journal k ayaker’s


A FRACTION OF THE PRICE. PHOTO: MICHAEL MECHAN


ALL THE FEATURES,


INSIDE OUT BY VIRGINIA MARSHALL The Strait 140 XE BY ELIE


Before you scoff that any kayak with a pur- chase price not requiring a hefty line of credit isn’t worth the salt in the ocean, we invite you to test-drive the Strait 140 XE. The largest size in a new line of thermoform


polyethylene day touring kayaks from Quebec- based Elie Kayaks, the Strait 140’s construc- tion, proportions and price point place it on the recreational end of the paddling spectrum. But it’s the most salient features of any kayak—on- water performance and paddleability—that make the Strait 140 a solid contender in the growing light touring segment. New paddlers will appreciate the excellent


primary stability generated by the Strait’s wide beam and shallow-V hull, while reassuring sec- ondary stability invites advancing beginners and intermediates to explore the surprisingly lively and responsive performance on edge. The moderately rockered, Swede form hull


offers a good compromise of speed and maneu- verability—respectable cruising speed for its length with adequate, if not race-winning, ac- celeration and turn-on-a-dime responsiveness. The Strait 140 tracks well in sheltered waters.


Weathercocking and drifting are noticeable in a strong crosswind because of the higher wind- age of the Strait’s profile, although dropping the rudder helps keep it on track in these conditions. The spacious cockpit accommodates larger


34 ADVENTURE KAYAK | SPRING 2012


paddlers, while the padded thigh braces, er- gonomic seat and adjustable backrest ensure a comfortable, positive fit for solid control in rough water. The sliding track-style foot pegs adjust easily but offer less support when the rudder is deployed than gas pedal-style pegs. The most distinctive element of the Strait’s


outfitting are the clever Quick Lock bow and stern hatches. A simple turn of the latches opens the durable ABS hatch on its hinge, so you’ll never have to fiddle with bungees or struggle with stubborn rubber or neoprene hatches again. The downside is the lack of wa- tertight gaskets, resulting in water infiltration when paddling in rough conditions or rolling. The Strait XE also comes equipped with a


day hatch, in the form of a dry bag hung from the rim of the hatch, not a separate compart- ment. The day hatch’s screw-style cover is diffi- cult to unscrew and must be positioned exactly on the rim thread to close, making on-water access a tricky operation. It would have been nice to see a Quick Lock hatch used for the day access as well, where it would be most handy. With surprising agility and storage capacity,


the Strait 140 delivers touring performance at a recreational price. It best suits mid- to large- sized paddlers looking for an affordable, full- featured kayak for performance day paddling or weekend tours in sheltered waters.


SLICK LIDS


Quick Lock hatches are a blessing for cold or tired fingers. With 50 liters in the bow and 90 liters in the stern, storage capacity is exceptional for a 14-footer.


HARD BODY


The hull is constructed of lightweight, hardwearing three-layer Poly-XR that Elie claims is 30 percent more rigid than standard polyethylene. The shallow-V hull with medium-hard chines offers a performance-minded compromise of stability and edgeability.


EXTENDED PLAY A removable plastic keel extension enhances tracking and adds durabil- ity to a high-wear part of the hull. The substantial rudder aids with tracking and turning even in waves and swell.


ELIE STRAIT 140 XE Length ............................................ 14 ft Width .........................................24.25 in Weight ..........................................53 lbs Capacity ....................................300 lbs Price ....................................... $1,100 US www.eliesport.com


Digital Extra: To watch a video review, go to Adventurekayakmag. com/0043 or download the Adventure Kayak app.


INSET PHOTOS: VIRGINIA MARSHALL


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64