Bell Canoe Northwind
Bell Canoe is no longer in business, and the Northwind has been discontinued. If you're looking for something new, check out the best touring canoes for 2024.
Reviewed by
ppine
+83
April 1, 2013
Bell has stopped making the Northwind, but it is a very satisfying boat to paddle and a good compromise between tracking and turning ability. It is light enough to portage in Royalex but able to handle both rocky rivers and the flats equally well.
Pros
- Good speed
- Manueverability
- Nice finish
Cons
- Lack of large load carrying ability
The Norhtwind is a capable boat that can handle a variety of paddling situations. The Royalex version is 16 1/2 feet with good secondary stablility and decent glide. It handles large lake waves and rapids pretty well, but not as well as the big trippers. It can handle a 5-day paddle with two people and their gear.
The Northwind is similar to a Mad River Explorer, a boat that does everything well. If you only have one canoe, this is a great choice.
