Anybody has Native Propel kayaks?

[Silbaugh4liberty]

Originally Posted by Mahigeer

Well I still have not used my newly purchased 2013 Hobie Outback. However, since I learned about another option to Hobie with "pedal" drive, I am starting to look into it.

Two things bother me most about Hobie.
1)The monopoly they have in the market, thus no one can sell less than they want. Anything with a label Hobie on it seems way overpriced.
2)There are too many parts to the expensive Mirage Drive. Chances of failure are higher. Replacement parts are not cheap.

As to the plus side of the “Propel” drive; and if you watch the maintenance video of the unit, it seems very basic.
There is one shaft with one gear at each end. All sealed. No cables, cams, etc.

Pros---for Native Slayer Propel 13
The reverse capability is game changer for sure,
The drive unit lifts and a pivot for beach landing, no leash is needed.
The rudder does not have to be lifted for beach landing,
The kayak is very stable,
Lots of pre-mounted rails for accessories, useful features,
One flush-mount rod holder tube,
Nice, easily adjustable seat,
Free shipping is included, thus if I buy it from outside of California, I save about $260.00.
[However, that is bit risky, if there is any damage on route.]


Cons---
Front hatch cover is extra at $90.00,
Specialty cart is $200.00,
Did not see paddle is included at the $2,600.00 price,
The drive unit is locked-in. What happens when it gets shallow suddenly? It would pivot, if not locked-in.
Need to get more information about the above,
Rating of the supplied rudder is not good. There is an upgrade option.

I know I am starting to sound like I am a sales rep for the Native, but I have no affiliation to anybody.

Just thinking out loud. Per say.

I still own a paddle type yak, but definitely considering an upgrade to the dark side this year. One thing that I can't find on the Native propel is if they have a transducer mount. I keep seeing videos of guys mounting with an arm bar over the side. Also check this out, I'm sure the hobie guys will get a stiffie seeing this!

https://youtu.be/JDV5s3ZhwuY

[Mahigeer]

Personally I don't care about which one is faster.

I care about which one is more reliable and less expensive to maintain.

Which one provides more included accessories.

For now I am a Hobie kayaker.

Future will tell.

[octico]

Originally Posted by Silbaugh4liberty

I still own a paddle type yak, but definitely considering an upgrade to the dark side this year. One thing that I can't find on the Native propel is if they have a transducer mount. I keep seeing videos of guys mounting with an arm bar over the side. Also check this out, I'm sure the hobie guys will get a stiffie seeing this!

https://youtu.be/JDV5s3ZhwuY

Dude just a get hobie, those Native's look so uncomfortable.

[sandico]

Having pedaled the Slayer Propel 13 numerous times in Mission Bay and in Dana Point I can offer some insight.
Kelp and eel grass can get caught in the drive system. Lift the drive up and clear it off and your good to go, not a big deal. Mirage Drive will not be able to go through the same kelp that has clogged up the Propel Drive. It takes a good size piece.
The Slayer Propel is a comfortable kayak. Excellent seat. Stand up and fish in it all the time, very stable.
Going in reverse is not perfect but you are able to reverse. You look at any boat or ship that has a rudder positioned in the same location and they will not track well in reverse. Not a problem specific to this kayak. Hobies can't go in reverse at all with the drive.
As far as the drive being locked down, it does release quick enough for shallow water entry. Will require a similar depth as a Hobie to use the drive.
Seems easy for a lot of nay sayers when they haven't even been on this kayak.
Come on down to OEX Mission Bay and check them out and even demo. Talk to me, Kerry Peeler, and I will give you all of my take on the complete package.

Kerry
OEX Mission Bay