Riot Mako 12 - 3 Month Review

I had my Riot Mako for about 3 months. In this video I talk about the things I dislike about the kayak. Overall still a very good kayak. Please like and subscribe for more videos.

[@doggovision8765]

Thanks for the video. The Riot's are drawing a lot of attention from cost conscious consumers. This gives them more information before they pull the trigger.

[@TNRangerXP]

Great review, seemed very honest and you also let us know when you were nit-picking. I've only owned Hobies, so it's good to get owner reviews on other Yaks. Keep it up.

[@Saltloony]

Thanks for your positive comment.

[@charmnGUY]

I have nothing to complain, Riot Mako 10 @ $999 is perfect price point for me! I can spend 200-500 on accessories and not hurt the wallet!

[@picmanjoe]

Thanks for the informative review! Really helps with my decision making.

[@Saltloony]

Welcome!

[@judywhelan2006]

Thank you for this enlightening review. I am looking into these peddle propelled kayaks, so I really appreciate your views. 😎🇨🇦

[@Saltloony]

You are very welcome Judy. I appreciate you taking the time to drop a positive comment.

[@roberthartley4298]

I watched the manufacturers video and the side handles are meant to help you in standing up..not for carrying. And as far as letting water in they said they did that so you would set lower in the water for stability. I did enjoy your review and will keep all of the points you brought up before I buy my next pedal drive. Thanks for doing it!

[@Saltloony]

Hey Robert, thanks for the comment. Can you share the link for the video. Usually side handles are not meant for standing, but I could be wrong. They do have a stand up assist in front of the seat. Yes, kayak is very stable, but makes it a very wet ride.

[@maldrury8313]

Great review as many of the issues would not be noticed if you just took it out for a quick test. The problem of water coming in through the scuppers is bad. I had a Hobie for many years and now paddle a Viking Profish GT. Never used scupper plugs on either kayak and no water entering the kayaks from the scuppers.

[@kevinjc7026]

Weight rating of 500 lbs is a lie. Thanks for the video

[@fishing4happiness610]

Thanks for the review... liked and subbed to support a fellow youtubing angler! I'll be doing a review on the Mako 10 so this was helpful.

[@zahersyed3743]

Thanks for the support. Subbed.

[@MrInstag8tor]

Thanks alot for the vid. Been waiting for a good review on this yak. Looks like I'm getting a nucanoe frontier 12

[@Saltloony]

Welcome, glad i could help.

[@wscogin7974]

A great honest and up front review. Thank you for all you have done making great videos. I have been waiting for the new Riot 15t tandem to try getting my wife into fishing. Have you heard about it yet? I am looking forward to its release, and reviews.

[@branonpsu]

My advice is buy a fishing kayak for yourself and a stable comfortable one for her then you can fish and she can explore. My wife resented me for a while for spending so much time fishing so when I tried to have her accompany me she pushed back. Over time I have just gone on a non fishing paddle or two(it was tough but I did it) she then came around but still would rather not fish and just likes to go ahead and look at houses on shore while I fish.

[@jeffreyreicher5241]

I always thought the scuppers were there to drain water that splashed over the kayak. To bad for this kayak. Price wise it beats hobbies but...I guess you get what you pay for. Thanks for an honest and excellent video.

[@Saltloony]

I would stay away from this kayak. I heard numerous issues with the rudder and Riot won't respond to any emails. I would go with Hobie Passport, compass or Vibe Shearwater.

[@larrybrickman5882]

Hi. I don't use any of the access holes ... no water within kayak. Yes, their scupper plugs are foam, cause all the holes are diff sizes. Lol. I got diff colored after market. I put paddle other side. I never move seat (transport in van) I have Mako 12 angler. Close ur back hatch please!

[@Saltloony]

Do you know brand name of the scupper plugs you purchased? I might get the same ones.

[@fishfinder401]

yay, i was subscriber 100!

[@Saltloony]

Yes, you are. Thanks for the subscription. Subbed you back.

[@dannyo957416]

Great review how has the drive held up so far

[@udmbfckx2916]

I am in the market for a new, low cost pedal kayak. Looking at the little brother 10 version. Thanks for your review As far as my application when it comes to this kayak: 1) I am not a dedicated fisherman so storage space is not a big concern. 2) Design issue, I wonder if you can somehow trim the piece so you won't have the sliding problem? 3) So it is a wet one...Seems to sit a bit low, partly due to design, partly due to space between top deck and bottom (see #1). Since I would be using this in salt water/bay/shoreline/near the beach, I will need to leave them opened. This is a design issue. 4) Well yep, the holes can become a problem, but then again you have more "feature" holes in the more expensive, fishing kayaks....The problem is, as you correctly stated, the water getting in for which you the user has to become responsible. This is a quality issue. So the user may also have to use some sort of mini -bilge pump, battery? 5) Pointing to the drive? I heard it is kind of flimsy and the mount has been known to break under stress/higher 'torqueing' by the user. But the jury is still out, too early to tell. 6) Yeap, sometimes on cheaper kayaks you have to install better quality hw, like you did for the anchor-thingy. Then again, the price is lower, so there is always a trade-off. 7) Rust? Oh no! No bueno at 3 mos. Again, some of the HW may be of the lesser quality type. Obviously a good wash in those tight spaces is important as well as adding a dollop of 'wet-goop' to keep it moist. 8) Agreed with the issue of the control placement. Another design error. 9) Agreed with the handle being too far into the kayak when carrying it. I am torn between the price, which at $999 for the Riot Mako 10 is the lowest pedal kayak ANYWHERE vs the new for 2019 Hobie Mirage Passport at $1299. I mean the Riot has more features but Hobie has a higher degree of quality, the dealer network is much larger and you won't find the design flaws and hardware issues in the same way as this newer, less experienced company. The downside is that the Hobie Passport has the least features of any Hobie (starting with no reverse and no 'raiseable' rudder) but then again, it is proven to be reliable. Last, there is the issue of kayak/drive performance, I would like to see someone post a head to head comparison.

[@ItsDLC]

One thing I like about the passport is water does not come in the scuppers, no plugs needed. May be different for a heavier person.

[@xinvolume]

Great review, I fish a lot so where do I all my big bass fish? I guess they should also be in the milk crate business also. I guess I will have to be careful Not to catch a fish. And what happen when it turns over, it is so heavy you will be lucky to get it back in bad ocean waves.

[@vuelee5313]

One of the best review video.

[@NautiFish1]

Not a fan of the Mako always been a Hobie Revo Guy. But I love your review and my buddy owns a Mako so was awesome to see comparison. The one thing I’ve noticed about the Mako is the Rudder doesn’t help the kayak track as good would have been better to have a wider rudder. Also, bruh really light it flips easier when faced with wakes and surf is what it “seems” to have issues with.

[@slacktide_angler]

Hi, does the water enter the kayak via the screw fittings or mainly the hatch doors? I would expect water to enter if I'd hit a wave and took on water where the hatches are, but leaking between screws seems unacceptable to me.. I'd probably apply Marine Goop from the inside on those screws

[@Saltloony]

I think it is mainly from around the hatch. I will do a pool test to confirm that in the near future. Marine goop is never a bad idea around screws. That has been a problem with most kayaks. Even with premium kayaks you get some water in the hull.

[@Calamiti999Fine]

New Sub to get to 1000. Good review, thanks. Love that live well you have there.

[@Saltloony]

Thanks for the sub and comment.

[@FloridaKayakFishing]

Great Stuff!! Subbed to support. Tight Lines

[@Saltloony]

Thank you sir!!!

[@troutstalker4744]

Hi. , thanks for pointing out all your dislike and there are legit. I was just about to pull the trigger on the mako 10, But, will do more research now. Q- what sort of adapter do you use for your scooty rod holder for them to fit on the rail system.? Thank you and much appreciated.

[@Saltloony]

I use a scotty gear head adapter. Thanks for your comment and best of luck with your new purchase. I won't recommend Mako anymore. Too many complains about company not answering or replying to warranty claims. Hobie Passport is tad bit more, but worth the money and the drive is more efficient.

[@troutstalker4744]

@@Saltloony thank you for your advice .

[@shanerobinson3227]

I wouldn't consider that as a offshore yak anyways....for inshore, river, or lake kayaking. Every kayak is a give and take situation when it comes to inside storage and top side storage, just have to pick what works for you and your intended gear.

[@iyaayie9092]

Nice kayakkk ! We have same hobby bro😆👍

[@Saltloony]

Thank you. I got a new one. It is even better 😀

[@jaradwhite9352]

Think I'll buy the Pelican

[@mlangfordcamper]

I am just about to pull the trigger on a riot soon as I can find a dealer here in S Houston .

[@Saltloony]

Great kayak for the money. Like I said all major brands have some kind of issue. Makes a good starter kayak.

[@paulkorman399]

Riot mako is a good pedal drive no doubt about it.i got mako 10,im 6 2 and it works for me.toss some yakattack cup holders and rodholders on it,buy a long paddle cause it 36 inches wide.youll have a great time on it.got mine at runnings 899.00 total deal.1299.00 at sportsmans warehouse.

[@davids5956]

If you find one in Houston area, let me know. I like the light weight. So I can car top it.

[@tricorter1]

I think it would do you well to write a script out before filming, it sounds like you have an idea of what you want to say, but you have to think about it too long on camera. Form your thoughts a little more completely before filming and your videos will seem a little less like a ramble.

[@tasaman]

This is how reviews should go. Well done sir.

[@Saltloony]

Thank you

[@shivincent2]

Is good for lake fishing? I like it light weight and the pedal drive, but how are the kayak and pedal quality?

[@neocaridaniel8220]

The drive can be a pain to get in and out and i cracked the kayak plastic from hitting a stump.

[@coleschwartz477]

Great review man. I recommend more voice fluctuation. It gives more personality. A lot of the bug you tubers have this. Keep at it man

[@Ozzypup1]

Man that's crap about all that water in the kayak like that. I had a Jackson kayak and got caught in a few bad downpoors while out on the lake and never had water inside of it. I've currently got a vibe kayak and have also never had water get inside of it like that.

[@Saltloony]

Yup, really poor design. This is my fourth kayak and never had an issue like this in any other kayaks I owned. Defeats the purpose of having scupper holes. I still think it is a decent buy, time will tell.

[@andrewmichael219]

Hi I also have a Riot Mako 12 Kayak but thinking of selling due to that main problem where water comes in through the scuppers and everything gets wet plus not enough storage and sits way too low. Plus the steering handle is way too far back and the seat doesn't go that far back. Would you buy again ?

[@nfinnigan]

You will buy many kayaks that let water in, its not just Riot kayak. Its a kayak thing.

[@andrewmichael219]

@@nfinnigan never seem to have that issue with hobie

[@LokiLures]

How’s the speed? Stability? Paddling ease? Thanks

[@Saltloony]

All good, great kayak for the money. Are you going to use it for inshore or offshore?

[@Vue_Mix]

That kinda sucks if without scuppers on. Water enters in through them. That is a design flaw. I just got mine this past weekend but have not had good weather to take it out to test.

[@Saltloony]

I agree. I thought I got a defective one. I watched Riot's official "stability test video" numerous time. If you watch carefully you can see that the water never fully drains out from the deck area.

[@Vue_Mix]

Have you reach out to riot to see what they had to say? That's acceptable.

[@Saltloony]

@@Vue_Mix No, not yet. Let me know your experience when you get a chance to take your kayak out.

[@Vue_Mix]

I got the mako 10 so idk if it will be the same. Also I am only 150lbs with standard gears.

[@Saltloony]

@Tony Surber can you share the link.

[@mouchoum9700]

bonjour, petit message de France où le systeme impulse drive sort sur un kayak cette année!!! j ai une petite question, le systeme impulse drive est il bruyant? Merci bien pour votre reponse et continuez comme ca, vos critique sont bonnes et constructive!

[@olimatis]

Salut! Testé hors de l'eau il peut paraitre bruyant mais une fois à l'eau, l'expérience est parfaite. Fluide et silencieuse ... sauf si tu mouline comem un fou bien entendu! :)

[@FishnFrank420]

Do you have positive things to say about the kayak? Would you buy it again?

[@Saltloony]

Hey Frank. There are many things I like about kayak. The whole purpose of the video was to help others be aware of my experience. Kayak is super light, packs a lot of features, price is affordable, fast. It is too early to say if I would buy it again, since there are more options available at this price point. Hope this helps.

[@sivyisvaj8054]

Ah still lots issue need to addressed to the next years model

[@jornelindberg5127]

How does it sit in water? High enough so water dont come over sides?

[@Saltloony]

I think it is high enough, but still lower compared to other kayaks. I would say my hobie compass sits about the same height.

[@bofa83]

15:50 what was that handle for? they must have gotten rid of it on newer versions

[@Saltloony]

It is just a little foam on the tracks to help you carry. They made a lot of changes since the original design, which is good. I love it when manufacturers listen to the consumers. I heard the parent company of Riot acquired vibe kayaks. We might see new design ideas from both companies.

[@milehigh3054]

Great looking set up. I think you're expecting too much from a kayak. It might be time for you to upgrade to a boat.

[@Saltloony]

Thanks! not expecting too much... sharing my opinion, so manufacturers can better their designs. I already upgraded to a Hobie Compass and now a Hobie Lynx. I am not ready for a boat yet. Thanks for watching.

[@milehigh3054]

@Saltloony nice! Do you have a review for the Hobie's yet? I'd be interested in your opinion on that. I'll check out your channel! Tight lines!

[@neocaridaniel8220]

I dont like how hard it is to get the drive in and out, those clamps have to be aligned with the stars and moon. Your clamps are different than mine.

[@Saltloony]

Yes, I think you have the first generation model. They might have changed it after receiving customer complaints.

[@rhye_guy7717]

Use a turkey baster to get that hard to reach water in your kayak ;)

[@Saltloony]

I gave it a good mop inside with a old rag. :)

[@TROPHY-HUSBAND]

I have 2 Mako Riot 12, both have problems with rudder . They lock up and don't want to turn. You ever had this issue.

[@Saltloony]

No, I never did. Do you have newer rudder? One of my subscribers just broke his and Riot won't respond to his warranty claim.

[@TROPHY-HUSBAND]

I assume they are the new style. I bought them in April of this year. But they could be 2019. Either way they both don't work . Looked on KZbin for a fix , but nothing on here.

[@Saltloony]

@@TROPHY-HUSBAND let me know if this helps. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bofEnZV_apKYetU

[@ehabx2003]

issue #3 is fatal, thanks for ur video, now I can say that's a no no yak for me

[@Saltloony]

The new Vibe shearwater looks attractive. So far I like all the features. I am waiting for it eagerly.

[@dennyking2741]

Dang bro, you are picky. If they did put the handle on the side, there would be even more holes in your yak then you'd complain more. 🤣

[@Saltloony]

True, I rather have some holes that serves the purpose. Other holes are mostly useless. Anyway, I sold the kayak last month.

[@andrewmichael219]

@@Saltloony how come you sold it ?

[@Saltloony]

@@andrewmichael219 Better options are available now at the same price range. Don't get me wrong the kayak did great for as long as I had it. I was hauling a lot weight with my son sitting in the front and my legs were giving out after few miles. I was excited about the new vibe shearwater coming out in March, but I couldn't wait and got a great deal on a demo hobie compass.

[@rickyfennecken]

Does the drive system seem like it will last? I’m either getting the riot mako 10 or the bonafide rs117

[@Saltloony]

Sorry, some how i missed your comment. Drive system seems solid. No issues so far.

[@depmodex]

How to order from Italy? Can someone help me- giving advise? Thank you

[@Saltloony]

Go to riotkayaks.com find a dealer

[@Saltloony]

Closest one I see is a dealership in Rome.

[@Saltloony]

I heard numerous folks having issues with their rudder and they won't answer any emails.

[@davidrybka7828]

I heard the same, and did contact them with questions...no response. I bought a used Riot12 for $500 on Offer up. had 1 snapped rudder cable and a very loose pedal drive. I fixed both without needing dealer help. The rudder cable is simply a bicycle break cable. I actually just bought wire rope from the hardware store Vs. getting a cable that was too short etc. The pedal drive .......Well, The bearings are molded into the housing so not intended to be serviceable. The bearing races were there but no balls left in the bearings. I was able to buy sleeve bearings off McMaster Carr and tapped them into the old bearing housing, add a little epoxy for extra stability and all fixed. All in all I was able to repair the kayak for under $40. I suspect that I may need to replace the pedal bearings overtime and I bought some sealed bearings on Amazon for this repair but I didn't want to do a destructive fix for the 1st fix. Next time I will need to do some grinding to get the original bearing race out and replaced.

[@Saltloony]

@@davidrybka7828 That is awesome David. Now you got a working kayak for a good price. Did you by any chance record your fix? I think that would help others running into the same issue.

[@daverage4811]

@@Saltloony I didn’t record it unfortunately. It was more of a trial that just worked 1st go. It’s working great but I have a feeling I will do a better repair down the road and I will record that as there is very limited if any discussion on this. I appreciate your videos!

[@mohdidrissaid7152]

Riot Mako is a budget kayak. Maybe it is suitable for beginner to get experience on the water hike fishing. It not design for everything we want...

[@Saltloony]

Very true, now we have better options at similar price range.

[@rafaelmesa4500]

@@Saltloony What are those options ? Thank you.

[@Saltloony]

@@rafaelmesa4500 Hobie Passport 10.5 or 12 - 1399$ and 1599$ Perception Crank 10ft Pedal -1430$ Vibe Shearwater - 1799.00 lightning kayak - 1799.00 All these are better kayaks in my opinion. I do miss Mako's instant reverse and stability, but Hobie's Mirage drive is more efficient. I would suggest you to try out the kayaks before you purchase them.

[@rafaelmesa4500]

@@Saltloony The passport to fish in open Oceans.. I don`t see it... only H Compass or more could be good idea... but $$$$. ViBE could be.

[@Saltloony]

@@rafaelmesa4500 Yeah, Theb Vibe looks good. I just purchased a Hobie Compass. I can't wait to take it out offshore.

[@rickgarcia8481]

Lol, sounds like you don't care for the kayak... Frankly there isn't a kayak out there that is perfect, people range from 5 ft. to well over 6'6''. As far as rust, hell everyone knows you should do preventive maintenance on any metal in a marine vessel... No metal is immune to corrosion

[@Saltloony]

This is my unbiased opinion about the kayak. Yes, there is no perfect kayak for everyone and that is why I made this video. I take good care of my belongings and that rust is after taking preventative maintenance. Thanks for your comment.

[@kimlongdota]

Lol well played. He complains tooo much

[@bryburd9140]

Why would you’re paddle fit in that hatch lol

[@Saltloony]

Some offshore folks like to carry a spare small paddle. It is very common to lose or break your paddle. Thanks for your comment.

[@astronoman4]

Thats the 12 ft one right ?

[@Saltloony]

Yes, 12 feet angler.

[@jimfournier9065]

At 270 lbs., this isn’t for me, ty so much!!!

[@Saltloony]

you are welcome

[@fied8301]

Terrible kayak, I had one for less than on year and got rid of it. Took on so much water on the deck, everything was always wet! Upgraded to a Old Town Sportsman PDL ! Don’t waste your money on this. Spend the extra $400 on the Old Town!

[@asianangler]

how you like the OTS?

[@jknluyvivytiit6234]

This kayak is from china?

[@Saltloony]

Yes

[@olimatis]

@@Saltloony Yes and No. Designed in Quebec, Canada. Manufactured in China.

[@mluc1111]

Add another $400 u can get a way better kayak like old town pdl 10.6 awesome kayak

[@Saltloony]

Weight was the number one priority at the time of the purchase. I hurt my foot and van toping a heavy kayak was not an option. I do agree old town makes great kayaks.

[@bigalcervantes5118]

Time to sell the kayak, I would probably get a new canoe kayak or vibe sea goast and put a trolling motor on it. Check out kayak usa channel. Great video

[@Saltloony]

I used to own a sea ghost 130. You can see that in my intro. It is a great kayak. After hurting my foot I wanted something light with propulsion to van top easily. Riot mako fit my bill and was light enough. If you decide to buy the sea ghost they are coming out with a new model soon. See the teaser here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5KVfqmNlr-sftE Thanks for the subscribe and comment.

[@asianangler]

i'm guessing it's cheap cause it's made in China?

[@Saltloony]

Designed in Canada and made in China.

[@ronpalmer9914]

Apparently your unhappy with your Mako! SELL IT.

[@Saltloony]

Hey Ron, Thanks for your comment. It was good while I had it, but I did sell it over a year ago and got a Hobie Compass 2020.

[@MrEbmanii]

@@Saltloony can you do a hobie compass review? :)

[@Saltloony]

@@MrEbmanii I just sold my Hobie compass last week. It is a much better kayak than the Mako 12. Hobie Mirage drive is much more efficient and the flip up fins feature is amazing for shallow water and flats fishing. I will list all the pros and cons below. Pros: Better storage (upgrade to rectangular hatch) Better handling Better turning More efficient drive Easy fish finder setup Better plastic Better warranty (made in U.S.A) Cons: Heavier than Mako Mako tad bit stable (maybe) More $$$ There are plenty of reviews out there for Hobie Compass. It is a well built and designed kayak. Hobie has one of best, if not the best drive. The biggest complaint everyone has is the price. You can find a video of me on the Hobie. Hope this helps.

[@MrEbmanii]

@@Saltloony i'm glad i saw your video because i was thinking about purchasing the riot mako for cost. But i'm pretty set in my mind that i want a pedal drive anything under 2k. Keeping my options open, looking at jackson, old town, or hobie right now. Not quite sold on anything in particular yet.

[@Saltloony]

@@MrEbmanii If possible, test them on water. A good dealership will have demo models that you can try out. Also look into resale value, if you decide to sell it, can you recoup most of the money.

[@shittymcshitstein]

Say actually one more time.

[@Saltloony]

Actually, thanks for your comment.

[@jesusfuenmayor7260]

Not buying a riot.

[@smmj45]

maybe you have too much junk on your kayak, messy looking.

[@Saltloony]

That junk helps me catch fish. Thanks for your comment.

[@Saltloony]

@James Wright I don't know where you see 200 Lbs of stuff. That is the standard weight and items majority of the kayakers carry. The boat is rated at 500Lbs carry capacity. It will start taking water at 300Lbs tops. I never drilled any hole for transducer, transducer was glued inside the hull.

[@Saltloony]

Scupper plug mount won't work unless you want the transducer hanging lower than the boat.

[@leeg4356]

Well ummmmm, I ummmmmm spit it out already & get on with it, 1/2 the people probably fell asleep

[@Saltloony]

Bruce Lee, you know there is a fast forward option or there are other videos out there for your pace. Thanks for watching and your input.