Let’s Talk About Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59
The Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 is a specialized accessory designed for securely mounting the Ritchie Kayaker XP-99 compass (compass sold separately) on a kayak. It promises a no-drill installation, a flexible pad for deck conformity, and secure attachment using bungee cords and clips. This tie-down system aims to solve the problem of compass mounting without causing damage to the kayak’s deck.
As someone who spends a significant amount of time kayaking in varying conditions, I’ve always struggled with finding a reliable and non-destructive way to mount a compass. Drilling into a kayak is a last resort, and suction cups tend to fail at the worst possible times. The promise of a no-drill, easily adaptable mounting solution instantly piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59, my initial impression was of a well-thought-out, albeit simple, design. The black color is understated and practical. The materials felt durable, particularly the flexible pad and the bungee cords, suggesting they could withstand the rigors of a marine environment.
Compared to other mounting options like adhesive pads or universal kayak mounts, the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 stood out due to its dedicated design for the Ritchie Kayaker XP-99 compass and the no-drill promise. Universal mounts often require modification or additional hardware. Adhesive pads can leave residue or damage the gel coat over time.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential ease of installation and the promise of a secure compass mount without damaging my kayak. Only real-world testing would reveal if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 took place on a week-long kayaking trip along the rugged coastline of Maine. This environment offered a variety of conditions, from calm, sunny days to choppy waters and intermittent rain. I mounted the Ritchie XP-99 compass using the tie-down system before launching.
The installation was surprisingly easy. The flexible pad conformed well to the slightly curved deck of my kayak. The bungee cords and clips secured the mount snugly without excessive force. I was pleased that the “No Drilling No Holes in Deck” claim held true.
Initially, the compass felt secure even in moderate waves. However, after a few hours of paddling in choppy conditions, I noticed a slight shift in the mount. The bungee cords had stretched slightly, requiring me to readjust them to maintain a secure fit. This adjustment was quick and easy, but it highlighted a potential weakness in rougher conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 has proven to be generally reliable, but with a few caveats. The flexible pad still conforms well to the kayak deck. The bungee cords show some signs of stretching over time, requiring periodic adjustments.
In terms of durability, the materials have held up well to saltwater exposure and UV radiation. There is no noticeable fading or degradation of the plastic components. The bungee cords, however, are the weak link and may eventually need replacing with higher-quality, more resilient cords.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to remove salt and grime. The design is straightforward. There are no complex parts to disassemble or maintain.
Compared to previous experiences with suction cup mounts that routinely failed, the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 is a significant improvement. While it requires occasional adjustments, it provides a far more reliable and less intrusive mounting solution. It outperforms adhesive mounts in terms of removability and lack of residue.
Breaking Down the Features of Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59
Specifications
The Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 is specifically designed to mount the Ritchie Kayaker XP-99 compass. It comes in black. The key features are the no-drill installation, the flexible pad, the foam ring for deck conformity, and the bungee cord and clip attachment system. These features aim to provide a secure and non-destructive mounting solution for kayaks.
The lack of drilling is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the kayak hull. The flexible pad allows the mount to conform to various deck shapes. The bungee cord system provides a degree of shock absorption. Each specification contributes to ease of use and protection of the kayak.
Performance & Functionality
The Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 performs its primary function adequately, providing a mounting platform for the Ritchie XP-99 compass. Accuracy of the compass reading is unaffected by the mount itself, assuming the kayak is properly trimmed. Reliability is dependent on the bungee cords maintaining their tension.
The strength lies in its ease of installation and non-destructive nature. The weakness is the reliance on bungee cords, which can stretch and require adjustments, particularly in rough conditions. It generally meets expectations for a basic, no-frills mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The materials are durable enough to withstand typical kayaking conditions. The weight is negligible.
The design is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Installation takes only a few minutes. Adjustments are simple to make on the fly.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 should last for several seasons of regular use. The exception may be the bungee cords, which may need replacing every year or two, depending on usage and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a rinse with fresh water after each use. Repair, if needed, would likely involve replacing the bungee cords, which is a simple and inexpensive task.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 comes with the flexible pad, bungee cords, and clips necessary for installation. There are no official customization options offered by Ritchie.
The only real customization would involve replacing the bungee cords with higher-quality or different colored cords to suit personal preferences. It is specifically designed for the Ritchie Kayaker XP-99 Compass. Therefore, compatibility with other compass models is not guaranteed.
Pros and Cons of Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59
Pros
- No-drill installation: Protects the kayak’s hull integrity.
- Flexible pad: Conforms to various deck shapes for a secure fit.
- Easy to install and adjust: Minimal learning curve and quick setup.
- Lightweight and durable materials: Withstands saltwater and UV exposure.
- Inexpensive: Affordable mounting solution.
Cons
- Bungee cords can stretch over time: Requires periodic adjustments.
- Primarily designed for Ritchie XP-99 compass: Limited compatibility with other compass models.
Who Should Buy Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59?
The Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 is perfect for casual kayakers who own a Ritchie XP-99 compass and want a simple, non-destructive mounting solution. It’s also suitable for those who frequently switch between kayaks and need a portable compass mount. Pro anglers could find it suitable for calm waters.
This product might not be ideal for serious kayakers who regularly paddle in rough conditions or those who require a more robust and permanently fixed compass mount. Those who use a different compass brand should skip this product.
A must-have modification would be to replace the included bungee cords with higher-quality, more durable cords for increased reliability, especially in challenging conditions.
Conclusion on Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59
The Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 is a functional and affordable solution for mounting the Ritchie XP-99 compass on a kayak without drilling holes. While the bungee cord system requires occasional adjustments, the overall design is simple, effective, and non-destructive.
The price is justified for the convenience and protection it offers. It’s a good value for casual kayakers.
I would recommend the Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 to anyone seeking a basic, no-drill compass mounting solution for their kayak. Upgrade the bungee cords, and you’ll have a reliable companion on the water! Get yours today and navigate with confidence!