build on both of the molds gives both of them a heightened water cutting ability which is commendable for an inflatable kayak.

One good thing about inflatable kayaks is their lightweight attribute. The 1000 denier material (quite tough) does not betray the boat’s lightweight nature. The drop stitch technology also makes the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl very tensile. The 3 chambered body is composed of the starboard, floor, and the side hull.

All this leaves the inflated boat’s hull weight at just 43 lbs, which is light enough for one person to carry it. In conjunction with the boat’s build, this helps to increase the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s ability to maneuver through the water. For your air needs, the kayak’s hull holds three air valves, one for each chamber.

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473 rl inflatable kayak interior is as clean and spacious as you would expect of a respectable vessel. Made of the same materials as the exterior, the interior space measures 14’10” x 21″. The space on this kayak is enough for the accommodation of up to two people.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

The interior tubing is quite thick too, to make sure that the boat’s occupants do not suffer the cold effects of the surrounding water. Gauging 10″ high and 4″ thick, you are well covered. To provide further protection from the water, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl also comes with bow and stern spray skirts.

Check out our list of the best kayaks of the year here.

How handy is this kayak? It comes with two drain valves, which renders it way better than most other kayaks, which hold only one drain valve. Sea Eagle does not boast about it, but the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s straight hull build provides it with almost the same build reflex found in rigid non-inflatables.

For extra stability, you get yourself a nice slide-in skeg. However, the Razorlite lacks its own pair of rudders or motors to warrant the handy skeg it comes with. However, it fits in well with providing anchorage for those downwind and upwind movements. For portability purposes, the boat comes with a comfortable pair of handles.

Features of the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl has one of the most comfortable seating spots available for inflatables. The high back thermal molded foam seats are decent for both long and short kayaking experiences. Moreover, they support rigorous back movements during paddling.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

The seats are tied down to the kayak’s floor using a tie down seat strap. The straps are attached to a set of D rings, which are in turn are retrofitted to the kayak’s interior sides. The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl can be used in both tandem and solo forms.

For the solo form, you only need to position the seat within the middle-most point and tie it to the middle D-Rings.

For enhanced comfort during paddling, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl comes equipped with two parts of removable footrests. The footrests are also adjustable to allow for all leg lengths and comfy positioning. Paddling, on the other hand, is expected to be very easy on this kayak. Two standard detachable spoon paddles come as part of the package. Each spoon paddle is composed of two asymmetrical blades and two shaft rods, which are joined using interlock mechanism screws.

The shafts of the paddles have feather holes on them which reduce the effect of the wind on your paddles, even as your struggle with the water. This makes the paddles good enough for speeds of up to 6 MPH. The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl derives its carbon tag from the use of the lightweight carbon fiber build of its paddles. As such, you can get an idea of how much the paddles are instrumental in the kayak’s full functionality.

A standard feature also is the availability of a hand pump. The hand pump, we have to admit, is not the best on the market. The addition of a foot pump would have gone a long way in making it more handy. Nevertheless, this minor setback is offset by other factors.

The boat’s build allows for a faster inflation. The one-way valves make it easy to pump air into the kayak no matter how ineffective the pump is. The mesh material of the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl’s hull also makes it quite handy when it comes to air filling.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Those factors give the boat an 8 min setup ability. Should you feel that your hands can’t do with the hand pump, you can get yourself a Sea Eagle BP 12 electric pump, with a car rechargeable battery. It should be pointed out though, that high-pressure air compressors should not be used on the RazorLite.

Apart from the the areas mentioned above, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl also comes with a backpack carry bag and a repair kit. The all purpose carry bag not only accommodates the deflated 30″ x 19″ x 9″ hull, but also carries any extra pieces of the boat within it. The repair kit, on the other hand, is composed of a strong adhesive, prick needle and PVC patches and is only meant for minor repairs.

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Storage Space in the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473

For storage purposes, the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl does not feature any hull attached hatches. The seats, though, have their own pairs of storage pouches at the back. These zipped storage pouches do not account for much in term of space, but they can be used to carry a few necessary items such as first aid essentials, a flash light, sunscreen tubes and your repair kits.

For other items such as rod holders and hatches, you might need to seek different alternatives.

Pros

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl is very light and easy to maneuver
NMMA certified, which is proof of its adherence to safety standards
Quite easy to setup, about 8 minutes
Swept Back Rear Skeg, which can be removed
Backpack carry bag
10 psi inflation pressure
750 pound load capacity
2 AB40 paddles included

Check out the Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl at Amazon!

Cons

Lacks sufficient storage to make it an angling or long trip vessel
Sleek build may prove challenging to use

Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl Review Conclusion

The Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl Pro Carbon Kayak has a lot going for it in terms of speed and sharpness. Its lack of storage is not a good enough reason for you to ignore it. Looking at the high number of customers who have praised it, there is little that they don’t like.

In this Sea Eagle Razorlite 473rl review, we have learned that this inflatable kayak is very strong, is NMMA certified, quick to set up, holds more air than other kayaks for rigidity, and cuts through the water effortlessly. This is the perfect kayak for a day trip

Ancheer Inflatable Boat – Game Changing Roomy & Comfortable Raft?

For water lovers who need a wider space, adventure dinghies should be your vessel of choice. A boat that is quick to assemble, such as this Ancheer inflatable boat, is a heaven sent opportunity. The Ancheer Inflatable Boat has also made its mark as a good emergency boat for cruise ships and yachts, and for good reasons.

If you know anything about assembling boats, then you have to know that deciphering the parts that compose a fully rigged boat is key. This raft passes the test in regards to that particular challenge, as you will find out in this Ancheer inflatable boat review.

The Ancheer Inflatable Boat Frame

The Ancheer’s four-chambered PVC hull is as good as any dependable boat should be. The 0.9 mm material on the triple layered hull is not only tough, but is also UV, puncture, stain and oil resistant. There are a good number of two and three-chambered rafts but the Ancheer inflatable dinghy has four chambers that accommodate a pressure of 3.6 PSI.

Check out the Ancheer Inflatable Boat on Amazon!

Three of the chambers are independent, allowing for the boat to provide continuous support to its users even after one chamber has been punctured and deflated. Each chamber is equipped with its own one-way valves, increasing air retention during pumping.

Check out our best inflatable kayaks here!

Measuring 7.55′ x 4.13″, the Ancheer Inflatable Boat shores up enough space to support 2 people, but the 10.8′ model can hold 4-5 adults or a weight of up to 880 pounds. However, for a smooth ride in this sized model, it is recommended that you restrict the number to three grown ups.

At the rear end of the boat, there is a pontoon that aids in stability. The pontoon maintains the boat’s balance without exposing the user to extraneous listing conditions.

To increase the user’s stability, the Ancheer Inflatable Boat comes with aluminum flooring, and although its use is not necessary, it is advised that you use it.

Apart from providing you with secure footing, the aluminum floors will give your boat a solid deck. The good thing with the aluminum flooring is that they are way easier to assemble than most other boats that come with the choice of an alternative floor. It also acts as an anchor for your fuel tank and battery box.

Commendably, the Ancheer Inflatable Boat is fitted with a reinforced transom for the addition of an outboard motor. This ensures that, should you feel the need to have a swift water ride, you will be set.

When it comes to transporting the Ancheer, this vessel’s hull is retrofitted with D rings which allow for the addition of towing ropes. Lifting and transporting the boat out of and into the water should not be hard either. The Ancheer Inflatable Boat’s sides are fitted with two pairs of comfortable plastic grip handles, a pair on each side.

For additional stability, the Ancheer Inflatable Boat provides a 360 degree crash barrier to protect you in the case that you have an accident. The barrier is nicely done, fitting well with the rest of the hull without reducing its function. Life lines on the side of the boat come in handy for those accidental slips into the water.

Meanwhile, at the furthest stern of your cockpit, just below the transom, there is a drain valve to let out water from the cockpit’s floor. The Ancheer inflatable boat has a backward slant that helps ensure that the water is let out naturally.

Check out the Ancheer Inflatable Boat on Amazon!

Bold Features of the Ancheer Inflatable Boat

Fully rigged, the Ancheer Inflatable Boat has a load capacity of anywhere from 616-880 pounds, depending on the size of the boat. That weight includes the motor, passengers, and luggage. If you want to bring your family out, then the 10.8′ dinghy would be a better choice than the 7.55′.

The Ancheer Inflatable Boat’s seating arrangement is not very appealing. With two backless aluminum benches, it could get uncomfortable if you have back issues. However, it is because of the aluminum benches that the boat can retain its lightweight structure.

To hold the two benches (the word ‘bench’ does not fit well with boats) in place, the boat has two pairs of fabric deck holders. This arrangement gives the boat a very casual look. If you are alone on the Ancheer Inflatable Boat, you can remove one the bench for more room. Moreover, you can even choose to do away with both benches and sit on the floor for a more athletic rowing stance.

Speaking of rowing, the Ancheer Inflatable Boat comes with two handy aluminum oars. The oars are lightweight enough to float on water, so if you lose your grip, you can still recover them fast. Nonetheless, the chance of losing the oars is almost nil, not with the hull-fitted oar locks on the boat. Whenever you are not using them, you can let them rest in place. To make sure that the oars do not fall while resting, there are two firm oar holders on either side of the boat.

Check out the Ancheer Inflatable Boat on Amazon!

With the purchase of the Ancheer Inflatable Boat, the first thing you get is a reliable foot pump. With this cool pump, you do not have to tire out your arms. Spare that energy for the rowing. The boat also comes with a sufficiently spaced fabric and nylon carry bag. So when you feel you’ve had enough for the day, just deflate your boat, pack and leave.

In addition to all that’s mentioned in this Ancheer inflatable boat review, you also get a repair kit to handle those little punctures. Underline the word ‘little’ because for more serious rips, it is highly advised that you send your boat back to the manufacturer. Nevertheless, considering the tough material, you are not likely to get to that point anytime soon.

Plenty of Storage in the Ancheer Dinghy?

In terms of storage, Ancheer Inflatable raft has very little to write home about, with no hatches or rod holders. This is rather understandable, because the boat is not inherently built as a fishing or long trip vessel. Do not fret though, because the dinghy’s open cockpit floor can act as a wide ranged space for equipment, bags, and gear.

With so much discussed, we have summarized everything into the next pros & cons when it comes to the Ancheer inflatable boat. Here you go:

Pros

Multiple-capacity larger model makes it an interesting boat to have
Can be used on both fresh and salt water
Easy to assemble with an easy to understand manual
Stress-free maneuverability

Check out the Ancheer Inflatable Boat on Amazon!

Cons

Seating benches might not offer the best boating experience
Quite bulky for two people to carry
Lack of storage space with more passengers

Ancheer Inflatable Boat Review Conclusion

The Ancheer Inflatable Boat is a respectable functional raft. If you’re looking for a fishing kayak, this boat should be at the bottom of your list. There are better inflatables for that. However, if you are the Saturday afternoon drift type of person, this is an idyllic choice.

Check out the Ancheer Inflatable Boat on Amazon!

For large yacht and small cruiser owners, the Ancheer is a convenient, sturdy emergency dinghy. Go ahead and compare it against other inflatable rafts and see if it fits your needs.

Pelican Unison 136T Kayak – Surprisingly Comfortable Tandem Ride?

The Pelican Unison 136T kayak is a premium watercraft made by Pelican, which has some great features and design qualities. Pelican is a renowned manufacturer that has produced many quality products in the industry. With this background, there is a lot of expectation for this watercraft, considering that the market is saturated with good options. The watercraft borrows heavily from various design aspects of previous products by the same company.

However, the 136T is out of stock which is why we are recommending another kayak that fares better than what this review was dedicated to:

Superior Choice

Driftsun Teton Tandem Kayak

$1,499.00

The Driftsun Teton is superior to the Pelican 136T, has accumulated excellent reviews, and was tested by one of our staff, making it an amazing replacement.

Check Out Price On Amazon Now

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05/18/2024 07:06 am GMT

Most boats made by Pelican are aimed at a specific niche of users who want to get the best value out of an affordable product. The same principle seems to be the idea behind the manufacture of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak. There are many other things that give this kayak its character. While it does not fall short of features, the main determinant of the real value of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak is the user experience. Any good product needs to have a careful balance of features and user value.

With such huge clout behind it, will the Pelican Unison 136 tandem manage to impress? We will find out shortly when we analyze this watercraft in detail. Since there are many different things to explore with this kayak, we will look at its frame, features, storage options and a number of benefits the kayak offers. Any disadvantages will also be listed in the following comprehensive Pelican Unision 136T review.

Frame

Starting off with the frame, the Pelican Unison 136T kayak is made of Ram-X Premium, which is mulitple layers of polyethylene treated with a high quality resin to be more rigid than regular polyethylene. There are many advantages with this kind of plastic, but it is most preferred because it is strong but lightweight.

Because of these qualities, the Pelican Unison 136T tandem kayak is built for great performance and durability.

When it comes to the dimensions of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak, the total length of the frame is 13’6” and the beam is 31.75″. With this length, the watercraft is not difficult to maneuver in the water. The cockpits are 102″ long and 26″ wide.

In terms of capacity, it is able to carry a load of 500 pounds. That simply translates to two adults and a reasonable amount of gear, or option 3 at the end of this Pelican Unision 136T review. Not many tandem kayaks have such specifications without an off-putting price.

Looking at the exterior of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak, you get to see a well-designed hull bottom. This is typical of modern watercrafts that are specifically designed to optimize speed and reduce drag. It is also streamlined for maximum strength in the water, and the frame can be described as modern and improved. The obvious design language of traditional Pelican watercrafts included in this boat goes a long way to give users an assurance of great performance.

Pelican Unison 136T Kayak Features

Superior Choice

Driftsun Teton Tandem Kayak

$1,499.00

The Driftsun Teton is superior to the Pelican 136T, has accumulated excellent reviews, and was tested by one of our staff, making it an amazing replacement.

Check Out Price On Amazon Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

05/18/2024 07:06 am GMT

There are many features that come with the Pelican Unison 136T kayak. The first main feature of the kayak is a multi-chine, flat-bottom hull design that is constructed for stability. This feature is created from a modern machine-aided design for optimization of speed and reduction of drag. There are handles at both the front and back for easy transportation. In addition, you get a spacious cockpit that is well-designed to give you ample room to move around.

The Pelican Unison 136T kayak comes with seats which feature ERGOfit seating for comfort. They are also adjustable for various heights. The backrest of both seats are built creatively to ensure decent support, which is thoughtful for a tandem boat. There is enough space for a bottle holder for each paddler on the deck of each cockpit. An open compartment for each paddler is also available, as well as a 4″ day hatch in the middle for additional storage.

In terms of functionality, there is a tie-down mechanism included for securing paddles at the sides of the Pelican Unison 136T tandem kayak. The bungees fitted in the bow are great for securing paraphernalia at the front. Comfort features like the adjustable foot pegs for sufficient stability when paddling are not left out. There are a number of other minor features which only serve to make the Pelican Unison 136T kayak a unique product.

Storage Space in the Pelican Unison 136T Kayak

The Pelican Unison 136 tandem features a number of storage options. Starting off with the small storage areas, there is a drink holder available for each paddler, as well as a 4″ day hatch in the middle. You can store your keys and possibly a cell phone in there, or other smaller items. The main storage for the boat, however, is the water resistant storage at the rear. This hatch is big and capable of holding up to 60 liters of water.

It is quite a welcomed addition that the storage on the Pelican Unison 136T tandem kayak features a quick-lock mechanism. Its location in the stern is also advantageous as it can hold all of your important gear.

Other storage options include the various tie-downs for securing gear. These storage options are quite sufficient for a tandem kayak, especially for a day trip. More storage would be made available to the paddler who decides to use the boat as a single-person watercraft.

Superior Choice

Driftsun Teton Tandem Kayak

$1,499.00

The Driftsun Teton is superior to the Pelican 136T, has accumulated excellent reviews, and was tested by one of our staff, making it an amazing replacement.

Check Out Price On Amazon Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

05/18/2024 07:06 am GMT

Pros

Easy to transport, with handles at both the front and back
Modern hull design that gives it stability in the water
Great performance, due to its sturdy construction
Multiple comfort features in the backrest and footrest
Storage options are sufficient for day trips
The Pelican Unison 136T kayak is affordable
Lightweight, weighing 67.4 pounds
Great for taller people

Cons

Tracking might be difficult for beginners, as there is no rudder
Width might make quick turns more difficult
The Pelican Unison 136T kayak’s storage is not great for overnight trips
Can’t be disassembled for easier storage

Pelican Unision 136T Review Conclusion

The Pelican Unison 136T kayak is a unique watercraft made with the great features of other Pelican models. The Unison is roomy for both paddlers, has adjustable footrests, and it is extra sturdy because of the company’s Ram-X Premium construction. There is also the multi-chine flat bottomed hull that adds stability and improves tracking, staying flat on land while loading gear onto the kayak.

Since it is optimized for great performance, the Pelican Unison 136T kayak is a decent option for tandem kayakers. There’s so much room in each cockpit, you can take your dog out with you if you’re going solo! They can be completely comfortable and stretch out while they enjoy the ride.

Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 – A Quiet Two Seat Fishing Boat?

Whether you are a serious or occasional angler, you may be aware of how important your boat is for a successful fishing experience. This is why you have to read this Stealth Stalker STS 10 review keenly. This Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 is a lightweight, two-seater, sit-on-top vessel that comes ready for a fast water launch.

Equipped with a pair of convenient paddles, the boat can be assembled with a prominent motor board section. It is shipped with its own foot pedal pump, which makes it easier for everyone who hates pumping with hand pumps. Its lightweight nature makes it optimal for shallow water fishing, and it can float in just 4 inches of water!

Let’s check out some other features of the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10.

Check out the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 on Amazon!

[Check out our list of best kayaks here]

Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 Frame

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 measures about 10 feet in length, which is long enough to allow for sufficient cockpit space after calculating the boat’s hull space allowance. At a beam width of 5 feet, the boat is stable enough to run on most water bodies.

Upon deflation, the hull is reduced to just about 31” x 40” x 9”. Thus, the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker fishing boat is readily transportable, both when fully inflated and deflated. When fully inflated, the hull’s diameter measures about 16 inches.

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10’s hull is made of 1000 denier PVC. This makes the boat tough enough to be suitable for use in shallow waters, where it is likely to come into contact with pebbles and abrasive rocks.

The quadruple overlapping glue seams ensure that the various chambers of the boat hold together without betraying any signs of the multi-chamber build. Composed of three chambers, one each on the starboard side, port area, and bow, the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 fully assembles in a maximum time of 20 minutes.

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For an angler, the outer area matters very little if the inside of a boat is cramped, space-wise. The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 is anything but cramped. The interior side measures 7’6″ by 2’4″, which is quite roomy for most anglers, but the width might not be comfortable for a stretched-leg horizontal seating position.

To enhance the angler’s stability and the boat’s rigidity, the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 comes with an additional plywood floor. The inflated hull weight stands at 45 pounds, which makes it light enough to carry two people and then some.

Fully rigged, with the plywood floorboard and motor mount on board, it weighs 78 pounds, which is a notable increase in weight. However, the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 has a weight capacity of 1200 pounds, so the additional weight should not be a problem at all.

Features of the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 can be adjusted into a one-seater with the removal of one seat. They are set on a 7″ high, rotating mount which makes them swivel-ready. This is especially useful for anglers when trying to manage an unsteady catch that is trying to fight to get off the hook.

Sadly, the seats do not have much else to write home about. Rubber made and set on a foldable hard plastic frame, they are as basic as you would expect of any comfortable boat seats. They do not have any extra functionalities, such as acting as alternate position supports. Their build makes them suitable for use on the boat, but nowhere else.

With the ability to seat 2 people, the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 is capable of accommodating up to a maximum weight of 1200 pounds. Considering that a good number of inflatable boats and canoes are only able to accommodate up to a maximum of 900 pounds, this is impressive. The boat is able to hold one pair of oars, so no tandem rowing here. The oars are held in place by a rigid pair of oar locks.

An A41 foot pump is made available to pump air into the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS 10. The pedal’s surface is coarse enough to allow you to pump even if your shoes are wet. It works well enough to make a pump time of between 10 to 15 minutes.

It is important to note the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10’s hull pressure is held at 3.2 psi, so it is not advised to use air compressed tire pumps. The recessed one-way valves, characteristic in all of sea eagle’s inflatables, makes it easy to inflate, while reducing any escaping air during pumping.

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The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 angler is rather exceptionally built when it comes to the carry handles, and it has three welded to the hull. At the front, there is one horizontal handle and an additional pair of vertical handles welded on the extreme left and top right areas of the stern. Hence, the person at the back is able to hold the boat with both hands, which increase weight distribution during carrying.

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 comes ready for motor mounting. It is recommended that you use a motor that weighs up to a maximum of 45 pounds. Weight notwithstanding, you can affix 4-horsepower motors with minimum shafts of 20 inches. The use of motors boosts the boat’s speed up to a maximum of 6 mph. The speed is dependable on the type of motor used. You can go 5-6 mph with a gas motor and 4-5 mph with an electric one.

To enhance its use, the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10’s hull has metal mounts that allow for the addition of more objects such as rod holders, a canopy, and other accessories. Additionally, the 4 mount pads come with a sufficient number of brackets to ensure that should you lose even one, you can postpone that visit to your local fishing gear store.

Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker Fishing Boat Storage Room

We have to mention in this Stealth Stalker STS 10 Review that you should not expect a lot in the way of storage on this boat. The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 has only one designated bag area. The stow bag itself is not big enough to store a huge amount of gear.

Needless to say, you just have to carry your own external hatches for the storage of your catch, as well as other things such as drink bottles.

The good thing is that the boat has four strategically placed rod holders. Two rod holders on each side of the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 make it convenient to place you rods in wait for action. Unfortunately, the rod holders utilize the same space on the four mount plates. Therefore, should you need to add anything else, you are forced to dislodge one or two rods.

Pros

Easy handling, even for an inexperienced angler
Ability to add motors makes the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 a good choice for anglers
Stable enough for use in various water conditions
Light enough to carry
Swivel seats that can rotate 360 degrees
Brackets to install a canopy for hot, sunny days
Easy to assemble, with an easy to read instruction manual
Minor repairs on the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 are stress-free
Universal Scotty Mounts to use any equipment you want

Cons

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS 10 lacks adequate storage
Wooden floor boards are quite heavy and stiff, which could lead to transportation issues
Standing on the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS 10 is not as easy as other angling boats
Rigid seats

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Stealth Stalker STS 10 Review Conclusion

The Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 frameless fishing boat is a good boat. A lot could have been done to make it better, but it still serves the purpose well. Apart from the storage, which can be fixed by carrying your own storage bags and hatch, the boat is still a sturdy, quality option.

However, for the price, functionality may be a little bit low. Nevertheless, considering the other alternatives on the market, you are better off placing your bet on the Sea Eagle Stealth Stalker STS10 than on a majority of inflatable boats out there.

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