Big River Rowing Frame

Product Description

The Big River rowing frame is a drop-in sculling outrigger unit for sliding-seat rowing. It can be used in any of our boats that are designed for a sliding seat. Using the different mounting kits available, the frame fits in most rowing boats at least 15 feet long with a clear space for installation.

This new rowing frame has been designed to solve the problems of existing rowing units. The sliding seat runs smoothly and the entire frame is designed to be durable. All parts of the unit are replaceable, using standard rowing parts where possible. The frame is assembled with bolts using the included allen key, which can be stored safely behind the foot stretchers, so that it is always at hand when adjustments are needed.

The height and reach of the footpads are adjustable to fit rowers of different leg length and foot size. It has a comfortable fabric-covered padded seat. The seat track slopes slightly to aid the return stroke. Martinoli rowlocks and height-adjustment shims are included. The rigger span is a standard 160 cm.

The Big River rowing frame was developed with extensive real-world testing and is manufactured in the UK. The frame is made of aluminium and coated with a hard-wearing black enamel. It is assembled with stainless steel bolts with protective caps.

Every unit is fully assembled and tested before being broken down into three major sub-assemblies for transport: the main beam, cross-piece and foot-plate. These parts can be bolted back together in a few minutes when you receive the frame, using the step-by-step instructions and twelve included bolts.

The rigger is bolted in place inside the boat and can be removed at the end of the day for carrying the boat on a roof rack. The frame can be dismantled if necessary for easier transport or storage.

Mounting kits

Each of the mounting kits contains the necessary bolts and wing nuts to fit the rowing unit to the specified boat. The mounting units for the Mill Creek 16.5 and Chester Yawl also contain levelling legs and mounting plates, which are not required for the Wherry, Tandem Wherry, Expedition Wherry or Northeaster Dory.

The Tandem Wherry mounting kit is for a single rowing frame; if you want to fit two rowing frames in the boat, you will need two mounting kits.

Two different mounting kits are available for the Northeaster Dory: one for boats with the optional sailing rig installed and one for boats without the sailing option.