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RTM Disco Review

Posted by on February 12, 2012

The first reason why I love the RTM Disco is because it’s a fantastic sit-on-top kayak. When most paddlers hear the words “sit-on-top” they think of Ocean Kayak brand boats like the Frenzy or Malibou. These kayaks carry a wide beam and lots of buoyancy which really limits their utility as a kayak in the traditional sense. This is not true for the Disco which at 14 feet long and 26 inches wide looks and paddles more like a light-touring kayak than like anything in the sit-on-top class. It really blows the competition out of the water in speed and maneuverability while retaining the high capacity and stability of the traditional sit-on-tops. It’s the perfect kayak for a paddler who is sold on the sit-on-top feel but really wants a boat that can handle an adventure!

The RTM Disco displays an array of outfitting that helps to make it one of the most comfortable sit-on-tops on the market. The molded seat is form fitting and the padded seat back and thigh straps further support a strong paddling position. The Disco sports a set of luggage-style handles and additional molded handles mid-ship which make carrying this 50lb craft a dream. There is also ample storage space with a forward dry-hatch and a rear well that is large enough to stow a few medium dry-bags. This superb outfitting makes the Disco a comfortable craft for anything from an early morning surf session to a full day on the water.

As much as I love the disco, it’s certainly not perfect. Granted, I’m being very nit-picky with the following comments but here are the few things that I would change. First, I’d get rid of the silly cargo style net that covers the rear storage well and replace it with some bungees. The rest of my changes would be made in the cockpit. I’ve never liked the molded-in foot placements typical of sit-on-tops as they are too “discrete” to properly accommodate most paddles. I often find that the best fit for me is between two of the notches. This would be easily fixed by using a “pedal on rail” set-up. Finally, I would consider adding an additional set of scupper holes in the seat well for better drainage. These small changes would take the Disco from an A to an A+ in my book!

The bottom line: If you’re interested in the freedom of a sit-on-top but actually want one that paddles like a traditional kayak and not like a barge then the Disco is the boat for you.

More Info at: http://rtmkayaks.com/products/sit-on-top/disco

Final Verdict:

Stats: 14’ long, 26in wide, 50lbs

Pros: Handles like a Kayak, Comfortable, Well Outfitted

Cons: Minor Outfitting Issues, A Wet Ride (like all sit-on-tops)

Kayak Dave Rating:

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