Avon RIB Lite 2.10

[p424owner]

Hi all,

I am in the market for a new tender for my ketch. Does anyone have an opinion on the Avon RIB Lite range? I have a great price on a very lightly used 2.10 model, which is 8' 6" long, in hypalon, with a folding transom and a solid hull. I am planning on storing it on deck when going long-distance, and on davits when i dont need the windvane.

Comments - Rich, I know you have a Walker Bay.

Ewan

[kevin barber]

I just purchased an AB 8VL.  It is a a rib, 8'6", 95 lbs.  I absolutely love it.   I wouldn't change a thing about it.  Large tubes, fiberglass hull/ transom, lightweight, 1" overlap on all seams, and of course great performance.  They are a little expensive, but in the world of dinghies you get what you pay for.  A cheap dinghy may last 2-4 years if stored outdoors, while a nice AB or Caribe may last 10 years.   Personally, I decided to splurge on my dream dinghy.
Got it from Suncoast inflatables.




The only thing I would worry about on the avon is the fact that the transom is hinged.  On my last dinghy the fabric wore out on that hinge, and I ended up patching it after a few years.  Also, some of the early model Avon lites have their drain fitting way to high on the transom.  I have seen people drill into the fiberglass hull to add another drain fitting to allow the boat to stay dry in the davits.