Oru Kayak BAY ST User manual

OWNER’S MANUAL
WARNING
All persons using this kayak must read, understand and follow
all instructions. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or death.
Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference and provide
it to anyone using this kayak.
US PATENT NO. 8,316,788
BAY ST and COAST XT KAYAKS

Product specifications
Safety warnings
Assembly & disassembly
Proper care & storage
Transporting your Oru Kayak
Recommended usage
Gear list
Kayaking 101 & Troubleshooting
Limited warranty
Warranty registration
Contents Welcome to the Oru Kayak community!
We’re a new company dedicated to making the outdoors more
accessible. We’ve designed Oru Kayak’s to fold up quickly, easily,
and almost magically—so you can take them everywhere.
Our journey started when I moved into a studio apartment, and my
kayak just wouldn’t fit. Inspired by an article about origami,
I started wondering: what if a boat could fold up like a piece of
paper? After years of design, prototyping, folding paper models,
and product testing with novices and pro kayakers alike, we’re very
proud of the final product.
Your new Oru Kayak is a sturdy, durable watercraft that handles
incredibly well. This manual includes tips on how get the most
out of your kayak, from paddling techniques to proper care and
maintenance.
We look forward to hearing about your adventures!
Happy paddling!
Anton Willis and the Oru Kayak team
QUESTION OR SUGGESTIONS?
Email us at [e-mail]
Visit www.orukayak.com and our
Facebook page to share stories,
connect with the community, and
stay updated on Oru Kayak news
and events. Use #orukayak to
share your own photos!.
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1.2 DIMENSIONS & CAPACITIES
Assembled
Length
Width
In case
Length
Width
Height
Weight
Capacity
BAY ST
12’ (371 cm)
25” (64 cm)
33” (81 cm)
12” (30 cm)
29” (74 cm)
28 lbs.
(13 kg)
300 lbs.
COAST XT
16’ (371 cm)
25” (64 cm)
33” (81 cm)
12” (30 cm)
29” (74 cm)
34 lbs.
(15.4 kg)
400 lbs.
WWW.ORUKAYAK.COM 1
Product Specifications
1.1 MATERIALS
& CONSTRUCTION
- Double-walled 5 mm poly-
propylene hull and deck with
UV inhibitors
- Double-walled 10 mm polypropyl-
ene seat and bulkheads (NOTE:
bulkheads are for
structural rigidity ONLY and
are not watertight)
- ABS plastic trim and structural
components
- EPDM and neoprene rubber gas-
kets and fairings
- Nylon and stainless steel
fasteners
The design of the Oru Kayak is all about simplicity. A single sheet of
double-layered plastic forms the hull and deck of the assembled
kayak, and transforms into the box. Internal bulkheads and a rigid
floorboard add strength. Seam channels and deck buckles create a
structural, watertight seal along the deck ridge. A rigid coaming reinforces
the cockpit and fits a spray skirt. The adjustable seat and footrest let
you paddle in comfort. All of the loose parts, as well as other paddling
necessities, fit into the Oru Kayak box.
WARNING
DO NOT exceed your boat’s
capacity under any circumstances.
Doing so will adversely
affect the kayak’s handling
and reduce its stability,
which will increase the chance
of capsizing or swamping.
Make sure loads are
distributed as evenly as
possible, with heavier items
on the bottom and
lighter ones on top.
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BEFORE YOU PADDLE
• Consult a physician before you begin kayaking activities or
training. Make sure you are healthy enough to meet the physical
demands of this sport.
• Obtain training in the safe use of your kayak from a qualified
instructor and build your experience in controlled situations.
• Check the weather and water conditions. Oru Kayaks are
designed to be used ONLY in sheltered waters, on inland lakes,
or in slow moving rivers. They are NOT designed for white water
use. NEVER go paddling in strong winds, rain,
thunderstorms, choppy water, strong currents, flood waters, or
where tides will affect your ability to steer the kayak or return to
shore.
• Strictly follow the assembly instructions in the Oru Kayak
Assembly Guide for your model. If the kayak is not assembled
correctly, it can lose its structural integrity and collapse.
• Inspect the kayak, including the deck straps and buckles, and all
associated equipment (e.g., paddle) before each use for signs of
excessive wear or damage.
• Familiarize yourself with the body of water on which you will
be paddling. Determine whether there are known hazardous
conditions, such as low water levels or sharp rocks, and know
where you can get help quickly in case of an emergency.
Safety Warnings
Kayaking is fun and challenging but involves inherent risks
of serious injury or death. To reduce these risks, users of this
product must follow the warnings and instructions provided in
this manual and in the warning printed on the Oru Kayak and use
common sense.
Users of this product agree by their use of this kayak to accept the
inherent risks involved in this paddlesport activity and agree to
follow all instructions, cautions, and warnings carefully before and
while using this kayak.
To reduce these risks follow these rules:
WARNING
Kayaking can be physically demanding and
dangerous. Use of this product and participation
in the sport of kayaking involve inherent risks
of serious injury or death.
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• Consult and abide by all US Coast Guard regulations and state
and local laws, regulations, and ordinances regarding boating,
equipment, and boating safety.
• Prepare a float plan and let friends or relatives know where you
plan to go and when you plan to return.
• Obtain certified first aid and rescue training.
USE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
Always use a US Coast Guard–approved life jacket or
personal flotation device (PFD such as the Oru PFD). Read the PFD
manufacturer’s instructions and familiarize yourself with how the
PFD should be worn.
• Dress appropriately for your weather conditions:
cold weather and/or cold water can result in hypothermia.
Wear a wetsuit or drysuit if necessary.
• Carry an approved helmet and wear it when necessary.
• Carry first aid equipment and understand how to use it.
• Use Oru Float Bags when necessary or when paddling on open
water.
• Carry an audible signal device, such as a horn or whistle.
If possible, attach the device to your PFD.
• If additional outfitting is attached to this kayak, use
compatible accessories only.
• Make sure that all equipment and baggage is stowed
securely and does not impede your safe exit from the kayak.
WHEN YOU PADDLE
• NEVER paddle alone. It is best to have someone with you in case
of an emergency or accident.
• DO NOT exceed the kayak’s maximum load capacity, which
includes the weight of the passenger and any onboard equipment
and provisions.
• Avoid hazardous conditions, such as flooding, tidal changes, large
waves, fast-moving currents, and high surf.
• Never allow minors to use this kayak without adult
supervision.
• Never use or consume alcohol, drugs, or any other
substance that may affect your coordination, judgment,
or ability to operate this kayak safety.
• Never exceed your ability. Honestly assess your physical
strength, endurance, and paddling skills.
• Scout unfamiliar waters; remove your kayak from the water and
carry it to avoid unsafe conditions.
Read this entire Owner’s Manual for additional safety
information.

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Assembly & Disassembly
See Assembly Guide that comes with each model of Oru Kayak.
WARNING
Strictly follow the Assembly Guide included with your
Oru Kayak. If the Oru Kayak is not assembled correctly,
it can lose its structural integrity and collapse.
Proper Care & Storage
4.1 CARE AND MAINTENANCE
With care and maintenance, your Oru Kayak will last for years.
To ensure this, follow these tips:
• Inspect your kayak before each use to make sure it is not damaged, and
that all screws are tight.
• Rinse off your kayak with clean, fresh water after each use, especially
after paddling in salt water.
• Make sure water does not collect inside the kayak case after use.
• Some water may collect inside the plastic corrugations. To let it escape,
flip the unfolded kayak upside down to let it drain out.
• For additional cleaning, use general-purpose cleaning spray with a soft,
non-abrasive rag or sponge.
• In case of serious damage or punctures, email us at
[e-mail]. Please include photos of the issue and your HIN
number for faster resolution.
4.2 STORAGE
Store your Oru Kayak in its box form, indoors, away from direct
sunlight and heat sources. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause
plastics to discolor or become brittle.
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Transporting Your Oru Kayak
The Oru Kayak is compact and light. Take advantage of this by lifting
rather than dragging it, to avoid scratching the bottom of the kayak.
• Carry the box with the shoulder strap for short trips. For longer trips,
use the custom-designed backpack, the Oru Pack.
• DO NOT carry your Oru Kayak on top of a car or trailer. If
transporting in a car, fold it into its box form and stash it inside.
• The kayak can also be carried as an assembled boat by using
the carrying handles located on either end of the kayak.
• The best way to fly with your Oru Kayak is to pack it in the Oru Pack and
check it in. Airlines measure luggage as length + width +
height , so the Oru Kayak is 74”. Most often airlines do not charge an
additional baggage fee for the Oru Kayak, but some airlines may.
Recommended Usage
The Oru Kayak is designed to be used ONLY in sheltered waters,
lakes, and slow-moving rivers. It is NOT designed for fast-moving water,
rough water, or large surf.
The Oru Kayak is a recreational kayak and does not have waterproof
bulkheads. If it capsizes, the entire kayak will fill with water and
can sink.
• Whenever possible, enter the Oru Kayak from a dock or a place where
the kayak is floating in the water. If beach landings or launches are
required, choose a location with smooth sand or mud to minimize
abrasion.
• Use water displacement devices such as the Oru Float Bags if you are
paddling on open water.
• DO NOT scrape or drag the kayak, especially on sharp surfaces.
• DO NOT use or fold your Oru Kayak in air temperatures below
freezing (32°F/0°C). The kayak’s plastic hull can become brittle and
crack at temperatures below freezing.
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Gear List
The following is a list of required or useful items that can be found at
www.orukayak.com, your local kayak shop, or through other online
retailers.
7.1 REQUIRED GEAR
• PFD (personal flotation device) (i.e., a life jacket). This must be US Coast
Guard approved (or approved by the relevant agency in other countries),
such as the Oru PFD, and must be worn at all times while kayaking.
• Paddle. Kayaks use a double-bladed paddle like the Oru Paddle or Oru
Carbon Paddle.
• A horn or whistle. US Coast Guard regulations require an audible signal
device to be used in all watercraft. Attach the device to
your PFD.
7.2 HIGHLY RECOMMENDED GEAR
• First aid kit
• Phone or other communication device. Devices not made for marine use
should be kept in a waterproof drybag.
• Appropriate clothing, depending on weather and conditions. Always be
aware of hypothermia risks and bring extra clothing.
- For short trips and casual paddling, wear thermal clothing made of
synthetic fabrics or wool.
- For longer trips and more rigorous paddling, you may need a wetsuit
or drysuit.
• Oru Float Bags, especially for open water paddling
• Oru Spray Skirt, especially if you will be paddling in waves
• Bailing sponge
• Bilge pump
• Helmet
• Self-rescue device (obtain appropriate training)
• Food and plenty of drinking water
• Maps and compass
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc.)
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Kayaking 101 & Troubleshooting
All users of this kayak should obtain qualified instruction to learn proper
paddling technique, water safety, and first aid before using this kayak.
This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of
kayaking. The following tips, however, are provided to get you started. For
more detailed information, visit http://tinyurl.com/OruKayaking101
8.1 ENTERING & EXITING A KAYAK
For all methods of entry and exit, be aware of water and weather
conditions; nothing will knock you off balance like an unexpected wave.
Different types of entries are described below. To exit the
kayak, perform the entry steps in reverse.
From a high dock or boat:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. Sit down on the dock.
3. Place your paddle nearby so you can reach it
once you are in the kayak.
4. Place both feet in the kayak.
5. With both hands on the dock, lower yourself into the kayak. Hold on
to the dock to maintain stability; keep your center of gravity low as
you enter the kayak. Slide into a sitting position. DO NOT stand up in
the kayak at any point.
From a low dock or platform:
1. Float the kayak alongside the dock.
2. Place the paddle across both sides of the coaming, just
behind the backrest.
3. Sit down on the dock next to the boat, in front of the
paddle.
4. Place one hand on the paddle and the coaming, grip them
together tightly.
5. Place the palm of your other hand on the paddle, near your
buttocks (do not grab the paddle; you will smash your fingers).
6. Swing your legs into the kayak.
7. Holding on to the cockpit and paddle shaft, place weight on
your hand (and the paddle) on the dock.
8. Lower yourself into the seat. The end of the paddle braced
against the dock will keep the kayak stable and prevent it
from drifting as you enter.
From a beach:
1. Make sure the kayak is floating in a few inches of water.
2. Straddle the kayak over the cockpit.
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3. Sit on the coaming just behind the seat, with your hands on the
cockpit handles.
4. Swing your legs into the boat, one at a time (try to clean the sand or
dirt off your feet in the process).
5. Lower yourself into the seat.
6. Start paddling.
8.2 SITTING IN A KAYAK
The proper sitting position will keep you comfortable for hours of
paddling and also will help you better control the boat.
• Sit in the kayak upright, with your back against the seat back.
• Adjust the footrest so that your feet rest on them, with your ankles in a
neutral position. Your knees should be comfortably bent, and your legs
should be splayed apart with your knees pressed against the underside
of the hull adjacent to the cockpit.
8.3 PADDLING A KAYAK
Paddling a kayak is fairly intuitive, but a few tips will make your
experience more efficient, fun, and relaxing.
8.3.1 How to choose a paddle
Recommended paddle sizes may vary based on the paddle shape and
type, as well as your personal preference. This table offers rules of
thumb:
YOUR HEIGHT RECOMMENDED PADDLE LENGTH
5’0” – 5’5” 215 – 220 cm
5’5” – 6’2” 220 – 230 cm
6’2” plus 225 – 240 cm
On some kayak paddles the blades are in the same plane. On others, the
blades are offset, to cut more efficiently through wind and water; these
are called feathered paddles. Many paddles, including the Oru Paddle, can
be set in either a feathered or unfeathered position.
Kayaking 101 & Troubleshooting (continued)
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8.3.2 How to hold a paddle
1. Hold the paddle securely in front of you with your hands on the shaft
about elbow-width apart.
2. Raise the paddle above your head and balance the paddle shaft on your
head. Re-position your hands so that your your elbows are at right
angles.
3. Keep your hands in this position and rotate the paddle to just below
shoulder height.
4. This position will allow you to rotate your torso while you paddle. This
will let you paddle faster, longer and more efficiently. It will also protect
you from shoulder fatigue or injury.
5. If you’re using an unfeathered paddle, your knuckles should be aligned
with the paddle blades.
6. If you’re using a feathered paddle, the knuckles of your dominant hand
should align with the corresponding paddle blade. With each stroke,
you’ll rotate the paddle so that the blade enters the water at a right
angle.
7. Whichever paddle you choose, you will use the same grip and
positioning for all strokes.
8.3.3 How to paddle
For all strokes, maintain an upright posture, with the footrest and seat
back adjusted as described on page 8.
Forward stroke
• Start with the paddle oriented as described above.
• Rotate to your left at the torso, and then place two-thirds of the
paddle blade in the water; imagine you’re stabbing the water.
• Rotate your torso toward your right with the paddle in the water. Repeat
on the opposite side, alternating strokes on the right and left. You want
to use both hands equally—push with one hand while you pull with the
other.
Reverse stroke
To stop, slow down, or move backward, do the same stroke in
reverse. There is no need to flip the paddle backward.

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WARNING
Always practice new strokes in calm, shallow water.
WARNING
Kayakers, especially beginners and novices, can be particularly
vulnerable to adverse weather and water conditions.
Because of their light weight and limited speed,
kayaks can be especially sensitive to wind, waves, and current.
Always be aware of your paddling abilities, the water/weather
conditions, and the limitations of your kayak, and
use common sense and good judgment for your own safety.
8.4 MANEUVERING A KAYAK
Rudder turn
- Once you have forward momentum, place your paddle in the water just
behind your hip.
- The resistance and torsion will cause your boat to rotate around the side
the paddle is on.
Sweep-stroke turn
- Place the paddle in the water near the bow (front).
- Then make a large arc-shaped motion toward the stern (back).
- The sweep stroke can be done in a forward or reverse manner.
- To turn the boat in a circle, do a forward sweep stroke on one side and a
reverse sweep stroke on the other side.
8.5 RESCUES
We recommend that you seek professional instruction before using your
kayak in open water. Open-water rescues are tricky and
technical.
• We highly recommend the use of float bags. These enable the
kayak to float with the coaming above water level, even after a
full capsize. You can then fully bail out the kayak, making all
rescues much easier.
Kayaking 101 & Troubleshooting (continued)
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• ALWAYS WEAR A PFD AND NEVER KAYAK ALONE! Open water rescues
are much easier and safer with multiple paddlers available to assist.
The wet exit
If your kayak flips while you are in it and you cannot perform an
Eskimo roll, you will have to exit the cockpit and enter the water:
- Remain calm.
- Lean forward, bringing your head closer to the deck of the kayak. This
will protect your head from impacts (remember, you will be
upside down if your kayak has flipped).
- If you are wearing a spray skirt, feel along the coaming to the front of the
cockpit, where the release toggle is located.
- Pull on the toggle to disengage the spray skirt.
- Follow the coaming back and place your hands on the cockpit
handles.
- Push yourself out of the kayak, as if you’re taking off a pair of jeans.
NOTICE: After a wet exit, you will be swimming next to a kayak full of
water. Don’t panic! There are ways to get back into your kayak from the
water. But, it helps to have friends and experience—don’t go out into open
water without them!
The T rescue (performed with a partner)
- Your paddling partner or partners will come to assist you.
- Make sure the kayak is upside down in the water.
- Your partner will pull the kayak onto the front deck of their kayak,
and drain the water from your kayak by rocking it back and forth.
- Your partner will flip your kakak right side up and slide it back into the
water, placing it alongside their boat, stern-to-bow.
- While your partner holds the coaming to stabilize your kayak, you will
climb onto the back deck of your kayak, then pivot your feet into your
cockpit.
- You will then roll towards the rescue boat, sliding your feet and bottom
into your kayak.
- Even after your partners have emptied the boat, there will likely
be water in the kayak. Use a sponge or pump to empty and dry
the kayak.
NOTICE: If no one is available to assist you, the reentry technique is more
complicated and should be taught by an experienced instructor.

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Limited Warranty
Oru Kayak, Inc. warrants this product to be free from defects in material
or workmanship for a period of one year from the date of its original
purchase. If a problem occurs, you must contact Oru Kayak in a timely
manner by email at [email protected], and obtain a Return
Authorization Number. Please include photos for faster resolution. Once
a Return Authorization Number is obtained, you must promptly ship the
product, postage prepaid, to Oru Kayak, Inc. for inspection and warranty
consideration, to the return address that will be provided. Any product
that is covered by this warranty and that is found in the reasonable
judgment of Oru Kayak, Inc. to be defective in materials or workmanship
will be repaired or replaced at Oru Kayak’s option. All covered repairs
or replacement products will be made at no charge during the warranty
period and within a reasonable period of time.
This warranty does NOT cover
Products used for commercial or rental purposes; normal wear and tear,
including punctures, cuts and abrasions sustained in normal use; damage
caused by accident, neglect, or misuse; damage caused by improper
storage maintenance, or handling; damage caused by extreme weather
or environmental conditions, including white water conditions; products
that have been structurally altered or modified; damage caused while the
product is in possession of a freight carrier or party other than Oru Kayak;
cosmetic wear, abrasion, or damage caused by excessive UV exposure;
and products determined to have been used for any activity other than an
activity that is intended or customary for the product.
Activating your warranty
The warranty registration form should be completed online (go to www.
orukayak.com/pages/warranty) within thirty days of original purchase or
receipt of product to be activated. It is suggested that you keep your sales
receipt should it be required in the future for proof of purchase.
LIMITATION AND DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED
WARRANTIES
To the extent permitted by applicable laws:
• Oru Kayak does NOT make any implied warranty of merchantability as to
any product or part, whether or not the product or part is covered by any
express warranty herein;
• Oru Kayak does NOT make any implied warranty of fitness for a
particular purpose, and there are no warranties that extend beyond the
description on the face hereof;
• In those jurisdictions where the implied warranties may not be
disclaimed, any implied warranty is limited in duration to the duration of
the express warranty described in the warranty statement. Some states
do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the
above limitations may not apply to you.
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For activating your warranty, you will need the place of purchase, date of
receipt, and the Hull Identification Number (HIN). The HIN is your kayak’s
unique ID. It is located on the outside of the kayak hull on the back right. If
you are having trouble finding it, watch a video at
http://tinyurl.com/findHIN.
For your own records:
PLACE OF PURCHASE: ___________________________________________________________________
DATE OF RECEIPT: ______________________________________________________________________
HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (HIN):
Your Kayak’s Information
NO LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES
The repair and replacement remedies described in this warranty are the
owner’s sole and exclusive remedy. In no event shall Oru Kayak be liable
for any incidental, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not
allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that
vary from state to state.
OKA
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Oru Kayak, Inc.
San Francisco, CA
www.orukayak.com
[email protected]
1015
We’re eager to hear about your
Oru Kayak adventures!
Keep up with events and updates, and share your
own journeys, stories, and photographs:
www.facebook.com/orukayakFacebook
@orukayakTwitter
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© 2017 ORU KAYAK, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED