- Read our review guidelines
You’re thinking about getting a pedal kayak and wondering which one is the right one for you? We know there are plenty of options out there, which is why we’ve checked out the features on the Revolution 13 pedal yak.
We’ve looked at what it’s good for, who it’s good for and whether it might be able to offer you the features you’re looking for on your next vessel.
- Length: 13 foot 5 inches
- Width: 28.5 inches
- Weight: 70.5 pounds (88 pounds fully rigged)
- Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Why Would You Want A Pedal Kayak?
A pedal kayak can be useful if you’re looking for a vessel that can give you added speed and power. Using your legs to propel yourself rather than your arms can often be less strenuous.
Pedal yaks can often be used by just about anyone, as there is usually less skill required to operate one, which means they can be ideal for beginners. Although having a paddle on board can always be a good idea in case you need it.
A pedal drive system can usually be helpful in open water where you may prefer the added foot power to get you across currents or in windy conditions. It may also be possible to combine the pedal drive with your paddle, which can boost speed and help with maneuverability.
One of the main draws of a pedal craft is that it can essentially allow you to move across the water hands free. This can mean you can fish without having to worry about holding onto your paddle. However, when turning you may need to use your hands to operate the rudder or use your paddle to turn more quickly and efficiently.
Because of the additional speed you can gain with pedals, it can also mean you can get to your fishing hole faster than if you only had a paddle, so you could spend more time fishing and less time working to reach the fish.
Vessels with pedal drives can be more expensive than traditional kayaks and they can also weigh more, which can mean extra accessories for transportation.
Some pedal yaks may not be ideal for smaller bodies of water where there may be rocks or underwater obstacles that could damage the fins or propellers. Maneuvering without a paddle may also be an issue. Navigation in this type of water may be easier in a traditional yak.
When you’re looking for a pedal yak you should consider where you plan to kayak, how you plan to transport your vessel and whether the pedal drive system allows you to move only forwards or both forwards and backwards. The ability to retract the fins or propellers can also be useful.
Hobie Revolution 13: Features That Matter
The Hobie Revolution is a sit-on-top pedal kayak with a push pedal drive system designed for one person. It’s ideal for a range of waters and comes with a MirageDrive system, an adjustable Vantage seat and a two-piece paddle as standard.
Comfortable Trip
The Vantage seat on this craft is built with comfort and convenience in mind. It’s ergonomically designed to offer lumbar support and features quick-drying mesh fabric to keep you comfortable.
Video: Hobie Vantage CT Seat
The seatback can be adjusted to suit your comfort level and the entire seat can be raised or lowered to give you a better position in the yak, whether you’re fishing, pedaling or paddling.
MirageDrive Pedal System
The MirageDrive 180 lets you pedal both forwards and backwards at full speed. The push pedal design powers two rotating fins under the hull. The fins can be easily pulled against the hull in shallow waters by simply pushing one pedal forward, which can make landing on the beach a little easier.
There is also a hand controlled rudder that can help you maneuver the yak on the water. The rudder can also be stowed when you’re in the shallows.
Lots Of Storage
The Revolution has plenty of storage options which can be ideal whether you’re fishing or exploring. The two 8 inch sealed hatches are ideal for keeping your gear safe and dry, as well as a cup holder for your favorite drink.
There’s also a bow hatch for larger items and a spacious cargo area at the stern for holding a cooler, fishing crate or camping gear, with bungee cords to keep it all secure.
For anglers, there are two molded-in rod holders, as well as mesh storage pouches on the deck for easy access to tackle. There’s even a place to hold your paddle while you’re either fishing or pedaling.
Versatility
The Revolution 13 can be a great boat if you like to change up where you like to fish. With its pedal power and rudder it can be ideal for open water, including the ocean, with the added rudder being useful for tracking and maneuvering in currents or wind.
It has good stability and with the ability to pull up the fins and the rudder it should be able to venture into shallow water without any issues.
Video: Hobie Revolution 13 – Quick Look
The included paddle can come in handy to power you along when you hit these shallow waters and can be useful if you need to turn around in a hurry or if you find yourself requiring extra paddle power.
There Are Revolution 11 & 16 Options Available Too…
The Revolution 11 is an 11 foot 6 inch version with many of the same features but in a more compact craft. With a lower weight capacity of 275 pounds it could be ideal for smaller paddlers or if you plan to take lighter gear. It still benefits from the rod holders and MirageDrive 180 pedal drive system.
> Check out the Revolution 11 on Amazon
The Revolution 16 is a 16 foot long version that offers additional speed that can be great for longer journeys, such as multi-day trips. It has the same weight capacity as the 13, along with the same pedal drive system and storage options, including rod holders.
Other Pedal Kayaks To Think About…
Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal
The Malibu Pedal is a 12 foot long pedal yak with rotational pedals. With good stability it can be ideal for a range of water types and can be used for both fishing and recreation.
It has a 450 pound weight capacity and there’s even space for your dog at the front or your child at the back. There’s bungee storage at the bow and stern and the mesh seat is designed to offer comfort and an elevated position. It also has gear tracks to give you the option of adding rod holders or other accessories.
Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13
This 13 foot 2 inch Slayer Propel is a similar length to the Revolution 13 but is over 4 inches wider. It has a huge 500 pound capacity (but also weighs more) so it could be a good choice for larger paddlers or if you’re looking to load it up with gear.
It offers spacious storage areas, built-in rod holders and a rotational pedal drive for moving forwards and backwards. It also benefits from a rudder, gear tracks and an adjustable seat.
> We reviewed the Propel 13 version
Perception Pescador Pilot
The Pescador Pilot is a 12 foot 5 inch yak with a rotational pedal drive that powers a propeller under the hull. It is stable enough for standing, has a 475 pound weight capacity and offers an ergonomically designed mesh covered seat and built-in rod holders.
The pedal drive system can be powered both forwards and backwards and there are molded storage areas at both the bow and stern with added bungee rigging. There is also the added benefit of built-in gear tracks for easy accessory mounting.
Pedaling Off (Conclusion)
The Revolution 13 can be a great choice if you’re looking for a pedal yak that can travel both forwards and backwards with the convenience of being able to retract the fins and rudder when you hit the shallows.
It can offer stability, speed and storage, ideal for both fishing trips and camping adventures.
Pros
- Forward and reverse
- Retractable rudder
- Flip-up fins for shallow water
- Elevated seat
- Lightweight compared to other pedal yaks
Cons
- Costs more than normal
- Heavier than traditional yaks
If you think the Revolution 13 might be able to make your next fishing trip more fun and less tiring, check it out here.
Maybe you’ve got one or want to share your thoughts on this boat?
Let us know in the comments. And if you want to help out your fishing buddies, share this with them.
