"Michael Daly" wrote in message
...
On 30-Jun-2004, "Mike Hackett" wrote:


I do have to try the ballast technique, [...]
I don't want to transport it or hump it on my shoulder with that extra
weight in there.

Get some big bottles from the recycling bin and fill them with water when
you get to the launch. Dump the water when you're done.

I'm also wondering what detriment paddling that extra weight around is
when
you don't really need it. And exactly how much it changes the attitude
of
the boat, does it assume a goofy bow up/stern down angle.

It'll change your trim a bit but whether it adds significant drag is
another
story. If it's really significant, you've got way too much ballast. I
seem
to remember folks suggesting about 20 lb (ten liters of water) in the rear
compartment. YMMV

The extra water will also increase the stability a tad.

I've read those bladders from 5-liter wine boxes work well. Although not
easy to fill without a faucet handy. Anyway, whatever is involved is the
hassle I was talking about. After three years of rigging rudder and seats
and other stuff for my Folbot on-site, I'm really enjoying carrying this
boat to the water, plopping it in, plopping my butt in the seat, and
paddling away.

Well anyway, got a few things to try on my next voyages, keeps things
interesting. Thanks for the info, everyone.

Mike