To rudder or not rudder??
 

That is the question.

What say you to installing a rudder system on an old 14' 4" Malibu, X factor kayak.

As of this writing I am not sure if the inserts are there in the stern.

Providing I can do it at about $170.00 plus tax, is it worth the effort and the cost?

Does the Malibu kayaks rudder turn the kayak or only help it maintain a direct course? If it greatly assists in turning and adjusting course I'd think it would be worth it. I have a Malibu Pro 2 Tandem and it's a barge to turn.

I would say it would be worth it for the benefit you will gain in tracking especially with wind.

If you don't have inserts you may still be able to install the rudder. On the back of the Xfactor, do you have a small circle in the rear of the tankwell and/or enough room to install a 4" hatch? You can install the hatch after cutting the opening to give you access to thru bolt the rudder bracket with bolts and lock nuts on the back side.

Kerry
OEX MB

My X-Factor was easy enough to turn without a rudder and tracked somewhat well. The wind is what made it hard to paddle straight. A wind to my back would always want to spin the stern around. I've had to travel over a mile in it paddling on only one side of the yak to go in a semi-straight direction because of the wind. I think a rudder would probably help a lot in some situations like that.

Hashem, try the Dark Side. While in Baja borrow my outback for a few hours and experience a Hobie. Rudder included, nice seat, very stable.

You are so kind and you haven't even met me!

How am I to repay your hospitality or generosity?
I have some ideas.

You're going to have a hard time going back to your Malibu afterward, so make sure you test drive the Hobie toward the end of your trip. ;)

TRUE THAT!!!

but on the bright side winter is coming and with it the LJ bite will tapper off and guys will start the annual yak sell off, Hobies will be available, some are already on the market NOW. I know Wade has one ready to go 2015 OUTBACK. And dealers will be looking to move 2015 stock to be ready for the 2016's. Sure there are and will be other used Hobies too. Tight lines.