Jan 06, 09

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Versatile Canoes Reviewed

Length: 15' 8"; Rocker: 1" bow, 1" stern; Beam: 35.5"; Center Depth: 13.5"; Weight: 80 lbs, As tested 80 lbs; Price: $765; Website: www.oldtowncanoe.com

Discovery 158, Old Town Canoe

Put-In: Old Town, a historic canoe maker, continues one of the most recognized family of boats with the Discovery 158. Canoes made from polyethylene are rugged but heavy, and the most susceptible to sun exposure. Our test boat exhibited rough-cut edges and centering marks left on the gunwales for mounting the yoke. While the overall finish suffered, this was the most economical boat in the review.

Performance: The Discovery 158 is a very well-rounded boat, with sufficient tracking and maneuverability for its size. The weight of this boat can be felt while paddling, but the hull shape and stiffness compensate for much of it. Despite the bow pushing a bit of water, there is still apparent glide. Without sacrificing stability, the boat responds to paddler movements.

Comfort: Generally, the Discovery 158 was comfortable to paddle. The gunwales do not dictate stroke placement, and there is room to sit however you please. The molded seats are hard, and the form inhibits turning the boat around to paddle solo from the bow. The seats are already mounted high, so a slim pad is the best choice for those who don't have enough cushion of their own.

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Take-Out: The Discovery 158 is a good all-around canoe that does not stand out in any particular way. If you are willing to accept the weight and quality issues, this canoe economically gets you out and has the capacity to keep you out over a long weekend.

5-Point Rating: Speed, 3.5; Maneuverability, 4.5; Tracking 3.5; Stability, 4.5; Comfort, 3

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Reader Comments

Posted on Tue Dec16, 2008, 11:56 PM by Gary Loucks

I recently purchased a Champlain Kevlar with a center seat and web fore and aft seats. This canoe is sensational. It took a bit of paddling to get used to the ultra light weight. I paddle this canoe sitting in the front seat facing rearward. With proper ballast; the Champlain is super easy to paddle. The glide is fantastic and it responds precisely to the J Stroke. Actually a quick twist of the wrist is all that's necessary to keep this canoe driving strait. I, however, can not paddle from the center seat. The paddle just doesn't have the proper affect on the boat from that position. I'd not order that option. The boat will turn on a dime. It is fast and it is stable. Windy days can create a challenge, but then, wind will do that. An otter tail paddle is a pleasure with this canoe and a beaver tail will really make her move out. Love it! Loading and unloading off the top of my pickup cap is a breeze. And the quality is supurb...I would buy another one if needed.

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