Hobie's Mirage Drive replaced the paddle with pedals. You step left and right, much like an exercise stepper, and two underwater fins push you along. It is quiet, fast and leaves both hands free. But Hobie makes a lot of models, and the right one depends on how you plan to use it.
Here is how we help customers sort through the lineup at Quest Watersports, a Hobie dealer in Ottawa, IL.
How the Mirage Drive works
- You pedal by stepping alternately left and right. The big muscles in your legs do the work.
- Two fins swing underwater much like a penguin's flippers, so there is no splash.
- Your hands stay free for fishing, photography or a drink.
- Hobie kayaks have a closed deck with self-draining scuppers and seats, which keeps you dry.
The Pro Angler 360 models add the Mirage Drive 360, which lets you steer the drive in any direction. Models listed as 180 use the standard drive.
Start with three questions
- What will you do most? Fishing, sightseeing, family outings or exercise?
- How will you carry and store it? Car-top, trailer, garage wall, apartment closet? This is where inflatables win.
- Who is paddling? Solo, two people, or a family?
Hobie models we carry
Our current in-store lineup is in the Hobie kayaks collection. Stock, colors and prices change, so check there or call us for what is available today.
Mirage Compass: the all-rounder
A good first Hobie for paddlers who want one kayak for exploring rivers and lakes, light fishing and fitness. Simple, comfortable and easy to live with.
Mirage Passport: the compact one
The 12-foot Passport is a more compact pedal kayak. If you have limited storage or want something easy to car-top, it is worth a look.
Mirage Outback: the crossover
The Outback is stable and roomy, with plenty of cargo space, and works for both fishing and sightseeing. Its wide hull helps when you are casting or landing a fish, and it is a popular pick when one kayak has to do everything.
Pro Angler 12 and 14: the fishing platforms
- Pro Angler 12: a compact, standing-friendly fishing kayak with rod storage and tackle space. Available with the 180 or 360 drive.
- Pro Angler 14: Hobie's flagship fishing kayak, with the most deck space and a high payload. Available with the 180 or 360 drive.
If fishing is the goal, read our Illinois River kayak fishing tips and the kayak fishing page.
Tandem and family options
Hobie's range also includes tandem and family models. The inflatable iTrek Fiesta is a pedal kayak designed for families, and the Tandem Island is a sailing trimaran. Call us to see what is on the floor.
The Lynx and Revolution lines
The Lynx and Revolution are also part of Hobie's wider lineup, but they are not in our online catalog right now. If you have your eye on one, call us and we will tell you what we can get.
iTrek inflatables: pedal power that packs away
Hobie iTrek inflatables fold into a bag, which suits anyone with limited storage, apartment dwellers, travelers or boaters who want a pedal kayak on a larger boat. Our Hobie iTrek collection includes the iTrek Fiesta (a family kayak) and the iTrek Eclipse, a stand-up pedal board.
Trade-offs to know about:
- You need to pump it up and break it down each time.
- A rotomolded hull is typically tougher against rocks and rough handling.
- An inflatable can sit in a closet all winter. A hard-shell kayak needs a place to live.
Hard-shell or inflatable?
Choose a hard-shell Mirage if you
- Want to launch fast and often.
- Will fish and need fixed rod holders, mounts and accessories.
- Have a garage, rack or trailer.
Choose an iTrek if you
- Have little storage space.
- Travel with your kayak or want to keep it in a vehicle trunk.
- Want the pedal experience without a roof rack.
Try before you buy
A pedal kayak is easier to choose after you have sat in one. We offer free demo rides at Heritage Harbor, a 32-acre marina about 1.5 miles from our showroom. You can test Hobie models, compare how they feel, and get advice from our team. See kayak rigging & demo days to book.
You can also rent a Hobie pedal kayak from Heritage Harbor and spend a few hours on the water first. Also check used and demo kayaks for pre-owned options.
Rigging and accessories
Most buyers add a few accessories: a cart, a paddle, a cover, rod holders or a fish finder mount. Our team can rig your kayak for fishing, photography or touring. Browse kayak parts & accessories or ask us for a setup recommendation.
Financing
Financing is available for kayaks, paddleboards and accessories through our lending partners. See our financing page or contact us for options.
Ready to try one?
Call us at 815.433.2200 or stop by the shop. We will match you with a kayak and set up a demo ride.
FAQ
What is the best Hobie kayak for a beginner?
Many beginners start with the Mirage Compass or Outback because they are stable and versatile. The best way to choose is to take a free demo ride.
What is the difference between 180 and 360 on the Pro Angler?
The 360 models use the Mirage Drive 360, which can steer the drive in any direction. The 180 models use the standard Mirage Drive. We can walk you through the difference on the water.
Is an iTrek inflatable as good as a hard-shell Hobie?
An iTrek gives you the pedal experience in a package that stores in a bag. A hard-shell kayak launches faster and holds more fixed gear. The right choice depends on storage and use.
Can I demo a Hobie before buying?
Yes. Quest offers free demo rides at Heritage Harbor. Call 815.433.2200 to schedule.
Do you offer financing on kayaks?
Yes. Financing is available for kayaks, paddleboards and accessories. See our financing page.