So Quicksilver says it responded by replacing some materials and equipment with lighter equivalents.

The resulting Quicksilver 200 RU now has an operational weight of just 15.8 kg, including oars, pump and emergency repair kit. Quicksilver says this is a reduction of around 30%.

The 240 RU has been reduced in weight by a similar percentage, to 18.4 kg.

These boats have two separate internal air chambers for safety, strong marine plywood transom and slatted floor, plus a spray shield to provide protection from water thrown up by the propeller.

A high velocity air pump, seat, repair kit and carrying bag are standard, with both boats backed by a five-year limited fabric and seam warranty.

The 200 RU will take a fourstroke or two-stroke outboard up to 4HP (3 kW) and the 240 RU up to 5HP (3.7kW).

E P Barrus Tel: 01869 363636 Fax: 01869 363610 E-mil: marine@barrus.co.uk