You’ll like the Brooklyn 13.5 Tandem Pedal Kayak if you want hands-free forward power and a steady, stand-up fishing platform; set the seat and footplate for a comfortable cadence, stash heavy gear low in the hatches and cargo recesses, use the rudder for tight turns and subtle weight shifts for crisp bow response, and practice carries and strap-downs before trailering—start with basic maintenance tips and a quick on-shore seat/footplate check to get going, then learn more.
Some Key Points
- Dual pedal drives deliver steady, efficient forward motion, making the Brooklyn 13.5 fast and hands-free for long trips.
- Stable, stand-up–capable hull provides a planted fishing platform with crisp bow responsiveness when shifting weight.
- Two adjustable seats with lumbar support and fore-aft adjustment improve comfort for tandem or solo long days.
- Generous storage: two watertight hatches, roomy cargo recesses, and bungee tie-downs for coolers and tackle.
- Routine maintenance (flush drives, UV care) and considering transport options are important for ownership satisfaction and resale.
Performance and Handling: Pedaling, Tracking, and Maneuvering
When you hop into the Brooklyn 13.5 and start pedaling, you’ll notice how the dual pedal drives put power where it counts, giving you steady forward motion without having to haul on a paddle, and that makes covering water easier when you’ve got a partner or a heavy load aboard. You’ll feel good pedal ergonomics underfoot, so adjust seat and footplate for long trips, keep cadence steady to save energy, and watch the rudder for fine turns. Bow responsiveness is crisp when you shift weight or feather the pedals, so practice subtle inputs, carry spare cleats, and trust the boat. Pedal drive kayaks are a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy adventures on the water.
Stable Hull and Fishing Capability
You’ll quickly notice the Brooklyn 13.5’s hull feels planted under you, so start by trusting that stability while you rig up and plan casts, because that steady platform makes a big difference for fishing from a sit-on-top. You’ll enjoy true stand up stability for cautious, confident moves, so test standing slowly, shift weight, and use the seats or rail for balance as needed. The deck handles baitcasting compatibility well, with room to clear lines and place a baitcasting reel within reach, so bring a compact rod, secure loose gear, and practice a few gentle casts before committing to standing. The Brooklyn Kayak Co. lineup also includes accessories and gear designed for water adventures to help outfit your trip.
Layout, Storage, and Cargo Capacity
Since the hull already gives you a steady platform for standing and casting, take a moment to look around the deck layout to figure out where everything will live on your next trip, because smart packing makes the day easier. You’ll appreciate the thoughtful deck organization, two watertight hatches and roomy cargo recesses with bungees, so plan essential items forward, heavy gear low and center, and quick grabs near your feet. Use the bungee tie-downs for coolers or crates, stash tackle in hatches for dryness, and route lines for easy gear access; does that sound like freedom? Pack smart, paddle light. The site also offers accessories and replacement parts to outfit and maintain your boat, including pedal kayak gear to enhance your on-water adventures.
Comfort, Seating, and Transportability
Although the Brooklyn’s roomy hull already makes long days on the water feel easier, take a hard look at the seats and how you’ll move the boat before you load up, because comfort and transportability start before you push off. You’ll appreciate the adjustable seats for long trips, tweak lumbar and fore-aft positions to avoid numbness, and test seat adjustability on shore to save time later, while planning who rides where for balance. Check the carry handles for comfortable lifts, practice two-person and solo carries, strap the kayak securely for transport, and bring gloves to protect your hands. Consider pairing the kayak with tandem paddle gear to outfit two paddlers efficiently and safely.
Should You Buy It? Pros, Cons, and Ownership Considerations
If you’re weighing whether the Brooklyn 13.5 is the right kayak for you, start by matching what it does best—pedal-driven speed, big weight capacity, and roomy fishing features—to how and where you plan to use it, because that tells you whether its strengths will matter day in and day out. You’ll love the freedom to cover water fast, stand and cast with stability, and carry two people plus gear, but ask yourself if you need car-top transport or a trailer, and factor in routine maintenance tips like flushing drives and UV care. Think resale value, warranty, and whether tandem use fits your adventures. Consider also how the kayak’s design supports two-person use for fishing and touring.
Some Questions Answered
Does It Come With Paddle(S) as Backup to the Pedal Drives?
No, it doesn’t include paddles as standard backup, so you’ll want to plan for paddle storage and pack emergency oars before you head out. Bring collapsible or lightweight paddles that fit the cargo recesses or lash them to the deck bungees, and stash emergency oars in a watertight hatch or tied under a bungee, so if pedals fail, you’ll still steer, stay safe, and keep your trip going without panic.
Is the Kayak Suitable for Saltwater Use and Corrosion Resistance?
Yes, you can use it in saltwater, but you’ll want to treat it like marine gear, rinse thoroughly after each trip, and apply corrosion inhibitors to metal parts; check for marine grade coatings on pedal drive components and rudder, and replace or service sacrificial anodes if present. Carry spare O-rings and grease, store dry, and inspect seals often, that way you keep freedom on open water without salty surprises.
Can I Mount an Aftermarket Fishfinder or Transducer?
Yes — you can mount an aftermarket fishfinder, but check fishfinder compatibility first, matching transducer orientation to the hull and mounting location so readings stay clear while you pedal and stand. Look for transducers suited to sit-on-top kayaks, use a transducer arm or scupper-mount if needed, seal cable penetrations, and secure the display near your seat for easy viewing. Test in calm water before heading offshore.
What Is the Assembly/Setup Required Out of the Box?
You’ll unbox mostly assembled, you’ll snap on the dual pedal drives, attach the rudder control cable, fit adjustable seats, and secure hatches and strap storage, it’s straightforward if you follow the manual. Check the solid hull for damage, test the quick drain plug, tighten hardware, and mount any extras like a fishfinder before launch. Bring basic tools, a wrench, and patience, then paddle out and enjoy the freedom.
Are Replacement Parts Readily Available After Warranty Expires?
Yes, you can still get spare components after warranty, and you’ll find options from the maker, third party parts sellers, maintenance kits, local repair shops, used parts sellers, and online marketplaces. Start by noting pedal, rudder, and hatch specs, keep a small maintenance kit and spare fasteners in your gear, call local repair for fittings, and compare part photos and measurements before you buy used or third-party items.
