BOTE LONO Kayaks -
The LONO isn’t BOTE’s first foray into an out-of-the-box design. The company’s history is full of genre-breaking and industry-leading ideas. From the high-sided Rackham to the first inflatable micro skiff, the folks at BOTE see a problem without seeing obstacles to a solution. The LONO is their solution to the biggest problems with inflatable kayaks: performance and rigging.
Start with the LONO’s unique design. The LONO comes in two pieces. The main hull is constructed of three high-pressure chambers, a floor and two gunwales. The design allows the LONO Aero Apex to go from formidable inflatable standup to equally capable inflatable kayak. Now, BOTE has added a pedal drive to give the LONO greater range and open more possibilities.
To pull off the conversion, BOTE keeps it simple. A small port in the deck holds the propeller drive. To install the drive, drop it through the hole and secure it with three knobs. Going into shallow water mode takes several seconds to lift the lower unit out of the port.
The LONO Apex includes an inflatable bench seat that can be moved forward and back to adjust pedal distance. The seat is comfortable and functional as a solid pedaling platform for short distances.
It only took a few minutes to rig the rudder and steering controller. From deflated to inflated pedal kayaks, I spent about a half hour setting up the LONO. With three large, high pressure chambers, the seat and rear deck to inflate, I highly recommend a power air pump.
First, the 12.5-foot-long, 35.5-inch-wide kayak is as stable as any full-size boat. The flat, open deck provides plenty of room for standup fishing. I like the LONO rigged with Rocket Rack rod holder and Kula cooler for tackle and gear.
Without the stern deck, the inflatable paddle board performs almost as well as a hardboard. The boat has a unique flared bow and a stiff ridge in the hull creates a keel. A couple fins in the stern improve tracking.
The Aero Lono’s versatility makes it the vessel of choice for any waterperson, whether you’re heading out for an early morning fishing trip or leisurely afternoon paddle. Better yet, its durability and quality craftsmanship make it a purchase you can be confident in.
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