: Is there any way I can use the rudder controls in both the back and middle
: seat? Or do I even need a rudder control when I'm kayaking solo?

Hi ed

there are four or so rudder approaches and these divide into 2 basic types - centering or noncentering. So first of all decide on something that stays as put or comes bac after you leave it.

And in your case, as there are 3 cockpits, why not make so can be used from any cockpit? Itd be fun for junior or even you if in front to be able to steer if you wanted.

Assuming non centring, so for this case, try a derivation of a racing rudder control. I'd run the rudder line continuously along the insides of the yak up to the front bulkhead pulley across to a pulley on the other side and back down the other inside to the rudder. one continous loop. maybe 2 smalle bungees just befor the rudder(one ea side - or maybe before the 1st cockpit inside) for shock absorbing and damage control like if you hit a rock or really bang it - it'll give.

then say 8 in beyond ea foot position (less if less space - or even reversed if cramped) install a T-shaped member going from one line to the other. the top of the T would be say something like a 1x2 wood or ply, the outside edges of which are solidly clamped to the lines. the stem of the T would be say a 3/8in diam x18in length of alum tubing, and the intersection of the 2 would be a horizontal 3/8 hole either slip or fixed as you wish. halfway down the T stem and under it, tie a line from one side of the yak to the other.

to steer, take one foot off the pegs(always strong pegs, ok?) and nudge the bar w/ your toes. and any one can do this. you could remove the stems for those you don't want to steer.

the longish bar means anyone of any leg length could use in any cockpit.

Another alternative is the same loop but at the possible foot locations in the 3 cockpits (say over and 18in legth to cover small to large) thread the steering lines thru 5 or 6 3/4in lenghts of 1/2diam or 3/4diam pvc tubing. so now at ea foot location (in ea of the 3 cockpits) you've got 6 open tubes 3/4 in long. spread them evenly out along the 18 or less length say every 2-3 inches or so, and glue them to the line w/ say polyurethane glue(or silicone).

so now you've got this real knobby ruder line right at ea foot location. so no mateer where you foot is, just rub yr toes back and forth to steere - either side work - dont have to just push, can pull back too. to straighten just drag both feet toes back togther - one side'll grab first to centre.

anyway some ideas, probably'd work too.

-mick