Mini K4

The KAPE Mini series have been designed for young paddlers under the age of 13. For those who are about to meet the discipline of canoe sprint. Mini K2 is the best choice to learn how to paddle as a crew, improve technique, posture and stability before changing to K2 kayaks. These boats are stable enough and scaled down to match their size.

A complete series of kayak single (Mini K1 / MK-1), kayak double (Mini K2 / MK-2), kayak four (Mini K4 / MK-4) and canoe single (Mini C1 / MC-1) are available for junior trainers and coaches of kayak schools to pass the spirit to the new generation.

Mini kayaks and canoes were established in Hungary more than half a century ago, and since then they have been produced in large numbers by domestic manufacturers. They have always been an integral part of the successful development of youth sports. There are currently hundreds of Mini boats out there, mostly at clubs.

In 2016 the Hungarian Canoe Federation introduced the standardization of all Mini boats used in its competition system including all regattas held by the Federation. The goal behind is to ensure equal opportunities for children & clubs by excluding unhealthy rivalry for better equipment which would lead to inequality of opportunity, disproportion and enmity.

The standardization covers the bow & stern, the hull shape and the weight of the fully equipped boat. The shape, size & position of the rudder (& fin) is also defined. None of these can be a factor affecting performance. The Federation publishes the detailed technical description of each boat model. This description includes:

  • Main dimensions of the boat: maximum length (LOA), beam, minimum weight
  • Dimensions & drawings of bow, stern, keel & cross sections
  • Dimension & drawings of the rudder
  • Material used for construction

Manufacturers have to guarantee that the boat they produce meets these standards. This must be certified by a “conformity label” placed in the boat.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Length: 8.5m    Width: 50cm     Cockpit: 94 x 38 cm

Boat weight: 30kg    Crew Weight: up to 220kg

Stability: 8/10

CONSTRUCTIONS:

The KAPE Mini K2 comes in  two basic constructions. They are set up in line with the requirements of clubs & associations. Most notably they are durable, allow more flexibility, easy-to-repair and offer a lower price point.

1. Super- Basic Construction of this model. Carbon-Kevlar reinforcement offer a good trade- off between stiffness and impact resistance. The best choice for clubs and associations as their training boat.

2.Extra – Stiff and spectacular team boats reinforced with Carbon.

3.Ultra – High Performance carbon construction only for sprint boats

FEATURES & FITTINGS

Low position seats for stability

Mini kayaks are equipped with simple 2-pin floor mounted seats providing low centre of gravity for improved stability.

Minis are also available with various racing seats (see Fitness kayaks). Racing seats provide a higher center of gravity and better position, allowing good posture and paddling technique. This comes at the cost of decreased stability, and they also weigh somewhat more.

Easy-to-adjust footrests

KAPE Minis are also equipped with simple yet reliable footrests with easy-to-adjust spring sliding system. The fixing frame & fittings of the footrest are positioned behind the footplate, so the full width of the boat is available for the feet. This provides comfort & full use of the tiller bar for effective steering. Perfect for club use to regularly adjust the footrest distance.

In STANDARD+ construction, the footplate is covered with EVA traction pad for non-slip and increased comfort & equipped with adjustable foot strap to teach leg drive.

Full & adjustable angle footrest is also available for maximum leg drive & customisation.

Mini kayaks are often used by several children of different heights. For such club use, we recommend to get a spare “extra long” footrest, which brings the footrest position closer to the seat (but does not increase the adjustability of the footrest distance)

Rudder

The Mini K4 has a responsive high profile plastic rudder. It provides excellent tracking and easy steering.

Bulkheads

Rear and front bulkheads are installed as standard.

A bulkhead (partition) is an upright wall within boat separating watertight compartments so that the capsized boat does not sink. A hatch is placed in the rear bulkhead, mainly to let the rear compartment to dry when not in use and to ventilate the stored boat.

COST:

Super: Please enquire

Extra: Please enquire

Ultra: Please enquire

APS are currently importing the KAPE MK2 & MK4 into Sydney on customer orders only.  No stock is held.
These mini kayaks are specifically designed for Juniors and are an essential tool for juniors learning how to paddle in teams and for kids to get to know and love kayaking.

All enquiries to: australianpaddlesports(at)gmail.com