X-factor or x-13 for small rider?

 I've narrowed down my new kayak selection to the x-factor and x-13.  My question is which would be faster and easier to paddle for a small rider, 5'6" 160lbs? From what I've read some people say the longer yaks are faster then shorter ones. I would also think the longer the harder to get around in tight spots? I see that the x-factor has a wider beam then the x-13 would that make it slower? I fish alot of lakes and like to tuck into shallow coves and Im thinking the x-13 would be better, but I might want to try ocean kayaking to.
 I currently have a pair of 9' malibu kayaks which are fun and easy to whip around, but looking for a serious kayak to fish from thats got more room and faster.
  Fuenstock

At your fly-weight size I think both boats are more than you need.  Use your size to your advantage and get something light and fast.

thanks SBD,
 I've also been interested in the new Ocean kayak T-11 and T-13. Would you happen to know where I could demo both these models?

Those are both nice yaks as well but you also might want to try out the Caper. It just might fit you right and it's a bit lighter and easier to deal with because of it's size.

Z

The T-13 has a great layout, but is still bigger than you need, but it might be the right fit if you want saltwater in the future.  A T-11 or a Caper are too short for salt, but good boats.  If I was your size I would be looking at something light and NARROW like a Scupper TW. 

A T-11 or a Caper are too short for salt, but good boats.

Tell that to Bsteves.. 

Z

I know he's been Capering for some time, but that doesn't make it a good idea.  i watched Rockhoppers in monster wind chop in the bay and it almost sank...no bueno.  For me salt is a 12 foot and over arena.

I do have 2  9' Hobie kayaks, which I have had for a few years. Great for lakes, but I do want a larger kayak thats not to slow or hard to paddle long distance thats more for fishing in the bay, rivers and possible ocean if I wanted to give it a go.  I've tried the 9' hobie in benicia and it felt like it was dragging hard and don't track very straight with some wind and strong 3-4 knot currents. I have tried the Caper and it did feel faster but more tippy than my current yaks, and the extra 2' didn't really make it feel any larger than my 9' hobie. The scupper looks interesting, but still would lean towards the t-13 or maybe t-11. I just need to find a place to demo..

I know he's been Capering for some time, but that doesn't make it a good idea. 

I know, just prodding ya buddy.

but I do want a larger kayak thats not to slow or hard to paddle long distance thats more for fishing in the bay, rivers and possible ocean if I wanted to give it a go.  I've tried the 9' hobie in benicia and it felt like it was dragging hard and don't track very straight with some wind and strong 3-4 knot currents.

You should try the Adventure if you like the Hobie way. That sucker can charge through it all. I've had mine in some pretty rough situations w/ current and all the slop and she still charges.

Z

I would agree that if you're shooting for the Bay and possibly the ocean that your best bet is the T-13 based on your preferences. In several other threads there has been the discussion about kayak size in the Bay and ocean and the general idea is that while you "can" get away with smaller boats in those conditions, it's not generally suggested.