I bought my PA 17T last year and had the best summer of fishing sailing and overall fun of my whole life. Last year I put over 130 miles on my boat in the few short boating months we have in Montana and this year when the reversing drives came out I was simultaneously impressed that Hobie had done it again and lamenting that I didn't have a crystal ball last year that would have allowed me to see into the future. The new drives are available for purchase and while they are pricey I contend you would only need one. I spend most of my time by myself anyway and moving backwards for me isn't a big thing. For anyone wondering out there, the 17T is very easy to handle alone, fast, maneuverable and incredibly stable, beaching in the breaking surf could roll you but that's about it. I have been in some really high winds (20+MPH) and big waves. I've taken a lot of waves over the bow and the side and so long as you lanyard your gear there's nothing to worry about. Water runs right out the drive wells. If you bring along a buddy powering through high winds and waves is really astounding. I've added an xi-5 trolling motor with optima battery, fish finder, mini down rigger, and lots of other gear like bluetooth speaker (waterproof), cooler with beer and food etc. and the extra weight and gear is very manageable... and I'm not a stud. I imagine the 12's and 14's are easier to store and haul around but spend some time on a 17T and you'll be glad you made the move. I'm up to 200 miles now and hope to get another 50 in before the end of the season. Good Luck
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