Don.
Thought it was about time to send a couple of
pictures of my Solace 16XL. It was actually finished at the end of 2005 but
didn't see any use until spring. Initially it gave me trouble in that my
legs would "fall asleep" after 20 minutes or so. After trying a number of
fixes unsuccessfully the solution was as simple as adding another layer of
high density foam to the seat bottom.
The boat is a joy to paddle. It's directional
stability is exceptionally good compared to my plastic boat. It takes
almost no effort to keep the nose pointed where intended. The plastic boat
required constant adjustment in all but the calmest conditions. I might add
that I'm a novice so some of the issue was probably inexperience but with
the Solace, even a dummy like me can look good!
This was my first effort at boat building and
some mistakes were made but it still looks good and receives complements
wherever I take it. The finished boat weighs 42 pounds which really helps
in car-topping. After the first year, I cut away the keyhole part of the
cockpit and it suits me better that way. I see you now offer the keyhole as
an option. Good move.
There are some construction photos and notes at:
Thanks for a wonderful product!
Dick Trost, Woodburn, Oregon
