The design

Designing a low volume full-length boat that behaves well, is no easy feat but we’ve poured over every detail of the Bolt to to bring all the wish-list features together for a really exciting kayak. The footrest and seat have enough adjustment for growing legs as the years pass. And as weight is gained, the balance-point of the boat is designed to move aft, allowing for the seat to be trimmed back without affecting the overall feel. Likewise, very small paddlers can be moved forward in the seat for the best performance and more suitable seating position. Achieving a poised and planted K1 feel was really important to us, and the Bolt is certainly not just a cut-down larger model. CAD designed and CNC machine cut in-house, the rocker profile has been specifically adjusted so it tracks well even with a very light paddler, and behaves nicely choppy conditions without the sensation of bobbing on the surface of the water.

Ergonomics

The ergonomics have been scaled down all-round for smaller legs, hips and feet. You’ll notice that the cockpit is significantly shorter than and adult K1 and the footrest is lower to, but will still comfortably fit a pull bar and heel plate if requested. The footrest is set 5 inches ‘shortman’ which suits most 7-12 year olds perfectly. The platform seat has trimmed sides and is lowered into the hull to give the equivalent seat height an adult would experience in a top K1. Please note that, although stability is much better than many oversized K1s, this is a performance kayak and is and is intended for intermediate to advanced paddlers, and not beginners. Even so, youngsters often have big balance advantage over adults so may quickly become used to the wobble, especially if they have mastered a good support stroke. If in doubt talk to your coach.

Also note, the steering system is not quite the same as a standard marathon K1 rudder and has been modified to fit the small stern of the Bolt. The standard durable 8mm stem is sorter and a dedicated rudder wheel. If you need a replacement part is required please get in touch.