Epic 18X Sport Touring Kayak by Epic Kayaks

Epic 18X Sport Touring Kayak

The Epic 18X Sport is designed for intermediate to advanced touring paddlers seeking a distinct edge in a high-performance kayak. Paddlers find that the sleek, efficient shape and long waterline enable them to cover long distances with exceptional ease and speed, and deliver excellent performance in rough water conditions. In addition to all the features that come standard on an Epic, the 18X family includes the advanced Epic Track Master™ steering system, an adjustable seat, large storage capacity, and front deck cutaways for a closer, more efficient stroke. Whether out for an hour, a day, or an extended expedition, paddlers will discover the 18X Sport offers the ultimate paddling experience.

Specifications

Length: 5.49 m (180")
Width: 55.9 cm (22")
Depth: 28.6 cm (11.25" )
Capacity: 173 kg (380 lbs)
Cockpit: 86 x 41 cm (34.0" x 16.25")

Storage Capacities:

Bow: 87 litres (23 gal)
Stern: 119 litres (31.4 gal)

Hatch Openings

Bow: 35.5 x 21 cm (14" x 8.25")
Stern: 45 x 30.5 cm (17.75" x 12")

Details & Pricing

18X Sport Performance - $3,750.00

Weight: 18.6 kg (42 lbs)
Infusion grade foam core
Composite hybrid of fiberglass, carbon fiber, and Kevlar
Vacuum infused, heat-cured epoxy
Black seam line

18X Sport Ultra - $4,500.00

Weight: 16.4 kg (36 lbs)
Nomex honeycomb core
Woven Kevlar fabric
Vacuum bagged, heat-cured epoxy
Red seam line

18X Sport Expedition - $4,995.00

Weight: 21 kg (46 lbs)
Infusion grade foam core
Composite hybrid of carbon fibre, Kevlar & fibreglass
Vacuum infused, heat cured epoxy
White seam line, Black end highlights with large Epic logo
Trackmaster Plus Rudder and Day Hatch standard

Notes on seating paddlers position:

Setting paddler position in 18X: it will depend on the water type you are paddling and your comfort in the cockpit. For flatwater, you generally want to move the seat up a little, say 2" forward from the furthest back position. You want the bow to be just barely in the water (but not rising out) when you are up to speed (it might come out a little more at top sprint). In rougher water conditions, especially downwind in bigger waves, you'll be better off moving the seat back. Your personal fit is the top priority, then these options for performance.

Epic 18XS

18X Sport Expedition – Review by Huon Witt – Australia

I have recently received a new 18X Sport in the Expedition layup. The design of the kayak is quite abstract compared to what is considered the "norm" among the seakayaking community in Tasmania. One experienced (i.e. traditional) paddler called it a fast, but pretend sea kayak (after all, it doesn't look like what the Eskimos used to paddle hundreds of years ago!) But the reality was no one could deny that the construction, weight and ingenuity far exceeded everyone's expectations! The boat demands attention.

Flat Water

What became very apparent on glassy flat-water was the boats amazing tracking ability, and effortless glide between power strokes. It has a motion flywheel effect. Acceleration is not like lightning due to its weight, but it far exceeds that of any normal sea kayaks, and the cruising speed is astounding. Doing record distances in this craft is very desirable! Stability was a perfect balance for flat-water cruising and confidence in heavy surf. I was extremely impressed to find that there was zero twitchiness, far less than some of the big fat seakayaks. With and without the rudder it was very easy to steer using counter edging. The firmness and the instant direct tight steering is by far my favorite feature of this boat, and the self adjusting pedals are fantastic. I have no problems keeping up with the V10 at training pace, and can hold my own for a short sprint against the V10 in the 18X Sport.

Open Water

Where the boat really shines I think, is in heavy swell. I was paddling with six other brands of well known sea kayaks, and it was outstandingly apparent to all of us that the efficiency of the 18XS was incredible, as it was slicing through the waves; and the easy distance this kayak was putting between itself and the rest of the pack, at just an easy long distance cruising pace, was simply impressive. The 18XS was very slippery surfing down waves, and the rudder made contact with the water at all times. Effortless seakayaking! I cannot wish for a better seat, and the back brace has not been necessary for me at all, but a nice feature for some.

Deck lids were watertight and the dayhatch lid, with its hinging side, allows for easy one handed access of equipment. These features, and the hatch cover lever locks , were commented on by all who examined the kayak - intensely.

They 18XS rolls very well and I love the flat rear deck, which works very well for a self rescue.

This kayak is something to be proud of, and a decade advanced over everything else that is common to seakayaking in Australia. Epic Kayaks should be very proud.

Thanks!

Huon Witt – Australia

Customer Reviews

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Customer Review Summary (Total of 1 reviews)

Average Rating: 5 Stars

Epic 18XS 18X Sport Expedition – Review by Huon Witt – Australia I have recently received a new 18X Sport in the Expedition layup. The design of the kayak is quite abstract compared to what is considered the "norm" among the seakayaking community in Tasmania. One experienced (i.e. traditional) paddler called it a fast, but pretend sea kayak (after all, it doesn't look like what the Eskimos used to paddle hundreds of years ago!) But the reality was no one could deny that the construction, weight and ingenuity far exceeded everyone's expectations! The boat demands attention. F lat Water What became very apparent on glassy flat-water was the boats amazing tracking ability, and effortless glide between power strokes. It has a motion flywheel effect. Acceleration is not like lightning due to its weight, but it far exceeds that of any normal sea kayaks, and the cruising speed is astounding. Doing record distances in this craft is very desirable! Stability was a perfect balance for flat-water cruising and confidence in heavy surf. I was extremely impressed to find that there was zero twitchiness, far less than some of the big fat seakayaks. With and without the rudder it was very easy to steer using counter edging. The firmness and the instant direct tight steering is by far my favorite feature of this boat, and the self adjusting pedals are fantastic. I have no problems keeping up with the V10 at training pace, and can hold my own for a short sprint against the V10 in the 18X Sport. Open Water Where the boat really shines I think, is in heavy swell. I was paddling with six other brands of well known sea kayaks, and it was outstandingly apparent to all of us that the efficiency of the 18XS was incredible, as it was slicing through the waves; and the easy distance this kayak was putting between itself and the rest of the pack, at just an easy long distance cruising pace, was simply impressive. The 18XS was very slippery surfing down waves, and the rudder made contact with

By HW

1/12/2011