Hello,
I’m a newish paddler interested in upgrading to a kevlar solo. I’m seeing a used Curtis Vagabond in kevlar. It sounds like it’s a high-quality boat. I know it was designed for smaller paddlers. I’m tall but thin - 6’5" and around 170.
Any advice on whether this boat would fit me well?
And on price - asking price is $1600 and it’s in good condition. Does this seem reasonable?
Thank you for any advice.
That’s a fair price for a Curtis, which have always been hand built and top of the line. New ultralight Curtis design canoes (sold under the Hemlock name now) go for $2500 to $4000 and even used ones are over $2500. Though I did see a similar cream colored Vagabond to that one sold for $1400 in Michigan recently (maybe somebody is reselling that one!).
Curtis canoes are legendary and hold their value . At your height and weight that model might be a little tender for you, challenging if you are a beginner. But if you are up to adapting to it, that’s a nice boat. I just got my second Curtis, a 17 pound Nessmuk pack canoe, previously had a larger 33 pound Lady Bug. Both good for me at %’ 5" and 150 pounds.
There is also a canoe shop, Dustin Noel’s, north of me (halfway between Pittsburgh and Erie, PA, who sells reconditioned and some new demo Curtis and other make canoes, if you are looking for a light boat.
Thank you, Willowleaf - very helpful!
Are there other good solos that you think would work better for my height and weight?