The pedals are a removable device that mount into a built-in opening in the hull. When you pedal back and forth, a set of penguin like flippers under the hull swing to propel the kayak. You can see how they work in the video below.

Other manufacturers offer a similar mechanism that also utilizes pedal power to move a small propeller instead of "flippers". What's nice about the Hobie is that the pedal/fins can be removed during paddling, allowing access to very shallow areas.

Included is a hand controlled rudder system to easily steer - it raises out of the water when not in use. Both the pedals and the rudder make this type of kayak fast and maneuverable. Fishing enthusiasts and photographers love these.

Here's a clip about the Hobie company and this type of kayak. You can see the mechanics as well as how the kayaks are made. (If the narrator looks familiar, yes, it's Cliff from the old comedy series "Cheers". He's traveling the country promoting "Made in America" ... and guess what's made in America?

For the fishermen ...  Some models, are outfitted specifically for fishing, including built-in's for rod holders, storage compartments for bait, a cooler or dive tanks - and an anchor system can be added. Fishermen are able to move the kayak with the pedals, they can maneuver in confined areas and have free access to all their fishing gear ... the rest of the "fish story" is up to you!

Pedal Kayaks are also used in senior complexes in Florida and other areas to encourage necessary exercise. Seniors who loose their upper body strength can easily pedal these - exercising the body and spirit. As "Martha" would say - "it's a wonderful thing"!

But wait ... there's more to these ... for those who like to sail kayaks, like me, some manufacturers also offer sail rigging ("Sail-Yak"). The rigging is easy and boy, do they fly!

The Stats . . . The hull design is an elaborate sit-on-top with built-in storage compartments. They are quite stable and maneuverable. They are manufactured in both solo and tandem styles (tandem, in the photo above). Their lengths range from near 10' to about 16'. They are on the heavier side - weighing-in between nearly 50 lbs. and over 70 lbs., depending on the model you choose.

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