My Wife and I own Masthead Enterprises in St. Petersburg - were a dealer for Malibu KayaksRik wrote:
If you are a sponsored angler, an employee of the manufacturer, a sales person or in any other way connected with the manufacturer - or it's competitors - we expect that you will note that in your post.
.
Malibu Kayaks as introduced two new Kayaks call the Stealth 12 and 14. The Stealth 14 is basically the Malibu X-Factor with a few minor changes to the hull, but entirely new deck design. The Stealth 14 will paddle the same as the X-factor. I personally paddled a X-Factor for two years, so I know how the Stealth 14 will paddle. I decided to test paddle the new Stealth 12. The Stealth 12 is a all new kayak from Malibu. It’s design is based off the highly successful X-Factor and Mini-x hull shape.
Length 12'4" width 33" Weight 60 lbs * (probably a honest 63 lbs) Max Capacity 450 lbs
Price $999.00
The Stealth series has a center live well storage system and two center side hatches. One hatch opens to the inside of the kayak, but the other hatch is a shallow storage box, perfect for storing lures, pilers,,,etc..
Both the S-12 & S-14 have a front “gator” hatch that doubles for a child seat. The new bow hatch is much more water tight than the previously used bow hatches. 4 flush mounted rod holders and two paddle keepers are standard.
On the Water – the day I had slotted to go fishing turned out to be a breezy – blowing around 15 – 20 knots. So I got the opportunity to paddle it in adverse condition. The Stealth 12 handled the wind and waves just fine. The Stealth is easy to stand up in. The S-12 is very maneuverable and easy to turn. I thought the speed was good for a 12 foot kayak.. It is not the fastest kayak in the 12-13’ range, but definitely not the slowest. Considering how hard the wind blew the kayak I did not have any problem paddling it into the wind. The “V” style hull shape makes her track well. I don’t feel that you would need a rudder, but to each his own. I feel if the kayak tracks well you don’t need a rudder.
Features – The S-12 has a “Dry Seat” the kayak comes with unique screw in thread scupper holes and thread scupper plugs. The new style bow hatch is very water tight, which is an improvement over the old style bow hatches. The center live well tank is brilliant. The live well can be plumbed for a pump. If you are an elitist artificial lure guy/gal, then the center hatch makes a great cooler or storage area. The rear tank well is designed for fishing. My milk crate fit perfectly and it was easy to reach, from the seat area.
Comparing to my X-Factor
Speed – felt about the same the S-12 is less physical to paddle
Maneuverability – the X-Factor turns and maneuvers well, but the S-12 being shorter was easier to turn and maneuver
Stability – The X-Factor is one of the most stable kayaks on the market. The S-12 is very stable and comfortable. But not has stable as a X-Factor or S-14
Transport – the S-12 is probably a honest 63-65lbs is was easy to lift on the roof of the Suburban
The Stealth 12 is an excellent Big guy 12' kayak, but it will also fit a large variety of paddler, my wife could paddle this kayak. The Stealth 14 and X-Factor is really designed for paddlers over 200 lbs
In closing Malibu has made a one of a kind kayak that makes bring life bait a realistic option.
