Vibes new xdrive vs hobie pdl drive

Fellas, this new vibe pdl drive looks pretty swell. Are companies going to give hobie a run for there money with it?
As cool as hobies are that extra 1k across the full line really isnt something I want to entertainor support as the pro anglers were $1600 when I first became interested in kayak fishing. Close to $4k now uuuhhh.....
So this vibe drive anyone check it out?
Shearwater looks pretty cool as well. Im looking to get something similar in build to an outback and I want to stick with those type of horizontal pdl drives opposed to bike style.
I think an extra 1k towards gear and toys will go a long way, thoughts? Cheers

I just took a look at it.  It looks neat and has lots of unique options, but it looks heavy and its aimed more for fishing on the Gulf coast and bass fishing.  As for the drive, that's just Hobie's v1 drivr design.  Hobie has 3 newer versions.  I personally wouldn't want such large holes in the kayak.  I'll spend the extra on a Hobie which holds it value used better than other brands as well as the plastic is stronger and it's a proven designed kayak than the rest.  I'm not a huge fan of the PA for NorCal coast.  You can get good deals on used PAs that are better than that Vibe as well as a better version pedal drive.

Similar discussion: http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=91707.msg1036723#msg1036723
I’m definitely interested in buying a kayak that paddles well and accepts my Hobie mirage drive...like that Vibe Sheerwater.

I just took a look at it.  It looks neat and has lots of unique options, but it looks heavy and its aimed more for fishing on the Gulf coast and bass fishing.  As for the drive, that's just Hobie's v1 drivr design.  Hobie has 3 newer versions.  I personally wouldn't want such large holes in the kayak.  I'll spend the extra on a Hobie which holds it value used better than other brands as well as the plastic is stronger and it's a proven designed kayak than the rest.  I'm not a huge fan of the PA for NorCal coast.  You can get good deals on used PAs that are better than that Vibe as well as a better version pedal drive.

Yeah I hear you on holding value though I will keep a kayak for years when I get one. I have a hard time supporting companies that arent customer focused or fair trade focusing on  customer service. in the outdoor industry Ill support companies that want to get people out there and help them have good experiences. Ive seen companies leverage there names and price themselves above others relying on there rep to drive up the market and  costs to consumers. It doesnt pay off in the long run. For 1/3rd of the cost I can get in a great kayak and gear up big time on accessories and necessary equipment while having  a lot more fun doing so than dropping $3300 on a boat before accessories, licenses, baits, Safety gear, electronics. I think I will avoid Hobie products for now and try to support these companies that are a bit more fair

I'll spend the extra on a Hobie which holds it value used better than other brands as well as the plastic is stronger and it's a proven designed kayak than the rest.  I'm not a huge fan of the PA for NorCal coast.  You can get good deals on used PAs that are better than that Vibe as well as a better version pedal drive.

I agree with all of these points. At the least, I'd suggest spending some time looking around at used Outbacks and Revos, just to see what you can get.

I'm curious why you thing Hobie is not "fair", other than price. A few years ago, I bought a new Hobie, and it had a minor defect that probably could've been fixed without too much trouble. They warranteed the boat, no questions asked. And they often provide warrantee service to second/third owners. I don't think you'll find that level of customer service in many other companies in any field.

The Vibe Shearwater sure looks good based on their videos and marketing materials.  Competition and more choices is good.  I'd like to demo one when they become locally available.  I've own numerous Hobie's since 2009 and the Vibe seems to be more bang for the $$$.

Do they sell the vibe shearwater without the drive?