: Im looking to build a kayak for speed. Anyone paddled or built or heard any
: comments about either the Northbay XL or Westriver 180?

I read an article in a magazine a couple of years ago about some guys who built themselves a skin on frame double for racing. These boats can be built very light. And you have the latitude to make them with the type of proportions that you deem best for you. I'm not one to comment on this really, since I'm not too knowledgeable about what makes a kayak fast, nor have I ever built a skin on frame. But it might be something to think about. They are very light and economical to build. And there are many who see their flexibility as a virtue, even with regard to speed, in longer distance, open water/choppy water situations.

good luck,
garland