Malibu Kayaks

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rcmurff1969
Posts: 11
Joined: Sun Oct 12, 2014 1:05 pm

Malibu Kayaks

Post by rcmurff1969 »

Any opinions or reviews on malibu kayaks? Especially X-Factor. I've read mixed reviews on paddling.net. I love the live well, ability to stand and a 550lbs payload. However I have read that they are prone to leaks predominately in the hatches. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
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Mythman
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Joined: Wed Mar 22, 2006 8:23 am
Location: Cypress.......watching the weather to go BTB fishing!

Re: Malibu Kayaks

Post by Mythman »

Malibu has an up and down history...................., just depends on if you get an up production model. I have an 2008 model X-Factor that has never given me a minutes trouble, but I have maintained it well and have added some preventive changes.

The X-Factor is a great BTB kayak and a slow bay kayak. Many bay fishermen want speed to reach their "honey holes" and speed is not what the X-factor is known for. Going out and back in through the surf is what the X-Factor excels at. Plus, it is a very stable kayak. Lots and lots of storage space.

Personally, I have never had any issues or leaks from my three hatches.....but my model does not have a live well.

You most probably will get mixed reviews about Malibu but most X-Factor owners love their's.

Always paddle before you buy, if at all possible.

Good luck!
Ramsdl52
Posts: 25
Joined: Tue Sep 23, 2014 11:13 am
Location: san antonio, tx

Re: Malibu Kayaks

Post by Ramsdl52 »

I have the newest model of the X-Factor i purchased earlier this year. i've had no problems with leaks but one the hatch between my legs doesn't want to close while i'm sitting in the kayak which allows water to get into it. i've decided to put my non fishing essential items in that hatch and just not get into it while i'm fishing. It sucks that i have to do that but it is what it is. i think the problem is that i'm a big guy (300 #s) and my weight bends the plastic of the kayak a little bit and doesn't allow the hatch lock to line up. I bought mine out of california but there are some local dealers in the dallas or houston area. Good luck!
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