There was no real effort to kick and turn, I was under the impression that it was going to be tough to move and turn but no not at all. Once I was ready I shoved off and I was quickly struck but its ease of movement in the water. Not really an option for me but I feel it is important to note. If you are looking to backpack or have to carry your tubes a distance to get to the water this is an issue, but there still is the option to inflate at the water's edge. So with the boat all inflated and ready to go I made two trips to the water one for the boat and the other to bring rods, fins, and side bags for tackle storage. But with that being said once again you are struck with the overall quality and construction of the flatform and all Seven Bass Products for that matter. A note right off the bat this boat is heavy at 41 lbs. The boat comes with a crossbar, a kayak type seat, a repair kit, a motor mount, large center scag, Oars and mounting hardware, a stand-up pump with a pressure gauge (important) and a carry bag for it all. It does not look like the 2 side pontoons are drop stitch as they kind of round out some, but the largest chamber is flat which is the center and largest portion of the kick boat. The drop stitch construction allows the boat to in flat (no bladders) but not round out simple hold its flat platform style. The boat is bladderless with a unique construction concept, called drop stitch. The boat is about 6’ 7" tall and 4’ 4" wide with there air chambers. Now onto the Flatform I myself have had my eye on these tubes of kick boats for the last few years so to finally see one in person, I was impressed. I cannot express this enough I think the overall plus here is their quality, just plan top notch. I think this boat has its place here with individuals that can see its value over other boats we have here in the USA. After discussing some of the concerns with Seven Bass the did mention that then the Expedition Kick Boat had a wider sitting area, it is called the Big Boy and can handle 400 lbs and runs for $600 with all the same supplies. As far as how they stack up to what we have out here already there is not too much on the market like it, so it is in a class all its own. Cost is about $550 and weight capacity is 350 lbs. The overall handling of the boat on the water seemed great as it glides through the water with ease, and keeps you high and dry. Seven Bass said, “the key is to roll it in, and as you roll you pull back a bit and it pops in.“ I also feel that the more you connect it the easier it will become. Another issue was the crossbar it was tough to connect when on the water. After doing that on the water all was better for GT. But quick-fix simple release a little air to make it softer. While on the water GT mentioned that the seat did not feel good to sit on “too hard” which would lead to discomfort and ending the day sooner. That, of course, does not mean that it is an uncomfortable ride. This aspect would work great for a thinner smaller person but for me personally, I can see it would be hard for me to get in and feel comfortable in. He mentioned to me the boat looked very fast as it is light and tight. As per GT the float tube was built very well and he really liked the clipline and the fact that the bags were removable (sold separately). Now for the test ride, and GT would be handling that part of the day. The boat itself is very lightweight and with the backpack straps very easy to transport to the water’s edge. So when I am done inflating the Element I quickly notice that it has a pretty narrow profile. All use the summit valve, which I believe have a very good feature we will talk about later. So in preparing to get out on the water, I pre-inflate the boat at home which has to air chambers which are both pontoons as well as like said earlier the inflatable seat as well.
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