While gearing up for our 'Thursday Evening Paddle' my friend Mike drew from the bag o' boats tonight and came out with the Romany S RM. This is the long awaited plastic version of the Romany that came on the market just last year. Finally a Romany that mortal paddlers can take around rocks without worrying about doing loads of damage to a composite hull. Like the composite counter part the Romany S RM is a solid easy handling kayak that gives back every ounce of effort you put into maneuvering it. It's not going to take home any prizes for speed but for a boat designed to handle rough water it's at the top of its class. NDK's first attempt at a plastic boat surprisingly has a fiberglass combing that is glued and riveted to the plastic deck. At first I worried about a chance for leakage around the seam but we have not had any problems with ours. I personally like the minimalist back support provided by the bucket seat but many folks complain that the seat back doesn't give much support. If a person chose to an after market back band could easily be added to provide extra support to those that need it. The Romany S deck has knee bumps allowing the boat to fit larger paddlers but even with that space I feel completely comfortable and in control in the boat.
Romany S RM Review
Manufacturer = SKUK (formerly NDK)
Model = Romany S RM
Type = Touring
Material = Plastic
Length =16' 1"
Width = 21"
Location = Mission Bay - Thursday Night Paddle
Time = 6:00 PM
Distance = Aprox. 5 miles
Duration = 2:00
Avg. Speed = N/A
Conditions = Warm, light breeze, partly cloudy
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