Dagger Transition for Touring?

Woman · 01-04-2006

I have kayaked down low-rated rivers with family rental kayaks (non-rolling, non-trick, etc.), for fun and relaxation a number of times. Now I live near a low-rated stretch of river where I can do a regular run for relaxation. From my reading a touring kayak would be fine. Problem is, (1) new ones go for a fair amount; and (2) I really have no idea whether I'd prefer something higher end.

Is a Dagger Transition going to be comfortable for half-day touring trips, both in seating and in maneuvering? A guy in my area is selling his for $350 (plus Werner paddle). Are they one size, e.g. that given at
http://playak.com/kayaks.php (10'1 long, 24 inches wide, 38 lbs.)?

I plan to put this on top of my Honda Civic for half-day trips to the river.

Any input would be appreciated. All I've done so far is look at some new Otters for $250 at my local outdoors store.

woodboat75 · 01-04-2006

If you can tell us where you will be paddling, and if you are a small or larger paddler, you will probably get more advise. I am not sure about that specific model, but at 10ft, I am guessing it is for tame rivers. Dagger makes great WW boats, but their touring boats have never really got any good reviews. I have found theyh typically do not have enough keel to track well, and fit large stature paddlers better. Also the newer ones are more difficult to pad out for a tight fit. You should probably continue looking for plastic boats, they hold up much better on the rivers. Another place to look is WWW.RMSKC.ORG , local touring nerds that have a classifieds section on their site.

Good luck!

danimal · 01-04-2006

I used to own a transition, it was designed as a freestyle boat, but as far as todays standards go it would be alright for running rivers. Its not going to be as fast, or track as well as a "touring boat" but if you just want to get out there i think 350 with a paddle is fair.

Woman · 01-07-2006

Thanks for the input, Woodboat and Danimal. I'll be on the Rio Grande in New Mexico in what seems to be a mild section (have to check on that). I passed on the Dagger Transition, based on your input and my feeling that I'll be happier in a new, low priced touring kayak, like IIRC the Old Town Otter. Thanks again.