Do you have a question about the NUCANOE Frontier 12 and is the answer not in the manual?
Lay out rowing arm assemblies and cross bar, ensuring cam locks face up as pictured.
Connect cross bar ends to the open "hand" piece, aligning holes and fastening with screws and locknuts.
Remove side handles using a 5/32 Hex Driver and save parts for future use.
Install eye bolts on side handle inserts using a screw, two washers, and a black spacer.
Determine the direction the rowing arms will face; this dictates user orientation.
Insert rowing system onto Frontier, passing eye bolts through slots and securing with lock nuts and washers.
Connect ball joints to slider on support arms, install ball joint, reinsert bushing, and fasten with cam lock.
Lift rowing arm into position, tighten cam locks, insert oar locks, and secure with cotter pins.
The NuCanoe Frontier 12 Rowing System is an accessory designed to transform the NuCanoe Frontier 12 kayak into a rowing vessel, offering a unique propulsion method and enhancing the versatility of the watercraft. This system allows users to experience a different mode of operation, providing a full-body workout and a distinct on-water experience compared to traditional paddling. The design emphasizes ease of assembly, installation, and adjustability, catering to various user preferences and orientations.
At its core, the rowing system consists of a robust frame that integrates with the existing structure of the Frontier 12 kayak. This frame serves as the foundation for the rowing arms and oar locks, providing the necessary leverage and support for efficient rowing. The system is engineered to be sturdy yet manageable, ensuring a stable platform for the rower while maintaining the kayak's inherent stability. The materials chosen for the components are selected for their durability and resistance to the marine environment, ensuring longevity and reliable performance.
One of the primary functions of the NuCanoe Frontier 12 Rowing System is to enable forward-facing or rear-facing rowing, depending on the user's preference and the specific activity. This dual-orientation capability is a significant feature, offering flexibility for solo excursions or tandem setups. When configured for solo forward-facing rowing, the user can maintain a clear view of their surroundings, which can be advantageous for navigating crowded waterways or observing wildlife. Conversely, solo rear-facing rowing provides a more traditional rowing experience, often preferred for its ergonomic benefits and power transfer. For tandem use, the system can be set up for rear-facing rowing, allowing one person to row while another enjoys the ride or assists with other tasks.
The assembly process of the rowing frame is designed to be straightforward, with clear instructions guiding the user through each step. The system utilizes a combination of pre-assembled components and user-fastened connections, minimizing the complexity of initial setup. Key components like the Rowing Arm assemblies and Cross Bar are laid out, and specific attention is given to the orientation of parts, such as ensuring cam locks are facing up. The use of standard fasteners like Phillips screws and locknuts ensures secure connections, and the inclusion of a video tutorial further simplifies the process, providing visual guidance for those who prefer it.
Installation of the rowing system into the Frontier 12 kayak involves integrating the frame with the kayak's existing features. This process begins with the removal of the kayak's side handles, which are then replaced with eye bolts. These eye bolts serve as crucial attachment points for the rowing system, allowing it to be securely mounted to the kayak's hull. The design ensures that the installation does not permanently alter the kayak, allowing users to revert to the original configuration if desired. The use of washers and spacers in the installation of the eye bolts indicates attention to detail, ensuring proper fit and preventing damage to the kayak's surface.
A significant usage feature of the NuCanoe Frontier 12 Rowing System is its adjustability and adaptability to different rowing styles and user preferences. The system incorporates ball joints and sliders on the support arms, which allow for fine-tuning of the rowing arm position. This adjustability is critical for optimizing the rowing stroke, ensuring comfort, and maximizing efficiency for individual users. The ability to connect and adjust the ball joints by removing and reinserting flanged bushings and cam locks highlights the system's thoughtful engineering, providing a secure yet flexible connection.
The cam locks are a recurring feature throughout the system, emphasizing ease of adjustment and secure locking. These mechanisms allow users to quickly and firmly lock the rowing arms into position once the desired setup is achieved. This quick-release and lock feature is beneficial for on-water adjustments or for quickly stowing the system when not in use. The final step of inserting the oar locks and securing them with cotter pins further underscores the system's focus on secure and reliable operation, ensuring that the oars remain firmly in place during rowing.
Maintenance of the NuCanoe Frontier 12 Rowing System is designed to be minimal, primarily focusing on ensuring the integrity of connections and the smooth operation of moving parts. The use of durable, marine-grade materials for all components means that the system is inherently resistant to corrosion and wear from exposure to water and sunlight. Regular inspection of fasteners, such as screws, locknuts, and cotter pins, is recommended to ensure they remain tight and secure. Any signs of loosening should be addressed promptly to maintain the system's stability and safety.
The design also facilitates easy cleaning. After use, rinsing the system with fresh water is advisable to remove any salt, sand, or debris, which can prolong the life of the components and prevent buildup that might hinder operation. The open design of the frame allows for easy access to all parts for cleaning and inspection. While specific lubrication instructions are not detailed, it is generally good practice to periodically check any moving joints or pivot points for smooth operation and apply a marine-grade lubricant if necessary, especially in saltwater environments, to prevent seizing and ensure continued ease of adjustment.
The ability to remove and reinstall the system also contributes to its maintenance features. When not in use, the system can be detached from the kayak and stored separately, protecting it from prolonged exposure to the elements and potential damage. This modularity also simplifies any potential repairs or component replacements, as individual parts can be accessed more easily when the system is off the kayak. The instructions to "save parts for future use" when removing the kayak's original side handles indicate a commitment to the user's ability to revert to the kayak's original configuration, highlighting the system's non-permanent integration.
In summary, the NuCanoe Frontier 12 Rowing System is a well-engineered accessory that significantly expands the functionality of the Frontier 12 kayak. Its primary function is to enable efficient and versatile rowing, offering both forward-facing and rear-facing orientations for solo or tandem use. Key usage features include its straightforward assembly, secure installation, and highly adjustable components that cater to individual rowing preferences. Maintenance is simplified by its durable construction, easy cleaning, and modular design, ensuring long-term reliability and user satisfaction. The system is a testament to thoughtful design, providing a robust, adaptable, and enjoyable rowing experience for NuCanoe Frontier 12 owners.
| Length | 12 feet |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 650 lbs |
| Hull Weight | 77 lbs |
| Material | Polyethylene |
| Seating Capacity | 2 persons |
| Includes | seat |
Loading...