Hi, I'm 6'-6" and 185 lbs. The Chesapeake 17 fits me just fine. I don't think I'd go to an 18' hull that wide at your weight--it won't paddle as well unless you've got an "expedition load" onboard. I'd recommend the 17 over the LT 18.

I'd like to build something like the LT 16 for my wife some time.

Shawn

> New to the board. Getting ready to build a couple of boats for my wife and
> I. Got it narrowed down to the Chesapeake and Chesapeake LT. We plan on
> doing mostly day trips and a couple of weekends here and there so I am
> aware that the LT is probably the better choice. In fact the LT 16 will be
> the boat for my wife. As for me, 6'3" 195 lbs.,I am concerned about
> proper knee bend in the LT 17. I had a chance to sit in one the other day
> that is not quite completed and in fact did not have the seat installed
> yet. I fit fine but felt that if the seat was in and with knee padding
> installed that my legs would be pretty straight. Any input from the
> crowds? Also, how much manueverability would I lose if I popped up to the
> LT 18, which I think is a little deeper? Thanks.