Maven update

[Sir Adam]

WOW. I knew there would be a change in feel in the Maven after the cockpit rim surgery, but I didn't expect the result I got (ok, so I HOPED for it). The boat feels as stable as I do in the full cut (where I can get my knees to the outside of the boat, which, coincidentally, is the same width apart most of us are used to - the knee to knee space for me is about the same in the Maven now as a Fanatic (slightly further apart than my Acrobat, actually).

It's allowed me to shift my weight a bit further forward too, which is good, as it's the planned center of the boat (NZ Matt's and LEWs boat are "correct" in terms of cockpit placement - mine and the "demo" are a bit off due to early boat alignment issues).

So, how DOES it perform? Cartwheels appear to no longer be a problem, and I can stand the boat on either station with ease and feel in control. Forward speed is the same, though I need to watch the trim - I can as easily paddle the boat with the bow 1" out of the water as 3" under (and the stern deck completely under as well:) ). Before I felt the boat was very precise, but I didn't know how to use it....now I feel like I have a slender surgical knife strapped to me, and every move feels sure and comfortable...now all I need to do is figure out all the moves:)

I look forward to finding a seam, to say the least.....

Special thanks go to PAC for convincing me this modification was worth a try:)

[Mike W.]

The boat feels as stable as I do in the full cut

HA HA HA HA HA HA HEE HEE HEE HEE
The full cut scared the heck out of me

So forward speed is "about the same"? I thought it had pretty decent speed. That is, until it went into those unexpected bow stalls

I'm glad this fixed the cartwheelability I knew that boat should cartwheel, I just couldn't make it happen.

US team trials are the Sunday of Gauley Fest weekend at Last Chance. Worlds will be in Canada in May. I'm on call & can't make festival weekend. I sure hope there is a Maven or three there
http://www.angstkayak.com/messageboard/ ... 11907.html

[Sir Adam]

Yes Mike, but recall that part of the "problem" is all about knee width - I can get my legs (knees) under the turret on the full cut, and spread them to a "normal" width. due to cutting 1/2" out of the hull on my boat, i couldn't...with the rim modificaiton, I can. Hopefully trimming the full cut will allow folks with larger leg muscles to sit in the boat properly.

either way, it's still a riot to paddle, and definitely takes the class of the water you're paddling up a class (or two:) )

[the great gonzo]

Pictures, Adam ! we want pictures of your modification !!

martin a.k.a. the great gonzo!

[Mike W.]

it's still a riot to paddle, and definitely takes the class of the water you're paddling up a class (or two:) )

I'd say the Maven easily ups the water classification by 2 & it's probably a riot to watch me flail around in the thing

[PAC]

The operation has begun based on consults with Sir Adam! We shall C if the Maven Proto (aka "Bride of Frankenstein") survives! Updates to follow! Target date - Falls Race! Paul C.

PS: Mike your specs are being included!