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Name: GPagano
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This is an 'update' review. Season two, month eight.
As with all things that have to meet a certain standard with me, I challenge all of my kit to its fullest potential, this craft is no exception.
I have beaten this thing near to breaking, using untold gallons of hot water to work out the dents. Scarred the underside so badly, I swear its taking on water sometimes...alas, it's just the factory front hatch. Dragged over paved lots and rough rock shores. Still floats, still outruns or matches my podmates (12-15': Mix of sea and rec, she is the only SOT) at cadence. She's a long-hauler to be sure. Loaded within 25 lb of max rated, I use a slower, energy saving cadence for anything over a 10 mile day. The performance comes from the closing of the scuppers.
No really, try it when you demo one.
With all eight open, she sits like a typical SOT for fishing and enjoying the slower life. Primary stability is insane, to where the only way I could tip her was a standing or a grab-the-handle and hard lean roll. Close them and things change, rapidly. Secondary stability comes to the forefront, and she picks up speed. 3-6' wind or motorized swells and 20+ winds, gravy. Seriously, she thrives on playing when its nautical. or a nice Class I or II shows up.
The factory seat is crap. I used a few stadium pads and tie-wraps to mod it into something usable. Its good now for tripping, fishing, and touring. I use a low-back for PT, surf and anything involving a helmet. Thigh straps are a must. Without a rudder or skeg from the factory, all of the control comes from you, period. Lean to love them, they are your friend. An entry level pair have handled everything well enough.
More to follow as the season enters the colder months.
I feel it is the superior SOT for creeking, light touring and other non-fishing activities. Silent through waves in mildly nautical conditions, swift across the glass. Easily maintains cadence and speed with other thirteen and fourteen footers.
Unfortunately, stronger winds like to mess with her, but technique easily dismisses any issues.
The Triumph is the performance cousin to most SOT's out there.