Quote:

I noticed ST was not suggesting that he would do this experiment with his canoe...

IF I had that type of canoe and wanted to try to achieve what Gavia is talking about, I wouldn't hesitate to experiment at all.

The tandem I paddle solo backwards from the front seat, has the rear set ( bow seat now) removed so I can put my heaviest pack forward and balance out the load plus take a few lbs in portage weight off the canoe.
I routinely move my packs around as my food pack gets lighter and I want to trim out for the conditions.

IF putting that weight more in the middle hurts the steering/handling, he could try adjusting the packs or go back to the way it was.

IF Gavia is willing to spend a few bucks and the time doing it, I fail to see what the problem is?