One of the best-selling brands known for selling kayaks, Wilderness Systems has some great kayaks in store for anglers.
Among various options, Radar 115 and Radar 135 are the ones people love. And if you too are confused about these two, check this Wilderness Systems Radar 115 vs 135 comparisons.
But before jumping to the details, keep in mind that every kayak is made different.
That’s why we will be comparing size, weight, capacity, features, and performance to help you decide better.
Table of Contents
Wilderness Systems Radar 115 vs 135 – Overview
If you need one kayak for multiple purposes, go for Radar 115. It offers multiple propulsion options including pedal, paddle, and motor drives.
Moreover, it enables customization for different needs with numerous options for accessories and add-ons.
Radar 135, on the other hand, should be the pick if you need top-notch stability. Plus, it also supports numerous accessories to be used for multiple purposes.
From fish finders to drives, this kayak enables anglers to use it in any environment.
Weight and Size
Radar 115 is a short kayak, measured at 11’8” for length and 34.5” for width. On the contrary, Radar 135 is longer, measured at 13’6” for length and 34” for width.
The former comes with a 15” deck height while the latter’s deck height is 15.5”. Both keep the angler low enough to avoid wind problems.
In terms of weight, the Radar 135 is 90 pounds while the 115 measures 85 pounds.
Although both are heavy for their size, carrying the Radar 135 isn’t recommended due to its bigger size and heavier weight.
Capacity
The bigger the kayak, the more should be its capacity. That’s why Radar 135 offers a total capacity of 475 pounds.
That’s enough for carrying an angler with a higher than average weight and a lot of gear.
But the Radar 115 doesn’t stay behind. It can carry a total weight of 450 pounds despite the smaller size.
So, if you are looking for a good capacity, go for Radar 135. But if you need a shorter kayak as well, Radar 115 is the way to go.
Storage Compartments
Despite the difference in length, both the kayaks offer similar storage features throughout.
A hatch on the deck’s front covers a dry storage compartment. With a flat surface beneath, it enables anglers to mount various accessories via drilling.
Another storage space is provided on the seat’s front. A hatch there offers dry storage space. And it’s so strong that you can even stand on it.
The third storage area is behind the seat. It’s a big tank well that allows anglers to safely carry equipment like tackle boxes and milk crates.
You can also add the AirPro 3D seat there. A complete perch behind the seat offers the opportunity to fish while standing on top of it.
In addition, a molded pocket on each side of the cockpit allows space to store small gear items.
Mounting Equipment
Paddling requires effort. But it’s more challenging to hold the paddle when you want the boat to stay calm on the water.
And if there’s no place to park your paddle, you might end up with a frustrating experience.
Both kayaks offer paddle parking facilities. The first one is a bungee right behind the bow that serves as a paddle park. The kayaks also have dedicated paddle park areas on either side.
The Flex Pod OS Console System is mounted into the deck that’s retained with two clips when it lowers into the hull through a hole.
The console box is used to mount the Wilderness Systems’ electric motor, Helix MD Motor Drive. Alternatively, you can use it to mount a fish finder on the top and a transducer on the bottom.
Additionally, a scupper box fitting into the hole can mount a pedal-driven propeller unit, Helix PD Pedal Drive System. It can also be used to mount a side-scanning fish finder and other electronics.
A track on each side of the cockpit allows mounting accessories.
The manufacturer also took care of right- and left-handed anglers with an option to mount a rudder steering system on each side of the kayak.
A short track section on the tank well’s each side provides another area to mount accessories.
Lastly, a mounting plate ledge at the stern allows mounting battery-operated stakeout pipes or a trolling motor.
Seating and Comfort
Again, both kayaks score equally in this department with not much difference in the seat and comfort features provided.
Each of the kayaks comes with a lawn-style chair with three settings for the anglers, viz., low, high, and recliner.
The seat features a breathable mesh material and UV resistance. And if you wish to do fishing while standing, you can fold it back to expand the deck space.
Two-track beneath the seat allows forward and backward sliding. So, you can adjust the seat to your preferences or height.
Big footrests add more comfort with foam padding. And you can adjust them too using the levers provided.
Carrying and Transporting the Kayak
Both have rigid carry handles, one on the bow and another at the stern for strapping the boat when transporting.
However, Radar 115 is lightweight and short in length as compared to the Radar 135 which makes it comparatively easily transportable.
But still, both are heavy for their size, and carrying them alone is not recommended.
Performance
Stable performance is a feature of both the kayaks. They achieve it through a blend of tri-hull and pontoon style.
The hull design adds maneuverability to the kayaks and provides enough stability for standing and walking on the top.
However, the Radar 135 scores better in terms of stability due to its longer and wider size. It enables a bigger surface area to stay in contact with the water.
On the contrary, Radar 115 is better at tracking. It will stay on course and won’t drift out even during rough waters and strong currents.
Wrap Up – Wilderness Systems Radar 115 vs 135
The Wilderness Systems Radar 115 vs 135 comparison presents a clear set of similarities and differences between the two.
While both have the same features onboard, the difference lies in length and width. This gives Radar 115 better tracking and 135 better stability for fishing and kayaking.
