I asked a question in regards to the Ascend FS12T kayak and a few people have said they were "slow" due to the width of it. So I went around and did some research and I'm even more confused. Everyone seems to love the Jackson Cuda 12 and I've rarely come across anyone saying that it's "slow". WS Tarpon 120 seems to be another favorite and I've heard it's a "faster" kayak. The WS Ride 115 is another well loved yak and again I don't hear people saying that it's slow. I've listed the widths of the 3 kayaks that are "faster" than the Ascend and one is the same width, one is an inch smaller, and another is two inches wider. What makes the Ascend so slow? Is it because it's not a WS, Hobie, Jackson, etc? Or am I missing something?

Ascend FS12T: 31"
Jackson Cuda 12: 31"
WS Tarpon 120: 30"
WS Ride 115: 33"

Width can definitely change the stability of a kayak, but the shape of the hull of two different boats with the same width, can have two vastly different speeds.

I have the fs12t and can get that thing moving. It all comes down to form and strength. But I can see how it is considered slow. It does take a little work to getting it rolling, but there's nothing wrong with a little bit of a workout.

Slow isn't really a bad thing.
I agree with peeps that says the 2015 Ascend F12Ts are slow.
But, I also agree with Rhino. The fs12t hull design just doesn't allow it to glide or cut through the water like a ride 135, Cuda 14 or a Tarpon can. Too much drag perhaps?
Those other yaks have simular widths but completely different hull designs.

Hull design, and how the load is balanced out also makes a world of difference.
I've got a Wilderness Systems Commander and I can tell the difference right away in the speed just by adjusting the weight of gear in my kayak fore or aft.
Kayaks with adjustable seats that slide to balance out the weight are made that way for a reason.

It doesn't matter which yak I'm in, with my motor their all slow.

Kayaks are job specific. Imo more so than any other type of boat. Make a list of the important things to you, possibly speed or stability etc. After that try kayaks that a cell in those areas. All the kayaks mentioned above are solid but may or may not perform the way you want them too. I am happy to show you the diffrence between my santa cruz raptor vs the ascend.

Assuming that none of them have a rudder, the Tarpon will probably be the fastest.

Fast or slow are relative terms. It has a lot to do with both skill and perception. An efficient paddle stroke and hull design can make a difference though.