EPIC V12
The new 2018 EPIC V12 models are available for worldwide delivery from EPIC Kayaks Australia located in Sydney NSW.
The Epic V12 is designed to be the ultimate downwind ski for elite level paddlers. The updated design has more rocker, a reconfigured cockpit for a drier ride and a more responsive rudder position, all while keeping a hint of extra stability over our V14.
After testing several prototypes in locations around the world, we feel this is the best surfski for elite, open-water paddling, especially in big downwind. The V12 is faster than the V10 on flatwater and is a good choice for those looking to move up. Highly skilled elite level paddlers with perfect stability skills will find the V14 slightly faster on flat water. But as soon as the wind and waves pick up the new V12 will be their weapon of choice. Mere mortals who want a really fast boat on flat water that can also handle rough stuff will find a good fit in the new Epic V12.
The stability is similar to the original V12. It is noticeably more stable than the V14, but less stable than the Epic V10. It has similar flat water speed to the original V12, but is far superior in surf conditions. The V12 is available in three models:
V12 Performance $3,995 AUD
- Weight: 15.5 kg*
- Infusion grade foam core
- Composite hybrid of fiberglass, carbon fiber, and Kevlar
- Vacuum infused, heat-cured epoxy
- Black nose V12
Epic V12 Ultra27 lbs (12.3 kg) | $3,995 AUD |
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Epic V12 Elite23 lbs (10.4 kg) | $5,995 AUD |
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* Please note: Weights are approximate and may vary.
EPIC V12 Reviews
EPIC V12 Performance
At my level, you need to be paddling an advanced racing ski at least twice a week in ocean conditions to maintain your balance and optimize your power. The V12 is no exception. But their was something different about the V12 from all the other skis I have paddled. It handles much differently in downwind conditions and upwind conditions vice beam and and quarter beam conditions. To its design credit, it excelled in downwind conditions even the small downwind bay conditions I paddled in. The tracking stiffens up, yet you can turn it on a dime and put it anywhere on a wave, and feel stable and confident. Fun! My GPS time trials bear this out being surprisingly ultra consistent and fast.
Wesley Echols
EPIC V12 ULTRA
Speed:
I saved the best for last. I have had 4 PR’s in the EPIC V12 ULTRA. The most notable PR was the Sakonnet River Race (12.39 miles) on June 6, 2009. I have done this course 58 times since 2002, when I added it to my favorite courses’ list. The other was on the same course, albeit on a 3.18 mile leg, racing against my paddling partner, Chris Chappell. I averaged a 7.46 minute per mile, which blew away my previous record.
Downwind, the V12 skims over the waves. You feel like a rock skipping over the water. Acceleration is instantaneous with one paddle stroke or two; you can hit the extra gear and feel the increase in speed.
On the flats, the EPIC V12 ULTRA is equally as fast, with or without the bailer opened or closed. As I mentioned earlier, in the bumps and beam seas, you can continue to apply full power due its excellent secondary stability and cockpit comfort.
Summary:
The EPIC V12 ULTRA is a very fun and exciting ski to paddle due to its speed, secondary stability, and cockpit comfort in the conditions that I have paddled in here in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, including the Sakonnet River, Beavertail, and Prudence Island. I found it to be noticeably faster than the EPIC V10L, and much more stable in conditions. It does have a unique feel to it as I have tried to describe . Quality was excellent, outside of the very minor details I pointed out. Lastly, with all my reviews, this is just my opinion. Your experience may be different from mine depending on skill level and frame of reference in relationship to other skis you have paddled.
Wesley Echols
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