This has not been a pleasant experience. Today I talk about the many issues with the Bote Aero LONO inflatable kayak. #bassfishing #getoutside #kayakfishing
Inflatables need to be inflated, held overnight, and reinflated again. They all deflate at first, not from leaking, but rather from the material stretching out upon its first blow up. These plastics are very strong and the chamber walls will have a slow bounce back effect the first time you blow em up. Once they stretch, you will never have a problem afterward. These seams are heat welded, so its rare for a seam to leak, but it can happen.
umm, sorry that's nonsense. I've been paddling white water inflatables (kayaks and rafts) for 25 years and inflatable paddle boards for 8 years and if one leaks, you know it a minute. You can try refilling it a dozen times and it will still leak. The higher priced brands are filled, let sit for 12 hours before boxing and shipping to vendor. The problem with Bote is their dismal warranty not being honored. They come up with many reasons not to address the warranty with hoping the customer will just go away.
Glad I found this video, it doesn’t surprise me really. So many small bends and corners is always going to be difficult to keep sealed, I think even if you get a good one from the start it won’t take long for it to develop its first leak!
Make sure the valve is tight. They provide a key for it. Currently going through a similar exchange. First brand new Lono was leaking at a seam on the right side. Let's see what their replacement does.
Man, I’m sorry to hear this! I own two of these and I aired them up last summer and they’re still on my dock holding the same air I put in them last year. I love my kayaks , but I do hate to hear you, and apparently several others according to comments, are having so much trouble. The seat could be a little better, but mine are as hard as a rock. However, I’m glad I found your video, it gives me things to watch out for. I haven’t bought the pedal drive yet, that’s my next purchase.
Same. Bought the lono last year and was one of the first people to have the pedal drive. Nothing but problems. My pedal drive does not go in and out of the port hole if it's connected to the pin hinge. I have to leave it disconnected to get it in and out easily. Parts of the pedal drive constantly fall apart. Should have waited for an itrek from hobie.
Just bought mine. Read through comments since I haven’t taken it out yet. I left my pumped up for a day or two to see how it held up. Everything seemed fine. Just put it back in the bag (which was a nightmare but I guess it’s the cost of convenience). I’ve had an awesome experience with my HD aero so hoping even with the heavy packing and unpacking it stays ok. I go out about once a month though…
Same here . I had 2 paddle boards which been great for 2 years. Just got the Lono and so far it's holding air without any issues . Will use a lot it over the next week and post results . So far Bote is been great, let's see about this new addition
For inflatables there's only one company I trust and that is SeaEagle. I have a 285fb, FishSup126 and the 10.6 boat. Never had a problem with any of them. Their well built.
I owned a Bote Zeppelin and the kayak itself was very nice and didn't have any issues other than the seats. The seats are a pain! Just like you explained the clips always came loose and were flimsy. I broke at least 4 clips from normal use. What a pain.
Yea I’m on my second one first one wouldn’t hold air on the right side, couldn’t figure it out. It drags, hard to paddle, the dam thing takes to much force to get it going but once you stop paddling the bote stops instantly. Wind 💨 is a nightmare. But aye it does look cool!!!! It’s only for small lakes unless you strap a motor then bingo
I almost bought this one. Looked like a perfect solution but wasn't sure about the company so ended up going with a Hobie eTrek 11 instead. After watching this video (and others), I'm happy I went that direction.
@@heavyzfishing4809 Love it so far. I've only had it on medium to large lakes and slow moving rivers but going to put it on a class I/II river tomorrow. We'll see how it goes. My wife has the 9 so it'll be a good comparison to see which one fairs better.
Totyally agree with the assessment! Looks cool, but slow leaks have cutailed my use of this device. Spoke to multiple lines of support regarding the patching/repair, but it still had the slow leak. Now that the warranty has been run out, they offer me a $300 credit towards a new one? Thanks, but this is one purchase that I would NEVER make again! Stay away....
I’m glad that the video helped! I’m not saying don’t buy it but at least know what you’re getting into. Have a good weekend homie! Btw I love your TH-cam name!
Looks like u have a micro puncture to be losing air that slowly. Soap and water will help but it's still hard to find. I had that before (fish sharp spines poked through) the bubbles r extremely slow and will make super fine bubbles instead of big ones u commonly see
Might be a stupid question but did you over inflate it? Every video I have seen now people set the PSI on their pump so that does not happen. Looked like you just filled it up so hard to tell. Too bad if it is a design problem. Seems like a cool boat
@@projectknifehand yeah. If it was me I would look into a traditional hard bodied kayak. I’ve recently upgraded and it was the best decision I’ve made when it comes to kayaking.
@@heavyzfishing4809 well, at least it's decent customer service then I'm thinking of going for the zeppelin. I haven't heard of as many ppl complaint about leaks (there looks to be significantly less seems on it, where the leaks tend to be)
I agree with just about everything you said. I’ve had 3 of these kayaks now, replaced twice with unpatchable leaks. I may be able to help you find your leak. I enjoyed transporting this kayak in the back of my jeep for a couple years but got tired of it. I bought a nice custom kayak trailer for it so I wouldn’t have to deflate it anymore and potentially cutting down on any creasing that could weaken seams.
@@heavyzfishing4809 i spend most of the time in Austin. And you know centrql texas has. So many places to kayak i do have a small car i was thinking to put a rack on my car roof but idk
First a seam leak is very difficult to seal. If this is a new "Thing," I would have given them three years before I bought one. They look great right? They are using material for something different and you got sucked into it. Not your fault, I was quite excited when I first saw it. I think this report will hurt them, I would like to see this in two years, I think it will be much better than it is now. If they can work the problems out, this will be a great craft!
Bote c/s sucks big time. I know two kayak fisherman who have this kayak, seats split and after two years of Bote telling them the seat is not in stock, the moved on to another brand. But Bote continued to sell the kayak new in box the whole time. That's NOT the way to treat your customers. Even to this day one gets bounced around with any warranty claim. Avoid them.
If this kayak cant stand up to freshwater, theres no way it would last on the salt. Bump into one barnacle covered rock, dock, anything, and it seems like this boat would start leaking.
If you are still out there... Same boat here. I found the trick is in the deflation. After the first blast with the pin locked down, put the pin up (inflation mode) and use your pump to fully deflate! It keep air from leaking back in and making folding difficult. It made all the difference for me. Good luck. I love my Deus!
I agree, for what they charge for this. It's a peice of garbage. I've had mine for two summers now and I can honestly say I wish I bought the hobie or old town. It is NOT a reliable fishing kayak for $3k. This is china junk. I wish I didn't fall for the marketing scam. The pedal drive sucks, it feels like it's going to break at any moment.
Dude…… I know this is wrong to say but I’m glad I’m not the only one. Hopefully more people will see our reviews and turn the other way. Thanks for watching dude!
@@heavyzfishing4809 there just wasn't enough reviews for me to find or go off of and that was so frustrating when the problems start on day 1 in the first 30 mins. They dont even allow returns on it which should tell you something.
@@heavyzfishing4809 when you said that I was like 🙋🏼♂️ damnnn me to! Lol I just followed you on all socials! 🤙. I’m still in my 30 day warranty and I’m on my second motor and I have a discounted rover gator shell on the way. That’s how bad it got for me.
Scout 430 inflatable is wayyyy more reliable and costs much less. People are using the Scout inflatable in the ocean with zero problems. This one looks "cool".
Honestly bud.....that little bit of air loss over maybe a 2 hr span??? 😬😬😬 I don't or wouldn't really see that as an very big issue Honestly. You're STILL gonna be afloat and upright after losing that little bit of air. Personally it just sounds like you're making a little bit of a mountain out of a molehill. 🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️ but that's just me. I'd just fish the hell out of it and enjoy it for what it is.
I get your point homie! BUT the point is that when you spend that amount of money on something, you expect it to work like a charm. But I agree with you. Make the best out of every situation! Thank you for your comment and support.
I don't see the apeal. For half the Price you have one of the best rigid kayak for Fishing, half the weight. Put it on the roof of the car and it will stay Alive 10+ years.
www.boteboard.com/collections/packages/products/lono-aero-126-classic-cypress-inflatable-kayak-package# Actually it’s on sale for $2500 not sure where you saw $800.
Thank you for this review! You could improve your carbon footprint though. Our planet is heating up. Couldn't you inflate your boats without running your truck's engine?
Unless those glasses were a gift, I don’t think it is fair to call the kayak the worst purchase you’ve ever made.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH don’t be hating homie!!!!
@@heavyzfishing4809 I’m sorry. There is enough trolling on the internet, but I could not resist. And to be fair I’ve for sure worn worse.
And I also think you are spot on about the Bote. Something about inflatable+treble hooks is enough for me to steer clear anyway.
@@BrewSTL dude don’t be sorry! That was hilarious
@@BrewSTL absolutely! Thanks for watching homie!
Inflatables need to be inflated, held overnight, and reinflated again. They all deflate at first, not from leaking, but rather from the material stretching out upon its first blow up. These plastics are very strong and the chamber walls will have a slow bounce back effect the first time you blow em up. Once they stretch, you will never have a problem afterward. These seams are heat welded, so its rare for a seam to leak, but it can happen.
Thank you for the comment and advice!
@@heavyzfishing4809 No worries, hope thats all it is. If so, maybe another video to let us know? Thanks for the content...
@@nathanhall7396 well I already received a new LONO since this video. I haven’t had any issues with the new one. Fingers crossed 🤞🏻
@@heavyzfishing4809 right on!
umm, sorry that's nonsense. I've been paddling white water inflatables (kayaks and rafts) for 25 years and inflatable paddle boards for 8 years and if one leaks, you know it a minute. You can try refilling it a dozen times and it will still leak. The higher priced brands are filled, let sit for 12 hours before boxing and shipping to vendor. The problem with Bote is their dismal warranty not being honored. They come up with many reasons not to address the warranty with hoping the customer will just go away.
Glad I found this video, it doesn’t surprise me really.
So many small bends and corners is always going to be difficult to keep sealed, I think even if you get a good one from the start it won’t take long for it to develop its first leak!
I’m glad you found it as well. Unfortunately to my expense but it’s all good!
Make sure the valve is tight. They provide a key for it. Currently going through a similar exchange. First brand new Lono was leaking at a seam on the right side. Let's see what their replacement does.
Man, I’m sorry to hear this! I own two of these and I aired them up last summer and they’re still on my dock holding the same air I put in them last year. I love my kayaks , but I do hate to hear you, and apparently several others according to comments, are having so much trouble. The seat could be a little better, but mine are as hard as a rock. However, I’m glad I found your video, it gives me things to watch out for. I haven’t bought the pedal drive yet, that’s my next purchase.
It’s all good homie!!! Im glad you’re having success with yours!!! Thanks for watching!!
Thank God I watched this. I was just trying to figure out how to kayak fish outta my Sentra so this helps a ton
Awesome dude! I’m glad I was able to help you out!
mane I have a sentra to thinking about a oldtown 106 pdl
mane I have a sentra to thinking about a oldtown 106 pdl
Have you try any of the other bote boats. Zeppelin looks promising.
@@hauk3839 I have not
man that kayak looks real good but yeah I tend to stay away from blow up boats! I liked the video man good job!
You’re a smart dude!!!! Thanks for watching homie.
@@heavyzfishing4809 you’re very welcome!
Same. Bought the lono last year and was one of the first people to have the pedal drive. Nothing but problems. My pedal drive does not go in and out of the port hole if it's connected to the pin hinge. I have to leave it disconnected to get it in and out easily. Parts of the pedal drive constantly fall apart. Should have waited for an itrek from hobie.
I feel your pain bro.
Just bought mine. Read through comments since I haven’t taken it out yet.
I left my pumped up for a day or two to see how it held up. Everything seemed fine. Just put it back in the bag (which was a nightmare but I guess it’s the cost of convenience).
I’ve had an awesome experience with my HD aero so hoping even with the heavy packing and unpacking it stays ok. I go out about once a month though…
I hope everything works out for ya!
Same here . I had 2 paddle boards which been great for 2 years. Just got the Lono and so far it's holding air without any issues . Will use a lot it over the next week and post results .
So far Bote is been great, let's see about this new addition
If you're ever in PA hit me up. I owe you lunch. Thanks
For inflatables there's only one company I trust and that is SeaEagle. I have a 285fb, FishSup126 and the 10.6 boat. Never had a problem with any of them. Their well built.
I’ve heard of them.
I just got the FishSup126 today, going to test it tomorrow for the first time.
THey had a seam split issue from bad glue or improperly glued seams and they tried to keep it quiet. They should have addressed the problem up front.
Loctite blue or red (if it's bad) for that loose pedal. The left foot pedal (for bicycles) are reversed threaded to prevent loosening.
I owned a Bote Zeppelin and the kayak itself was very nice and didn't have any issues other than the seats. The seats are a pain! Just like you explained the clips always came loose and were flimsy. I broke at least 4 clips from normal use. What a pain.
Dude….. A PAIN
Yea I’m on my second one first one wouldn’t hold air on the right side, couldn’t figure it out.
It drags, hard to paddle, the dam thing takes to much force to get it going but once you stop paddling the bote stops instantly. Wind 💨 is a nightmare. But aye it does look cool!!!! It’s only for small lakes unless you strap a motor then bingo
Indeed! Wind is a big problem!
I almost bought this one. Looked like a perfect solution but wasn't sure about the company so ended up going with a Hobie eTrek 11 instead. After watching this video (and others), I'm happy I went that direction.
Absolutely!!!! Let me know how that eTrek is.
@@heavyzfishing4809 Love it so far. I've only had it on medium to large lakes and slow moving rivers but going to put it on a class I/II river tomorrow. We'll see how it goes. My wife has the 9 so it'll be a good comparison to see which one fairs better.
@@rickchandler2570 that would be a good video!
Totyally agree with the assessment! Looks cool, but slow leaks have cutailed my use of this device. Spoke to multiple lines of support regarding the patching/repair, but it still had the slow leak. Now that the warranty has been run out, they offer me a $300 credit towards a new one? Thanks, but this is one purchase that I would NEVER make again! Stay away....
Im glad i saw this video. I had one in my cart and almost bought it.
I’m glad that the video helped! I’m not saying don’t buy it but at least know what you’re getting into. Have a good weekend homie! Btw I love your TH-cam name!
Doesn't BOTE have a two year warranty? Why wouldn't they replace the second one if it is clearly losing air?
Sorry about your bad luck , Thanks for your time.
It’s all good homie!!! I’ve upgraded since. Gotta look on the bright side of things.
Looks like u have a micro puncture to be losing air that slowly. Soap and water will help but it's still hard to find. I had that before (fish sharp spines poked through) the bubbles r extremely slow and will make super fine bubbles instead of big ones u commonly see
Might be a stupid question but did you over inflate it? Every video I have seen now people set the PSI on their pump so that does not happen. Looked like you just filled it up so hard to tell. Too bad if it is a design problem. Seems like a cool boat
I fill it up to 13 psi. The max is 15. Thanks for watching
@@heavyzfishing4809 no worries. Started looking into inflatables myself. A lot to be concerned about it seems.
@@projectknifehand yeah. If it was me I would look into a traditional hard bodied kayak. I’ve recently upgraded and it was the best decision I’ve made when it comes to kayaking.
@@heavyzfishing4809 yeah I have a sit on top and a canoe. But was looking at doing something different.
@@heavyzfishing4809 so what did you upgrade to? Damn I’m glad I watched your video.
Did they replace your first one, or did you buy a second?
They have replaced two of them. I have only purchased one.
@@heavyzfishing4809 well, at least it's decent customer service then
I'm thinking of going for the zeppelin. I haven't heard of as many ppl complaint about leaks (there looks to be significantly less seems on it, where the leaks tend to be)
@@nickihammond3939 yes the customer service is spot on. I hope the Zeppelin works out for ya!
I agree with just about everything you said. I’ve had 3 of these kayaks now, replaced twice with unpatchable leaks. I may be able to help you find your leak. I enjoyed transporting this kayak in the back of my jeep for a couple years but got tired of it. I bought a nice custom kayak trailer for it so I wouldn’t have to deflate it anymore and potentially cutting down on any creasing that could weaken seams.
I just got ANOTHER replacement. It’s ridiculous and unfortunate. It’s WAY overpriced. I appreciate your feedback. Thanks for watching homie!
Could inflating it on concrete/rough surfaces cause damage vs inflating it on top of grass?
It could. But the brand it as being SO TOUGH. If they didn’t advertise it being so tough and bad ass I would be fine with that lol
So which kayak would you recommend
I would not recommend an inflatable kayak. I would purchase a Naitive, Hobie, or an Old Town.
@@heavyzfishing4809 i spend most of the time in Austin. And you know centrql texas has. So many places to kayak i do have a small car i was thinking to put a rack on my car roof but idk
@@moritaags38 you can absolutely put a rack on the roof of your car!!!!
I bought the first Lono just for the look. Potomac river Washington DC
What is your thoughts on it? Did you have the same problems?
First a seam leak is very difficult to seal.
If this is a new "Thing," I would have given them three years before I bought one. They look great right? They are using material for something different and you got sucked into it. Not your fault, I was quite excited when I first saw it. I think this report will hurt them, I would like to see this in two years, I think it will be much better than it is now. If they can work the problems out, this will be a great craft!
100% agree!!!!
Looks like you left it outside under a tree. No wonder its leaking
Bote c/s sucks big time. I know two kayak fisherman who have this kayak, seats split and after two years of Bote telling them the seat is not in stock, the moved on to another brand. But Bote continued to sell the kayak new in box the whole time. That's NOT the way to treat your customers. Even to this day one gets bounced around with any warranty claim. Avoid them.
If this kayak cant stand up to freshwater, theres no way it would last on the salt. Bump into one barnacle covered rock, dock, anything, and it seems like this boat would start leaking.
ABSOLUTELY!!!
that 350z is part of the louver gang🤙🤙🤙
I love my Bote, holds air fine! I’ve had mine gone on 3 years now.
I’m glad to hear this!!!! Thanks for watching.
I bought the Aero Deus. If someone can fold it properly to get it back in the bag, god bless 'em.
You ain’t kidding!!!!!!! That’s a workout lol
If you are still out there... Same boat here. I found the trick is in the deflation. After the first blast with the pin locked down, put the pin up (inflation mode) and use your pump to fully deflate! It keep air from leaking back in and making folding difficult. It made all the difference for me. Good luck. I love my Deus!
@@heavyzfishing4809se my response about deflation
I agree, for what they charge for this. It's a peice of garbage. I've had mine for two summers now and I can honestly say I wish I bought the hobie or old town. It is NOT a reliable fishing kayak for $3k. This is china junk. I wish I didn't fall for the marketing scam. The pedal drive sucks, it feels like it's going to break at any moment.
100% agree. It’s trash.
im about to do my video on the Bote Rover Aero and I can tell you I feel your pain when it came to worst purchase ever.
Dude…… I know this is wrong to say but I’m glad I’m not the only one. Hopefully more people will see our reviews and turn the other way. Thanks for watching dude!
@@heavyzfishing4809 there just wasn't enough reviews for me to find or go off of and that was so frustrating when the problems start on day 1 in the first 30 mins. They dont even allow returns on it which should tell you something.
@@heavyzfishing4809 and no its not bashing when you are concerned for you community Saftey. thats how I feel about it.
@@andrewlongron yeah dude they are really good at advertising lmao!!!!
@@heavyzfishing4809 when you said that I was like 🙋🏼♂️ damnnn me to! Lol I just followed you on all socials! 🤙. I’m still in my 30 day warranty and I’m on my second motor and I have a discounted rover gator shell on the way. That’s how bad it got for me.
Did you get an endorsement from the company after that review LOL...
Hahahahahahaah not exactly lmao
I'm driving a civic too haha
Scout 430 inflatable is wayyyy more reliable and costs much less. People are using the Scout inflatable in the ocean with zero problems. This one looks "cool".
Exactly!!! Thanks for the info.
@@heavyzfishing4809
Really sorry to hear about your experience. I almost bought one of their products. Found a very nice but gently used solo skiff.
@@drrckhamilton it’s all good homie!!! At least I can still fish!!! That’s all that matters!!!
@@heavyzfishing4809
Yessir!!!! Time on the water
Most sane people would buy a Hobie i trek for that amount of cash
I get it. At the time I was driving a Civic and the inflatable made the most sense at the time.
@@heavyzfishing4809 Hobie Itrek is an inflatable
Honestly bud.....that little bit of air loss over maybe a 2 hr span??? 😬😬😬 I don't or wouldn't really see that as an very big issue Honestly. You're STILL gonna be afloat and upright after losing that little bit of air. Personally it just sounds like you're making a little bit of a mountain out of a molehill. 🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️ but that's just me. I'd just fish the hell out of it and enjoy it for what it is.
I get your point homie! BUT the point is that when you spend that amount of money on something, you expect it to work like a charm.
But I agree with you. Make the best out of every situation! Thank you for your comment and support.
The shit on the lower left of your camera lens made me feel like I had a goober in my eye the entire video.
suck... over $3000.🥵🥵.. i go with my Westmarine rip 310 and suzuki 6hp... 🤓... i'm thinking kayak.. but i think i go for inlet... better.. 👍👍
Absolutely homie!!!!
I don't see the apeal. For half the Price you have one of the best rigid kayak for Fishing, half the weight. Put it on the roof of the car and it will stay Alive 10+ years.
And the added deck is just more weight.
3k lol its 800$ for everything
www.boteboard.com/collections/packages/products/lono-aero-126-classic-cypress-inflatable-kayak-package#
Actually it’s on sale for $2500 not sure where you saw $800.
yea these are garbage. and way too expensive, might as well just get a regular kayak and get a trailer for it
Indeed!
clean you damn lens..it stinks lol
Hahahahahahahahah
Only bad reviews of this have been from….. “simple” sounding country people that can barely form sentences 😂
Yeah bro, I was too busy playing football, defending America, and stealing your gf to go to English class. LOL.
Just kidding bro. Thanks for watching.
@@heavyzfishing4809 I knew the response would match the IQ 😂
Thank you for this review! You could improve your carbon footprint though. Our planet is heating up. Couldn't you inflate your boats without running your truck's engine?
Yes, you’re correct. I could’ve manually pumped up the Bote. But I chose not too. Thanks for watching.
You could haul that ass back to Cali in your Prius, snacking on some soy chips, while us men run our trucks any time we please.