BKC PK13

Size and Weight

The BKC PK13 measures 13 feet / 396 cm in length, 33.25 inches / 84 cm in width, and stands at 15.75 inches / 40 cm in height. 

It has a dry weight of 80 lbs / 36 lbs, which is relatively light compared to other 13-foot kayaks such as Ascend’s 133x which weighs in at 125 lbs / 57 kg. You will need help if the kayak is loaded, but unloaded, you can probably get it on top of your car or in the water without much of a struggle. 

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Capacity

The BKC PK13 has an impressive maximum payload of 550 lbs / 249.5 kg, which is the same as the Ascend 133x. It is significantly more than other kayaks of this size like the FeelFree Moken which can only take 400 lbs / 181.4 kg.

This kayak can accommodate the largest of paddlers including their gear without too much hassle. However, some users report that after 400 lbs / 181.4 kg, some speed is sacrificed. 

Features

The hull of the PK13 is a single-piece, rotomolded High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Sturdy and built to last, it can take a beating when you are launching or dragging it across the ground.

At the bow is a rubber-lined, comfortable handle for easy carrying. Right behind that is a triangular front storage system secured by removable bungee cords. This storage is not a through-hull storage, unlike some other models in BKC’s PK series. 

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Further down the boat is the BKC PKDRIVE pedal drive system with an instant reverse function. 

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Note: Brooklyn Kayak Company also offers the PK13 with a 12V, five-speed trolling motor instead of the BKC PKDrive pedal system. 

The pedal cover comes with a built-in cupholder and a small tray to stash your tackle and other knick-knacks. 

The PK13 has nine scupper holes. Six are located in the cockpit, one in the front storage area, and two in the rear. 

Along the sides are two pre-drilled accessory mounting brackets where you can fit additional rod holders, fish finders, and all that stuff. The deck of the cockpit has diamond-shaped grooves to provide some extra friction if you choose to stand in your kayak to cast or fish. 

The metal-framed, mesh seat is set on a rail system so you can adjust the position of the seat fore and aft which enables anglers of all heights to be able to reach the pedal drive. The angle of the backrest is also adjustable if you want to lean more forward or back. 

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Like most BKC kayaks, there are two side carry handles for you to lift the kayak on both sides. On the left side of the seat is a lever for you to control the rudder system, and below the seat is a small storage area where you can stash something flat like a tackle box. 

The PK13 comes with three flush-mounted rod holders with covers to keep the water out. Just behind the seat is a round storage hatch with an included dry bag. This hatch is a through-hull so you can lift the bag and access more storage space in the kayak. 

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The rear storage area is huge and can fit BKC’s 40-liter or 20-liter cooler easily. The area can be secured with the removable bungee tie-down system. 

Near the stern is the rudder disc. If you move the lever by the left side of the seat, it rotates the disc which in turn, controls the rudder. 

You cannot place anything heavy on the disc or it will not be able to manipulate the rudder, which cuts down on some storage space. The rudder is flush with the bottom of the boat, so you won’t have to worry about hitting a log or reef with it. 

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Right at the back are the second rubber-lined carry handle and the single drain plug to remove any water or clean the inside. The rudder is attached to the back with a pin going through the kayak. 

The PK13 comes with a two-piece paddle with three holes to adjust the degree of feathering. 

Performance

The BKC PK13 is built for all-day comfort, and they’ve certainly succeeded. With a wide, stable deck, you can stand up in the kayak to cast, fish, or simply stretch your legs. 

The kayak tracks well in the water but because of its size and weight, it isn’t as easily maneuvered as kayaks that are shorter and lighter. 

The PK13 moves at an average of three miles an hour, and you can get it up to four or five if you work really hard! 

Overall, the PK13 is a mid-range kayak that will be an excellent choice for someone looking for all-day comfort. The ample storage room can also accommodate plenty of gear for an overnight trip.

ALSO SEE: Best Fishing Kayak. Reviews and Ultimate Buying Guide for Kayak Anglers