INFLATING DROP-STITCH FLOOR
Inflate the floor using the included hand pump. Insert the hose into the
valve (make sure valve is in the UP position) and turn hose clockwise
until it locks into place. Inflate manually using the PSI pressure gauge
on the pump to confirm the desired PSI of 8-10 PSI. Once you have
reached the desired PSI twist hose counter-clockwise to remove.
Replace valve cap.
SEAT INSTALLATION
Place the seat on the floor of the kayak facing forward with the cushion
on the floor (in the center of the Hook and loop strips). Attach the clips
from the ends of the webbing straps on front and on back to the
D-Rings in front of and behind the seat. Sit in the seat and find a
position that is comfortable for you. The recline of the seat can easily
be adjusted forward or backward by tightening or loosening the web-
bing straps. The location of the seat cushion can be adjusted by
picking up the seat and moving it forward or backward. Hook and loop
on the floor will lock the seat cushion into position.
STORAGE OVERVIEW
Start by attaching the fin blades into the ends of the paddle shaft by
depressing the button on the blade. Next, slide the 2 pieces of the
paddle together by depressing the button on the shaft, allowing the 2
pieces of the shaft to lock together. The elliptical shaped grip on the
right side of the paddle is designed so you can locate the ideal paddle
position easier while paddling. The paddle can be adjusted to 3 differ-
ent positions by pushing the button at the joint and spinning the paddle
right or left until the pin locks into place in either of the designated
positions. We recommend the center position.
DRAINS
The bottom drains are a convenient way to drain accumulated rainwa-
ter or water that has splashed into the boat. Open the drains while on
shore. The drains are not intended for use while on the water.
Leaving the drains open while paddling will allow water to partially fill
the iKayak which will make it heavy and sluggish to maneuver.
Additionally, water inside the iKayak could result in wet gear.
Setting up your iKayak – Deflation and Storage
DEFLATION LOCATION & CONDITION
IMPORTANT: IF YOU ARE NOT GOING TO BE USING YOUR
iKAYAK AGAIN SOON, IT IS IMPORTANT TO LET IT DRY BEFORE
FOLDING UP AND STORING. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT
IN MILDEW OR MOLD. MAKE SURE TO LET IT DRY COMPLETELY
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO STORE FOR LONG PERIODS.
Locate an area large and flat enough to fold the Beacon iKayak avoid-
ing hazards that could damage the kayak or injure you. Let the air out
of the kayak by unscrewing the 2-way Boston valves on the outside
chambers and by removing the cap and depressing the button on the
floor valve. CAUTION- the floor valve has a lot of pressure. Air will
escape quickly once the button is depressed. Do not place face
directly over valve while deflating.
Once the valves are removed, wait a few minutes for the air to drain
from the iKayak. Once most of the air has drained from the iKayak’s
chambers you can fold the iKayak. It is recommended to fold the tip
and the tail toward the center, then fold each of the ends in, toward
each other. As you are folding, wipe off any debris from the ground/-
floor. The iKayak comes with a backpack for storage and transport.
The Beacon iKayak has plenty of storage; both inside and on top as
well as in the seat. The bungee storage zones on top are a great place
to put your PFD, dry bag, etc. Additional storage is located in the back
of the seat.
TOOL-LESS FIN
After the boat is inflated, it’s time to insert the tool-less fin. Insert the
tabs of the fin into the opening on the fin box. Slide the tab-end of the
fin into the back of the fin box then insert the rest of the fin base in to
the fin box. Secure the fin by pushing down on the locking lever (see
photos).
Remember: HO Sports recommends always using the fin while pad-
dling, but if you decide to paddle in extremely shallow water, note that
the fin could be damaged.
PADDLE ASSEMBLY AND FEATURES
side chamber of your iKayak contact HO Sports Customer Service
department using the provided contact info.
REPAIRS/REPAIR KIT
Your Beacon comes with a repair kit to repair any leaks that may
develop in the floor of the iKayak. The repair kit comes with special
glue and a piece of material used to do the patch and a wrench for the
floor valve.
Most punctures will be pin hole sized or small cuts. For these sized
repairs, a penny sized patch should work. Ensure your patch has
adequate distance between the puncture and the edge of the patch.
With the air out of the floor, apply glue to the puncture area as well as
the patch and apply the patch. (for best results, lightly scuff area where
patch will be applied to give glue some texture to bond to). Allow patch
to dry for at least 15 minutes before adding air. Allow glue to cure for
24 hours to increase chances of the patch bonding.
This dual-action hand pump was designed for and is ideal to inflate
your Beacon iKayak. Simply select the correct adaptor to fit your valve,
attach the hose to the valve, and inflate.
Setting up your iKayak – Assembly and Inflation
INFLATION LOCATION
Locate an area large and flat enough to unfold the Beacon iKayak
avoiding hazards that could damage the kayak or injure you.
INFLATING KAYAK
Inflate the sides of the kayak first using the included hand pump.
1.Make sure you are using the correct adaptor and that the base of the
valve is threaded tightly into place, insert the end of the hose into top of
2-way valve and inflate manually until side chambers are firm.
2.Inflate until both chambers haven taken shape but are not firm to the
touch.
3.Adjust the floor bladder to ensure it is centered inside the cover.
(This step is important and will ensure the floor is in the proper position
after inflation)
4.Inflate the floor fully. (see instructions on next page)
5.Continue to inflate the sides of kayak until they are firm to the touch.
It's better to have more air than not enough.
keep your eyes on the horizon. Gently rock the boat side to side while
floating near shore to get a feel for the stability of the kayak before
you begin paddling. Feel the balance of the boat as you begin to
gently paddle forward. At any time, if the boat begins to roll to one
side or the other, move your eyes to the horizon while holding the
paddle out in front of you. Looking down and side to side will increase
the rolling action. Make sure all the items you bring like bags, coolers,
water bottles are secured so they won’t float away in case of a tip
over. To avoid capsizing, paddle directly (perpendicular) into oncom-
ing boat wakes.
Yaw:
Yaw is the side to side motion produced by paddling which causes the
boat to zig-zag. To minimize yaw, install the Tool-Less fin into its base
on the bottom of the boat. The fin will improve tracking and is ideal for
use in flat water areas like bays, lakes and rivers. HO Sports recom-
mends to always use the fin while paddling the iKayak for best results.
If you decide to paddle in shallow areas, the fin may prevent you from
moving. NOTE- if you decide to remove the fin while paddling, you
will be much more susceptible to yaw. THE BEACON iKayak IS NOT
INTENDED FOR USE IN WHITEWATER OR FAST MOVING
CURENTS.
Bottom Drains:
The bottom drains are a convenient way to drain accumulated rainwa-
ter or water that has splashed into the boat. Open the drains while on
shore. The drains are not intended for use while on the water.
Leaving the drains open while paddling will allow water to partially fill
the iKayak which will make it heavy and sluggish to maneuver. Addi-
tionally, water inside the iKayak could result in wet gear.
Paddling:
For the most effective paddling, sit up straight and hold the paddle out
in front of you with hands out wide enough that the forearms are
perpendicular to the shaft (like a push-up position). Most of the power
should come from your torso.
Your arms contribute, but too much reliance on your arms will cause
you to tire quickly. For good balance, especially in rougher conditions,
keep your head up and your eyes focused on the horizon.
Start paddling gently and smoothly. Alternate paddling on the right
and left side of the boat. As the iKayak picks up speed it will maintain
a truer heading. If you dig in hard at first you will create more yaw.
BEACON
KAYAK MANUAL
Instruction and Owner’s Manual
HO SPORTS COMPANY, INC.
7926 Bracken Place SE
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
1-800-938-4646
IMPORTANT, RETAIN FOR FUTURE REFERENCE: READ CAREFULLY
MADE IN CHINA
Congratulations on purchasing your HO Sports Beacon! We’re
confident you will love your easy-to-use iKayak.
HO SPORTS WARRANTY:
HO Sports iKayaks come standard with a 1-year warranty against manu-
facturing defects. The warranty begins the date that you purchase your
iKayak and is transferrable.
AUSTRALIA: Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded
under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or
refund for a major failure and for compensation for any other reasonably
foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods
repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the
failure does not amount to a major failure.
See complete warranty details at www.hosports.com/warranty
iKayaks are not rated for use with motors. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO
MOUNT A MOTOR TO YOUR iKAYAK. Doing so will void your warranty
and could ruin your iKayak.
CONTACT US:
At HO Sports, we pride ourselves on offering the best customer service
available. If you have any problems with your iKayak, give us a chance to
help you solve it. Call us at 1-800-938-4646 and we will be happy to help.
Our business hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm Pacific
Standard Time. You can also email [email protected]
anytime and we will respond during normal business hours.
HO SPORTS COMPANY, INC.
7926 Bracken Place SE
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
1-800-938-4646
SAFETY:
Outlined in this section are some basic safety tips. It is impossible to
cover all topics of water safety in this manual. For further information on
boating safety, visit USCGboating.org or enroll in a water safety course in
your area.
As with any water sports product, using general common sense will
increase your chances of a fun and safe experience. We recommend
wearing a USCG approved life jacket at all times while using this iKayak.
Additionally, we suggest that users have the ability to swim reasonably
well in the event of a tip over. When possible, plan your trip so you go
upwind on the way out and downwind on the way back.
The sport of boating is inherently dangerous. Do not paddle in conditions
beyond your ability such as white water or strong currents. Beginners
are recommended to paddle in a calm pond or lake while they are learn-
ing how to operate the kayak. Users should be physically fit enough to
meet the challenges, prepared for any weather conditions that might be
anticipated, and follow the safety basics. A waterproof bag is recom-
mended to preserve any items that you would not want to get wet such
as cell phone, car keys, electronics, etc.
BOATING SAFETY TIPS:
• Always wear a USCG approved PFD (life vest) while on the water.
• Be aware of your local boating laws and regulations and abide by them.
• Check inflation levels each time before you go out and inflate your boat
for a full 24 hours before undertaking long trips.
• DO NOT allow children to use your iKayak unsupervised.
• DO NOT consume alcohol or drugs while boating.
• DO NOT exceed the recommended capacity of 450lbs under any
circumstance.
• DO NOT go paddling alone.
• DO NOT use compressors, CO2, or compressed air for inflation, only
use the HO SPORTS pump that comes included with your iKayak.
• DO NOT use your iKayak as a personal flotation device.
• DO NOT sleep inside of your iKayak while on the water.
• ALWAYS bring a charged cell phone or other emergency device in a
waterproof bag.
• ALWAYS tell someone of your boating plans.
Safety Equipment & Important Safety Items:
Water conditions will determine the type of safety equipment needed for
that day. At a minimum have a PFD (personal flotation device) and a
whistle for each passenger. PFD’s are required by law in most states.
NEVER TAKE AN INFLATABLE INTO WHITE WATER CONDITIONS.
Drinking Water and Snacks:
Paddling is a physical activity that can deplete your reserves. Have
enough water and snacks to prevent dehydration and loss of stamina.
Bring enough water for all passengers. Know the warning signs of
dehydration and heat sickness such as dizziness and shaking.
Extra Clothes/Layers:
Avoid deadly hypothermia. Water conducts heat faster than air, so go
prepared with weather proof clothing especially if the water is cold. Use a
“dry bag” to store extra clothing in case you need a dry change of clothes.
Wear a wetsuit or drysuit when conditions warrant it.
First Aid Kit:
It is recommended to carry a first aid kit that contains items that might be
needed to match the hazards you are likely to encounter. A waterproof
container is recommended.
Manual Pump/Repair Kit:
Although our boats are both durable and rugged, it’s possible that you may
need to make a repair while on the water in which case you’ll need the
repair kit and hand pump to re-inflate the boat. If this is your first time
doing a repair, you may want to bring this instruction manual with you.
Sun/Rain Protection:
A hat can protect both your face and head from the rain or sun. When
used correctly, sunscreen can prevent serious damage to your skin from
the sun and the sun’s reflection from the water. Wear sunscreen.
Whistle:
Having a whistle readily available to you in case of emergency is a great
way to attract the attention of others if assistance is needed. Many paddle
jackets, including HO’s Paddle Jacket, are equipped with a whistle.
Float Plan:
Similar to a pilot’s flight plan, consider having a float plan. Always tell
someone where you are going to be boating and what time you plan to
return. Keep a cell phone in a waterproof container that will float if it falls
in the water. Never paddle alone. More information about float plans can
be found at www.floatplancentral.org.
OPERATING YOUR iKAYAK
There are a few basic things to consider before venturing out in your
iKayak.
Balance:
The Beacon iKayak is wider than many other inflatable kayaks. Even so,
you should familiarize yourself with them in calm, shallow water before
embarking on a long journey. Take a minute while close to shore to find
your balance in the kayak. Hold the paddle in front of you for balance and
Course corrections can be made by easing up or bearing down on one
side or the other. Wind direction can also affect your course and correc-
tions can be made the same way.
Gentle turns can be made by sweeping water behind the boat. Sharp
turns can be made by using the paddle as a brake on one side.
Braking will allow you to maneuver sharp bends in a stream, for example,
but kills forward speed.
Setting up your iKayak – Valves and Pumps
VALVE IDENTIFICATION
ATTACHING PUMP HOSE TO VALVE
The Beacon has a Recessed 2-Way valve for the rigid Dropstitch Floor
(1). The Side chambers have a traditional tube valve known as a 2-Way
Boston Valve (2). The hand pump that comes with your iKayak includes
attachments to both styles of valve.
OPERATING FLOOR VALVE
Press the button so it can pop UP. When the stem is up, the valve is
closed. Air will be able to enter the valve but no air will escape.
To let air escape for deflation, press the stem until locked in the DOWN
or open position.
OPERATING 2-WAY BOSTON VALVES
Making sure base of valve is threaded straight and screwed in properly,
remove top cap of valve and insert hose from pump into the valve. You
can now pump air into the iKayak sides.
To let air escape for deflation, remove the base of the valve.
DO NOT USE AIR COMPRESSOR
Air compressors that are designed for other uses like tire inflation can
easily over-inflate and cause harm to your Beacon iKayak. HO Sports
highly recommends only using the included pump for inflation of your
iKayak.
HAND PUMP
STORAGE
If you’re planning on leaving your iKayak outside, keep it raised off the
ground and covered so it is not exposed to sunlight, rain, leaves, yard
debris, insects, rhodents, etc.
The best way to extend the life of your Beacon is to store it in a location
away from direct sunlight such as a garage or storage shed.
Other factors to avoid are areas where rodents are present and areas
of excessive high or low temperatures such as attics or steel buildings.
TROUBLESHOOTING
If your Beacon iKayak has lost pressure, it does not necessarily mean
there is a leak. If it is inflated during the heat of the day and the tem-
perature drops during the night it will be softer in the morning. Or, if
launching in very cold water, the air inside may condense and cause a
loss of pressure. In either of these cases, use the included hand pump
to add air to all chambers that aren’t firm. If temperature is not a factor
and your boat is losing air pressure, it’s time to look for a leak.
First, visually inspect the boat and look for any damage that could have
caused a puncture and may help you locate the leak. Look on the
bottom and the top of the boat. While you are inspecting, listen for any
air leaks.
Make sure your valves are screwed in properly. The valve in the floor
comes with a valve wrench (included in your repair kit). If the floor is
losing air, try tightening the valve with the valve wrench (see below),
then add air and listen for leaks. The 2-way valves on the side cham-
bers need to be threaded correctly and screwed in reasonably tight. Do
not over tighten! Once they are properly seated, add air and listen for
air leaks.
If your boat is still leaking, the next step is to use soapy water to locate
the leak. We recommend finding a clean, flat location where you can
remove the leaky chamber and find the location of the leak. The floor
of the iKayak is easy to remove without too much work. If your leak is
in the floor, remove the floor from the boat, re-inflate and apply soapy
water. Once you see bubbles, you have found your leak.
It is not likely that your boat will develop a leak in the side chambers as
they are protected by the durable cover. If one of your side chambers
does develop a leak, access the side chamber from the zipper in the
cover and remove it from the cover. Inflate and insert the valve, then
apply soapy water and look for the bubbles. If you have a leak in the
Additional patching tips:
• The chamber must be deflated while applying patch
• Keep patch size to a minimum. The larger the patch, the harder to
seal.
• For repairs larger than a puncture, overlap the damage area by about
1.2 cm / .5 in on each side.
• Do not apply the patch while the glue is wet. Allow glue to partially set
before applying patch.
• Covering a leaking patch with another patch rarely works. To remove
a patch, heat it with a hair dryer and peel it off.
• For field repairs, allow at least an hour to cure. If possible, allow to
cure for 24 hours.
• NEVER use a heat gun on your iKayak. Hair dryers can be used to
remove a patch.
If your iKayak develops a leak in one of the side chambers contact HO
Sports Customer Service department to discuss possible solutions.
ITM. / ART. 1356914
