QuadCatt Cataraft Fitting for Optimum Performance
Precision and Tube Tip ControlThe similarity between a galactic black hole and a river rapid is that they both have an event horizon. Once you cross that line, you are absolutely going to run that rapid. Now it is just a matter of style. Precision equals style. Precision is all about controlling the tips of the tubes. If you can get the tips exactly where you want them, the rest of the craft will usually follow in suit. When you are fully engaged with the tumult of the rapid, the oars and the tips are constantly vying with each other for control of the craft. It all comes down to leverage. CRITICAL CONCEPT! The farther forward your oars and tholes are mounted on the cataraft, the more leverage and control you have over the tips. The proof: [A] Hold your oar horizontally with one hand on the grip and the other a shoulder width up the shaft. Now have someone push sideways against the blade [which is 8 feet away] while you try to hold the oar from moving. They will easily be able to move the blade with just a finger tip and will effortlessly overpower your resistance. This is akin to a stern mounted oar setup; a 1 foot wave can throw your craft off line. In this scenario, the tips have most of the leverage. [B] This time hold the oar with one hand on the neck of the blade and the other hand a shoulder width back down the shaft and again have someone push the blade sidewise. You can easily resist their effort and not allow the blade to rotate. This is the desired effect of the bow forward oar setup. So how does this “oar leverage” demonstration relate to tip control? Think of the hand pushing on the blade as a diagonal wave and think of the oar blade as the tube tip. When the distance between your grip on the oar and the end of the blade is short it is very difficult for the wave force [pushing hand] to deflect the tips off line. With the QuadCatt tubes and modular frame configured for Balance, Power and Precision, you now have a craft that can handle class 5 chaotic rivers and run remote expeditions around the world. It is up to you to provide the skills, talent and passion to bring it all together. The QuadCatt Whitewater FormulaA2 + B2 = C2Cataraft capabilities x Pilot proficiencies = River ratings Ultimately, a river rating is based not on how difficult it is to run, but how challenging it is to swim. Do the Math!
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