Finding the right Hobie MirageDrive part starts with identifying the drive itself. Similar-looking fins, masts and cables can belong to different assemblies—and a used kayak may have a replacement drive or upgraded components.
This guide introduces eight drive versions. Identification photos are coming soon. Until then, our photo-help form is the easiest way to show us what you have.
Eight MirageDrive versions to recognize
The kayak’s year is a clue, not a complete identification. Include it if you know it, but show us the actual drive. MirageDrive V1 and MD180 V1 are different drives; “V1” alone is not enough.
1. MirageDrive V1
Identification photo coming soon
An early forward-only drive. Hobie’s V1 parts reference shows a set-screw mast connection. Older assemblies and previous repairs can complicate identification, so include close-ups of the mast connections and drums.
2. MirageDrive V2
Identification photo coming soon
A forward-only generation with threaded fin-mast and sprocket connections. A threaded connection is a useful clue, but does not by itself distinguish every V2 or GT assembly.
3. MirageDrive GT
Identification photo coming soon
GT stands for Glide Technology, with roller bearings in drive components. This section refers to the conventional-fin GT; the GT Kick-Up is listed separately below.
4. MirageDrive MD180 V1
Identification photo coming soon
The early version of the forward-and-reverse MD180 family. This is different from the original forward-only MirageDrive V1. Send clear photos of the fin attachments and shifting assembly to distinguish it from later MD180 versions.
5. MirageDrive MD180
Identification photo coming soon
The later conventional-fin MD180 version, listed separately here from MD180 V1 and MD180 Kick-Up. Forward/reverse handles identify the family, but the lower assembly is important when identifying replacement parts.
6. MirageDrive GT KU (Kick-Up)
Identification photo coming soon
A forward-only GT drive with Kick-Up fins. KU identifies the Kick-Up system; it does not mean the drive has reverse. Photograph the fin pivot and attachment area when requesting help.
7. MirageDrive MD180 KU (Kick-Up)
Identification photo coming soon
Combines forward/reverse operation with Kick-Up fins. Include photos of the lower assembly and forward/reverse controls rather than ordering from the MD180 name alone.
8. MirageDrive 360
Identification photo coming soon
Provides propulsion in directions around a full circle. Include any 360 or 360XR markings in your photos and request; that additional designation matters when identifying components.
Kick-Up and Turbo are not the same thing
Kick-Up describes a fin system that can fold back when it encounters an obstruction. Turbo describes a fin configuration. Neither term alone identifies every part on your drive. Do not force a fin to pivot or dismantle an unfamiliar assembly just to identify it.
What photos should I send?
- The entire drive, including pedals and fins
- Both sides of the drive
- A close-up of the damaged component and where it attaches
- Any readable markings or part numbers
Tell us what you need to replace or what problem you’re experiencing, plus any known upgrades. If you aren’t sure which model to choose, select “Unsure.” You don’t need to identify it before asking for help.
The form lets you upload photos with your request. You can also email strsail@strictlysailinc.com with pictures attached, or call 513-984-1907.
Before ordering replacement parts
This is an identification guide, not a universal compatibility chart. Parts should be checked against the specific drive version, fin system and any modifications. Browse our kayak parts, and ask us before ordering if the fit is uncertain.
We’ll add model photos and more detailed identification notes as this guide develops.
Reference information
For additional background, see Hobie’s older MirageDrive parts diagrams and MirageDrive technology overview. Match the exact version before using any parts diagram.