Hobie Compass Gets MirageDrive 180 Upgrade

Kayak fans who want to add more versatility and fun to their outings are sure to love the latest round of upgrades to the Hobie Mirage Compass kayak series. Hobie upgraded the series late last year to incorporate enhanced versions of its signature MirageDrive, the patented, kayak pedal-propulsion system.

The entire Mirage Compass line, one of the most versatile hulls in the Hobie lineup, now features the MirageDrive 180 NAME propulsion system, allowing the kayak to move both forward and backwards with full power. The upgrade provides better access to tight pocket waters holding big fish plus improved, instantaneous boat control and positioning for a quieter approach. It also allows for more efficient lure presentation and gives anglers an added edge when hauling big fish from sticky places.

Hobie has several additional patented features that make the MirageDrive 180 a highly valuable tool for kayak anglers. First is the unique ST fin design and shape that makes the drive system very efficient helps to shed debris such as grass. Second is the Kick-Up feature allows the fins to break away upon contacting an underwater obstacle such as a rock or tree stump and pivot back into position with the stroke of the pedal crank. Third, is the ARC cranks that offer user-friendly leg adjustment with a convenient push button. Finally, the 180 technology provides instantaneous full-power reverse with the pull of a lever. All combined to make the MirageDrive an extremely efficient, easy-to-use, durable and robust pedal drive that has been proven to withstand the abuse from any waterway.

Additionally, the camo colorway of the Mirage Compass will exclusively feature Hobie’s premium Turbo Fins, which incorporate a longer fin template to deliver increased speed, heightened responsiveness, and improved propulsion efficiency. The Mirage Compass offers maximum stability with an oversized cockpit and flat deck for standing. Its sharp turning radius makes it nimble in tight quarters while remaining quick across the open stretches.

Hobie’s Mirage Compass Duo, the highly customizable tandem kayak with two separate pedal drives, will also be enhanced to include one MirageDrive 180 and one MirageDrive GT, offering dual maneuverability and smoother forward-and-backward capabilities. The combination will allow both users to enjoy Kick-Up Fin technology and give the aft user control when getting in and out of snug spots. For anglers, that means kayakers can enjoy working a fishing area to its fullest potential.

All models in the Hobie Mirage Compass series include molded-in rod holders, H-Track accessory mounts, plus a transducer cavity ready for installation of Lowrance and other brands of fish finders. They also come with a paddle. To get in a good upper-body workout – or squeeze into extremely shallow water - simply remove the MirageDrive, insert the plug, and paddle along.

“The Hobie Mirage Compass is a great platform for those who include both fishing and general recreation in their kayak lifestyle,” said Morgan Promnitz, Director of Fishing Business Development for Hobie. “It’s lightweight, easy to launch, quick and responsive on the water, and incredibly stable. It’s a tremendous choice whether you are a serious angler or simply looking to tour and explore. This series really offers the best of all worlds.”

MSRP: $2,349 - $2,499 (for camo); Hobie.com