Anybody Row A Virus Boat?

[[old] chudwell]

I have been interested in Virus recreational boats. It's french company. Most of them are rotomolded plastic, one-piece hulls, some are fiberglass. They are one of the few current producers of rowing shells that offer the sliding rigger mechanism (your butt stays in-place relative to the hull, it's your foot stretchers and riggers that slide). This would be great for me, as I plan to row in the Atlantic and in the Intercoastal waterway, and the bow diving of a traditional sliding-seat-boat would soak me in choppy conditions. <br><br>Anyway, I tried one for a short row in Charleston SC, but not long enough to really get the feel for the sliding rigger set up.<br><br>Anybody else tried one and found it to be a good product? They aren't terribly expensive compared to other recreational shells, but it would be a considerable investment for me personally.

[[old] Martin Berry]

Hi<br /><br />I bought one in Australia and get out on my lake about 3 times a week . I had never rowed before, apart from 20 years on a Concept2. I think everyone should have a hobby, especially one that requires you to expand your skills ... so I took up sculling! The Virus Turbo Skiff uses the sliding rigger, which works just fine. My only complaint is that where I store it is too narrow, so I have to take the rigger off each time I use it [which takes about 40 seconds]. The sliding rigger works even better than a sliding seat and takes almost no time to get used to. The Virus Turbo Skiff is pretty hard wearing and copes with all weather conditions. Some guys I know even row out to sea in theirs.<br /><br />The skiff is fine, it is the technique that takes time. I've got a mate who use to scull, and he loves his.<br /><br />Hope this all helps,<br />Martin

[[old] chudwell]

Thanks Martin, I appreciate the response. I haven't heard any complaints about them. I will be looking for a used open water shell for a year, and will have to break down and buy a new one.

[[old] Jim Brousseau]

regarding the virus sliding rig- can it be used on other boats and what does it cost?<br /><br />thanks,<br /><br />jim brousseau

[[old] Guest]

it can be used in racing shells however due to its great innovations (and smoking times) its banned from competition racing.

[[old] csabour]

umm oops that was me.