below my post is the post by Bearpaulson that puckster was refering to.

when I was buying my boat, I test paddled both magic and merlin II (Bell Canoe Works)- twice the same day in moderate winds - Merlin II won hands down as it was more manouverable which was my preference - I prefer the shorter lighter boat in any case


Re: the new Bell canoe -- review?
Reply #22 - 03/13/14 at 18:26:33Alert Moderator | Quote 

Hey all,

My name is Bear. I'm working with Ted. I spent 6 years at the pre-ORC Bell Canoe managing the Accessory Program. We are Northstar Canoes. We're aiming to have the website up in late May.

Here are specs to the boats in question.
Magic: same as before
Northwind Solo: 15'6": widths 26/30/27: rocker 2.5/1.5: shear 17.5/12.5/15
Phoenix: 14'6": widths 26/30/27: rocker 3/2.5: shear 18.5/12.5/16.5
NW Solo is a slightly larger Merlin. The Phoenix is a slightly larger Wildfire/Yellowstone Solo. We expect to make molds for both boats soon, but the Phoenix has priority. We didn't expect the NW Solo to arrive so quickly.

If you have questions, don't hesitate to email me at info@northstarcanoes