Tube wants to nose down into the water

[WhereBob]

This is my first experience tubing and the only tube I have. Sometimes while I am being pulled the tube feels like it wants to nose down into the water. If I lean back it lifts back up but I feel like I am fighting to keeping it from nose diving. This is a quality O'Brien 2 man tube pulling just me in it.

Anyone have any advise on why this happens? The rope is attached to the ski ring which is 4 or 5 inches above the swim deck (about 12 -14 inches above water level). I'm using a tubing rope with no floats on it. The rope attaches dead center on the tube.

Any advice appreciated

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: Tube wants to nose down into the water

I've seen it happen only twice on two different tubes. Both were under inflation.

You should be able to stand on it on the ground with very little sag in the area you're standing. Even if it feels solid to your hands, stand on it.

If you use a 12V to inflate on the water, use a hand or foot pump to firm it up.

 

[SeanT]

Re: Tube wants to nose down into the water

Inflation might be it.

We have a few different tubes and the only times they feel like nosing forward is if you are leaning forward.

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Tube wants to nose down into the water

Yup, I'd say it may be slightly underinflated, as well as just requiring you to learn back a bit on first startup. After you're moving 7-8mph or so there shouldn't be any tendency for the front to dig in.

 

[security6]

Re: Tube wants to nose down into the water

Our tubes submarine in one circumstance - I am going slow (around 10 knots) and am dragging the tube back over my wake. If I speed up then it isn't a problem.

 

[BigBoatinOkie]

Re: Tube wants to nose down into the water

I agree. Pump it up or speed it up, or both. Have fun.