Adventure Island aka bars question

In looking at used AIs, I noticed there's some pretty obvious differences between the aka bars for pre-2011 (V1) versus the 2011-2014 (V2) models. I'm just wondering how significant these differences are in actual use. Thanks.

the primary difference is the connection point. the old ones were a little difficult to pull out the locking pin.  the v2 ones are a little difficult to squeeze the buttons to release the locking mechanism, in my opinion.  both work to at least some satisfaction.  I don't think one is truly better than the other.

To my knowledge there are hardly any changes between the 2012 to 2014 AI models.  The shark fin rudder and rubber side handles are great features for those years. 
Hobie was most likely putting their research and development resources on the redesigned 2015. 

One of the issues with the V1 aka connection was that the metal would get worn away from rubbing at the connections as well as the locking pin hole being worn out-of-round.  It creates a lot of slop in the connection which would necessitate overboring and sleeving the connection.

The V2 is better in that respect but the buttons do tend to stick.  Usually pouring some water onto the aka will ease the removal.

However, I think the old twist/flip rudder is better for fishing.  The shark fin rudder is great for sailing but the assembly (even with the rudder flipped up) sits in the water and acts like a rudder, so if you're paddling, you need to constantly make steering adjustments with the steering handle.

Any idea where to buy used mounting brackets and aka bars

Any idea where to buy used mounting brackets and aka bars

EBay or Hobie forum on their owners site

Thanks for the info.

After nearly 3 years with an Adventure, but no Island, it looks like I'm finally going to become an AI owner. I'll know for sure tomorrow...

The push button are hard to press on v2.

Got a used 2014 AI that has been used mostly for sailing (no fishing). Fun times await...

Got a used 2014 AI that has been used mostly for sailing (no fishing). Fun times await...

Is it a Yellow AI from SC ?
Congrats by the way.

Congrats!

Got a used 2014 AI that has been used mostly for sailing (no fishing). Fun times await...

Is it a Yellow AI from SC ?
Congrats by the way.

No, but I did look at one in SC. That one had been stored outside (actually foating in the harbor, next to his sailboat). Although it was supposedly a 2014 model (I didn't bother to check the serial number), it looked like it was 10 years old.