Should I be alarmed or elated ? 2003 Mirage Classic

I've been offered a 2003 Mirage Classic that has never been used.
Should I be alarmed or elated?
Serial CCMU5577L102
Thanks

Judging by the serial # it was built in December of 01 and I'd be happy as heck if someone gave me that boat.

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Fastfish/Geoff
Kayaks Owned>Outback/Mine & Revolution/Wife

I'd be happy to be given it too, but it's a purchase using the hard-earned. So seller has advertised it as a Dec 2003 when it is a Dec 2001.
What should I look for in a drive and hull of that age please?

I have an early Classic and love it. I would check out the drive and work it back and forth. Inspect it for worn parts. Look at the hull inside and out. Best would be to take it for a spin on the water. Try to notice if it has any leaks in the hull and the drive works smooth. Otherwise, its a pretty tough and fun boat. Other on here may be able to give better advice. Good luck!

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'88 Nationals Blue
Hobie Alter Signature Model
Sail #11

Hobie Mirage Classic

I believe that year ('02 model though built in '01) had the old stainless sprockets for the Mirage Drive -- very strong, rugged Drive, but should be kept within chain tension limits (easy periodic adjustment). All Drive components are upgradable / rebuildable if necessary (although not all with the original parts) so it's not obsolete by any means. The Classics were virtually unchanged from about '00 to '05 -- the very earliest few (late '90's) were fiberglass and the latest '06 model (last year made) got a few minor cockpit upgrades. So the difference between an '02 and an '03 is negligible.

An excellent, efficient and fun kayak. With (upgradable) Turbofins it's very spunky! The only capability the Classic doesn't have is a sailing ability (all current models do). It lacks a few of the current conveniences which is no big deal. I thoroughly enjoyed mine for many years!

I'd venture to say he bought it in the year he's claiming for it's age He's probably not aware of it's serial number. Could be 2nd owner. Or the dealer could be the culprit of selling it as new after it had sit on the floor for a while. I don't think anyone that knows the serial number and how it reads would try to pass it off as something it's not.

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Yakkingaway
Portsmouth, VA

You're probably right -- that makes perfect sense. I amended my comments accordingly.