buying decisions
 

Well, as some know, I have pretty much narrowed down my search and was just about ready to pull the trigger on either a Tarpon 140 or Tarpon 160 (for nearly the same price considering the details of each offer), then along came this:

2008 Cobra Navigator XF fully equipped with seat, paddle,anchor,mounts,rope, live bait bucket, battery, case, rod holders, trolley for $700.

I have not got a chance to demo the Navigator, but am told it is better designed for the taller user than the Explorer.

Had not been for this latest offering, I would only have to choose between the Tarpons (beleive it or not, the Tarpon 160 would end up costing about $200 less than the Tarpon 140.

If it were only a matter of price, then of course the Cobra would be the pick as I think I could get by with a foam tower carrier rather than a hard rack Thule making the price comparisons: $750 - $1400 - $1200 with the WS models probably tracking a little better, faster e.t.c.

what to do, what to do........???

Re: buying decisions
 

Okay in the FWIW department. I made a deal on the Cobra Navigator XF mostly because it came fully equipped and the owner convinced me it is a decent boat. It has been well taken care of. It comes with a 5 gal live bait tank which usually is mounted behind the seat in the well, but he also made a very sturdy velcro mount in the cockpit which works well provided I am not wearing large boots or something. (I usually use surf booties anyway). I have read many reviews and despite a small number claiming it has questionable secondary stability, I am of the opinion after talking with the owner it will not pose a problem. He says it is "fast" and tracks well. Again, this is subjective and I am not overly concerned as I wont be making any long treks anyway and will stay in bays and nearby coastal kelp. I could not pass it up given he is providing most everything I need for now i.e. paddle, seat, trolley,anchor,bait tank, battery, case, switch, charger, pfd. The weight is about 45 lbs and is 31 inches wide which was a consideration given my intent to transport rooftop on my Hyundai Sonata using a Hobie Quick Strap Rack system. I like that as the tie straps are sewn in to the foam pads. Oh...also negotiated a pretty good deal and am saving nearly $900 over my original intended purchase of a Tarpon 140 and Thule Hard Rack.

Anyway, its a done deal.
:beatdeadhorse5:

Re: buying decisions
 

Congrats on your new ride James. Hope it works out for you.

Re: buying decisions
 

Congratz from my side as well, best of luck for your new kayak hoping your would be enjoying the ride....