: I'm wondering if anyone has installed Carbon Graphite
: and/or Kevlar "Band" reinforcement around the fore & aft
: hatch openings. I'm considering 1.5 - 2" wide ribbon laid in front
: and behind the openings and also behind the cockpit...

I used carbon fiber in my hatch lips - mainly because I had it and enjoyed working with it. It matched with the carbon fiber cockpit coaming I used on my boat. Don't know if it was necessary, but it certainly seems strong enough to do the job. I leveraged Vaclav's ideas and modified from there. - http://www.oneoceankayaks.com/Shop.htm - His manual gives more details and was very helpful.

I did add a strip of carbon fiber forward of the cockpit because this was the largest unsupported span in the boat. All my bulkheads are epoxied in place. I have two behind the cockpit (forming a day hatch area) so I didn't feel the need to add more reinforcing there. Once again, it may well be overkill, but it sure doesn't seem to be lacking in strength!

jrs