Durham Boat Company - DBC Rec-Racers

History of the Rec-Racer: The Durham Boat Company began importing the original Rec-Racer in 1984 and that proved to be a very speedy and popular boat. Initially we imported the entire boat. Gradually we moved to purchasing and installing all the hardware, to the point now where we manufacture all the major sub-assemblies that go into making the boat. We manufacture the foot stretchers, seats, and riggers on the top-of-the-line boats as well as install all other hardware and custom rig the boat. In 1994, we changed the design to slightly increase its maximum capacity, while further improving on its speed and rowing efficiency. The changes have been very well received. In 1995 and 1996, the boat was used in the Blackburn Challenge. (i.e., approximately 20 mile race around Cape Ann, near Gloucester, MA in open water conditions) Both years a course record was set, beating all manufacturers of open water racing shells.

With the addition of our own all carbon sub-assemblies we have provided equal or better rigging than one would find on top line racing singles. Through extensive use of the boats in our own sculling school and club, we have over the years received much valuable feedback as how best to improve upon equipment design and optimize boat set-up and rigging. We are confident that we have designed the boat so that the rower feels comfortable in the boat, yet still have enough feedback from the boat so as to not develop bad habits from rowing a boat that is too forgiving.

In 2007 we moved the molds from Europe to Canada and went to a vacuum infused construction with carbon/core/carbon construction. By 2008 we added another size Rec-Racer II to broaden the line. The "LD Model" is a new large displacement hull, which would best fit heavier rowers (i.e., greater than 185 lbs. and up to at 240 lbs. in flat conditions). The length and width are the same, but the hull is made deeper to accommodate the heavier weight rower. The present size hull, which best accommodates rowers up to 185 lbs. capacity is now called the Rec-Racer Carbon (Ultra-Shell) "SD Model" which refers to a standard displacement hull. Although the construction of the boat hulls was better we still lacked the surface finish that we expected.

In 2011 we have moved the boat molds again and are in production again. The hulls are being made by an experienced boat builder in Maine that has capacity and expertise to meet our specifications and market demand.

The 2012 Carbon Rec-Racer (Ultra-Shell) is more rigid in construction, yet it is still low in weight and what we consider the best fit and finish on the market today for an entry level or open water racing shells! To accomplish that our hull manufacturer completely refurbished or replaced several molds, modified the layup schedule and improved the manufacturing method.

The boat is fun to row and is very responsive and the power transmission is quite good, which results in a very quick shell. It feels a lot like a top end racing shell, but with the stability of a crew-boat. However, it easy to turn especially on a river with many tight turns and can literally turn on a dime. One of the best features is it is easy to carry by one person, because of its low weight.

In 2012, we starting offer a new foot stretcher option for people that can launch from docks. It is our Universal Rowing Cross Training (URXT) Snap in Shoe Plate, which allows you to row use your own shoes for rowing and other activities besides rowing as well. For more information on the K-Swiss and Adidas shoes and snap in shoe plate, please see the following:2012 Shoe Plate Link. There you will see links to the shoes that are compatible with the shoe plate. You would order your size and style and then have them shipped to us to be modified to fit with your new shoe plate and then to be married up with your new boat.

See Features and Specifications:

Rec-Racer Carbon Model in Two Sizes: I. SD and II. LD

Length 22.25 ft.

Width at gunwale outside flange 21.25 inches

Width at the waterline 16.9 inches

Weight RRUS-I and RRUS-II: 33-37 lbs. (dependent on the size of the boat and size of the shoes)

Hull stiffness Stiff

Capacity SD Hull up to 185 lbs.; LD Hull greater > 185 lbs. up to 240 lbs. in flat water

Oarlock adjustment 158 - 163 cm

Seat 30 cm single action stainless steel ball bearing, carbon/composite large twill seat top with high seat supports

Foot stretcher Dreher Carbon 3-way adjustable, with rowing shoes (red/black or blue/black) - choice of size and color (2012 UXRT shoe plate available as an option)

Rigger Carbon wing with white trim or the color of shoes as the trim

Color White with black trim

Construction of Hull Multi-layer carbon sandwich construction with composite core, vacuum resin infusion.

Coating Premium, white UV inhibited gel coat, made for Marine use.