Brig is one of the leading manufacturers of rigid-hull inflatable boats. Despite the difficult conditions at the site in north-east Ukraine, production is continuing, albeit with restrictions at present. German importer Bernd Stockmann reports that the company's management is very confident that the shipyard will soon be back at full throttle. A major trade fair appearance is therefore also planned in Düsseldorf.
Only rigid-hull inflatable boats are manufactured in three lines. A total of 19 models are now available. However, not all of them are currently available. The Brig Eagle 4 is one of the entry-level boats in the Eagle series, which comprises a total of seven sizes. They start at 3.5 metres and end with the brand's flagship, the Eagle 10 at 10.30 metres. The Eagle 4 is a further development of the Eagle 380 and has been enriching the boating world since 2020. The basic layout is the same, but the increase in length has resulted in the addition of a seat in front of the console. This means there is upholstered seating for five people.
Brig Eagle 4: Versatile and easy to trailer
Thanks to its low unladen weight of just 250 kilograms (without engine), the fully equipped boat and engine can still be towed to its destination with unbraked trailers. This means that almost any towing vehicle for which a trailer coupling is available is suitable. Thanks to its CE category C classification, the RIB is suitable for coastal sailing up to 6 Beaufort and a wave height of two metres, offering plenty of fun for the whole family on holiday.
Of course, it is also ideal for use as a tender for larger yachts. The starting price for the basic version of the boat is 12,650 euros. The engine, installation costs and accessories are added to this. There is a choice between PVC and Hypalon for the hoses. The material formerly offered by DuPont under this name is currently produced by Pennel & Flipo under the brand name Orca and is known for its excellent durability, even in strong sunlight. The robust hoses with a diameter of 0.46 metres are divided into three air chambers and, together with an electric bilge pump, which is part of the basic equipment, offer a good level of safety.
The deck layout
On board, things are clearly organised. A GRP step is glued to the hoses in the bow, which has navigation lights and two cleats. As an option, a non-slip Seadek covering is laid on the top and throughout the cockpit floor. The bow locker provides space for the anchor gear and lines and also serves as a seat thanks to the cushion. This is followed by a double seat across the entire width, which forms a single unit with the console. Cushions for two people are also installed here. Loops glued to the hoses provide a secure hold. Optional inserts are available that transform the entire bow area into a 1.23 x 0.95 metre sun lounger. This shows that the boat is by no means designed solely as a tender. The console itself is located on the starboard side, leaving a passageway on the port side.
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The steering position offers space for the engine instruments and switches. A sound system is also available on board on request. Hydraulic steering is one of the options, as is a bimini that provides shade. The short acrylic glass windscreen offers no particular protection from the wind. A very solid grab handle at the passageway is practical. The full-length rear bench seat also has a backrest cushion and two cup holders. There is additional storage space underneath. There are also two additional cleats in the aft laminate for mooring. At the rear, the hoses are fitted with anti-slip strips to ensure safe accessibility. Typical of the Eagle series from Brig are the GRP end caps, for which hoses have been laminated into the steps. Lines for board sports or inflatable fun equipment can also be mounted on the solid stainless steel mast. The navigation lights are also fitted here.
How the Brig Eagle 4 rides
The Eagle 4 is approved for engines up to 44 kW (60 hp), the shipyard recommends 29 kW (40 hp). A Yamaha F50 is bolted to the test boat. The one-litre, four-cylinder engine accelerates the boat with two people to a stable planing speed of 15.1 knots at 3500 rpm in six seconds. It takes just 14 seconds to reach the top speed of 29.7 knots. The combination therefore has a very sporty performance. The engine speed of 5400 rpm fits well into the range of 5000 to 6000 rpm defined by the manufacturer. As the Eagle 4 has a 43-litre tank fitted as standard, a remarkable range of 74 nautical miles is possible at a cruising speed of around 20 knots (with a 15 percent reserve). Those who are satisfied with 15.1 knots can even manage 82 nautical miles.
Fast full circles can be made in both directions with a diameter of three boat lengths. When manoeuvring, the diameter forwards is 1.8 boat lengths, and only one boat length backwards. The reaction after manoeuvring takes place after three seconds. Overall, good driving stability can be attested, and there are no unexpected consequences if the steering system is dislodged. The build quality and the assembly of the components leave a good impression.
Technical data
- CE category: C/5
- Length over everything: 4,00 m
- Width: 1,95 m
- Unladen weight: 250 kg
- Hose diameter: 0,46 m
- Total height: 1,25 m
- Fuel tank: 43 l
- Max. motorisation: 44 kW (60 hp)
- Test motorisation: Mercury F 50 with 37 kW (50 hp)
- Starting price (without motor): 12.650 €
- Distribution test boat: performance-ribs.com
Measurement results
Test summary Brig Eagle 4
The Brig Eagle 4 is a compact and highly transportable RIB. The possibility of using it on the coast allows it to be used on domestic waters, in holiday destinations and, of course, as a yacht tender.
Very versatile
Good and sporty handling characteristics
No compass in the basic equipment
