For Sale: Jackson Hero (first generation)

[Cowper]

Jackson Hero (first generation) for sale, asking $375

Some details and reviews at http://playak.com/article.php?sid=2034" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Length 8'0.9"
Width 24"
Height 13.8"
Weight 35 lbs
Volume 63.9 gal
Minimum Paddler Weight 99 lbs
Maximum Paddler Weight 170 lbs

Boat type: River runner. Color: Black

This is a first generation Hero, which is a completely different model than the Jackson Heroes you may have seen recently. I bought it for Debo when she decided to experiment with kayaking for a little bit, but she returned to being a full-time open boater shortly after and the boat is now just gathering dust and taking up space in our overflowing garage.

While some liked the first generation Hero, I’d rather risk the loss of a sale and be completely honest so I don’t mislead a new boater looking for a bargain: This boat has some pros and cons.

Pros – Cross link plastic, very fast design for an 8’ boat, easy to roll, good footroom, relatively light weight.

Cons – Less initial stability than second and third generation Heroes; if you don’t know how to roll and are not planning to learn, then this would probably not be a good boat for you unless you are near the lower end of the recommended weight range.

I will get up some photos later. Can bring to Rockport, UALR pool sessions, and other selected locations for inspection, basically any place I’m already going so I don’t have to buy diesel just to “show” the boat or let you test paddle it. Boat comes with free roll lessons to ACC members who can make the UALR pool sessions, but, then again, so does every other boat no matter where you bought it.

[Cowper]

Update: I paddled the boat again yesterday because I had it at Rockport in case anyone wanted to try it. I had forgotten how easy this boat is to roll - it was similar to the RPM in that respect. Also, notice how similar the Specs are to another model in the Jackson line-up - the Zen 55:

Zen 55 – $1149..........................................................1st gen Hero
• Length = 7’10-1/2” (240 cm)........................8' 0.9"
• Width = 23-3/4” (60.3 cm).............................24"
• Height = 12” (30.5 cm)....................................13.8"
• Volume = 60 US Gallons (219 liters)..........63.9 gallons
• Weight = 36.5 lbs................................................35 lbs
• Weight Range: 70-150........................................99-170

I'm currently about 165, which puts me at the top end of the stated weight range for the Hero, but 15# over the limit for the similar-sized Zen. I think this is at least partly why, to me, the boat seems to have less primary stability than I would prefer. But anyone who is looking at new boats and considering the Zen 55, should also consider this one for less than 1/3 the price of the new Zen!

[TonyC]

I own one of these, and can testify to the durability. Still the first and only boat I've ever owned. It doesn't get scratched nearly as easily as other boats. I learned to roll it this boat, and it rolls smoothly. Picks up hull speed very quickly, so it's great for boatball. It seemed tippy at first compared to the new generation Heroes that I had been renting from the UofA, but after you get used to this boat, it's not a problem. I'm calling it a great learner boat since it's durable, rollable, and seriously abuse tolerant if not almost indestructible.

Another feature I like: the only hole in the boat is the cockpit (no bolts/screws etc. penetrating the hull, no drainplug). It's light enough that you can just pick it up and rock it back and forth. Creek float bags HIGHLY recommended though.

Only thing I don't like: I've taken it on class III and I wish it would have just a little more "spin on a dime" factor. But perhaps what I'm learning is that I might be one of those "full displacement hull" kind of guys.

Cowper's price of $375 is very reasonable, as this is a rock solid boat that is going to last.

[lpowell]

you still have this boat?

[okieboater]

For what it is worth.

One of my long time paddle buds who can buy any kayak he wants
got one of these boats when they first came out. He like me has a
garage full of boats.

I got one of the later models and it is one of my favorites, he tried mine but has
refused to get rid of his original.

Takes it every where including a trip down the Grand Canyon smiling all the way!

[Cowper]

Yes. Send me a pm or text fiveo147two9o38 if you would like a test drive or more info. My response may be slow, working some long hours right now.

[PrinceAquaBaby]

February, 2014. Is this boat still for sale.? I weigh in at 120lbs, wtb two boats for smaller paddlers.