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***Update*** Perhaps I was premature in my first review. Since I bought the Future Beach Fusion 124, I have done much exploring on the Hudson River (from Newburgh to Iona Island at Bear Mountain State Park), as well as the mouth of Moodna Marsh in Cornwall and Popolopen Creek in Fort Montgomery.

I have been hit with breakers, and the kayak did not swamp. One day, I traveled from Cornwall-on-Hudson to Constitution Island and West Point, to Bannerman's Island, and back to Cornwall Landing. Another day, I paddled from the Landing to the Newburgh/Beacon Bridge and back. Anywhere I want to go I have gone with this 10'4" kayak, and I do not fear for my life. If you know the Hudson, you know World's End can get dicey, and I've had no problems.

Future Beach has made a good starter boat that is stable and roomy. However, after 3 or 4 hours, one becomes painfully aware of the poor seat design. Fortunately, the wide cockpit allows for both sitting Indian Style and stretching one's legs over the sides.

Future Beach ought to consider developing a 14' kayak to compete with the Wilderness Systems Pungo 140 and the Perception Tribute 14. If the company builds such a recreational kayak, I would buy one.

The sea kayak folk mean well, but after hearing "you can't take that boat on the Hudson" time and again, I would like to say "I already have, and will do it again".

First, I will cover the good things about the Fusion 124. Many have stated the kayak tracks well, and I would agree. Many have stated the kayak is extraordinarily stable under real river conditions, and I would agree. Many have mentioned the kayak is good for beginners looking to break into the hobby, and I would agree. Lastly, many reviewers have stated the low price point presents an affordable alternative to other manufacturers' offerings, and I would agree.

Now for the bad. Future Beach no longer makes this model of kayak, and Dick's Sporting Goods is selling their old stock. This does not fill me with confidence when looking for either accessories or parts. I have bought two of these kayaks in one week. The first Fusion 124 was a disappointment; the third time out, in the middle of a stroke, the right foot pad snapped. I returned it to Dick's, and got an orange Fusion to replace the blue one (good idea, given the copious amounts of PWC and motor boats on the Hudson River). The second kayak has the seat screws falling out, and there is no way to tighten them; the rubber covered brass fittings are stripped after one outing. Every stroke results in me getting drenched, so I bought a spray skirt; now water pools where the zipper pouch is. Adding insult to injury, I'm reading in the reviews that people have purchased the same Future Beach kayak for less at Dick's than I paid. Grrr!