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RMR SB-95 ThunderCloud Self Bailing Raft
Overview
RMR SB-95 ThunderCloud Self Bailing Raft
The RMR SB-95 ThunderCloud Self Bailing Raft falls in between the popular Hyside MiniMe model, and RMR's Storm size wise. In terms of displacement though, it is closer to the Storm. The large 20” tubes – which taper a tiny bit at the ends – and the wide 5'6” footprint mean that the ThunderCloud is fully capable of handling three larger paddlers, whereas the Cloud 9 had been more of a true R-2 raft. For those who want to put together a small custom oar frame, the straight/flat section of this Thundercloud is only about 28", so keep that in mind. This model was designed as a paddle raft, not an oar boat.
Colors RMR SB-95 ThunderCloud Self Bailing Raft
Rocky Mtn currently offers, in theory, a dozen colors, but it's best to check with is to see what's available. The two thwarts, as with the Storm raft, are removable, and on most colors, there are light gray. There are eight D-rings total, two being small ones at the inside bow and stern. There are also lift handles at the bow and stern. The overall length is 9'7”, and the ThunderCloud weighs 76 pounds. The boxed weight is higher since there is a lot of cardboard and a carry wrapper around the boat.
RMR SB-95 ThunderCloud Self Bailing Raft Handling
The underside of the ThunderCloud is relatively smooth, always a good thing on a raft used in technical rapids. This flatter bottom, combined with the large tubes, means the draft is kept to a minimum and that currents will tend to slide under the raft rather than pushing it around. This characteristic also makes it a fine solo or two-person fishing craft since it will be easier to hold in the current. Rocker is listed as 8" but it depends where you really measure, and you would not want any more than it has.
There are bottom chafers, but none on top for a frame. The idea was not to add so much material to make the boat overly heavy. Frame side bars can be padded with hot water pipe insulation to prevent rubbing, and even if you don't do this, the RMR material is quite stout with a lot of coating on the exterior side. This little raft is built with the same commercial grade fabric as a 16' RMR model, so for a private boater chafing should never be a big concern. Two main chambers, plus the inflatable self bailing floor and thwarts, for five total. All welded construction except for the previously mentioned underside chafe pads. Five year warranty. This is a lot of boat for an incredibly low price, the same or less than most of the better tandem inflatable kayaks.