New Hobie MirageDrive 180 reversible pedal drive

Hobie's groundbreaking bio-engineered MirageDrive pedal-powered propulsion system has just been upgraded with a patent-pending Hobie MirageDrive 180 forward-reverse propulsion version that will be integrated into all 2017 model year Mirage kayaks.

This new Hobie drive has been a long time coming and will be warmly received, given that other manufacturers of pedal mechanisms for kayaks have had a reverse drive function and marketed this feature heavily to fishermen.

Weighing in at under eight pounds, the new MirageDrive 180 is said to produce full power in both directions and offers unprecedented manoeuvrability.

Operation is said to be simple. The user pulls one of two levers connected to shift cables to direct propulsion 180 degrees almost instantly from forward to reverse and back again.

BETTER FOR FISHING
With the reverse function, Hobie 'yakers will be able to back fish out of cover, safely fish closer to obstructions, fish downstream while holding in current, and move in every which way using Hobie's pedal power first introduced in 1997.

Hobie says the hands-free propulsion in any direction was designed for better control: to cast, to present baits, and to concentrate on landing bigger fish. And then photos can be snapped or cold beverages enjoyed on the way back home without ever stopping.

HOW THE NEW DRIVE WORKS
There are two shifters, one marked in green for forward and a longer one in red for reverse, making them easy to identify. Pulling the appropriate cable pivots both MirageDrive fins 180 degrees, reversing the direction of the power output.

Although the forward-reverse capability is the most noticeable improvement to this new generation of the time-tested MirageDrive, it’s not the only significant advancement.

OTHER UPGRADES
The new fins are said to be even more durable, with high strength nylon on the leading and trailing edges. Adjusting fin resistance has also been improved via an easy-access knob.

The fin shape, altered to allow the fins to rotate from forward to reverse, provides the same efficient power as past models of ST Fins and ST Turbo fins respectively, Hobie says.

SHALLOW AND FAST
The MirageDrive 180 can go shallow using partial pedal strokes to “flutter” the fins or push one crank arm forward so that both fins automatically fold up flat against the bottom of the hull.

This same wing-like action excels for dodging obstacles, shedding weeds and gliding through the water with minimal resistance. It also facilitates landing on the beach or at the boat ramp.

ROBUST AND RETROFITTABLE
Hobie says the MirageDrive 180 installs in seconds thanks to the Click and Go Mounting System, which also makes removing a snap.

The MirageDrive 180’s cranks adjust to comfortably fit the user’s height, from tall to child-size. Cleaning and maintenance is simple. A quick rinse at the end of the day and an occasional spray with Hobie Multi-Lube is all it takes.

The two shift cables are composed of braided Spectra line connected to high strength, snag-free nylon handles. They tuck into a Bungee® retainer when not needed.

The MirageDrive 180 will be standard with all 2017 model year Mirage kayaks, including the legendary Outback and award-winning Pro Anglers. 2017 model year kayaks are slated to begin shipping in October 2016.

More good news: the MirageDrive 180 is retrofitable to existing MirageDrive kayaks and is expected to be available as a stand-alone accessory by mid-year 2017. More at www.hobiecat.com.au.