RIOT Kayak User manual

RIOT KAYAKS OWNER’S MANUAL
MY KAYAK SERIAL NUMBER:
Kayaking lets you experience the outdoors in a very
unique way, with the world taking on a different
perspective viewed from the water. But like any activity,
there is no substitute for experience. Get out there and
paddle, explore, discover and learn, but make sure to
follow the guidelines outlined in this owner’s manual,
and enroll in a course from a certified instructor before
taking to the water.
One of the beautiful things about kayaks is their ease of
use, but it’s always a good idea to get professional
instruction when starting.
This owner’s manual is a great way to get an overview of
kayaking but it is not a substitute for lessons from a
qualified instructor. Certified instruction will give you a
strong base of skills and the knowledge to safely enjoy
your time on the water. Across the world there are
organizations devoted to educating paddlers, and after
you’ve taken a basic course your learning doesn’t have to
stop. Once you’ve got the proper foundation, there’s a
wealth of information from which to learn. Kayak-
specific magazines, DVD’s, books and websites exist as
well as a host of advanced courses.
RIOT KAYAKS
3600, 1st street, suite 20
St-Hubert, QC, Canada, J3Y 8Y5
www.riotkayaks.com

Congratulations on your purchase of one of the finest crafts available today!
The kayak you just purchased has been built with the soundest materials and meets the industry’s highest standards of quality. Kayaks are
wonderful tools for recreation, exploration and fitness. We’ve included this manual with your kayak to help answer any initial questions you may
have and to help you ensure years of trouble-free use. Although this Owner’s Manual is a great way to get an overview of kayakaing, it’s not a
substitute for lessons from a qualified instructor. As with many activities, the more you know the more fun you have. So take the time to read
through this manual and hang on to it for reference.
Register your kayak Fill out your Kayak Registration form on our website. Also, make a
note of your serial number (engraved at the back of your kayak) on
your original receipt as you would need this information in the unlikely event of a
warranty or insurance claim.
Maintenance
We’ve put a lot of time and thought into providing you with a quality kayak and we stand behind our product 100%. By reading your kayak’s
warranty agreement and following these few simple maintenance steps, you should have years of problem-free fun:
Transportation When transporting your kayak, take care to avoid potential damage or distortion to the hull. A good racking system allows you to
transport your kayak on the top of your vehicle safely and securely. You will want to add some foam padding to your roof rack or invest in a
padded kayak cradle, especially if your kayak is constructed out of a composite material. Remember... damage caused by kayaks flying off car
roof tops or deformations caused during transport are not covered by the warranty.
To avoid loss or damage, remove all accessories before transporting the kayak.
For your safety and to avoid unnecessary scratches on your car, all but the
shortest boats should be car-topped by two people, placing the kayak on a quality
roof rack. Practice common sense lifting techniques, using your legs (not your back)
to raise the kayak onto the racking.
Once the kayak is on the roof rack, hull side down or on its side, use a pair of
straps or ropes to secure the midsection of the kayak to the roof rack, taking
care not to overtighten.
Each end of the kayak should be tied to the bumpers of the vehicle. However,
be careful not to cinch down these bow and stern lines too tightly as that will
increase the likelihood of hull warpage.
Also to avoid hull deformation, do not leave the boat tied to the vehicle for an
extended period of time or in the hot sun.
If your kayak extends more than 3.5 feet (1 meter) behind your vehicle, attach a red flag to the
hanging extremities to alert fellow motorists and pedestrians.
To transport multiple kayaks use a stacking bar and appropriate padding, placing each kayak on its side, with
hull against hull to prevent deformation.
After a long day on the water, DON’T FORGET THAT YOUR KAYAK IS STRAPPED ON THE ROOF; you do not want to drive into your garage
with it still on the rack. It may sound strange...but it happens.
Repair Your kayak’s hull and outfitting are built to withstand the strains of kayaking but occasionally the stresses of the paddling environment
may necessitate a repair. You should carry a roll of duct tape in your dry bag in case of a break or a defect in your kayak on the water.
Afterwards, for everything from simple repairs to hull replacement, contact your retailer. With their knowledge of techniques and access to
replacement parts your kayak will be as good as new in no time.
Storage For long term storage and to prevent hull deformation your kayak should be kept on its side, preferably on a padded rack. Take care
to protect it from long term exposure to the sun or extreme heat which can contribute to degradation of the hull material and cause
permanent deformation. You may also want to cover the cockpit to guard against dust and debris. Always make sure that your kayak is dry
before winter storage; leaving the drain plug open will provide better ventilation.
Be careful when setting your kayak down on rough or hard surfaces.
Always try to slide in and off a sandy beach. Never place your kayak on a surface that may cut or push the hull inward during entry.
Regularly inspect the hull and outfitting (seat, thigh braces, backband, footbrace) of your kayak to insure their condition and tighten
screws if necessary.
Pay specific attention to the grab handles of your kayak, making sure they do not become loose or damaged.
Take care to protect your kayak from long term exposure to the sun or extreme heat which can contribute to weakening of the plastic/
composite and cause hull deformations. Ask your dealer about products designed specifically to protect your kayak against the sun.
Rinse your kayak well with fresh water to help get rid of sand or salt that can affect the performance of movable parts and gradually wear
down the hull.
Never leave salt water inside a composite kayak as it will not dry out. The kayak may absorb the water and become heavier.
To maintain your dual-density hatch covers, clean them regularly and apply a bit of silicone lube on the rim so they remain easy to take
off and put back on.
For hatches with neoprene seals, make sure you rinse the neoprene seal and hatch rim of any sand or salt and inspect seal regularly to
detect any damage.

Adjusting your kayak Your position and comfort in the kayak play a huge role in the enjoyment of your time on the water. The three main
contact points between you and your kayak are your buttocks, thighs, and feet. Proper kayak outfitting maximizes contact with all three of these
points, allowing you to sit upright with good posture and letting you paddle more efficiently for a longer period of time. Always adjust your
outfitting while your kayaks sits stable on a soft, non-abrasive surface. If the surrounding land is unsuitable, simply place the kayak in some
calm, shallow water and make your adjustments there. Regardless of where you complete your adjustments, remember that the goal is to
maximize comfort and control.
Backrest To sit up straight, add tension in the backrest strap. For a more relaxed, laid back paddling
position, release some tension in the backrest strap. There are three different backrest strap tension systems,
depending on the kayak model you own:
Kayaks with Contour Fit outfittings use a cam buckle located in a well at the front of the seat. To add tension,
grab the strap and pull it towards you; to release tension press the tab on top of the cam buckle.
Kayaks with Advanced Contour Fit and High Performance Contour Fit outfittings use a ratchet
system located at the front of the seat, doubled with a cam buckle located behind the right
hip pad. First, set the ladder strap in the ratchet to the last notch towards its free extremity; in
that position, the backrest should be pulled all the way back. Then pull on the strap at the
cam buckle to eliminate any slack in the strap. Sit in the kayak and crank the ratchet until
you obtain the desired tension in the backrest. If the adjustment range provided by the ladder
strap and ratchet is not enough, loosen the ratchet and pull the strap through the cam buckle
a little more to gain more tension.
Backrest height adjustment Why and when? Generally speaking, a higher backrest setup provides more comfort for casual or long paddling
sessions on calm waters, and a lower backrest makes rolling easier and allows more range of motion for performance paddling, or for rough
conditions. To adjust your backrest’s height: slack both knobs behind the backrest a couple turns, then pull up or push down the backrest to the
desired height. Then tighten the knobs again to finish the setup. If the knob appears to turn loose, just push
against the seat cover with your other hand as you tighten. If it still doesn’t tighten, try twisting the knob
clockwise...
Hip pads Models with Advanced Contour Fit and High Performance Contour Fit outfittings come with
adjustable hip pads. By slacking the support plate screws using a standard Phillips screw driver, these hip
pads can be moved forward and back. You can also customize your hip pad settings by inserting foam shims
between the support plate and the cushionning.
Footbraces Adjustable via a rail or webbing system, properly adjusted footbraces increase your control, letting you put the kayak on edge for
turning or for bracing in an oncoming wave. Certain models of footbraces also control the kayak’s rudder. A properly adjusted footbrace should
allow your knees and thighs a snug fit under the cockpit and thighbraces.
Quicklock footbrace system (kayaks without rudder) Simply pinch the trigger on the rear of the foot pedal to release the locking mechanism.
Once released you can move the foot pedal forwards or backwards along the track to customize your fit. You can even tighten the footbraces
while seated by using your feet to pull them closer to you.
Rudder footbrace system Designed so you can fit your footbraces without affecting your rudder control system. Pull the straps to move the foot
pedals closer to you. To move the pedals further away from you simply release the ladder lock on each strap and the pedals will slide forward.
IMPORTANT: After all your adjustments are complete and you are seated in your kayak, you will want to verify that you can still easily exit your kayak. If
your kayak is equipped with a rudder, also confirm its proper function. Then, time spent in your kayak will be your best teacher as to which areas of your
body may require additional padding.
Contour Fit adjustment
Pull strap
to add tension
Press on cam buckle
to release tension
Advanced Contour Fit adjustment
Pull strap behind back
to adjust ratchet range
Crank the ratchet
to add tension
Lift ratchet release
to slack backrest
Hip pads adjustment
Slack mounting screws
to adjust back and forth
Shim between plate and
pad to adjust seat width

Skeg and Rudder
A skeg lowers into the water along the axis of the kayak, improving the straight-line tracking of your kayak in certain conditions, but has no ability
to control directional changes.
A rudder helps straight-line tracking, but being orientable it also aids turning. Useful for larger kayaks such as tandems, the rudder is not a
replacement for proper kayak steering techniques,; good technique can help you better control your boat.
Both skeg and rudder can be deployed and retracted while seated in your kayak by using the control system positioned to the right side of the
cockpit.
Skeg To control your skeg you will find a slider system on the right
side of your cockpit. Push the slider forward to lift the skeg, slide
it backwards to lower the skeg in the water. Note that there are
ten positions on this ratchet-like system, so you can fine-tune the
amount of skeg surface you will use, which is useful in stabilizing
course in windy conditions.
Pilot Rudder System To lower the Pilot System rudder blade in the water, pull the
rope’s lower knot to the front. To store the blade on deck, first make sure the rudder is
in neutral position so the blade is properly aligned with the rubberized V-block on rear
deck, and pull the higher knot to the front.
To improve your kayaking technique and control don’t use the skeg or rudder unless necessary
and then only in water deep enough that the skeg or rudder will not touch bottom.
Sea kayaking essentials Rules and regulations vary from country to country. Consult the local Coast Guard or similar organization as it is up to
you to educate yourself regarding the navigation rules and requirements of your specific region.
Important factors to keep in mind regarding marine navigation and right of way include:
Visibility Kayaks can be difficult to see from a distance, especially in inclement conditions. To ensure that you are visible choose brightly
colored clothing and always carry signaling equipment.
Right of way When crossing, vessels should defer to the right (starboard) side. Remember this and you’ll be better able to understand the
behavior of other vessels on the water.
Other users When paddling certain waterways you may find that your kayak is the smallest vessel on the water. The U.S. Coast Guard does
not mention kayaks specifically in its regulations regarding right of way, but common sense dictates that the law of tonnage applies: If a
vessel is bigger than you, stay out of its way.
Buoys All regularly traveled waterways have buoys to aid navigation. Often times they mark a channel or an area of restricted navigation.
Most authorities will be happy to explain what each buoy indicates.
Recommended accessories
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or Swim Vest Easily the most important safety gear you will ever own as a kayaker; choose it wisely. Regardless
of the style of PFD you end up selecting, you’ll want to make sure that it is designed specifically for kayaking. Look for a comfortable,
customizable fit which allows maximum movement of your shoulders and torso without moving around. Make sure to select a PFD with flotation
that corresponds to your weight and that is designed with a highly visible color. We recommend you wear your PFD at all times. Not only will it
add buoyancy in case of a swim, but it will also help you stay warm and can protect you in case of a fall on slippery shoreline rocks. Be sure
to select a PFD that complies with the safety regulations of your area.
Skirt Keeping you and your kayak warm and dry, the skirt is worn around your waist and attaches around the cockpit of your kayak, preventing
splashes from waves or your paddle from entering. Designed of either nylon or neoprene, different models offer varying degrees of warmth and
water tightness. Regardless of the type you choose, make sure that the grab loop located at the front of your skirt is always accessible in case
of a wet exit.
Paddle Your means of propulsion, the kayak paddle is perhaps the most personal piece of equipment a kayaker uses. With models existing for
all paddling styles and budgets, you’ll want to try out several different types and lengths before deciding on the right paddle for you. Factors to
consider when choosing your paddle include length, blade size, and material.
Paddle float An invaluable tool allowing you to “self rescue” in case of a capsize. The paddle float slips over the blade of your paddle, giving
the blade flotation and allowing it to be used as an outrigger, stabilizing your kayak and permitting you to get back in from the water. Although
a straightforward technique, every paddler venturing any significant distance away from shore should get proper instruction on how to get back
into their kayak using the paddle float.
Sound signal You are required to have an easily accessible sound signaling device, such as a whistle or fog horn, to help in navigation and to
alert larger watercrafts of your presence in low visibility conditions.
Skeg adjustment
Push the slider to lift the skeg up, pull it back to lower the
skeg. Slider lets you choose between 10 possible postions
Pilot Rudder deployment / storage
The rudder blade deploys smoothly
thanks to cam rolling system
Pull lower knot forward to drop the blade down,
then pull the upper knot to store it back on deck.

Mandatory Accessories, United States of America
In the United States boating regulations vary from state to state but on a national level the US Coast Guard requires that:
Recommended accessories (continued) Mandatory Accessories, Canada
The Small Vessel Regulations enforced by the Canadian Coast Guard establishes a minimum of safety equipment that you must carry with you
in your kayak (or any boat under 6 meters in length):
Personal flotation device (PFD) When selecting your PFD you’ll want to make sure that it is certified by the Canadian Coast Guard and that
it is designed specifically for paddling, and preferably equipped with some kind of reflective device
Spare paddle Usually a 2 or 4 piece “break-apart” design, every group should carry one. Often times it can be secured on the deck of
your kayak via shock-cord deck rigging, easily accessed in case of an emergency
Throw bag Make sure you carry with you a throw bag with at least 45 feet (15 meters) of cord. In an emergency situation it can literally
be a lifeline between you and your paddling partners. If need be, your cord can also function as a towline between kayaks and around
camp it can serve double duty as an excellent way to hang clothes up to dry
Bilge pump or bailing scoop For emptying water from your kayak while out on the water nothing beats the efficiency and ease of a hand
pump (especially double action models.) If you don’t have a pump, a bailing cup or scoop is required to help get rid of excess water. The
addition of a sponge lets you soak up the last remaining drops of water keeping your kayak warm and dry
Sound signal You are required to have an easily accessible sound-signaling device, such as a whistle or fog horn, to help in navigation and
to alert larger watercraft of your presence in low visibility conditions
Signal/running light Between sunset and sunrise, or during times of reduced visibility such as fog, you must remain visible with the use of
a running light (a waterproof flashlight will do)
For more information on the Canadian Coast Guard Regulations visit: http://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/
Choosing your Clothing
When selecting what to wear remember that it should be determined by a combination of air AND water temperature. As with many outdoor
activities you’ll want to use the layer system, wearing distinct layers of clothing rather than one or two thick layers. In all but the warmest
conditions you’ll want your outermost layer to be made of a water and wind proof material. For your underlayers, avoid clothes made out of
cotton. Although comfortable off the water, wet cotton offers no insulation and is very slow to dry. Instead choose insulating clothing made of
synthetic fibers. As well as wicking moisture away from your body, this system allows you to easily adapt to changing weather conditions. You
may also want to choose paddling clothes equipped with reflective strips, especially if your trip involves long crossings and very early
departures.
Marine chart and shoreline topographical map If venturing on open water, it’s important to be aware of your position at all times. Keeping an
accurate marine and shoreline topographical map with you in a waterproof sleeve will help prevent against getting lost and/or energy-
depleting navigational errors.
First aid kit A simple first aid kit should contain materials for treating blisters, minor wounds, burns and trauma; there are many
companies that offer outdoor-specific first aid kits. Regardless of what type you choose, make sure you keep your first aid kit safely inside
a dry bag and that you update its contents regularly.
Sun protection Water reflects much of the sun’s rays, amplifying their effect. Wearing proper sun protection while out on the water is
critical. Sunglasses, a hat, and of course sunscreen, all help you protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen
frequently.
Drinkable water and a snack Dehydration can cause fatigue and misjudgment. Keep things fun by making sure to carry along enough
drinkable water and appropriate snacks to keep energy levels high throughout your trip.
Distress signal All kayaks used on Coastal waters, large lakes or bodies of water more than 2 miles (3 km) wide must be equipped with
approved distress signals. There are many types of distress signals, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choose your distress
signal(s) according to Coast Guard requirements.
All recreational boats must carry one wearable PFD for each person aboard. The USCG divides PFD’s into 3 categories: type I: Off shore,
type II: Near shore, type III: Flotation aid
Your kayak must include a system to signal your presence such as flares, signal mirror, or flashlight
All recreational vessels (including kayaks) are required to display navigational lights between sunset and sunrise and during other periods
of reduced visibility like fog, rain, or haze
The USCG, working with affiliated local organizations, offers all small craft owners a free annual Vessel Safety Check (VSC). An
educational procedure (rather than an enforcement of the law), the VSC helps increase everyone’s safety in small craft boating
For more information on the United States Coast Guard Regulations visit: http://www.uscgboating.org