Michael writes in about the 2005 Jackson Kayak retrofit backband

June 12, 2005

EJ

I just wanted to drop you a line to tell you how satisfied
I am with the new retrofitted backband. I have really long legs so my
seat is all the way back in my 2004 4Fun. That left very little hand space
for making adjustments to the old ratchet system. Initially I was a little
skeptical about the new system. It just seemed too simple and I was concerned
about line stretch and slippage.

Long story short…the darned thing works like a charm!
It’s incredibly easy/fast to adjust, it stays in place and there was no
stretch that I could notice. I paddled it for an hour before getting out
and never felt the need to readjust it. It’s sooo much easier to get in
and out of the boat compared to the old system. Also, if in an emergency
there was ever a need to release the backband this system is hands down
the easiest and fastest
system to release.

I believe the hallmark and beauty of your boats lies
in their simplicity. I
have not had to do one thing to outfit my 4Fun. It fits like the proverbial

glove straight from the factory.

I would also like to pass on a tip I discovered with
regards to the ’04 hip
pads, especially with the new system. You had recommended rotating them

upwards and raising them to about the cockpit rim. Try this. Place the
left
one on the right side and the right on the left side. The small part of
the
hippad will then be facing the rear of the boat and will be in effect,
not
even used. The top of the hippad will be at the top of the velcro mounting

plate, no higher and will not be needed to be rotated. Adjust fore and
aft
until the bulge of the pad fits right in the crease where your leg and
hip
meet. You will be secure and comfortable.

In sum, I wholeheartedly endorse both your boats and
the new backband
system. I’m more comfortable in this boat than I was in boats twice it’s

length almost twenty years ago. I’m also having twice the fun I might
add!

A handshake in thought, Michael Supple
Elmira, NY