Hobie steering handle knobs

Author: josh

Category: Gear reviews

Created on Wednesday, 15 December 2010 17:43

Written by Josh

Owners of Hobie Tandem Island and Adventure Island kayaks would have noted that the new and improved steering handle has a threaded cavity towards the tip. The obvious upgrade for which has now become available - a steering handle knob attachment that (obviously) screws into the thread. You can count on me to install one onto my kayak immediately and I have to admit, I was surprised at the difference it has made... for the better.  

Whilst it really doesn't make any difference to the performance and capability of the steering system, it certainly alters that way in which the hand actuates it. So much so that I'm left wondering why it took them so long to do it. It would be simpler to demonstrate the difference than explain it, but I'll give it a shot.

To steer the kayaks using the handle without a knob, users typically grip it between thumb and index finger, palm of hand facing downwards. To steer the newer models sporting the knob, actuating the steering handle is a lot more like the using a gear shift lever, with your palm facing sideways and fingers hooked around the knob. It is more comfortable and it is an improvement, one worth looking into if you have one of the new steering handles.