Trying a sib again, advice please

Tommy c · 29 June 2021, 18:10

I bought a sib a couple of years ago as I wanted the versatility of what it offers over a hard, trailered boat.
I had a bombard ax3 airdeck but sold it mainly because I didn't have enough freeboard and if I sit with my knees higher than my waist it upsets my lower back for days. I also didn't like the low diameter tubes (36cm I think).
So, putting the airdeck out of the equation and probably the aluminium floor because of weight and ease, I'm drawn to the air vee floors. Light and more 'leg depth'.
I've seen a used honwave 2.7 but also been looking at a new boatworld 3.0.
Would appreciate feedback or other suggestions
Thanks

Fenlander · 29 June 2021, 19:10

I'm measuring up with just the same thought in mind as I'm planning to fit a rear pilot's seat to the Aerotec which is only fitted with one forward for the passenger. I've been trying sitting at various heights to see what is comfortable. It looks like I'll be fitting my new seat a little higher than the standard one.

I also plan to get these cushions which are designed to give extra height to SIB seats...

https://bengar.de/en/polster-sitze-s...boot-55cm.html

You could easily achieve similar height gain by making a false seat to sit on the existing one with a timber frame of a thickness you choose.

Alternatively if the SIB you chose had seat mountings anywhere part way down the tubes you could fit another set of seat mounts higher up and make up a DIY seat to span that wider dimension.

Of course you could just sit on the tube which gives the greatest height and leg stretch possibilities.

Perhaps folks who have their SIBs inflated at the moment could list their floor to seat heights? As a start... the existing Aerotec one is 35cm and the new one I plan to be 38cm.

billows · 29 June 2021, 19:32

I find kneeling on a cushion and sitting back on my haunches with a tiller extension is easier on my bad back
More secure and I believe recommended by the RNLI

Tommy c · 29 June 2021, 19:45

What's opinions on a used honwave vs a new boatworld? Both air vee?
Thanks

Fenlander · 29 June 2021, 19:49

Probably quite similar on the water but extra length always welcome. Boatworld construction ought to be cheaper given pricing. Over the past year or so Boatworld have proved a very decent company to deal with.

Tommy c · 29 June 2021, 20:08

The boatworld 3.0 is just over 650 and I have a 4hp 2 smoke.
As a for instance the used honwave 2.7 with a Honda 2.3 is 900.
I have no knowledge of sib resale prices or build quality etc etc and don't want to jump in again without proper hands on advice from experienced folk.
Just want something light, reasonably built to get me fishing out of casting range that is better suited than my previous ax3 airdeck

jeffstevens763@g · 29 June 2021, 20:29

Not trying to steer you to any boat but for comfort a 500mm dia tube does it for me I had a serious back injury down the mines 40 years ago and knees up is the worst position for me. Ok sea conditions play a part but a back rest or comfy hand hold to stop jarr helps.

Tommy c · 29 June 2021, 20:45

Yeah, knees up is bad.
That's what's steering me to an air vee. Both the honwave and boatworld are 42cm tubes and the vee will give more depth.
Are the honwave and boatworld similar build quality?
Are the 'bare' undersides of air vee's reasonably tough abrasive resistant to 'stuff' rubbing against them whilst out in action.