: Hi John,
: I used the system in the prototype from May to September, have it
: in my Grand Illusion, it is standard on all of Sterlings kayaks,
: so it is well proven. What I don't know is how well it works on
: hulls that have designed in a lot of keel to lock up the stern.

: The logic behind this is that kayaks pivot from the lowest point
: and are controlled and corrected by pulling the stern in behind
: the bow, (stern draw) so a stern skeg only hinders the
: situation. Rudders belong in the stern but not skegs. If you
: look to sailboat design you will see that they are also dealing
: with the wind forces above and the water forces below.

: I am totally confident that this is the way to go. Hope this helps.

: Reg

Actually I'm not sure rudders belong in the stern either, it's just a convient place to put them. Skis very often have rudders further forward and they seem to have few problems with that location.

Bill H.