This is a good wilderness tripper. Good speed on open water, tracks well, OK glide, turns in moving water (have not had it out in any class 3 yet), good primary and great secondary stability and you can stand up to scout rapids.
You can easily put in a propack and small pack and still trim it so the gear is not jammed in the ends. If I was ordering one I ask for aluminum trim to save weight. Or look for a used Royalite.
This a better canoe than the SuperNova (not as fast). The Mad river Guide(aka solo Freedom) is nice but lacks the volume for extended trips.
I concur with the previous review. On flat water, no wind, it's am agile and quick canoe, easily kept on track. Not too shabby in a light crosswind breeze, either.
On a solo canoe trip, with a pack fore and aft, it really shows it's tracking abilities. on rivers and streams that twist and turn it is very maneuverable. I do wish that it had a sliding seat to better distribute weight, but when tripping, pack placement does the trick. The kneeling pads are great.
I suggest the use of 303 Protectant on the hull for UV protection and to keep the boat looking great.