: Thinking of using a combi-double in the 2004 Texas Water Safari.(see trip
: board) Any tips on modifications?

: Sage

White water and skin-on-frame boats are usually not a good combination. A double is longer, more diffiult to turn, and not an ideal choice for maneuerability in running rapids. Same goes for most kayaks designed as "sea" kayaks.

I think you would be happier with a shorter kayak, with a lot of rocker, which is designed for running rivers. It is possible that you could make one of those with an aluminum frame and a PVC skin. It would be a challenge, but I think you would like that. And if it breaks, you just build another boat!

Seriously, though, I have never heard of anyone considering takin a collapsible or folding kayak on a trip as a "Spare" boat, although with the costs and weights involved such a possibility could be entertained. Assuming a trip of 4 solo boats, a 40 pound folding double, could be divided into 4 bundles of about 10 pounds each. Should one or two of the solo boats be seriously damaged the paddler (s) could assemble the folding boat and have transportation home.

PVC is not the issue. It does well in whitewater, but usually as a component of a short inflatable kayak, or canoe such as those made by Sevylor. See the picture below, or look on the Sevylor page at:

http://www.sevylor.com/kayaks/kayaks.html

Just some thoughts.

PGJ