We’ve been putting the prototype aluminum break-down frame to the test. The verdict? Works great on our small and large boats. It is really nice that the seat and oar towers are adjustable to fit any rower. It breaks down into 7 pieces (it even fits inside the cab of our truck) and is really light at 24 pounds plus seat and oarlocks.
See, it fits inside the truck
We found that by using tubing for the break-down joints, it was a bit hard to disassemble. It goes back together easily, but taking it apart is tough. So, the design has been improved by using machined fittings at all of the joints. The redesigned fittings should eliminate any breakdown hassles and provide additional strength.