Gumotex HELIOS 1 Manuel De L'utilisateur page 9

3. Instructions for the inflation of the
kayak
Unfold the kayak. If you want to use the direction fi n, insert
it in the fi xture at the bottom (16). Three oval-shaped holes
for the fastening of the rudder are cut-out in the rear vertical
bonded seam. If you want to use the rudder, see its correct
fi xation in Detail B. Infl ate both foot rests before the assembly.
For the way of operating the valve (9) see Fig. 2. Fix both the
front and rear foot rest (7, 8) in the fi xture (17) at the bottom;
for the correct way of pulling the strap through the clamp see
Detail A.
The air chambers shall be infl ated in the following order: side
drums (1), bottom (2) and decks (4, 5, 6). For the infl ation it
is favourable to use a foot pump or piston pump with using
the valve adapter – see Fig. 2b (the adapter is a part of the
gluing kit). Before the start of infl ating, check the condition
of the valves.
Set the valves to the Closed position. For the way of operating
of the valve see Fig. 2. Infl ate the air chambers to the set ope-
rating pressure. Use a pressure gauge with a corresponding
adaptor (optional equipment) for measuring the correct opera-
ting pressure - refer to Fig. 2a. The wrench for the installation
of the valve – see Fig. 2c – is an optional accessory.
ATTENTION
The maximum operational pressure in the air chambers
is 0.02 MPa. If the ambient temperature increases (e.g.
owing to sunlight), the pressure in the air chambers of
the boat can rise rapidly. We recommend releasing some
air from all of the boat's air chambers after pulling it
out of the water. This will prevent any damage to the air
chambers. However, do not forget to continuously mo-
nitor the 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 kayak
The Helios 1 and Helios 2 infl atable kayaks are designed for
recreational use and water tourism. Whenever the kayak is
used on waterways, Waterway Traffi c Rules have to be ob-
served. Operation of the Helios infl atable kayak does not re-
quire any licence provided that the people who operate the
kayak know the techniques of small boat operation within the
scope necessary for its operation, as well as the valid naviga-
tion rules of the particular country.
The Helios kayak can be used on still or gently fl owing waters
up to Diffi culty Grade WW 1. Use double-bladed kayak pad-
dles with a length of approx. 210–230 cm. People travelling
in the kayak have to sit in their seats and wear fl otation life-
-jackets.
ATTENTION
Prior to every use of the boat, check whether it is nece-
ssary 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 motorbo-
ats, 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 aff ects 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 attenti-
on to water currents and off -shore breezes.
Currents and breezes may make it impossible to re-
turn to shore.
•
The Helios kayak should not be used in poor condi-
tions, such as In reduced visibility (night, fog, rain).
Characteristics of Diffi culty Grade WW 1 – Easy:
•
Regular water fl ow and low and regular wave formation,
small rapids, easy obstacles and frequent meanders with
quick water fl ows.
Subjective assumptions for riding wild waters graded WW 1:
•
Knowledge of all basic strokes, both forwards and bac-
kwards, and steering and control of the boat. The ability
to realistically evaluate the diffi culty posed and the actual
state of the river's waters. Knowledge of elementary life-sa-
ving techniques. Physical fi tness and swimming skills are
necessary on long trips.
Technical equipment for WW 1:
•
All types of open boats; fl otation life-jackets with a mini-
mum displacement of 7.5 kg
ATTENTION
Take great care in your choice of fl otation life-jacket. The
fl otation life-jacket should have a tag giving details of its
fl otation capabilities and safety certifi cation.
5. Storage of the kayak – see Fig. 3
Before folding clean and dry the boat. Defl ate the decks and
the foot rests. Open the valves and force the air out of the main
chambers. The kayak can be defl ated more quickly by rolling
it up in the direction of the valves. No sharp objects should
remain in the kayak. After defl ation, fold the sidewall cylinders
over each other and fold the overlapping bottom and decks
over the sidewall cylinders in a longitudinal direction.
Then fold both ends of the kayak towards the centre; fi nally,
fold both halves over each other. Insert the folder kayak into
the transportation bag. Expel the air from the bag, roll up the
insertion end and fasten it with clips.
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