C-Forum

I am in the market for a new OC-1, I have been paddling a Bluehole sunburst but would like something a lot shorter and sportier. I weight in at 200 + and paddle Class III+ in the Bluehole. I have been researching boats on line but would like some advice. Where is the best place to demo? Is there a place to demo Mohawk Viper, Esquif Nitro or Raven. Or any other boat that would fit the bill of River and Creek.

That's a big boat, I've got a big boat as well. The boats you are talking about a radical change from what you are paddling now. Unless you paddle on a regular basis, it might be a difficult change. Something like a Probe 12/13 or Vertige might be less of a shock. But then again you might be looking for something completely different.

As far as demoing that's a great idea, what area do you live in?

I have a probe 12 that is very stable, yet turns well and very responsive.

If you want to stay with a big boat you might consider a Mad River ME. No longer made in Royalex but is made in Kevlar by Millbrook Boats in NH. Some of the Mohawk boats are coming on strong also; the Viper is a good step up for you as would be the Probe (Probe not quite so much)

Thank you for your replies. I have purchased a Viper 12 and have a long learning curve to get through with it. What a differance between the Bluehole and the Viper