Choosing a swimming aid for serious fishing or a family holiday on the water always involves trade-offs between cost, size and performance. Kitt Boats 370 This is a classic example of manufacturers trying to find a middle ground in the class of rowing and motor boats entry level, which is considered one of the most popular in the post-Soviet space, as it allows you to comfortably accommodate two or three adult passengers and accommodate the necessary equipment.
But behind the exterior similarities with thousands of other inflatable vessels, there are important design nuances that determine durability and safety on the water. In this review, we will take a closer look at what this boat is made of, how reliable it is and who really should pay attention to this product.
It is worth noting that the brand Kitt Boats It's marketed as a budget solution, which puts some constraints on materials and assembly technologies. However, for many aquatic motors, it's the price-to-performance ratio that becomes the deciding factor. Next, we'll look at the technical aspects that are hidden from view when you first see a product in a store or in photos.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of any inflatable boat is the material of cylinders, and in the case of the Model 370 from this manufacturer, PVC reinforced is used. The density of the fabric usually varies between 750-850 g / sq.m., which is standard for the amateur class. This density provides sufficient protection against punctures on a rocky bottom or branch, but requires careful handling when pulling the vessel ashore in difficult conditions.
An important element of the design is bottom (NHD), which is often found in this modification, gives the body excellent seaworthiness and allows you to feel confidently on the wave, but has its own specifications in operation, the bottom is pumped to high pressure, creating a rigid plane, but still remains susceptible to temperature changes, which can affect the rigidity of the structure during the day.
⚠️ Warning: When operating an inflatable floor boat in hot weather, be sure to monitor the pressure in the cylinders. Heating the air in the sun can lead to a critical increase in pressure and rupture of the seams or valves.
Seams in construction Kitt Boats 370 They're glued together, which is a traditional and reliable way to bond polyvinyl chloride, and the quality of gluing depends on the human factor and the glue used in the factory, and unlike welds, glues that can last for decades when properly maintained, but they're more sensitive to long-term deflated storage in high humidity.
- 🛶 Use of five-layer reinforced PVC for increased strength of cylinders.
- ⚓ The presence of a timber around the perimeter to protect against impacts on the pier.
- 🔧 Reinforced linings in places of friction and increased loads (stringer zone).
Cockpit layout and usable area
The interior of the boat, which is 370 cm long, allows two fishermen with tackles or three passengers to walk comfortably. The cockpit is usually designed with two inflatable can seats that can be moved along the sides to balance the vessel, especially when fishing together, when you need to shift the center of gravity depending on the location of the engine and the weight of the passengers.
Special equipment is provided for installation tension-stretching The 370 often has a tailored sticker or rod attachment, which eliminates the need for the wearer to glue it themselves, making it easier to prepare for fishing and quickly adapt the boat to specific tasks.
The transom compartment is particularly important, and in this model, it is usually rigidly glued into cylinders and protected by linings, which ensures that the engine is securely fixed, but limits the ability to remove it without completely lowering the cylinders unless a special design is provided. The space under the banks is often used to store dry bags or boxes of tools, which optimizes the use of internal volume.
Use special pocket bags attached to the board to free up the floor of the boat for legs and tackle, increasing comfort during long fishing.
specifications and compatibility with motors
One of the key issues when choosing a PVC boat is the power of the permissible motor. for a length of 370 cm and design. Kitt Boats The optimal power range is from 5 to 9.9 hp Installation of a more powerful unit is possible, but not always advisable due to limitations on the load capacity and design of the transom.
The trawler of the boat is made of moisture-resistant plywood coated with water-resistant varnish or paint. The thickness of the transom is usually 25-30 mm, which meets the requirements for motors up to 10 hp. maximum capacity is specified by the manufacturer based on the safety and resource of the seams, not only on the possibility of plane.
Below is a table with indicative specifications that will help determine the choice of motor:
| Parameter | Meaning/Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Body length | 370 cm |
| Max, engine power. | 10 hp. |
| Load capacity | 550 kg |
| Boat weight (without motor) | about 45-50 kg |
| Passenger capacity | 3 people |
When operating with a motor at the limit of recommended power, the state of the water surface should be considered. At a large wave, the load on the transom and seams increases many times, so in such conditions it is better to lose speed and move in displacement mode, which will prolong the life of both the boat and the engine.
Assembly, storage and transportation
Preparation process Kitt Boats 370 It takes an average of 15-20 minutes to launch, with experience and an electric pump. Using a mechanical foot pump can double this time and require considerable physical effort, especially when pumping the bottom to working pressure. Automating the pumping process is one of the most effective ways to improve operating comfort.
Transportation is carried out in a special bag, the dimensions of which allow you to place the boat in the trunk of a hatchback or station wagon passenger car. However, it is worth considering the weight of the kit: when assembled with a motor, battery and anchor, the total weight can exceed 70-80 kg, which requires the participation of two people for loading.
☑️ Preparation for winter storage
Storage of the boat requires a temperature regime. PVC material does not like extreme cold, becoming brittle, and excessive heat. The best option is to store inflated or half-blown in a garage or on a balcony protected from direct sunlight. Long-term storage in a deflated state under heavy objects can lead to the formation of cloth cloths that are difficult to straighten.
⚠️ Warning: Never keep the boat deflated under heavy loads or severely crumpled for more than one season, resulting in irreversible PVC structure deformities and microcracks.
Repairability and maintenance
Like any other technical device, the boat Kitt Boats 370 The most common damage is punctures and cuts in cylinders. With the use of PVC, these damages are easily repaired at home with a remix, which usually comes in the base supply, the main thing is to comply with degreasing technology and drying time of the glue.
More serious damage can be joint discrepancy or transom damage. If the seam diverges, professional gluing will be required, as artisanal repairs in this place may not withstand the pressure of pumping. Regular inspection of the condition of the seams and valves before each season allows you to identify problems at an early stage.
How to properly glue a patch on PVC?
Clean the damage site, degrease with acetone, apply glue to both surfaces, allow it to dry for 10-15 minutes, then apply a second layer, press and leave under load for 24 hours.
The maintenance of the fittings is also important for the long service of the boat. Metal rings, rod holders and can fastenings should be periodically lubricated with silicone lubrication to prevent corrosion, especially if the boat is used in salt water or simply comes into frequent contact with moisture. The rust can stain clothing and tackle, as well as damage the cylinder fabric at the point of contact.
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
In the PVC boat market, the 370 cm model is one of the most competitive in terms of price. Kitt Boats It may be inferior in density to the fabric used or the availability of additional out-of-the-box options such as hand-helds or complex stringer systems, but for beginners or those looking for a second boat for rare trips, this offer looks very attractive.
The main competitors in this segment are the Flagman, Hunter and Aqua models, and when choosing to compare not only the price, but also the warranty, as well as the availability of refits and parts in your area, often the cheaper boat ends up costing more because of the lack of service support.
The Kitt Boats 370 is the best budget entry ticket to the world of boating sports, requiring careful handling and timely care for long service.
In conclusion, it is a fully priced model that provides the necessary level of safety and comfort for fishing and recreation, and, when operated carefully and stored, can last its owner for many seasons, giving a pleasant experience of communication with water.
Which pump is best used for a 370 cm boat?
For a boat of this size (about 500-600 liters), it is highly recommended to use a two-stage foot pump or, even better, an electric pump powered by a 12V battery. This will save time and effort, especially when pumping the bottom of the high pressure (Hiflex), which requires considerable effort.
Can I put on Kitt Boats 370 engine more powerful than 10 hp?
Technically, a transom can withstand 15 hp, but this is not recommended by manufacturers. Excessive power leads to overloading of seams at high speeds and excitement, and can also disrupt the balance of the boat, making it dangerous to drive.
How often should I lift a boat in the summer?
In hot weather, the pressure in the cylinders can rise, and they, on the contrary, need to be fired, so that it does not rupture. In cool weather or in the morning after a warm night, the pressure drops, and it may require a slight pumping. Check the stiffness of the cylinders with your finger before each step out.
What is the difference between 750 g/m2 and 900 g/m2?
The difference is the density and, accordingly, the strength and weight of the material. PVC 900 g / m2 is heavier, tougher and more resistant to puncture, but the boat from it will weigh more. For quiet fishing and tourism 750-850 g / m2 is enough, for rocky shores and extremes it is better to look for denser fabrics.