NorCal Kayak Anglers

Kayak Zone => Kayaks => Malibu Kayaks => Topic started by: 2labs4me on February 01, 2017, 11:39:38 AM

Title: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: 2labs4me on February 01, 2017, 11:39:38 AM
I was heading up north of Fresno where I live and emailed a couple shops to ask if they carried Stealth 14 or X-Factor so I could check them out since I was going to be in the area. These were shops that were supposed to carry Malibu Kayaks according to Malibu's website. One place didnt carry either model and suggested it would be too expensive for me to special order them because I would have to pay shipping. The other shop said they've had too many problems with Malibu kayaks service and support and do not carry them anymore. I have an Outback and was looking for a lighter kayak that had similar stability. Has anyone had issues with customer service at Malibu? I plan to demo an X factor or Stealth down south next month. From what I've seen and read these models seem like awesome boats.
Thanks, Gary
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Sin Coast on February 01, 2017, 11:46:58 AM
Malibu probably the worst reputation for customer support in our industry. Google it and you'll find lengthy discussions on this topic from various kayak-fishing forums.
Old info but maybe still relevant: http://www.kayakfishingmafia.com/smf/index.php?topic=2113.0
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: ljparton on February 01, 2017, 12:58:37 PM
There's good reason they don't carry them - support sucks.

I made the mistake of buying a blem - which according to them would be repaired by the factory to be 100% functional.

It arrived with a severley bent keel, pics are on here somewhere.

I had a hell of a time getting them to honor the 90 day warranty and finally a zillion calls and emails got me a shipping label.

I like their boat designs, I really do. But unless I could inspect one before buying it and had a good dealer in my corner, and close to me I'd look at another brand.

-Logan
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: AlsHobieOutback on February 01, 2017, 01:07:46 PM
I got my X-Factor at Outback Adventures in Marin.  Didn't have any issues with it, or the customer service from the shop at all. 
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Marin Schoolie on February 01, 2017, 02:20:53 PM
I got my X-Factor at Outback Adventures in Marin.  Didn't have any issues with it, or the customer service from the shop at all.

Unfortunately, this location is now closed, been a couple of months now.  I've had an X Factor for over 10 years and love it.  Although it was a bunch of years ago the one support issue I had with them was handled fairly well, although another recent thread on here suggested they are currently under staffed.
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Live2Fish on February 01, 2017, 07:46:47 PM
I have an xfactor.  Love this kayak.  But I've had several terrible experiences with Malibu customer service.  One guy on the phone didn't know what a Gator Hatch was! But I would still by an xfactor. They are incredibly stable boats with great load capacity.  Lightweight compared to other similar size boats. 
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Fisherman X on February 01, 2017, 08:42:09 PM
I love my Malibu kayaks (X-factors and mini X) and thankfully have had no issues. Our local dive shop, rental dive gear and rental kayak business used to carry them. The owner told me he thought they were the best rental craft due to being able to take the wear and tear and continue in service with no issues. He also carried two other very popular brands so he had some perspective.

Then (several years ago now) he reported (hearsay here) that the Malibu company owners had a falling out and split up and he wasn't able to get them for awhile, but would keep trying. My buddy Joe got his last in-stock mini.

Apparently it did not work out to his satisfaction as they no longer carry any Malibu Boats.

When I need replacement parts - handles, hood straps and hatch seals, I contact Brent at OEX via their online store - kayakfishingsupplies.com

Perhaps Brent or Eric (AbKing/LoletaEric here on NCKA) can direct you to a stocking dealer in Nor Cal.

Good luck and let us know what you find out!


Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: LoletaEric on February 01, 2017, 08:56:12 PM
Malibu has definitely had their problems over the years, but their boats are awesome.

I'm working on them...  It's taking a long time.  I hope to help Malibu perform better, and once they get it down I'm confident that their boats will be recognized for the awesome platforms that they are.

My advice:  keep knocking on their door.  Make your case.  Be patient and stay positive. 

Best of luck.  :smt001
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Baitman on February 02, 2017, 09:04:59 AM
Malibu has definitely had their problems over the years, but their boats are awesome.

I'm working on them...  It's taking a long time.  I hope to help Malibu perform better, and once they get it down I'm confident that their boats will be recognized for the awesome platforms that they are.

My advice:  keep knocking on their door.  Make your case.  Be patient and stay positive. 

Best of luck.  :smt001

+1  What he said !        Try contacting Brett at Kayak Obsessions  He's a dealer for Malibu   ( Santa Cruz Kayaks also )    I know Brett will go out of his way to provide great service and support.   
   Kayak Obsessions also sponsors the Central Coast Kayak fishing group..  Cambria Slamdown, and HOW chapter.
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: 2labs4me on February 02, 2017, 11:16:18 AM
Thanks for the feedback. I really havent seen anything I like better, on paper, that is, than the x-factor, and stealth. Seems like a good compromise of stability and weight with good setup for fishing. I was out with Eric at Shelter Cove last year and I know he loves his x-fcator. I like my Outback on lakes, esp for trolling, but I think I'd like something a bit lighter but just as stable for salt and if I take my wife out she can used the Outback. Is Brent in Newport Beach? If so, I am going to be down that way soon and I will stop by.
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Fisherman X on February 02, 2017, 02:30:46 PM
As I recall, Brent is at the Mission Bay site
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Baitman on February 02, 2017, 06:33:31 PM
Brett,,,  Not Brent     Thousand Oaks,   Phone number 805-732-4290

   
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: OnTheReel on February 02, 2017, 07:35:05 PM
Malibu has definitely had their problems over the years, but their boats are awesome.

I'm working on them...  It's taking a long time.  I hope to help Malibu perform better, and once they get it down I'm confident that their boats will be recognized for the awesome platforms that they are.

My advice:  keep knocking on their door.  Make your case.  Be patient and stay positive. 

Best of luck.  :smt001

^^^ This completely.. But they are in my opinion, the best on the water for stability and tracking, storage and function.... if you don't mind paddling.

If you need help trying one out, I have both readily available that you can try out. I personally like the Stealth more then the XFactor. Better movement for the angler / user on the top deck I thought with the same storage capability.

If you need help either with contacting them directly, or ordering one, let me know.. You won't be disappointed, Ive paddled many yaks, these are awesome.. PS the reviews you read about the bad designs and blem / cracking plastic / leaky hatches have been addressed and do not happen on the 2015+ models..

Curious to see their new lawn chair seat on the Stealth for 2017, can't wait to get things straightened out in my situation as I may look into heading towards another purchase before summer, and it would be that boat.

Good luck! Cheers!
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Fisherman X on February 02, 2017, 09:54:30 PM
Brett,,,  Not Brent     Thousand Oaks,   Phone number 805-732-4290

   

I thought he was asking regarding my previous mention of Brent at OEX
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: 2labs4me on February 03, 2017, 07:51:03 AM
Malibu has definitely had their problems over the years, but their boats are awesome.

I'm working on them...  It's taking a long time.  I hope to help Malibu perform better, and once they get it down I'm confident that their boats will be recognized for the awesome platforms that they are.

My advice:  keep knocking on their door.  Make your case.  Be patient and stay positive. 

Best of luck.  :smt001

^^^ This completely.. But they are in my opinion, the best on the water for stability and tracking, storage and function.... if you don't mind paddling.

If you need help trying one out, I have both readily available that you can try out. I personally like the Stealth more then the XFactor. Better movement for the angler / user on the top deck I thought with the same storage capability.

If you need help either with contacting them directly, or ordering one, let me know.. You won't be disappointed, Ive paddled many yaks, these are awesome.. PS the reviews you read about the bad designs and blem / cracking plastic / leaky hatches have been addressed and do not happen on the 2015+ models..

Curious to see their new lawn chair seat on the Stealth for 2017, can't wait to get things straightened out in my situation as I may look into heading towards another purchase before summer, and it would be that boat.

Good luck! Cheers!


Awesome, thanks. Other than the design and weight of the Stealth, the new X-Seat option caught my eye too. I really like the 2015 Hobie seats. With some minor back problems, it helps. So I'd like to check out the X seat when I visit a dealer.
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: OnTheReel on February 03, 2017, 10:17:17 AM

Awesome, thanks. Other than the design and weight of the Stealth, the new X-Seat option caught my eye too. I really like the 2015 Hobie seats. With some minor back problems, it helps. So I'd like to check out the X seat when I visit a dealer.

They make a seat called the "Spider Angler" I found the design of the seat portion on the kayak and the seat itself were unbelievably comfy and super supportive! So, if you find a screaming deal on a 2016, don't hesitate, just get the spider angler seat.

Once again, good luck, offer stands if you ever want to head down to SC area!

Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: AlsHobieOutback on February 04, 2017, 08:47:19 AM
Free shipping on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Malibu-Kayaks-Stealth-Package-Kayak/dp/B003A25HRQ/ref=pd_sim_468_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B003A25HRQ&pd_rd_r=M64TCGYT0JK7NZJYSH9R&pd_rd_w=0XIYt&pd_rd_wg=P50kR&psc=1&refRID=M64TCGYT0JK7NZJYSH9R
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Baitman on February 04, 2017, 08:59:33 AM
Amazon , 900 dollars, free shipping...         Might be why they're having "support issues"     Dealers are probably going to drop Malibu for this reason...    Demo at a dealer,,then buy from Amazon,, or West Marine just to save a few bucks...
  Is amazon going to handle warranty issues, or other support you'd get from a dealer?

 Secondly,,,  Hard to believe it's only 60 lbs...  What's that, hull weight before adding necessary parts like ,,hatches, rod holders,  foot braces etc.?

   
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Fisherman X on February 04, 2017, 09:51:09 AM
I will go with 65 pounds, not 60.
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: DrHabanero on March 09, 2018, 08:25:54 AM
For all they say about the customer support of Malibu I have never been denied a claim. I just got done with a purchase from them and even though it did take forever to get everything I am extremely happy and can't wait to get it on the water! New X Factor 2018 with X Seat!
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: LoletaEric on March 09, 2018, 10:09:32 AM
Quote from: DrHabanero
For all they say about the customer support of Malibu I have never been denied a claim. I just got done with a purchase from them and even though it did take forever to get everything I am extremely happy and can't wait to get it on the water! New X Factor 2018 with X Seat!

That's good to hear, Jimbo.  I'm still working on helping Malibu out with marketing because it remains to be the case that I can't find yaks that I like as much for their stability, roominess and tracking without a rudder.
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: DrHabanero on March 09, 2018, 10:24:17 AM
Quote from: DrHabanero
For all they say about the customer support of Malibu I have never been denied a claim. I just got done with a purchase from them and even though it did take forever to get everything I am extremely happy and can't wait to get it on the water! New X Factor 2018 with X Seat!

That's good to hear, Jimbo.  I'm still working on helping Malibu out with marketing because it remains to be the case that I can't find yaks that I like as much for their stability, roominess and tracking without a rudder.

I know I swear they do track excellent and are very stable. I am totally excited to try out the new model since they have addressed all the issues I thought they needed to. Improved seat design and distributing the seat weight( mostly for the bigger fellas! LOL) The new X Seat has to be the best seat of the market , I am trying to figure out a design to use the chair around camp since it is so nice! LOL
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Marin Schoolie on March 09, 2018, 11:10:16 AM
Maybe a little off topic but does anyone know where I could get a replacement center hatch (cover/door only) for a 2005 X Factor?  The new design is "hinged" so the cover is attached to the frame, and I'd like to avoid ripping out all the old rivets from the current frame and installing the new one.  If I did have to do that, how would I/what tools would I need?

http://www.kayakfishingsupplies.com/hinged-rectangular-hatch
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: LoletaEric on March 09, 2018, 11:52:41 AM
This?
Title: Re: Malibu Kayaks - Support Issues?
Post by: Marin Schoolie on March 09, 2018, 01:45:00 PM
Eric, yes that's it.