Hi Pete
I have built both a 17 LT and a regular 16. The LT has lower side panels through the entire length of the boat. The front decks have the same radius, but the rear differs. In the plans CLC claims they're the same, 24" (or at least they used to), but in building the 17 LT, it came out around a 30" radius (based on the rear bulkhead drawings in the plans). The combo of the lower side panels and flater rear deck radius does make for a significantly lower rear deck. The beam of the LT should be about 1/2 - 1 inch less due to the lower sides. All in all, unless you need the increased space and load capacity, I think the LT is the more enjoyable kayak.

David