Immersion Research 2010

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Backband Installation Help

Overview

Immersion Research specializes in the manufacture of ratchet-style backbands. IR’s particular style of backbands feature the combination of a traditional kayak backrest and snowboard binding ratchets to create a very easy to adjust but remarkably stable and strong unit that can be fit in almost any kind of closed deck boat. In fact, Immersion Research applied for and received a patent on this very popular design, and subsequently has become one of the largest backband manufacturers in the world, with backbands available both off the shelf, and as OEM equipment in some of the largest brands of kayaks.

IR backbands that come as OEM equipment in a new boat usually do not require any modification, or any extra installation steps. Occasionally, these units may need replacement parts, which can be purchased here. Keep in mind that often times we plan for parts to break before they damage the boat during extreme stress, and 90% of warranty claims address this scenario. In short, sometimes you want the backband to break, and this breakage reflects planned obsolescence.

Retro-fitting your existing backband with and IR backband, however, often times requires installation help. IR offers several these two comprehensive videos for assistance:

A few other notes:

How about forward-Adjust Style Backbands?

Many kayaks now feature a “forward adjust” style backband, meaning that the backband is adjusted using a ratchet or cam found on the thigh braces. If you would like to retro-fit your kayak to a forward-adjust style backband, or if you would like to replace your existing style of forward-adjust backband with an IR forward-adjust backband, you should contact IR directly. This procedure is usually possible, but often times requires special equipment.

Conclusion

In general, keep in mind that every backband installation is a bit different, and when it comes to installation there is no right or wrong answer, as long as the backband offers the support you need and is safe. If you have any questions or problems regarding installation, you can always call us at 814-395-9191 mon-fri 9:00 to 5:00 EST.

31 Comments

31 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Zach // Jun 12, 2008 at 1:58 pm

    i have a Pyrhana prozone 230
    strap on thigh to the backrest just broke, now im thinking of doing a new set-up all together now.

    what backrest set-up should i go with?
    pros-cons?
    thanks
    Zach

  • 2 roger // Jun 13, 2008 at 10:30 am

    Hi Zach

    thanks for the comment. The Pro Zone has and older style Pyranha backband that has forward adjusting cam buckles with the webbing strap. You have two options for replacement. The first option is that you could use our stock Reggie Backband and install it per the instructions on our backband page. This basic installation will allow you to adjust the backband from behind. The main advantage to this is that there isn’t much work involved, and you will be up and running in about 15 minutes.
    The second option involves using a custom backband that we don’t stock at retailers but that we make here. It will allow you to continue to use the forward adjusting mechanism that is current in your boat. You replace the cam buckles with our ratchets and then work the backband into your boat. This procedure is a little more involved as each boat is different, and you will have to solve a couple of puzzles while installing it. In an hour, you should be up and running.

    let me know which path you would like to follow

    Roger
    IR

  • 3 Donald Johnson // Jun 30, 2008 at 5:57 pm

    I was sent a IR backband with my wood kayak kit from Action Fish Kayaks.
    I don’t understand the installation. I’m going to attach the straps to the cockpit combing, what do I do with the shockcords that is attached to the back. Do they go forward, backward, up, down? I don’t understand their purpose. Please help.
    Thanks.

  • 4 rloughney // Jul 1, 2008 at 9:58 am

    Hi Donald
    thanks for the comment. I am not 100% familiar with the action fish outfitting, but I believe that I can help with my knowledge of the backbands. The straps can either attach to the deck of the cockpit or to the seat towers or seat pillars, depending on what the seat looks like. You can check out a video of that in our Customer Service TV section.
    The bungees’ purpose is to keep the backband up and out of the way when entering and exiting the boat. You can check out the bungee installation page by downloading the basic installation guide on this page. You can cut them to a specific length and then reset the hooks. You can weave the bungee through holes made in the rear of the cockpit coming, or in your case with a wood boat, you can glue some anchors to the inside hull or underside of the deck. You want the pull to be primarily backwards. You may also want to check with Action Fish as they may have some installation techniques as well

    Thanks

    Roger

  • 5 Jon // Sep 29, 2008 at 5:24 pm

    I’m trying to retrofit a Necky Zoar Sport wtih an IR backband and add forward adjustment capability . Tell me more about this option. I ordered Necky’s version of the IR backband. They did not include forward cams/ ratchets…. or even the instructions

    The old circa 2003 Zoar Sports used to be offered with a backband and forward adjustment option. I’m just trying to upgrade my 2008 edition to a 2003 trim level

    “How about forward-Adjust Style Backbands?

    Many kayaks now feature a “forward adjust” style backband, meaning that the backband is adjusted using a ratchet or cam found on the thigh braces. If you would like to retro-fit your kayak to a forward-adjust style backband, or if you would like to replace your existing style of forward-adjust backband with an IR forward-adjust backband, you should contact IR directly. This procedure is usually possible, but often times requires special equipment
    “

  • 6 Roger // Sep 30, 2008 at 8:55 am

    Hi Jon
    give us a call, we will need to work this one out over the phone.

    thanks
    Roger

  • 7 Peter Chisholm // Nov 27, 2008 at 2:52 pm

    I just bought a used Riot Astro 58 and would like to replace the backband, what product do you suggest? It looks like I would need to attach the adaptor straps off of the thigh hook attachments for this boat. Does that sound right?

  • 8 rloughney // Dec 1, 2008 at 9:47 am

    Hi Peter

    thanks for the note. I have passed a note along to Spencer Cooke, IR’s Southeast sales rep and Riot team athlete. I will be in touch when I hear from him, but he may also contact you directly

    Roger

  • 9 Bill Offutt // Dec 1, 2008 at 9:30 pm

    I would like to install one of your backbands in a New Wave Super E-Z. I would prefer to ratchet from up front. Will that work? My boat is 4-5 years old.
    Thanks,
    Bill

  • 10 rloughney // Dec 2, 2008 at 10:26 am

    Hi Bill

    thanks for the note. in regard to forward adjusting on an EZ, it has been done. the main problem is that the ratchets need to be attached to your thigh braces, and they will protrude about an inch each. On the regular EZ, this made exiting the boat a little trickier, but perhaps on the super EZ there will be enough space. have a look in your boat and see if that will compromise your ability to get in and out. after that determination, i can help you move forward. you can also give us a call 814 395 9191

    Roger

  • 11 Major Willis // Dec 18, 2008 at 5:14 pm

    Wondering what you would think about retro-fitting an old Dagger RPM to a forward adjustable backband?

    -Thanks

    Major

  • 12 rloughney // Dec 19, 2008 at 9:47 am

    Hi Major

    thanks for the note. The main obstacle is whether or not we can find a place to install the ratchet buckles on the thigh braces or somewhere in front of the seat. If you can find a good spot to put them (they are about 1.5″ long and protrude about 3/4″), then we can figure it out for you. The ratchets connect with one screw.
    Let me know what you find, and we you can always send us some pictures of your boat so that we can have a look as well

    thanks
    Roger

  • 13 Ratchet Strap with Chuck end // Dec 30, 2008 at 1:56 pm

    [...] meant to be used on a boat with a hollow seat tower with a slot cut in the back side. See the video here for more information on how these [...]

  • 14 Adapter Straps (pair) // Dec 30, 2008 at 1:57 pm

    [...] Sold as a pair, with hardware included to attach to the end of a ratchet strap. See the video here for more information on how these [...]

  • 15 Mike // Jan 1, 2009 at 12:40 pm

    I have a looksha sport with a solid back support, how hard would it be to install a backband and which one would you recommend? One of the issues I am trying to solve is making it easier to do a back deck roll

  • 16 John Weld // Jan 1, 2009 at 8:24 pm

    That should be pretty straight forward. We will be out of the office on friday, but we will be back in on monday. Probably the easiest thing to do is to give us a call to discuss some options- our number is 814-395-9191 and we are on the east coast.
    when you call, you can ask for John Weld or Roger- either one of us can help you figure out exactly what you will need to get the job done.

  • 17 Joe // Apr 18, 2009 at 2:54 pm

    I got pretty confused by that video.

    That sure doesn’t look like a 1 inch drill
    bit he is using , and what does he mean drill one inch behind the mark you made.

  • 18 rloughney // Apr 20, 2009 at 4:08 pm

    Hi Joe
    thanks for the comment. If you have some questions remaining after watching the videos, please give us a call 814 395 9191. We can talk you through everything

    All the best

    Roger

  • 19 Matt // Nov 11, 2009 at 12:30 pm

    Do both backbands have the “pro strap” included?

  • 20 John Weld // Nov 11, 2009 at 1:21 pm

    Yeah they do,

    -J

  • 21 Technoengineer // Jan 22, 2010 at 1:59 pm

    @Joe

    No it’s the same 3/16 (4.5mm – 5mm) drill that he used before – he means “make a 1 inch slot using the drill”.

  • 22 Technoengineer // Jan 22, 2010 at 2:06 pm

    @Joe

    He meant to say, “Use a 1/8 (3mm) drill to make a 1 inch long slot”. See the linked PDFs.

  • 23 Ken Whitelaw // Mar 14, 2010 at 9:38 pm

    Hi,

    I have a ‘01 Perception Shadow 16.5. It seems like the lounge band will work. Any tips on the install for this boat?

    Thanks-KW

  • 24 John Weld // Mar 14, 2010 at 10:29 pm

    Hey Ken,
    I am trying to find some more information on that boat- is that one of the Perception Airalite boats? If so, check out his video. At about the 4 minut mark, I show how you can install one of our backbands into a seat like that:

    http://www.immersionresearch.com/2008/06/09/ir-customer-service-tv-7-loungeband-vs-reggie-and-a-few-installation-tips/

    Let me know if this doesn’t answer your question.

    -John

  • 25 Ken Whitelaw // Mar 20, 2010 at 9:55 am

    Installed my new back band yesterday. My compliments! This is a well thought out, well designed piece of equipment.

    As a side note, we had almost 70 degrees yesterday in Chicago and I was hoping to tryout my new back band today… today: 33 degrees, snow and 25 mph winds.

  • 26 Pat // May 16, 2010 at 11:07 pm

    I would like to retrofit a Prijon Invader with an IR Reggie or lounger back band. The seat does not have the typical attachment points. Can you tell me if you have experience with this boat?

  • 27 John Weld // May 17, 2010 at 7:56 am

    hey Pat,

    Yeah- you attach the backband to the seat bolts on those boats using the adapter straps. See the install video for a run-down on how to do that.

    Thanks,
    -John

  • 28 House Help Desk // Jun 11, 2010 at 8:10 am

    How hard would it be to install a backband and which one would you recommend?

    ___________________________________

    Johnpeter

  • 29 John Weld // Jun 11, 2010 at 8:14 am

    Did you see our backband install videos? To give more specific advice, I would need to know what kind of boat you have, what kind of paddling you do, etc.

    -John

  • 30 jeff bird // Jul 20, 2010 at 10:57 am

    i just got my backband and i was wondering if anyone new how to install it into to a perception spirit

  • 31 John Weld // Jul 20, 2010 at 1:10 pm

    Hey Jeff,

    First off- have you see the two install videos? You can check them out here:
    http://www.immersionresearch.com/service/backband/
    If these don’t answer your questions, let me know, and we can go from there.
    Thanks,

    John

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