Inflation Instructions; Using The Boat - Gumotex SOLAR Manuel De L'utilisateur

3. Inflation Instructions
Unfold and spread out the kayak. If you are going to use the
tracking fin, plug it into the bottom bracket (21). Prior to as-
sembly, inflate both seats and footrests. The method for using
the valve (22) is shown in Figure 2.
The Solar kayak can be used in its single, double and triple
version – Refer to Figure 1.
Single version:
Fasten the inflatable seat (7) in the bottom bracket (16).
Thread the seat backrest straps (19) through the D-rings (18)
on the side barrels. Thread the strap ends through the plastic
seat buckle (23) – Refer to Detail A.
Fasten the rear footrest (9) in the bracket (15). Thread the
footrest strap through the plastic buckle in the bottom and
tighten it. For correct threading of the strap through the buckle,
refer to Detail B.
Double version:
Fasten the front inflatable seat (7) in the bottom bracket (15).
Fasten the rear inflatable seat (7) in the bottom bracket (16).
Thread the seat backrest straps (19) through the D-rings (18)
on the side barrels. Thread the strap ends through the plastic
seat buckle (23) – Refer to Detail A.
Fasten the front footrest (8) in the bottom bracket (16) un-
der the front board. Fasten the rear footrest (9) in the bottom
bracket (15). Thread the footrest strap through the plastic
buckle in the bottom and tighten it. For correct threading of the
strap through the buckle, refer to Detail B.
Triple version:
Fasten the front footrest (7) in the bottom bracket (15). Fas-
ten the central and rear seats (7) in the bottom bracket (16).
Thread the seat backrest straps (19) through the D-rings (18)
on the side barrels. Thread the strap ends through the seat
plastic buckle (23) – Refer to Detail A.
Fasten the front footrest (8) under the front board in the bot-
tom bracket (16). Thread the footrest strap through the plastic
buckle in the bottom and tighten it. For correct threading of the
strap through the buckle, refer to Detail B.
The oval-shaped fixture (15) has several positions for fixing
the foot-rest (9). The positions are numbered and correspond
to different heights of paddlers. Position No. 1 corresponds to
a body height of (150–160) cm, Position No. 2 corresponds to
a body height of (160–170) cm, Position No. 3 corresponds to
a body height of (170–180) cm and Position No. 4 corresponds
to a body height exceeding 180 cm.
Lace the foot-rest's fastening strap (9) through the holes in the
foot-rest fixture (15) on the bottom. Proceed from the chosen
position number through all the holes up to the plastic buckle
on the end of the fixture; lace the end of the fastening strap
through the buckle and tighten it – see Detail B.
Inflate the air chambers in the following order: sidewall cylin-
ders (1) and the bottom (2).
A foot pump or piston pump with a valve adapter is the best
way of inflating the craft (the valve adapter is included in the
gluing set) – see Picture 2b. Prior to inflating the canoe, check
the valves. Set the valves to the closed position. For how to
use the valves – see Picture 2.
Inflate the air chambers to the required operational pressure.
Use a pressure gauge with a corresponding adaptor (optional
equipment) for measuring the correct operating pressure - re-
fer to Fig. 2a. The spanner for assembling the valves is an
optional accessory – see Picture 2c.
ATTENTION
The maximum operational pressure in air chambers is
0.02 MPa. If the ambient temperature increases (e.g. ow-
ing to sunlight), the pressure in the air chambers of the
canoe can rise rapidly. We recommend releasing some
air from all air chambers of the canoe after pulling it out
of the water. This will prevent possible destruction of
the air chambers. However, do not forget to continuous-
ly check air pressure in the chambers afterwards, too.
ATTENTION
When using the boat, always seal the valves with their
valve caps. This will keep dirt out of the valves. Dirt can-
cause leaky valve seals.
4. Using the Boat
The Solar kayak is designed for recreational use and water
tourism.
Whenever the kayak is used on waterways, Waterway Traffic
Rules should be observed. Operation of the Solar a inflatable
canoe does not require any licence provided the people who
operate the canoe know the techniques of small boat opera-
tion within the scope necessary for its operation, as well as the
valid navigation rules of the particular country.
The Solar kayak can be used on still or gently flowing waters
up to Difficulty Grade WW 2. Use double-bladed kayak pad-
dles with a length of approx. 210 cm. People travelling in the
kayak should sit in their seats and wear flotation life-jackets.
ATTENTION
Prior to every use of the boat, check whether it is neces-
sary to observe any special regulations, restrictions or
rules connected with the river, surface of water or area
in which you aim to operate.
The boat is not designed to be towed behind motor-
boats, nor may it be otherwise towed, dragged or in any
way subject to unusual stress. Sharp edged and pointed
items carried in the boat must be safely wrapped.
Place all valuables into a waterproof container and fas-
ten it to the boat.
Over time, sunlight adversely affects the rubber coating
of the boat; therefore, it is advisable to store the boat in
shade each time after use.
CAUTION:
• On large surfaces of water (seas, lakes) pay atten-
tion to water currents and off-shore breezes. Cur-
rents and breezes may make it impossible to return
to shore.
• The Solar kayak should not be used in poor condi-
tions, such as In reduced visibility (night, fog, rain).
Specifications of the WW 2 difficulty grade - moderately
difficult:
•
Irregular waves and riffles, medium rapids, small whirls and
eddies, low vertical drops, small rapids in watercourse with
heavy meandering or poor visibility
•
Regular flow and low, regular waves, small rapids, simple
obstacles, frequent meanders and fast current of water.
Subjective requirements for WW 2 white-water kayaking:
•
Knowledge of all basic forward and backward strokes, stee-
ring and command of the boat. Ability to evaluate the difficulty
of the stream and level height. Knowledge of simple re-
scue. Physical fitness for longer trips, swimming.
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