As I understand it, the Pygmy is suposed to be able to handle a 200 lb. paddler. The Tchaika is designed around 160 lbs. The extra girth should decrease the chine radius and help turning too.

: Mike,

: First of all, thanks for providing such a detailed review!

: From the info I got over the phone from Pygmy, I thought the beam was
: smaller, at 21.5 or so, (very similar to my WS Tchaika).

: Is the 23" beam a little to beamy for the shorter length?

: Also, did your boat have both fore and aft bulkheads?

: Thanks and thanks again!