The modern small boat market offers a wide range of watercraft, but PVC-reinforced inflatable boats have already taken a leading position among anglers and tourists. Among the many brands represented in the CIS, Bark products, which have proven to be a reliable and affordable option for water trips, combine time-tested design, quality materials and thoughtful ergonomics, making them popular for more than two decades.
Choosing a particular model often becomes a difficult task due to the large number of modifications, differing in size, load capacity and bottom design. The right boat was chosen. It can withstand a serious wave and provide comfortable fishing even in windy weather. In this article, we will discuss in detail the key features of the products, technical nuances and help you determine the best option for your needs.
It is worth noting that the Ukrainian manufacturer uses specific gluing and cutting technologies that distinguish their products from competitors, understanding these differences will allow you to avoid common errors in operation and maintenance.
Key features of construction and materials
The basis of any inflatable boat is the material from which its hull is made. PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is highly resistant to mechanical damage, ultraviolet radiation and temperature changes, the density of the material is usually from 750 to 1150 g / m2, which provides the necessary safety margin for navigation in difficult conditions.
An important design element is the inflatable cylinder system, and most models use a three-separate system to ensure buoyancy even if one of the cylinders is damaged. Inflatable slug cans In some models, they perform a dual function: they give rigidity to the structure and at the same time are part of the inflatable circuit, increasing the overall unsinkability of the vessel.
⚠️ Warning: When boats are in the sun for a long time, be sure to use protective awnings or periodically vent excessive air pressure. Heating in the direct sun can increase the internal pressure in the cylinders to critical values, which will lead to divergence of seams.
The technology of connecting elements is particularly important, and instead of mechanically connecting or gluing, the method is used in manufacturing. heat-glue This ensures a monolithic structure where the seam is stronger than the material itself, and this technology eliminates leakage at the bottom and board docking points, which is critical for water safety.
Types of bottom: from sleigh-rug to NDNDM
The rigidity and driving performance of the boat are directly dependent on the design of the bottom, and there are different options in the model range, each of which has its own advantages. slate-rugIt's a removable bottom of moisture-resistant plywood or water-resistant laminated plywood that fits on inflated cylinders, ideal for anchor fishing or quiet walks, because it allows you to fold the boat into a compact bag.
For those who plan active planing with the engine, the optimal solution will be a hard inflatable floor (a hard inflatable floor).NDMAIn such models, the bottom is an inflatable compartment with built-in longitudinal and transom stringers that give it a stiffness comparable to that of an aluminum sheet. Boats with NDM better hold the wave, have excellent hydrodynamics and allow you to confidently get on plane even with less powerful motors.
There's also a stiff, plywood slate, which is a set of aluminum or plywood slabs that are assembled inside the boat into a single flat floor, which provides a perfectly flat surface that's comfortable to walk on, but takes longer to assemble and disassemble. The choice of bottom type should be based on use cases: if you change fishing spots often and carry the boat in the trunk of a passenger car, weight and compactness can be decisive factors.
The secret to longevity of NDB
In the inflatable floor, it is critical not to pump the stringers, the pressure in them must be strictly in accordance with the instructions (usually 0.2-0.25 atm), otherwise the geometry of the boat can be deformed and the driving performance lost.
Overview of popular models and their specifications
The range range ranges from single mattresses to full-fledged four-seaters, and the most popular series of models that customers choose most. Bark M., which is a classic rowing boat with the possibility of installing a transom electric motor or a low-power gasoline engine.
Series Bark BT (formerly known as Kamskaya) is aimed at anglers who care about stability and roominess, often equipped with a reinforced transom and wider cylinders, which improves stability when standing. RBBIt has improved driving performance and protected keel.
For comparison of the main parameters, we give a table of specifications of three popular models of different dimensions:
| Model | Length (cm) | Width (cm) | Load capacity (kg) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barque M-240 | 240 | 115 | 220 | 23 |
| Bark BT-300 | 300 | 140 | 350 | 38 |
| Bark RB-380 | 380 | 160 | 600 | 52 |
As you can see from the table, as you increase in size, not only does the load capacity increase, but the weight of the product also increases, and this should be taken into account when planning transportation. Models longer than 3.5 meters in running condition with a hard bottom can weigh more than 60 kgThis requires a wheel transom or an assistant to be launched into the water.
Motor selection and installation of attachment equipment
Installing the engine turns the rowing boat into a fully motorized vessel. When choosing a motor, you need to focus on the power specified in the product passport and the desired speed. Exceeding the recommended power can lead to transom collapse or loss of controllability. For most models up to 3 meters in length, engines with power output will be the best choice. 2-5 hpwhich allow to reach speeds of 10-15 km / h.
The motor is mounted on a trench board, which must be installed strictly perpendicular to the diametrical plane of the boat. cross-plate Incorrect installation can cause yawing or goats, a dangerous effect when the bow of the boat is upwards and glides only on the aft.
☑️ Check before exit on the motor
In addition to the motor, the boat is often equipped with additional equipment: sonars, navigators, fishing rod holders and anchor systems. floorboard Or attach the elements directly to inflatable tubes with glue or Velcro intended for PVC. Do not overload the transom with additional weight, as this shifts the center of gravity and impairs driving performance.
Operational rules and safety measures
Safety on the water depends not only on the technical condition of the vessel, but also on the actions of the crew. Before each exit, a visual inspection should be carried out for cuts, punctures and the integrity of the seams. valve Even a small damage can cause rapid loss of buoyancy at the most inopportune moment.
When operating in windy weather or during the course, it is important to properly distribute the cargo, passengers and equipment should be placed symmetrically relative to the diametrical plane, sudden movement of people inside the boat is unacceptable, as this can lead to the emergence of a large number of passengers. tippingAlways use life jackets, regardless of the depth of the reservoir and ability to swim.
⚠️ Warning: It is forbidden to operate a boat at an air temperature below -5 C without special preparation. PVC material in the cold loses elasticity and becomes brittle, which dramatically increases the risk of damage to the hull when hitting the ice or board.
If you're caught in a storm or a strong wave, you have to slow down, turn the boat nose or 3/4 to the wave and move to the nearest shore, and rowing in such conditions is ineffective, so having an anchor and being able to use it properly becomes a critical survival skill.
Care, storage and repair DIY
The life of an inflatable boat depends on storage and maintenance conditions. After each operation, especially in salt water, the hull must be thoroughly washed with fresh water and dried. Store the product in a deflated state (or with a slight residual pressure) in a case, in a dry room at a temperature of -20 to +40 degrees. It is not recommended to keep the boat in a rolled-up state under heavy loads.
Small damages, such as cuts or punctures, are easily repaired at home. You will need a remake, degreasing alcohol and a dryer to heat up. The process of sealing requires cleanliness and temperature. Repairs It is better to spend indoors at room temperature, avoiding dust and moisture under the patch.
Use a soap solution and a soft sponge to clean up the high-impact contaminants, aggressive chemical solvents, gasoline or acetone can damage the PVC protective layer and cause the material to break down.
Regularly lubricating the valves with silicone grease will prevent them from jamming and ensure leakage. If you notice that the boat has started poisoning the air, but there is no visible damage, check the valves and the places where the handles are glued. Often the problem lies in the microscopic adhesive detachments, which are easily eliminated by reheating.
Proper storage in the off-season (in straightened or half-blown form in the heat) prolongs the life of PVC materials for 5-7 years.
How to choose the right size for two boats?
For comfortable fishing, the optimal length of the boat is from 320 to 360 cm. Smaller sizes will be cramped and larger ones will be too heavy to transport. The width is also important: narrow models are less stable, but faster to walk, wide ones are more comfortable for angling.
Can I seal the Bark boat with another manufacturer's glue?
It is recommended to use only polyurethane adhesives intended for PVC. Two-component adhesives of other brands can react with the material or not provide proper elasticity of the seam, which will lead to detachment of the patch during deformation of the balloon.
What is the real carrying capacity of a boat with a marking of 350 kg?
The declared carrying capacity is the maximum mass at which the boat is still kept on the surface. For comfortable and safe operation, the boat should be loaded no more than 70-80% of its nominal value, taking into account the weight of equipment, engine and fuel.
Do I need to register the Bark boat in GIMS?
Registration is required if the weight of the equipped vessel (with an engine) exceeds 200 kg or the engine power exceeds 8 hp (10.88 kW). Most light models with low-power engines are not subject to registration, but you need to have documents for the boat and the engine with you.