Choosing a reliable boat for fishing or family vacations on the water is a task that requires careful market research. Barracuda boat 55This inflatable vessel, developed by Novosibirsk-based BoatWise, combines years-old construction with modern materials.
Many anglers and boaters are looking for this balance between price, quality and functionality. Barracuda 55 It is a class of boats 3.5 meters long, which makes it roomy enough for two or three people, but also transportable in disassembled form. In this article, we will discuss in detail what lies behind this name, what the real size of the cockpit is and whether it should be expected from her miracles in high wave conditions.
It is important to understand that buying an inflatable boat is an investment in safety and comfort. The nominal length of 350 cm includes inflatable tubes, and the actual length of the cockpit is about 240 cm. It's the interior that determines how comfortable you'll be with a friend or a friend to fish, and let's dive into the technical details that are often overlooked when you first see the catalog.
Design features and materials of manufacture
The basis of the durability of any PVC boat is the material from which it is made. Barracuda 55 a five-layer reinforced fabric, often known by its trademark PVC 850 g/m2This material is not just dense, it is resistant to fuels, ultraviolet rays and temperature changes, which are critical for operation in Russian latitudes.
The design of the boat provides an inflatable keel, which is standard for boats of this class. Keel provides excellent germination on the wave and stability of the course, especially when moving against the current or side wind. keel requires careful control of pressure, as it is easy to damage with careless fiber on the rocky shore.
Why is a five-layer material important?
The five-layer fabric consists of two outer layers of PVC and three inner layers of reinforcement mesh, which provides high tensile strength and resistance to puncture, which is especially important when in contact with snags or shells at the bottom.
When choosing a fishing spot, pay attention to the condition of the bottom, despite the solid bottom made of plywood with coating. The inside of the cylinders often has extra protection, but it's not worth risking the integrity of the shell for a quick descent into the water.
- 🛶 Material: Reinforced PVC density of 850 g / m2 provides protection against punctures.
- ⚓ Keel: Inflatable keel-balloon improves driving performance and stability.
- 🛡️ Defense: Reinforced linings on the nose and cylinders are protected from abrasion.
Dimensions, weight and capacity of the cockpit
One of the most common questions buyers have is the actual size of the usable area. Barracuda boat 55 It's 3.5 meters long, but it's about the size of the workspace, or cockpit, where the anglers and gear are, is about 2.4 meters long and 1.2 meters wide, and it's enough to accommodate two adults comfortably.
The weight of the boat in the assembled form varies depending on the configuration, but usually is about 50-55 kilograms. Transportation of such cargo in the trunk of a passenger car is possible, but requires the efforts of two people or the use of a trolley. graffiti And take out the sleigh, which takes extra time.
The vessel's capacity allows you to carry not only a standard set of anglers, but also additional equipment such as sonar, anchor and reserve anchor. freeboard The optimal load for this model is two people of average build and about 100 kg of equipment.
When fully loaded, the boat behaves predictably, but becomes more inert, which means that the turning radius increases, and the reaction to the steering gear slows down, and consider this factor when maneuvering in narrowness or near the driftwood.
Compilation and options for the execution of the bottom
The manufacturer offers various modifications that can significantly affect the price and performance. The basic equipment usually includes the boat itself, the bag, the remix and the passport. plywoodIt provides a hard surface and a flat floor.
Some versions may be equipped with a low pressure inflatable floor (LDP), which significantly reduces weight and dimensions in packaged form. But for full fishing with standing on the feet or active spinning fishing, solid flooring is preferable. Plywood treated with special compositions is not afraid of moisture and lasts for years without deformation.
☑️ Checking the completeness when buying
It's important to check the build quality of the seams. They should be glued along the entire length without tearing or bubbles. Two-component glueThe stainless oil used in manufacturing is tight, but factory defects occur in all manufacturers. Check the inflated boat immediately after purchase, before the warranty period expires.
The tray plate, where the motor is attached, is also made of moisture-resistant plywood and reinforced with linings. It is designed to install motors up to 15-18 hp, but the optimal traction for this length is 9.9 hp. Excessive power can lead to excessive burrowing of the nose in the wave and the risk of overflowing.
Driving qualities and compatibility with motors
Driving specifications boats of Barracuda 55 With a 9.9 hp engine, the boat goes into plane with two passengers on board, developing a speed of about 25-30 km / h. This is a comfortable mode for moving around the water area and finding fish places.
If you install a more powerful engine, for example, 15 hp, the speed can increase to 35-40 km / h, but the fuel consumption will also increase. angle It's a way of balancing speed and stability, and if you don't adjust it properly, you can dolphinize, or wave jump.
| Engine power (hp) | Max. speed (km/h) | Fuel consumption (L/h) | Mode of traffic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 | 15-18 | ~1.5 | Water-displacement |
| 9.9 | 28-32 | ~3.0 | planing |
| 15.0 | 35-38 | ~5.5 | Active planing |
| 18.0 | 40-42 | ~7.0 | Maximum (not recommended) |
To save fuel and engine life, try to keep your speed in the range of 3500-4500 rpm at cruising speed. Long-term work at full speed increases gasoline consumption by up to 30%.
Driveability of the boat at high speeds requires care. Due to the relatively narrow hull and high sides, the side wind can tear the boat down. Steering should be responsive, so it is recommended to use a rampel or compact remote humming device for more accurate control of the course.
Maintenance, repair and durability
And Barracuda 55 has been in service for a long time, needs proper care. After every fishing, especially in salt water or in overgrown bodies of water, the boat needs to be rinsed with fresh water. Salt and silt, drying, can damage the structure of PVC and accelerate the aging of the material. Drying before packaging is a mandatory condition for storage.
Keep the boat straightened or loosely rolled at room temperature. Long-term storage in compressed form at low temperatures can lead to microcracks on the folds of the fabric. If you notice a slight damage, use the kit included in the kit, or contact a specialized workshop.
Compliance with the rules of drying and storage increases the life of the PVC boat by two times, preventing the appearance of mold and the destruction of adhesive seams.
Check the pressure in the cylinders regularly. A pumped boat in the sun can burst, and a poorly pumped boat can lose driving performance and wear out faster to friction. The optimal pressure is 0.2-0.25 bar, but always check the manufacturer's instructions, as the indicators can vary depending on the air temperature.
Pay special attention to the condition of the valves. Periodically, they must be cleaned of sand and dirt, which can interfere with the tightness. To lubricate the moving parts of the valve mechanism, use special silicone lubricants, avoiding petroleum-based products that can corrode rubber.
Tuning and modernization for comfortable fishing
The basic equipment is good to start with, but many owners are looking to improve their performance. floaterA popular upgrade is the installation of additional mounts around the perimeter of the cylinders, which allows you to attach the tackle, sonar or anchor shaft without taking up space in the cockpit.
Another useful addition is the installation of soft linings on cans (seats), standard plywood can be hard for long fishing, using foam linings or buying special covers will greatly improve comfort. rod-holder directly on board or transom.
- 🎣 Leir rings: It simplifies the attachment of equipment and anchor.
- 🪑 Soft seats: Reduce back fatigue during long fishing.
- ⚓ Anchor: Installation of a bolt on the nose for convenient anchorage.
Can I install a sounder without drilling?
Yes, there are special suction cups or brackets that are attached to the transom or sides without disturbing the integrity of the boat, which preserves the warranty and makes it easy to remove the device if necessary.
Some anglers set small tables on the transom to accommodate appliances or snacks. The main thing when tuning is not to disturb the balance of the boat. Placement of heavy loads (for example, a battery box) should be symmetrical or strictly in the center, so as not to sway the boat to the side.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that Barracuda boat 55 It's a time-tested tool for water tourism and fishing, and it's not without the disadvantages of the budget segment, but with proper operation and timely maintenance, it can delight the owner for many seasons, and the right choice of engine and accessories will make it the perfect boat for the weekend.
Competent tuning allows you to adapt a universal boat for specific tasks of the angler, whether it is trolling, spinning or family walks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum weight of the cargo of the boat Barracuda 55?
The load capacity is about 450-500 kg, including the weight of passengers, motor and equipment, but for safe and comfortable plane, it is recommended not to exceed the load of 300-350 kg.
Can I use this boat in the winter?
Operating at subzero temperatures is possible, but it requires extreme caution. PVC material becomes tough and brittle in the cold, pumping the boat with warm air and avoiding impacts on the ice.
How long does it take to assemble and disassemble a boat?
It takes about 15-20 minutes for an experienced user to assemble and 10-15 minutes for disassembly, and the time can increase in cold weather or when using a hand pump.
Do I need to register Barracuda boat 55 in GIMS?
Registration is required if the weight of the equipped boat with the engine exceeds 200 kg, or if the engine power is more than 8 hp (or 10 hp depending on the year of production and current regulations).