Wont the abrasive action of beaching a tender (even with wheels) eventually damage the composite underside? This is the argument given by people who recommend aluminum.
Yes it would scratch the gel coat overtime. Generally this is just a cosmetic issue. After some use, say 5 yo 7 years you will probably would rather not look at the scratches anymore (you won't much as it is the bottom of the tender anyhow) so all you need to do is (when you really got nothing better to do) sand, fill, sand, paint and voila you got a brand new tender. All with materials readily available. Care is important, you have a light weight composite structure so when you get to a rough surface, try to be careful. But nothing should really stop you. Our tender have been to the rockiest beaches and tidal places in Alaska, dragged over coral in Fiji, you name it. Not one hole, never an issue that has made the tender unable to operate at it's best capacity at all times. Looked beaten up yes but still performed as it should. Every time.
The best tender around.
Wont the abrasive action of beaching a tender (even with wheels) eventually damage the composite underside? This is the argument given by people who recommend aluminum.
Yes it would scratch the gel coat overtime. Generally this is just a cosmetic issue. After some use, say 5 yo 7 years you will probably would rather not look at the scratches anymore (you won't much as it is the bottom of the tender anyhow) so all you need to do is (when you really got nothing better to do) sand, fill, sand, paint and voila you got a brand new tender. All with materials readily available. Care is important, you have a light weight composite structure so when you get to a rough surface, try to be careful. But nothing should really stop you. Our tender have been to the rockiest beaches and tidal places in Alaska, dragged over coral in Fiji, you name it. Not one hole, never an issue that has made the tender unable to operate at it's best capacity at all times. Looked beaten up yes but still performed as it should. Every time.
@@octenders Thanks for the answer!