Safety | 43
hobiecat.com
CROSSBAR BREAK-AWAY NYLON SCREWS
The aka braces are equipped with a break-away pin
which prevents any significant damage that might
occur to the bars or hull in the event of a strong
collision. If you impact something and break the pin,
there are extra pins on the aka braces. Remove the
extra pin and put it in the hole and retain it with the
ring clip.
Shakedown Cruise
As with any new product, it is important that you become familiar with the boat
and all its features. Before long trips, it is important to determine that the boat
is sound. We recommend what we call a “shakedown cruise” when the boat is
new, after shipping or transport, before long trips and after installing any thru-
hull fittings. This test is typically done in shallow, calm conditions where you can
familiarize yourself with or test the boat before taking long trips into open water.
Things you should check or practice are:
• MirageDrive installation, adjustment and removal
• Rudder Operation
• Getting in and out of the boat from a capsized state
• Drain plug locations to make sure they are properly installed
• Closing hatches properly
• Taking the kayak sail down while on the water (if applicable)
Getting into your Boat
Falling out of your boat is something that rarely happens, but it is important
to practice and prepare for this type of situation. We recommend that you try
climbing into your boat in a pool or shallow water to improve your technique. We
recommend that you enter your boat, from the side or back of the boat depending
on conditions.
Mirage Cassette Plug
Your Hobie is shipped with a Mirage Cassette Plug. The plug is
provided as standard equipment in the Mirage Kayak package.
Insert the plug into the Mirage well when the MirageDrive is
removed to provide added safety to prevent limbs or other items
from slipping into the well and to “fair” the bottom of the hull
when paddling.
