NorCal Kayak Anglers

Kayak Zone => Kayaks => Hobie Kayaks => Topic started by: HamachiJohn on September 26, 2017, 04:55:36 PM

Title: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: HamachiJohn on September 26, 2017, 04:55:36 PM
For the ocean, how often have u used the reverse mode? I am debating between purchasing a 2015 model or the 2017 model with the MD 180 Drive. Thanks

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Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: rnrgeek on September 26, 2017, 05:14:55 PM
When we all met at the bouy at an event, I used the reverse to stop from drifting into another kayak but other than that I haven’t needed it
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Archie Marx on September 26, 2017, 05:27:51 PM
All the time
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: ThreemoneyJ on September 26, 2017, 06:35:44 PM
Its nice if you drift over a fishy spot to be able to reverse right to it instead of a big turn. Also if you need to reverse to get out of a snag that’s helpful. Or if you want to back away from some wash rocks. So I guess I use it pretty often.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: ken jan on September 26, 2017, 07:09:23 PM
love the 180. drift backwards with it all the time.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: The X Inn Keeper on September 26, 2017, 08:30:48 PM
The idea of the 180 drive  is awsome, but when Hobie figured out that they had a design flaw, and came out with the version II, they really screwed a few people with the first version.  Because Hobie didn't care about their customers, I gave the 180 away for a standard drive. At least now i can get some parts for it.
Love the Revo, NOT the company so much.

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Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Darius (Burong Isda) on September 27, 2017, 10:06:35 AM
gave the 180 away for a standard drive. At least now i can get some parts for it.
Love the Revo, NOT the company so much.

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I did exactly the same thing, except I traded mine. LOL
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: ken jan on September 27, 2017, 10:15:22 AM
The idea of the 180 drive  is awsome, but when Hobie figured out that they had a design flaw, and came out with the version II, they really screwed a few people with the first version.  Because Hobie didn't care about their customers, I gave the 180 away for a standard drive. At least now i can get some parts for it.
Love the Revo, NOT the company so much.

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What's wrong with the 1st version?

no recall ????!! :smt009
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Darius (Burong Isda) on September 27, 2017, 10:33:40 AM
The idea of the 180 drive  is awsome, but when Hobie figured out that they had a design flaw, and came out with the version II, they really screwed a few people with the first version.  Because Hobie didn't care about their customers, I gave the 180 away for a standard drive. At least now i can get some parts for it.
Love the Revo, NOT the company so much.

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What's wrong with the 1st version?

no recall ????!! :smt009
They are very fragile, breaks and snapping the one you pull. They explain why they had to do some upgrades. No recall.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: The X Inn Keeper on September 27, 2017, 11:28:56 AM
The idea of the 180 drive  is awsome, but when Hobie figured out that they had a design flaw, and came out with the version II, they really screwed a few people with the first version.  Because Hobie didn't care about their customers, I gave the 180 away for a standard drive. At least now i can get some parts for it.
Love the Revo, NOT the company so much.

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What's wrong with the 1st version?

no recall ????!! :smt009
They are very fragile, breaks and snapping the one you pull. They explain why they had to do some upgrades. No recall.
The first version has a flaw, if you bend the mast for the fins, you can not remove the fins. On the version I, they used a similar base as the standard drive. Unfortunately, to add turbo fins to the version I, you have to adapt to V-II. But Hobie won't have parts till they meet production demands ..... And no estimate of time for availability.
Of course, if you are dishonest, you can break them and hope that Hobie warrants it.

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Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Str8FishiN on September 27, 2017, 03:07:03 PM
You don't need it for the ocean but i do like it a lot for bass fishing. 
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: FishingAddict on September 28, 2017, 08:31:51 AM
I am very curious how it performs. Gonna demo the MD 180 this weekend at CCK Oakland. 

Maybe upgrade to the 180 Drive or time for a new 2018 Revo 13, never hurts to dream and wish.  :smt002
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Ring King on September 28, 2017, 08:50:02 AM
The MD180 is a fantastic drive.  The reverse feature is something I thought I'd never have a use for but now I find myself using it constantly whether on the salt or in fresh water.  I have two of the MD180 drives (one in a PA14 and one in an Outback).  Both of them have well over 200 miles logged on them in the last 6 months with absolutely zero issues out of either and they are both Version 1 drives. 

My new 2018 PA14 will be here in about a week.  It will have the Version II drive and from what I've seen there is no change in the way the tendons are attached to the shifting levers.  They are still molded plastic threads and tendons.  The Version II has fins that are pinned to the sprocket like the older style drives which will make them easier to change out in the event that they get bent.  The Version II also has the ARC pedal arms that have the length adjustment at the top of them via a push button.  The pedal arms are also now oval in shape instead of being made out of square stock.  Those are the only changes that I'm aware of so far.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: NowhereMan on September 28, 2017, 09:44:20 PM
Interesting thread. Any thoughts on using the 180 drive on an AI/TI? Seems like it might be subject to additional stress when sailing...
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: NowhereMan on September 28, 2017, 09:50:23 PM
The pedal arms are also now oval in shape instead of being made out of square stock. ...

Just curious if those oval crank arms are solid or hollow.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: krusty on September 28, 2017, 10:20:53 PM
More detail about the new arc crank arms. And forget about upgrading in the near future.

https://www.hobie.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=61528 (https://www.hobie.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=61528)
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: LilRiverMan on September 28, 2017, 10:36:11 PM
Quote
Unfortunately, to add turbo fins to the version I, you have to adapt to V-II.

WTF - I just got the St Turbo fins and nobody said anything. Since I have the squeeze to adjust pedals I guess I have the V1. I didn't buy a new boat to get a slower boat. The original drive with turbo fins is faster, I compared
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Ring King on September 28, 2017, 10:49:27 PM
They felt hollow to me.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: FishingAddict on October 01, 2017, 04:58:08 PM
I demo'd the latest 180 MD drive with turbo fins yesterday at CCK Oakland.  I am very impressed, they feel as fast and easy to pedal as my GT drive.  I tried it on both a 2018 Revo 13 and the new Compass.
I had my 10 year old daughter who weights 60 lbs sitting in the back.  Pedaling both forward and backwards was a breeze.  I am seriously considering getting the latest 180 Drive for my 2015 Revo 13. 
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: NowhereMan on October 01, 2017, 05:28:30 PM
More detail about the new arc crank arms. And forget about upgrading in the near future.

https://www.hobie.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=61528 (https://www.hobie.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=61528)

Nice looking and I especially like that adjustment button on top. I wonder how they stack up strength-wise to solid 3/4" square crank arms.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: The X Inn Keeper on October 02, 2017, 07:50:08 AM
Quote
Unfortunately, to add turbo fins to the version I, you have to adapt to V-II.

WTF - I just got the St Turbo fins and nobody said anything. Since I have the squeeze to adjust pedals I guess I have the V1. I didn't buy a new boat to get a slower boat. The original drive with turbo fins is faster, I compared
No, the arch system will be a version III of the 180 drive.
This means, Hobie just
F@#%&D everyone with V-I and V-II and still offer no support.
Unless you are dishonest and go that route.
:0(

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Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: FishingAddict on October 02, 2017, 08:44:41 AM
I think I am the first to demo the latest drive at CCK Oakland.  JT said he had get one from a brand new Pro Angler for me and my buddy to try out.   The top push pin is a big improvement to change pedal positions, it makes shifting a lot easier.  Also saw first hand the new colors; Sea Grass Green and Slate Blue.  CCK Oakland did not have a Papaya Orange.  Not much changes on the new hull of the Revo 13 that I noticed. 

I demo'd a Compass too, my first impression is the seat has less adjustments.  The front, closest to your knees is at a fixed position and cannot be lowered close to the hull.  It is less responsive to turning with a smaller rudder compared to models with a large sailing rudder.  It has less frills but off course comes at a lower price point.
On plus side the Compass is lighter and easier to move around.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: FishingAddict on October 02, 2017, 05:45:43 PM
You can see the new drive at 5:44

https://youtu.be/-uLvP_XparU
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: butlerfishing on October 03, 2017, 08:26:55 AM
I use it all the time. Comes in handy to slow down a drift, back away from wash rocks, pull fish away from structures or shallow water that the kayak should not be by or in and makes coming to a stop easier when coming into an area to fish. I have the 1st generation version of the drive and have had absolutely no issues with it. I used it primarily in salt and I am sure to give it a thorough cleaning when I am back at home. I have heard stories about the mast bending, but I have heard the same thing for all the other newer non 180 mirage drives as well. I think where they bend is when people over extend their legs and the fins max out their stroke against the hull. This causes a sudden stoppage with the drive and damage can and probably will occur. These are just my thoughts and observations. Hope it helps.


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Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: LilRiverMan on October 05, 2017, 04:22:13 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t-8ACoVzPA


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zn2E8MSAC_E


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zWVaDuxOkQ
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: LilRiverMan on October 13, 2017, 01:45:10 PM
Just got this response via the Hobie Forum

Our Parts and Accessories department received stock (as of this week) on the V1 to V2 Turbo Fin Upgrade kits. You can place an order through your dealer and they'll get to you. Part number 81501112 includes everything you need to convert from V1 to V2 and upgrade to turbos, for the same price as the straight turbo fin kit:

2 x V2 MD 180 turbo fins
2 x V2 MD 180 turbo fin masts
2 x V2 MD 180 booms
2 x Clevis pins
2 x Split rings
2 x Adjuster screw
1 x Detailed V1 to V2 instructions

Additionally, if you've got the V1 shifter tendons, we're offering an upgrade to V2 shifter tendons at no charge - so long as you have your dealer file a claim.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: FishingAddict on October 16, 2017, 07:43:09 AM
Just got this response via the Hobie Forum

Our Parts and Accessories department received stock (as of this week) on the V1 to V2 Turbo Fin Upgrade kits. You can place an order through your dealer and they'll get to you. Part number 81501112 includes everything you need to convert from V1 to V2 and upgrade to turbos, for the same price as the straight turbo fin kit:

2 x V2 MD 180 turbo fins
2 x V2 MD 180 turbo fin masts
2 x V2 MD 180 booms
2 x Clevis pins
2 x Split rings
2 x Adjuster screw
1 x Detailed V1 to V2 instructions

Additionally, if you've got the V1 shifter tendons, we're offering an upgrade to V2 shifter tendons at no charge - so long as you have your dealer file a claim.

Wow thats great news!  Nothing beats free upgrades :smt001
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: Archie Marx on January 12, 2018, 10:33:18 PM
Just got this response via the Hobie Forum

Our Parts and Accessories department received stock (as of this week) on the V1 to V2 Turbo Fin Upgrade kits. You can place an order through your dealer and they'll get to you. Part number 81501112 includes everything you need to convert from V1 to V2 and upgrade to turbos, for the same price as the straight turbo fin kit:

2 x V2 MD 180 turbo fins
2 x V2 MD 180 turbo fin masts
2 x V2 MD 180 booms
2 x Clevis pins
2 x Split rings
2 x Adjuster screw
1 x Detailed V1 to V2 instructions

Additionally, if you've got the V1 shifter tendons, we're offering an upgrade to V2 shifter tendons at no charge - so long as you have your dealer file a claim.

Wow thats great news!  Nothing beats free upgrades :smt001

Yup. Mine arrived 2 days after I talked to my dealer. Install was a cinch. Gratis.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: JMcKroid on January 30, 2018, 01:00:02 AM
Still have not bothered to $pring for the 180 drives.  The only time I sometimes need reverse offshore is waiting in line to get live bait from a boat.  For those rare instances I pop the drive out, reinstall it in backwards, give it a few kicks, then pop it back in fwd.   
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: javelin on March 20, 2018, 11:31:56 PM
I use the reverse when crabbing -- if I happen to pass slightly out of reach of my buoy I can just reverse until I can grab it.
Title: Re: For those who have the Hobie MD 180 drive...
Post by: NowhereMan on March 21, 2018, 06:57:50 PM
I’ll be interested to hear how these arc crank arms hold up. I’ve made my own solid (square) crank arms for my GT drive and I’m confident that they are well-nigh indestructible. I might want to upgrade to that sweet looking 180 drive someday, but only if they are equally indestructible.