New Hobie model introduced today
 

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http://www.theoutdoorwire.com/story/...3432qtbvm93byn

Sneak peak at a couple new colors too. $1949

Closer look, notice a different Vantage seat and the GT drive, rudder system is similar to PA.

Hull is a combination of Pro Angler and their more traditional kayak design.

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegall...ge-compass.jpg

Looks like a Revo PA mashup

This is an exciting model, the stability of a PA with a lot less weight. Seems to be a mid price range model for Hobie. It is disappointing that they don't include MD180. It almost sounds like it's not compatible. If you can have a reverse on this model Hobie is gonna have a huge seller! Anyone know more about the MD180 compatibility?

I didn't watch the vid but the reverse drive fits in previous generation kayaks. My guess is that they left it out to keep price down and also an incentive to buy the pricier outback or pa.

Stability of a PA
 

I highly doubt this has even a smidge of the stability the PA has, did you not see the chick lean over to grab her fish and almost flip? Its only one inch wider then the OB, so i basically think its a cheaper version of the outback with a revo nose, the bottom looks exactly like a OB with a inline rudder is all. I'll pass.

I was considering Rev 11 or Manta Ray Propel, but gonna wait for this one. When is it available?

Available beginning of September, obviously Hobie has tried to make something a little more affordable, not sure why 180 would not work, how about $200 upgrade. 2018 Outback will be $2549.......that is a $600 difference in price between these models.

I find this model exciting. One of the drawbacks of the outback was the keel would wear down from being dragged in the sand.

Good idea from Hobie, but it has this cheap look to it. For starters it would've been a good idea to keep the hard hatch at the bow. Keeping the usual steering handle would've been good too. I think the best selling point about this kayak though is the weight. 68lbs is a bit lighter than the revo 13 and the OB.

A few things to note,
Yes you can put a 180 in it, the drive well is exactly the same.
If you want a hatch in the front, there is a flat under the mesh cover to install one. One cool thing you could do is buy the rectangular hatch, install that and move the round hatch to the bow.
It's very efficient, stable and paddles well. Not as stable as a pro angler but it's two inches narrower than the 12 and 4 narrower than the 14 and weighs almost 40 pounds less.

Interesting, I've been looking for a kayak I could easily load on the boat and take out to the islands. I'm assuming the standard live well will work on it, yes?

Are you saying that to upgrade to the 180 drive would be an additional $200?

Yes there is a $200 difference in the price of these drives.

http://www.austinkayak.com/products/...T-ST-Fins.html

http://www.austinkayak.com/products/...dard-Fins.html

I want one....

Yeah it will take the livewell, scupper carts, etc... I've mothershipped outbacks on pangas and sailboats and this is about 13 pounds lighter so yippee.

Cool.

Speaking of the video, they sure manhandle those bass, poor fish. Let's see em come out to LJ and do that...

I like the blue color, about time.

Finally took one out yesterday, I like it. It is like a Mini PA 12 Hybrid. Super dry, super comfy and only 68 pounds........lighter than a Revo 13. Smart base price with some cool upgrade-able rigging you can do with it.


http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegall...0/IMG_1751.JPG

the " BIG QUESTION ? "
 

how is it gonna fair through county surf ? :D shame on me for looking at another kayak. thanks again with helping me out with my newest purchase. you are my go to guy when the need arises for the new and latest products. :you_rock:

How was the speed compared to an outback and PA?

I wish there was a low position for the seat, I'd feel better going in and out of surf if there was. I took it out stock with the ST fins and it moved along about like an Outback, bow is a little more piercing so a little quieter than the Outback. Turbo fins would be a good option to gain some cruising speed with a slower cadence.

I'm pretty sure I've decided when its time to update my Ride 135, I'm getting a Hobie.

Not sure that time will ever come, but when it does........

My son agreed about the turbo fins. We were side by side, me on my 2016 PA14 and him on the Compass. I was at a casual pace and he was spinning out. Other than that he loved it.

Interesting, I assumed the Compass would be a good amount quicker than the Outback since the bow is more aggressive. Thanks for the info.