Finding a durable and unbreakable kayak is a tough job, however, there are models like the Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS Sit-On-Top kayak that allows you to paddle without worrying about breakage.
That’s why we decided to write a detailed Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS review for you. Bali 10 has a lot of great features that we will discuss today. Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS is a sit-on-top kayak and it is considered one of the best beginner kayaks available on the market. It is easy to control and perfect for polishing your paddling skills.
THE SUN DOLPHIN BALI SS 10 Overview
We will share with you the Sun Dolphin Bali SS overview, which will help you learn more about this wonderful yak and decide if you would like to purchase one.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Total length: 10ft
- Total width: 30 inches
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Material: High density polyethylene construction
- Fishing rod holder: no
- Special feature: portable accessory carrier
- Depth: 11 inches
PROS:
COMFORT LEVEL
Bali SS 10 offers a high level of paddle comfort. Adjustable leg straps allow you to adjust the straps according to height and posture and allow you to feel more stable on the “yak”. It also offers padded straps, which add comfort and safety. The comfortable chairs with padded backrests allow you to paddle for the whole day without getting tired. The back of the seat has straps that can be adjusted so that paddlers of different sizes can sit comfortably.
STORAGE SPACE
Despite being a compact design kayak, it has enough space to store accessories and gear. One of the main storage features is the Portable Accessory Carrier aka P.A.C which is in the rear loading area. It has a built-in watertight hatch that allows you to store small items such as keys, compass, etc. It also has a carrying handle that allows you to remove the entire accessory compartment. If you remove the P.A.C and keep the rear loading area open, then you will have an open tank shaft with a bungee cord. In addition to the portable accessory holder, there is a closed hatch on the front of the seat to store small items at hand.
EASY TO HANDLE
The Bali 10 SS allows you to maneuver easily and is aided by a 10-foot body length, as short wide vessels are easier to control on the water than long narrow ones. Moreover, its weight of only 44 kilograms helps you to paddle easily on the water. However, it can be difficult to handle this kayak in heavy winds due to its lightweight.
DURABLE MATERIAL
Bali 10 SS is made of UV-resistant Fortiflex high-density polyethylene, which adds to the durability of this amazing ‘yak. This Fortiflex material is only used on Sun Dolphin kayaks and helps to strengthen the body and protect it from saltwater or debris.
CONS:
THERE ARE NO CUSHIONS ON THE BOTTOM OF THE SEATS
It can be a little irritating and uncomfortable when there is no cushion on the bottom of the seats. No cushioning can cause discomfort during rowing for the whole day.
NO ROD HOLDERS
Another disadvantage of this kayak is that there is no support for the fishing rod, which makes it a bad choice for fishing.
IS SUN DOLPHIN BALI SS SIT-ON-TOP A BUDGET KAYAK?
Cheap kayaks are always the first choice of beginners because they have all the basic options you need to get on the water. It is possible that “budget yaks” are not equipped with all the features, but have all the features for an entry-level kayak. We recommend you opt for a budget kayak if you plan to use it for recreational purposes or if you want to purchase a kayak for your children.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. Do I need help transporting Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10?
A. Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 weighs only 44 pounds, making it easy to carry from one place to another. You can simply throw it on your shoulder and carry it alone in the water. Despite being a light kayak, there is no compromise on quality; because it is made using special polyethylene Sun Dolphin material.
Q. Does being lightweight makes the kayak unstable?
A. As mentioned above, the Bali SS 10 weighs only 44 pounds, which makes it a little unstable in strong winds or choppy water. However, you can control it with a little struggle.
Q. Is Bali SS 10 suitable for tall paddlers?
A. The short answer would be Yes! Bali SS 10 has adjustable leg straps, which allow you to adjust them according to your height and paddle comfortably. However, if you are over 6 feet, we recommend opting for a 12-foot kayak.
Q. Is Bali SS 10 easy to learn how to paddle?
A. Yes, it can be very easy to learn how to paddle because this yak is extremely lightweight. It’s easier to maneuver and pick up speed compared to heavier kayaks.
Q. What are some extra good accessories for Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10?
A. Even though the Bali SS 10 has all the basic features needed to paddle smoothly, adding some modifications or accessories can drastically improve its performance. We would recommend buying a few scupper plugs to close the holes and drain the water from the bottom of the kayak.
Another accessory you can buy is the anchor trolley to be fixed on the side of the kayak, but also to keep you stable while fishing. We would also recommend getting a seat pad to add to the bottom of the kayak. The seat pad will add comfort to your rowing experience.
Q. Can we go fishing with the Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS sit-on-top kayak?
A. Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS was not designed for this purpose because it does not have all the features needed for fishing. We would recommend getting a kayak with a fishing rod holder for this purpose.
Q. Can we take Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS to rough water?
A. Due to its lightweight, it may not be able to withstand rough water. It is designed for slow-moving lakes or rivers and we do not recommend taking it in choppy waters as it may not be stable there.
SHORT CONCLUSION – SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
In this full Sun Dolphin Bali 10 SS Kayak review we tried to cover all the positives and negatives related to this yak. We would recommend you get this model if you are a beginner and want to start kayaking. It is quite stable and very easy to paddle compared to professional kayaks. Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10 is a budget kayak that you might consider choosing, which allows you to paddle on lakes or other flat waters. It has decent storage space and enough durability to paddle all day.
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