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note Paddled both extensively in the days (more) New

Forum: BoaterTalk
Re: question Head to head comparison kje New
Date: Jul 11 2008, 1:53 GMT
From: gregW

I paddled the LL Hoss and L/XL Pyranha Stretch for a couple of years, a couple of years ago
6'2", probably 200 pounds &  big legs.
Paddled on eastern easy class 3-4

Ergonomics/Outfitting:
Hoss felt like I was swallowed by the high sidewalls, yet the knee height/thigh hooks were not tall enough. Once in the boat pretty comfortable - simple outfitting. Could wear creekin shoes tightly, but much more comfy in the play shoes.
Outfitting was simple and effective. Good quality, no issues.
Stretch was roomy until the feet. Plenty of height at the knees - easy to exit without the hands. Tight on the feet with the play shoes, but definitely do-able.
This was my first experience in the "new" Pyranha outfitting compared with the mousetraps that were in the prior generation of boats - I4's,S8,... much less complicated, less plastic parts sticking into my legs, and no "loose" components.
(pretty good - not nearly as nice as current LL, similar to the WS, much better than JK/Riot,.. - major improvement)

Paddling:
Stretch is/was (maybe until the Fuse) the best river running boat that could still play reasonably well. Fast on the waves (Lower G waves that is), fast down the river. Very predictable performance, boat felt symmetrical bow to stern. Forgiving and easy to roll ( I really liked this boat) Probably paddle it anywhere other then creeking
Hoss was odd. Good to paddle down river, but was more work than I expected. The boat seemed to "stick" to the water at the bow, yet was pretty loose in the stern. Very noticeable crossing eddy-lines,...
Rolling was ok, needed more of a sweep with the long, high sidewalls.
Perhaps the bow needed a little more rocker, the stern a little less, and definitely a better transition between the two.
Play-wise, not much other then front surfing and extended time in Koont'z on LowerG. Fun enough, but more of a river runner than river play

If I had to pick a  boat between the 2, I would choose the Pyranha (though I would probably buy/try a Fuse 64 and a remix 79 1st)

my opinions

gregW

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