How it handles on flat water is nearly irrelevant. What you need to know is
if you can handle it in rough conditions should you get caught in them. Now
is the time to find that out, not when you're in the middle of a squall or
thunderstorm. Most of CLC's designs are wide and stable, providing the
illusion of security to a new paddler, especially on flat water. They don't
handle the same when it's windy and rough. Do what you like, but I have to
state one more time that buying a tandem for solo use is a REALLY bad idea.
Do yourself a favor and ask this question on the Kayak Building Bulletin
Board and the Kayaking Technique Bulletin Board at www.kayakforum.com and
get some additional opinions.

I understand your enthusiasm to start building (my third boat is nearly
finished), but now is not the time to rush.

--
Regards

Brian



bkr wrote:

So I went out and demo'd some CLC boats on Wednesday. What a wonderful
experience. I'm really looking forward to getting one of these boats
and beginning the building process. I was hoping that my demo would
help me decide for certain that I wanted a single versus the tandem, but
the sport tandem was such a great ride for me that I decided that I
would go ahead and get it. Now I get the privelege of starting to think
about my customizations. I've been reading some web pages that show a
lot of really cool hints for the build and nice customizations such as
artwork and names etc.

As, I was saying, I've decided on the sport tandem which is 22' long and
remarkably easy to control (in calm seas) by myself. I was concerned
that paddling it alone would be very difficult for me, as I'm a novice
paddler, but during the test, it felt great. I will be taking some
classes once I have completed the boat, so I can learn how to roll the
thing (yes it can be done apparently) and in worst case scenarios how to
re-enter in deep water safely. Any suggestions anyone has on classes,
instructors, or just general boat building would be more than welcome.

Wish me luck.

bkr