We finally did that today. Our impression is that the difference in speed of the two on calm water is negligible. Moccasin accelerates quicker, but that's maybe due to the weight difference. Maybe it's my imagination, but it seems like the Moccasin has a slightly shallower draft when paddled empty. I think the Moccasin tracks harder when upright and needs more of a heel to turn, but feels better than the Solitude when heeled hard.
Solitude is definitely more stabil at rest. It's a better boat to fish from. It's also so comfortable, I can sit in it almost indefinitely and never get tired or sore. Clipper's adjustable bucket seat is that good.
Moccasin feels sportier. I can heel it to the rail without feeling like I've gone too far. It's set up for kneeling, which helps a little with that, but I think the difference is mostly about that low shoulder on the Solitude.
Despite their similar performance they are two very different boats. Bottom line, the Solitude is better for lakes with the possibility of significant wind. The Moccasin is better for large class 1 rivers with the possibility of significant waves.
I need to do this test again with a tripping load to see if that changes anything in the comparison. I suspect that the Moccasin will handle more weight safely. One thing is the same for sure though. I like them both more each time I paddle them.
