Hi Creek actually not that urgent just wanted to get a bit hysterical as things have gone a bit quiet and pleasant.As you know i have the 8.10 and 8.5 speed and just lovin em.My mate kindly purchased an 8.8 that he feels to fat for so i say somebodies got to ride the thing and thats me.Had a paddle on it out front in 3 foot beachies and it felt amazin . The question is why did this baby feel so much quicker than the other two,could it be just because it had never felt the water or could there be some other factor.Ive been feeling like my trusty ole 8.10 is getting heavier but could be just myself getting old n frail.Btw Bonehead has the 9.2 and 8;10 as well so hes hardly going to miss the 8.8 he donated to me. Any Creek theories on this much appreciated Cheers from The Island