I recently purchased a Mini X 2013 model. I can't say enough good things about this little kayak.....BUT....
(there's always a BUT, isn't there?)....
With my too large legs, and too large body, I couldn't utilize the excellent mid-ships storage hatch that comes standard on this model. It is nearly square, and I've read that many people can't spread their legs wide enough to open the hatch. I was not alone, I see.
The large hatch is set back so far back in the middle of the yak that your body is then seated too far forward to provide enough space to open the square hatch. I see the newer Stealth models have introduced Oval hatch covers. Much more logical, IMHO.
I tried raising the seat way up by adding a plywood platform. That worked fine for accessing the hatch, but I felt that the four inch or so increase in height left this very stable yak feeling way too unstable for this old guy.
So, I decided to keep the seat pretty much where it started. I did add a block of foam for a smaller rise, and some added comfort. With that configuration, I still couldn't easily get into the hatch. Now, this is a very large, very usable bit of storage on the Mini X. I had to find a way to use it while on the water.
I decided to use one of my favorite construction materials, a Wal-Mart cutting board. Not only did it come in white, which matched my yak, it is also inexpensive ( about $13.00). I added an 8 inch round access hatch from Academy ($18.00), and an $8.00 white handle to finish the material purchases.
The reason that I added the white handle was, in the past, I've had similar round screw-off style hatchs stick. I didn't want to risk that when I was on the water, and needed whatever I stowed inside of the yak.
I did re-use the nice red fabric basket that was supplied with the original hatch setup.
I attempted to come up with easy access, but still wanted to use all of the space that the original hatch provided. I think the process below met those requirements.
regards, richg99
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I am not sure why the photos won't post here. I reduced the size to 600 pixels...still no posting???
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Original hatch arrangement.
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