I have been kayaking the Jackson Little Hero and am looking to step it up with a edgier and bigger boat. At the moment I am looking at a Wavesport Diesel. The Diesel 60 paddler weight range is 60-140 lbs and the Diesel 70 paddler weight is 120-190 lbs. I am 5'4" and 117 lbs, What size Diesel is best for me? I'm afraid the 70 may be too big and I am sitting too far on the upper side of the 60...? I mostly run III and a few IV creeks in Alaska
I am also looking at Pyranha Burn, Dagger Mamba, or Liquid Logic Remix... however I haven't been able to find any used boats for sale that fit me, which is why I am now considering the Diesel. Any input is appreciated, cheers.
How old are you, and do you expect to grow more? If so, I would go with the 70 knowing you will have a little room to grow into it and just move the center of gravity as far forward as you can..... the Burn, Mamba and Remix are excellent river runners as well.
Long time diesel owner and my advice would be the 70. The 60 is a small boat. The 80 is a big boat. You said a little something about creeks. If you'll be sliding over and around rock then I would shy away from the diesel and be thinking remix. The diesel works best in deeper water and the hard edges can grab a bit on rocks. But that makes it carve big eddies line and ferry better too.
I am 27, hopefully I won't be growing too much more! Thanks for the info. I plan on paddling creeks mostly but also bigger water when I travel down to the lower 48.
I am 27, hopefully I won't be growing too much more! Thanks for the info. I plan on paddling creeks mostly but also bigger water when I travel down to the lower 48.
Diesel is a great boat. However, have you considered a Zet Veloc? They are sporty on the lower grades and larger volume like the Diesel, but are great creek boats as well. Bomber plastic, and nice simple outfitting.
Diesel is a great boat for Class 3-4. It can handle easy creeks no problem. Once you push beyond that you'll be looking for a new boat. A little extra volume is always nice especially for big water & multi day trips!
I've got an older Diesel 65 and it is my creek and big water boat. I've found it to be good on everything from our Arkansas creeks to the Grand Canyon. I got it for a Canyon trip several years ago and spent another 18 days in it this fall. I'm 5'8" 155 and I like some edges. If you can find one it might be just the ticket for your size.
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