Description
The
FrontRower™
is a new type of rowing system optimized for touring, exercise and special
interest
recreation such as photography and birding. It is a drop-in rig designed for use in canoes and touring-type row boats.
The rig includes frame, seat, and oars.
FrontRower™ forward facing rowing
system.
Patents 5,127,859 and 5,685,750
We didn't
take conventional or racing style rowing and turn it around the other way—we took a fresh
look at the whole concept of human powered boat propulsion. Our
analysis showed us that a pair of oars was a very good way to deliver power, but
the rear-facing position and the inefficient sliding seat limited the usability
and enjoyment of rowing.
Our intention was to design
equipment to fit the user (rather than forcing the user to fit the
equipment). In the process we came up with a system which is
in a class of its own—more user-friendly, more comfortable, and more efficient
than existing systems.
Here are some of the features of the FrontRower™ that set it apart from
other rowing systems:
-
A forward-facing position.
-
The oars feather (rotate ¼ turn) automatically at the end of the power
stroke. This eliminates the
need of gripping and twisting the oars directly, and allows the use of more
ergonomically correct "handshake" grips.
-
Hands-free rowing. The oars blades automatically dip into the water at the beginning of
the power stroke. And at the end of the stroke, they automatically lift and return to the
front. This eliminates the need to use your hands at all, allowing
you to row and steer using
just your legs. You can row with just your hands—or just your feet—or
both together.
-
Moving pedals (instead of a sliding seat) to develop leg power.
This is proven more efficient with less mass moving back and forth in the
boat. The pedals are independent, so you can operate one oar at a time for steering.
-
A large comfortable seat with a backrest. The adjustable swiveling
backrest follows your motion and supports your back whether you are rowing or relaxing.
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