C-Forum

So, as I ponder moving out west and the big water that is there, the thought that keeps going through my mind is, "gee, Deb, you should really think about trying out a C-1". Based on what I've read here (http://cboats.net/cforum/viewtopic.php?t=3869), it sounds like the Hornet is a fabulous boat. I'm 5'5" and my weight varies between 130 & 160 lbs. In a 160 lb year, would the Hornet still work for me, or would I need a "Wide Ride" ?

Is there anyone in the Northeast who has a Hornet they would be willing to let me try? I don't have much experience with C-1, so I would really like to try it out on something easy before moving forward with considering purchasing one.

Thanks!

You're welcome to borrow mine, but I live in central CT.

I rarely use it, so time is not a factor.

I paddled the Grand Canyon in it when I weighed 150 lbs and it was no problem at all. (Actually the Canyon trip was the reason that I designed the boat...)

I paddled one at 225# (intended for a GC trip I missed) and it handled me fine - such a nice forgiving, comfortable, and *fast* boat... Can't keep them all, though...

I have one down in Queensbury, NY (near Lake George) you can certainly borrow for a bit if you'd like. I'm 150-160, and a great weight for it IMhO. If you happen down this way, I have *a few* other boats on hand as well, and Sara and I live on a flatwater section of the Hudson - you (and anyone else!) are welcome to come by and just check out (paddle) the different boats.

e-mail or PM me (links below) if you'd like to do either.

If traveling is an issue for any reason, I do get to Milton / Burlington on occasion, and may get up there in a month or so, and could haul the boat up with me.

Bob P is the one to discuss the boat with design wise - it's his design:).

Thanks to all for your helpful responses, and to Bob & adamin for your offers to allow me to try your boats. The earliest weekend I could try one out is July 28th. I'll PM both of you to discuss details and figure out which option (NY or CT) make the most sense.

not as many hornets as us W.A.S.P.s in the northeast. (sorry I'm usually very good but I just could not resist that one)

Isn,t that boat a narrowed cascade design?? I bought one early in my C-1 carreer and was board in a month (cascade) But i did opt for one for a mexico trip. Because of volume primarily. Althought it doesn,t hold a line that great in a creek it does ok in big water. I would bet with an inch or two removed it would track alot better. JIM

It's been quite a while, but I believe I removed 2" from the width and 1.5" from the seam line. It's a very fast boat: My slalom time in it was almost identical to my race boat.

I caught Bob on a trip South one Thanksgiving several years ago. He met me at the river & let me try his Hornet. I was paddling a Cascade at the time & was amazed at the difference in speed & overall performance. I know my weight was less than it is now, I'm guessing ~180ish. It was also my 1st time in glass. I've been converted as I only own one plastic boat now

Hi Deb,
I was just about to respond to your earlier post about Hornets when I saw this post---double answer. My wife and I have 2 hornets-both located in Utah. we live in chapel Hill, NC but have a good friend that lives in Moab, Utah. we have done several Utah and "out west "paddling trips, so left the boats(and skirts) with her. If you get to Maob(about 4 hours from salt Lake) you are welcome to try the boats. Our friend is a raft guide and paddler(k-1) extrodinaire. she used to live in Salt Lake and has lots of connections there and everywhere. she moved to Moab about 2 years ago to be closer to action. Feel free to conatact me and I will pass on her contact info.

Now, Hornets. We have paddled them for several years and love them. They are indeed a cut down Cascade. they are light, stable and fast. I am 175# and my wife is 135#-both weights are fine. the boat is responsive and surfs well, rolls easily and in general a very nice c-1.

Hope this helps-

Vann Evans