The modern market of water-motor technology offers a huge variety of swimming facilities, but it is precisely the flyboat Polyvinyl chloride is a strong driver of fishing and water tourism. Choosing the right inflatable watercraft is not just a matter of comfort, it is a guarantee of your safety on the water, especially when you go out into open waters with a motor. Buying mistakes are often detected during operation, when it is too late to change something without significant financial losses.
When searching for the ideal option, many factors must be considered: from the density of the material used and the type of bottom to the estimated power of the outboard motor. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) has proven to be resistant to abrasion, solar radiation and fuels, but the specifications of different manufacturers can vary dramatically. In this article, we will discuss all the technical details so that you can make an informed decision.
The first thing to look at is the purpose of the boat, and for quiet fishing on the lake and for surfing, you need very different design solutions. The optimal density of fabric for a universal boat is 850-950 g / sq.m.Because thinner materials risk being punctured, and overly thick materials make the boat heavier and less maneuverable, let's take a closer look at the key aspects of the choice.
Materials and tissue density: myths and reality
The basis of any high-quality boat is reinforced polyvinyl chloride. It's not just a film, but a complex multilayer structure where the strands of cord are located between the layers of PVC, providing the necessary materials for the construction of a multilayered vessel. tensileMany beginners mistakenly believe that the thicker the fabric, the better, but excessive density (above 1100 g/sq.m) is justified only for boats intended for extreme use or commercial exploitation.
There are several types of fabric coating, and the durability of your boat depends on it. One-way coating is cheaper, but two-way coating provides better protection against UV and mechanical damage. reinforcement It takes on the main load, while PVC protects the filaments from water and rot.
When inspecting the boat in the store, strongly squeeze the side in your hands: if you hear a crunch or see the clatters of the coating, then the plastic is of low quality and can crack in the cold.
Pay attention to the seams. In quality models, it's used. gluing It's a two-part glue that creates a monolithic structure, and simply joining the joints or using cheap single-part adhesives reduces the product's life significantly, and it's also worth checking for a perimeter apron that protects the sides from impacts on the pier or shore.
Types of bottom: inflatable, plywood or aluminum?
The type of bottom is perhaps the most important parameter that affects driving performance and comfort. inflatable floor (NDB) Low pressure provides maximum comfort, as it allows you to sit directly on the floor without an additional mat. These boats are great waveholders, but have sailing and less stiffness on the planing compared to a hard bottom.
Boats off plumbate (plywood or aluminum) are assembled from separate sections that are nested inside, a classic option for fishermen who value rigidity. Aluminum profile or plywood (often aeronautical plywood FFS) give the hull excellent hydrodynamics, allowing it to develop faster speeds with less fuel consumption.
When choosing a hard bottom, it is important to consider the weight of the elements: plywood sleighs are heavier and afraid of moisture if stored improperly, whereas aluminum sheets are lighter but can be cold and slippery. keel or keel stretching is mandatory, as it provides course stability and prevents yaw at speed.
Dimensions and load capacity: how not to make a mistake with the size
The choice of size of the boat directly depends on the number of passengers, weight of equipment and power of the planned engine. Inflatable boats are conditionally divided into rowing boats (up to 280 cm), motor-rowing boats (290-340 cm) and full-fledged motor boats (from 350 cm). Load capacityThe scoring specified in the data sheet is the theoretical limit at which the boat is still afloat, but not comfort for movement.
For comfortable fishing together with an engine of 5-6 hp, the minimum length should be 320-340 cm If you plan to install an engine with a capacity of 9.9 hp and above, the length of the body should be at least 360 cm Neglect this rule leads to the fact that the boat “breaks” nose in the wave, choking and becoming unmanageable.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
Also worth considering is the width of the cockpit: narrower boats are faster but less stable.more than 150 cm) It is more stable, easier to move and catch fish, but it is more resistant to the wind. Always leave a loading capacity of about 20-30% of data-sheet figures for anchor, sonar, boxes with gear and personal belongings.
Design features: transom, valves and fittings
The trawler is the back of your boat, which accounts for the main load of the engine, it must be made of moisture-resistant plywood (usually 12-25 mm) and securely secured in special pockets. transom plate It is often reinforced by metal or plastic linings, which prevents the timber from being pressed by the motor fasteners.
Quality fittings are as important as cylinder material. Plastic injection elements (pens, valves, rod holders) must be made of frost-resistant plastic that does not touch the sun or burst in the cold. return-valveThey must keep high pressure and not poison the air even during long parking.
| Type of element | Materials | Appointment | Resource |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tranza | Plywood FSF + lacquer | Motor attachment | Highly |
| Valve | Brass/Plastic | Pumping/Descent | Medium. |
| Leer cable | Nylon/Kevlar | Security | Highly |
| Pens | PVC + plastic | Transportation | Medium. |
Presence liner-line In case of an emergency (for example, if a person fell overboard), it will be almost impossible to grab a smooth side, and the rope gives a reliable point of support, and check for drainage holes in the cockpit for quick removal of water that has fallen inside.
Package and additional options
The basic equipment is often insufficient for full use, the standard set usually includes oars, a pump, a remix and a bag-pack. anchor, holders for spinning, sonar and hinged transverses for the installation of additional equipment.
The quality of the pump that comes with the kit often leaves much to be desired. For frequent trips to the water, it is better to purchase a two-chamber foot or electric pump, which will allow you to quickly pump the boat to the desired pressure (usually 0.2-0.25 atm) without physical effort. Manometer The pump is mandatory, since the boat pumped in the sun can burst, and the under-pumped will have poor driving qualities.
The secret to long service
Keep the boat half-blown or completely deflated, but always straightened. Do not leave it assembled in direct sunlight or in the cold, which accelerates the aging of glue and PVC.
Notice the bag, the bag, the bag, the bag, the bag, the bag, the bag, the hardened bottom, the handles, the bag, the first torn, leaving the owner with the piles of cylinders on the shore, the bag bags for documents and the small things in the bag make it much easier to organize fishing.
Comparison of popular brands and price segments
The inflatable boat market is represented by both well-known brands and many local manufacturers. Flagship, hunter, Aqua or brigThey offer time-tested designs with a guarantee of quality, and their products are strictly controlled, but they are also more expensive.
Budget models are often made in China or small workshops. They can be attractive for the price, but the savings are often due to the quality of the glue, the thickness of PVC or the reliability of the fittings. When buying a "nouneim", there is a high risk of a seam defect that will manifest itself at the most inopportune time.
The best value for money is usually in the middle segment: boats of domestic manufacturers with a fabric density of 900 g/sq.m. and plywood bottom.
Brand selection also includes the availability of parts and remixes. Popular models can easily find replacement valves, repair pieces or new sleighs. For rare or imported models, finding the right glue or patch can be a long quest. Always check for service support in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What pressure should be in the cylinders of the PVC boat?
The optimum working pressure is 0.2–0.25 atmospheric (about 200–250 mbar), and exceeding this value in the sun will cause the seams to rupture due to air expansion, and insufficient pressure will make the boat “cotton” and unstable.
Can I leave a PVC boat in the sun?
Exposure to direct sunlight for long periods of time is not necessary. Ultraviolet breaks down the PVC structure and weakens the adhesive seams. If you fish for a few days, try to pull the boat ashore or cover it with an awning.
What do you do to fix a puncture in a boat?
For repairs, use special remixes based on polyurethane glue. Regular glue ("Moment" and analogues) will not ensure the tightness and elasticity of the seam. The repair site must be degreased and warmed up with a hairdryer according to the instructions.
How often should I lift my boat during the day?
When the ambient temperature changes, the pressure in the cylinders changes, in the morning, pumped in warm, in cold water, the boat can "tighten", it is recommended to have a pump with you and pump the cylinders as necessary, focusing on the hardness of the side.