So, I currently have a wonderful Ride 135 that has been out on the water a grand total of 3 times. It's a great boat, but I'm starting to wonder if it isn't a bit too much for me - at 6' and 140lbs, I'm sure the yak doesn't even know I'm on board! I also have ongoing medical issues that make roof-topping the 83lbs of yak a little tricky, and even with a cart it is hard going to drag it to the water. I really like it on the water and don't like the thought of selling it, but I have to consider the practicalities of loading and moving it around.

I've been contemplating downsizing the 135 and getting something lighter instead. I figure with my build and weight, I'd be more suited to a Tarpon 120 or OK Trident 13. What I'm not sure about is whether the reduction from 83lbs to 60lbs would make a noticeable difference in roof-topping; the 135 is my first and only yak, so I have no experience with anything else.

I'm planning to attend the ACK Demo Days that are coming up, so that I can paddle a few different models and feel the weight difference for myself. Any recommendations for models to try out?

Also, does ACK trade-in used yaks against a new purchase? I know I could sell/trade the 135 in the classifieds, but I'm wondering if a trade-in would be easier and faster.

If you like your Ride but want something lighter try the Commander series. It's a lot more stable and you might like it for fly fishing.

Getting a trailer not an option?

I'll definitely try to get some time in a Commander - I've been curious about the hybrid design.


Sadly not, medical bills have meant that I'm lucky to still have the yak! If I had the cash, getting a hitch and a small trailer would be the best option for keeping the Ride. As it stands, I will be car-topping for the foreseeable future.

A 135 will sell quickly so you may get more value going that route. An advantage to a trade in may be less taxes on the new one though (assuming it's like cars)...

I have an Ultimate, which is also a hybrid (like the Commander Todd mentioned). Great boat as well, and theres a new model coming out that is pretty sweet!

You know I am kind of in the same boat except opposite of you. I'm 6'3" 245 and prorbably really a touch to big for my Ascend FS10 sit in that I have used for 3 years now. Im looking to upgrade and not down grade. Only issue I have though is with the upgrade I have to make sure I try and keep the yak as light as possible because I am also limited to car topping as well until I can afford a hitch and a small trailer. So i need a kayak with a large weight capacity that is still light weight. Might be hard to find.

You should try a santa cruz raptor. Nice and stable and weighs 64 lbs. Has a great seat and a super cool cart that just slides over the bow and turns your yak into a wheelborrow

http://youtu.be/qHttmdifr_8
You didn't mention which roof rack you have. I have a yakima rack and I use the boatloader assist bar for loading my Jackson Cuda 14 and it is pretty easy by myself.

There is a Jet Ski trailer for sale over at TKF for $250. Might be a cheap way to keep your current kayak? I have the Ride 135 and have found it to be a very versatile kayak.

I would definitely do the "demo" to see how much easier it is to get a 60#ish yak on the roof vs. the Ride. I am going to bet it's easier but not significantly. A trailer has it's obvious advantages - float the boat on and off at ramps, can keep the yak on the trailer "ready to go", etc. Disadvantages include additional maint, ongoing license fees, possibly storage - if you don't have a trailer launch area, you still have to unload and cart to the water, etc.

Another option may be: Sell the Ride and that would likely fund something like a Pesc 12 AND a trailer......and maybe a few bucks left over for rigging/license fees/etc. However, before you get something else, make sure it will work for you....for example, the Pesc is a good boat but you may have been spoiled by the Ride and not willing to accept less. Good luck with your decisions and great to see you so excited about the sport.