Loading... Please wait...The Kong Hydrobot is a great tool for modern canyoning. It can be used both with one or two ropes and it allows for easy adjustment of friction, even when loaded.
The charateristic which makes Hydrobot unique is the possibility to use it as auto-locking device in case of emergency ascending on one or two ropes (in connection with a Prussik knot).
The possibility of overturning the central bar (fixed by a screw) allows the use by left-handers. The Kong Hydrobot is the only descender fitted with a magnet to retain the mobile bar!
works on rope 9-11mm
Wweight - 170grams
Posted by Sules Sin on 24th Jun 2011
All the little things make this a great abseiling/canyoning device.
Easy to get on and off the rope without losing the device (I've previously been using an ATC mostly).
The magnetic lock keeps it from jingling.
Much lighter than the rap rack.
Definitely recommended.
Posted by Warrick Lee on 17th Jun 2011
The Kong Hydrobot is one device I think everyone should have in their kit. It is easy to use and works well on single and double ropes.
With some training (and thought) can be used as way more than just a descender!
Works well in belay and haulling systems.
Posted by Canyoner on 4th Jun 2011
Having used 8's, rap racks, pitstops, ATC,s and even piton brakes in canyons this device is a joy to use. Simple setup, graet descent control when rigged correctly and so easy to remove from the rope at the bottom. I have used this device on dual 9mm and providing you use correct technique its no problem even with a heavy pack. I wouldnt use anything else in a canyon!
Posted by Canyoner on 30th Jan 2011
This descender is great in every way: it is easy to set up, easy to use and, best of all, easy to release. - No more screwing around with rap racks when you're in a pool at the bottom of a waterfall!
It's also very light, can be used left or right handed and (as mentioned in another review) doesn't make any annoying "jingling" noises while you walk.
The only thing you need to beware of is the rope diameter; Kong claims it works for 6-12mm ropes, but I wouldn't use anything less than 10mm.
Posted by David Ramsbottom on 3rd Dec 2010
Excelent decent control characteristics and does not twist the rope. Handles thick rope with a single pass over the bar and for 8mm rope a double loop over the bar using both gates. At the base of a pitch you just move the bar and slide the rope out. Stays attached so can't be dropped on the hard rock or for a canyon to the bottom of the pool. Best decender I have used over 30 years of caving.
Posted by Tom on 22nd Nov 2010
I have one of these I purchased elsewhere when I was working as a guide. They are a specialist bit of kit obviously for canyoning and fit the needs of canyoning very well:
Lightweight
Low profile
Able to undo from rope without unclipping device
Lock-off capability
Double or single rope
Able to change friction on rope
Can be used left or right handed
Super fast connection and disconnection from rope
has a nifty magnet to hold the bar in place so you don't get that annoying jingle jangle when walking, like with a rap rack. It is smaller and lighter than a whaletail or goldtail and less hassle than a rap rack.
It can be rigged in a number of ways to heavily increase the friction - say if you are abseiling with a heavy pack.
Only downside is the price, compared to something like an 8 or an atc it is pretty exe. But if you are doing a lot of canyoning its pretty neat.