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I'd advize AGAINST buying a RPM.... If you can get your hands on one to learn your first rolls in the pool, go for it. However, if you want to get into modern day kayaking and learn all the fun new tricks going on today, there is no reason to begin your boating life in an antiquated design.
Id just find whatever playboat is right for you (size, weight, budget etc...) and get that (or narrow it down and ask the buzzz again). Alot of people might tell you that playboats are too edgy to learn in and hard to roll. True, they are a bit harder to roll, but you'll get it....it might add one day to getting your first roll and dialing it.
The advantages greatly outweigh the cons here...., First, a short, flat bottomed playboat will be more stable, turn easier and make you more comfotable paddling downriver (its easier to keep straight than a longer boat) on the class 2 you will be learning on. You wont be paddling any creeks or class 4/5 anytime soon (we should hope) so not having a big boat is not an issue. What you will be doing is getting your roll, getting on easy down river runs and going to friendly playspots. This is when you will be glad to have your playboat because you will be learning the basic play moves faster than you think. Playboating is an ideal way to hone your new rolling, ferrying and eddy catching skills in a non-threatening environment. If you had an RPM at the playspot you'd be bummed, not get in there, and your progression will be slowed....plus you would just want a new 'play' boat so ya might as well start out with one.... Basically, a new design will not limit your progression the way an old one will....
Also, if you really are a kiwi, you're predisposed to being a sick, fearless paddler (its in the water or something), so now worries there.
Good luck...
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