Which one should stay?

Cehaigrek · 30 May 2016, 00:01

At the moment I have 2 Sibs.
Old Avon rover 340 hypalon (like new) or much younger excel 385 XHD? One have to go and I think I know which one, just need confirmation from much more experienced "sibers"
Thx in advance

Fenlander · 30 May 2016, 00:09

Have you used them both at sea?

Which performs the best? Which is the easiest to transport (use a trailer or packed in car)?

The old Avon Rovers are great classic looking SIBs but I had a 3.1 version and... despite loving the classic looks with mint condition varnished floor and transom... I found the smaller tubes and flatter bow profile compared with modern designs made it a very wet boat in a heavier sea.

There is something special about a hypalon boat though.

Cehaigrek · 30 May 2016, 00:17

Yes both at sea sometimes a bit too rough and feel a bit more confident in Avon. I don't feel wet as I always wear dry suit and pfd (rescue life jacket). Both packed in the car.

Fenlander · 30 May 2016, 00:27

Is the Avon wood floor and Excel alloy? Do you prefer either type of floor for any reason?

Cehaigrek · 30 May 2016, 00:37

Yes avon is wooden and excel alloy. And only like alloy slightly more because is more "eye candy"

Fenlander · 30 May 2016, 00:47

Well... and it's a personal view...

Around the time I had the Avon Rover 3.1m I also owned a Honwave 3.5 alloy floor which in many ways would be a similar concept/design/construction to your Excel... and there was about 400mm between their sizes as there is with yours.

The Honwave felt far more grown up, more roomy and stable with a far drier ride... so as a boat to value for its abilities it would have been the Honwave for me... i.e. the Excel for you.

But if you find the Avon's performance equal for your use I'd keep the Avon for its classic elements and strong Hypalon build.

Cehaigrek · 30 May 2016, 00:54

Is one more thing which I should mention. Excel is fairly new in comparison to the avon but is not so robust few wear and tear spots when avon is solid (both equally used - avon a bit longer)

Poly · 30 May 2016, 19:09

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cehaigrek

Is one more thing which I should mention. Excel is fairly new in comparison to the avon but is not so robust few wear and tear spots when avon is solid (both equally used - avon a bit longer)

It's clear you've made your mind up. Stop swithering and get on with it!

Fenlander · 30 May 2016, 20:11

>>>It's clear you've made your mind up.

I thought that but couldn't call it which way!