faq

Haven't people been doing it for years?

The idea of land yachting is quite old, but the blokart is a new development in design. The hand steering mechanism makes all the difference, allowing all sizes of folk to use the same machine without adjustment, and providing a great opportunity for those with limited lower body mobility. Another great thing about them is that they fit into a suitcase-sized case. It's much more portable, faster to set up and more fun than earlier land yacht designs, and you don't need a trailer like you do with a small yacht. You won't need a wetsuit like you do with a windsurfer, and kids from 7 or 8 can use them easily as well. They're fun for the whole family

Where can you use them?

Anywhere you can find a flat surface with a nice smooth unobstructed wind blowing across it. Beaches are the obvious place, but we use them on an area the size of a double tennis court, in the right conditions. Car parks are another possibility, and parks as well. Once you've seen one in action, you'll start looking at any flat area and assessing the possibilities. Asphalt is the fastest surface, while packed sand and grass are both slower, so you can use whichever suits the wind conditions, your weight, and your experience.

How long does it take to set up?

With a bit of practice you'll be able to do it in less than 6 minutes, but even from the start it will take less than ten. People at the blokart factory in New Zealand can set one up in three minutes flat, and have it apart and back in the bag again in another three minutes.

How much do they weigh?

They're 27kg, and one of the neat design touches is that you can put the wheels on the bag and tow it along behind you, so you don't have to carry it anywhere. As the case is only 1.2 x 0.7 x 0.2 m, 2 blokarts will fit into the boot of a family car quite easily.

How do you stop?

There aren't any brakes, so you need to turn 360's, or into wind, and you'll quickly burn off excess speed. We would hope you were using your blokart in an area that was hazard free.

Is it dangerous

Not if you wear the fitted safety belt. We advise users to wear a well fitting helmet - a skateboard or cycling helmet is fine. If you're prone to fits of the giggles you should remove any chewing gum from your mouth. We are designing a "grin guard" which will prevent you swallowing too many flies while you blokart, as you'll be grinning full time.

How long does it take to learn?

If you've never sailed, you'll get the hang of it in 2 minutes, and could be doing stunt 360s within a couple of hours. If you have sailed before, you'll make the change in no time at all.

How fast do they go?

They have been clocked at 92kmh in Australia, but a rule of thumb is twice the wind speed. For sailing people - they can go as close as 20 degrees to the wind.

How do I get a shot?

We'll be out and about with our demo blokarts in the Summer months and can even be persuaded to go for a blo at other times of year. Phone for info.