Description
Key Technical Features
- Duratex™ – reinforced PVC is lightweight, stiff, and extremely durable
- Drop-stitch Floor – provides durability, rigidity, and optimal performance
- MOLLE Plates – with included mesh bags provide a customizable gear carrying system
- Universal Accessory Mounts – for mounting cupholder, POV camera, rod holder, and more
- Cockpit Splashguard – keeps water out and paddler dry
- Lightweight Packable Design – weighs only 35-pounds and includes River Crossing backpack-style storage bag for effortless transportation and storage
- Folded Dimensions – 28 x 22 x 10 inches measured as an “average fold”. Some users will be able to fold tighter, while others may not fold this small. If you are sizing for limited storage or travel, we recommend erring on the upper end of approximate dimensions to guarantee space
Key User Features
- ProFormance Seats – with inflatable padded seat cushions and high backrests, provide adjustable back support and include front webbing pockets, and rear gear pocket
- Seat Backstraps – provide added tension to keep the seat firmly in position in rough water
- Posi-track Weedless Fin – increases tracking and quickly attaches to universal US Fin Box System
- Adjustable Foot Rests – for comfort and paddling efficiency
- Velcro Adjustment Strips – allow for personalized custom seat positions
- Deck Cargo Bungees – on bow and stern offer secure storage of extra gear
- Molded Plastic Carry Handles – on bow and stern for comfortable carrying or lifting
- Scupper Drains – seven (7) drains open easily to drain any water from the boat
- Halkey-Roberts Type Valves – for quick and easy inflation and deflation
- Webbing Tie-Down Loops – every 6”- 12” along the cockpit for attaching cooler, dry bag, or gear
- Stainless Steel D-Rings – for secure attachment of seat or gear
KayakMark34 –
I Love My New Chelan 140!
After having a handful of Advanced Element inflatable Kayaks (including their tandem version), I purchased This Chelan 140.
I prefer the ease of inflation (all the same type of connector for all three valves), lighter weight, much easier to dry, and to pack away, and most importantly the paddling experience of this Chelan 140.
I purchased this to use mostly as a solo, but still wanted the ability to take others with me at times, or bringing more stuff along. Using this solo, the paddling is such that it makes you forget it’s a tandem. This does have the dropstich floor which is a must IMO for inflatables. I have stood up in this in calm waters. I like that the seats, which are very comfortable, can be adjusted to different “heights” by easily releasing some air out as needed.
The almost unlimited attachment points on this kayak, makes attaching your equipment, phone, cameras, etc… a breeze to place what you want where you want. I haven’t opened any of the scupper/drainage areas yet, but I do use those areas for other quick storage, including using them as a drink holding area.
I do also use a very small USB rechargeable battery powered hand pump to pump up the 3 valves to about 80% of pressure before using a double action high pressure pump for the last dozen or less pumps on each valve to bring to proper pressure, making set up even that much easier.
The Skeg/Fin does have a learning curve on getting it on quickly, but after a few times of setup, it becomes easy. The new travel bag has more than enough room for everything, including the larger double action hand pump, self inflating PFD, and an accessory bag for smaller items. The bag opens fully in the clam shell method making it easier to pack away the kayak itself. I do wish the bag had handles on the sides, because the bag is very tall when full, so it’s a bit awkward to lift from the top.
I love this Chelan 140, and will be using this inflatable more than I thought, making my hardshell kayaks a bit jealous.