The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is a sit-on-top kayak that offers a combination of stability, comfort, and performance that makes it one of the best kayaks available today.
Features
Durability
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is built to last, with a high-quality polyethylene construction that is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The kayak is impact-resistant and can handle bumps and scrapes without damage. The materials used in the construction of the kayak are also UV-resistant, ensuring that the kayak will last for many years to come.
Design
The design of the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is optimized for stability, comfort, and performance. The kayak features a wide, flat hull that makes it incredibly stable, even in choppy waters. The short hull length also makes it very maneuverable, allowing you to easily navigate small rivers and tight spaces.
Comfort
One of the standout features of the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is its comfort. The kayak features a comfortable seat that is designed for all-day paddling. The foot braces provide excellent support and stability, while the raised heel rest allows you to relax and stretch out your legs when needed. The padded deck also provides a comfortable surface for standing, which is ideal for fishing or just enjoying the scenery.
Stability
The wide, flat hull of the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 makes it incredibly stable, even in choppy waters. The kayak also features a tracking system that helps it stay on course, making it easy to paddle in a straight line. This makes it an ideal kayak for open water, where stability and tracking are essential.
Storage
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 has ample storage space for all of your gear. The hooded storage compartment at the bow is perfect for keeping your valuables safe and dry, while the bungee cords on the rear deck provide additional storage for larger items. The integrated and removable cooler is a standout feature, as it allows you to easily carry your lunch or drinks with you on your kayaking adventure.
Portability
While the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is not the lightest kayak on the market, it is still relatively lightweight at 57 pounds 8 ounces. It also features an integrated roof rack notch, making it easy to transport on your car’s roof rack. This makes it a great kayak for those who like to explore different bodies of water, as it’s easy to take with you wherever you go.
Performance
Maneuverability
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is highly maneuverable, making it a great choice for paddling in small rivers and tight spaces. The short hull design allows for quick turns and easy maneuvering. However, the Targa 100 can be a bit sluggish in larger bodies of water.
Speed
While the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is not the fastest kayak on the market, it is still relatively fast for its size. It can easily keep up with other kayaks in its class and has a maximum speed of around 6 miles per hour. The kayak’s wide base does slow it down slightly, but this trade-off results in increased stability and comfort.
Tracking
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 tracks well and is incredibly stable. It’s designed to handle choppy waters and can handle wind with ease. The kayak’s hull design ensures that it maintains a straight line while paddling, making it easy to stay on course.
Stability
One of the best features of the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is its stability. The kayak’s wide base and low center of gravity make it incredibly stable in the water. Even novice kayakers will find it easy to keep the Targa 100 upright in choppy waters.
Capacity
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 has a weight capacity of 325 pounds, which is more than enough for most kayakers and their gear. The kayak is designed to handle a variety of paddler sizes and is comfortable for all-day paddling. When fully loaded, the Targa 100 still maintains its stability and tracks well.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 offers a number of advantages that make it a great choice for paddlers of all skill levels. Some of the key pros of this kayak include:
- Maneuverability: The Targa 100 is highly maneuverable and easy to paddle in tight spaces.
- Built-in cooler: The integrated cooler is a convenient feature that is not found on many other kayaks.
- Comfortable: The kayak’s padded deck and comfortable seat make it a pleasure to paddle all day long.
- Stable hull design: The Targa 100 is incredibly stable, even in choppy waters.
Cons
While the Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is an excellent kayak, there are a few disadvantages to keep in mind. Some of the key cons of this kayak include:
- Heavy for a small boat: At 57 pounds 8 ounces, the Targa 100 is a bit heavier than some other kayaks in its class. This can make it more difficult to transport and carry, especially for solo paddlers.
Maintenance and Care
Taking care of your Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance. Here are a few tips for cleaning, storing, and repairing your kayak:
Cleaning
After each use, rinse your kayak with fresh water to remove any salt or debris. Use a mild soap and soft brush to clean the kayak and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the hull. Allow the kayak to dry completely before storing.
Storage
Store your Wilderness Systems Targa 100 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the kayak off the ground to prevent warping or damage to the hull. If storing the kayak for an extended period of time, cover it with a protective cover to prevent dust or debris from settling on the hull.
Repair
Taking care of your kayak is essential to ensure its longevity. Despite your best efforts, your kayak may still sustain some damage during use. In such cases, it’s important to repair it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Most small cracks or punctures can be repaired using a kayak repair kit. These kits are widely available and usually include everything you need to repair your kayak, including adhesive, patches, and sandpaper. The process involves cleaning the damaged area thoroughly, applying the adhesive and patch, and allowing it to cure.
For larger repairs or more complex damage, it’s best to seek the help of a professional kayak repair service. These experts have the tools and experience needed to repair your kayak properly and ensure that it’s as good as new.
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Conclusion:
The Wilderness Systems Targa 100 is an excellent sit-on-top kayak that offers a great combination of stability, comfort, and convenience features. With its wide base and tracking system, it’s an incredibly stable kayak that’s easy to maneuver and paddle. The integrated and removable cooler is a great feature that you don’t often find in other sit-on-top kayaks, and the ample storage space is perfect for carrying all your gear. Despite being relatively heavy for its size, the Targa 100 is still relatively fast and offers great performance in a variety of water conditions. With proper care and maintenance, this kayak will provide years of enjoyment on the water.
