Hobie AI haka benches

I've made a few sets of trampolines, but ultimately decided that I don't really like them. I like to be able to launch quickly from the harbor, and I've found it's much easier with the amas folded in, and setting up the trampolines on the water is a PITA.

So, I've decided go with haka (benches) instead. Mine are spine boards, and they are mounted on Railblaza mounts, which makes it easy to fold the amas for launching and landing. With a tiller extension, I'll be able to hike out onto the benches when sailing, and that should enable some additional speed, as it'll keep the leeward ama from burying in the water. The extra weight (about 13 lbs each) is the only negative, but on the water  (and even launching and landing) it's not noticeable.

Here are a couple of pictures and a brief sailing video that I made yesterday.

Latest modification looks good!! Can we have a bluegrass-themed soundtrack one of these times?

Can we have a bluegrass-themed soundtrack one of these times?

Sure, Suno should be able to handle that...

Nice! 

Such a great addition. When i had my AI I loved my spine board hakas. I used them a lot for jigging and casting from as well as hiking out. Used the same mounts for the front, but not for rear, so solid and they pivoted.

I'd make sure you can get in and out easily, if they are too far out and your maching in the slop, that boat will go away from you fast

I'd make sure you can get in and out easily, if they are too far out and your maching in the slop, that boat will go away from you fast

I think I’ll tether myself to the boat, as the AI sailing away without me is not something that I want to deal with…

Good call.
If you see in my profile pic, I had to move mine inboard, was far enough out to easily transfer enough weight, and easy to hop out there.

Pic only has one, but you get the idea

Looks really good and practical.  Folding the ama with the trampoline is a pain.  Does the haka wobble if someone sits on it ?

Looks really good and practical.  Folding the ama with the trampoline is a pain.  Does the haka wobble if someone sits on it ?

I put a couple of straps on the back of each of them, which pretty much stops any wobble. I'll try to remember to take a picture next time I have it set up...