I think Hobies are better than the Natives in the pedal dept. The leg motion you use is back and forth instead of circular. You have more strength in the back and forth and won't get fatigued as fast. True you can't back-up but you I've rarely needed to do that and just use my paddle when I do.

Bassyaks have electric kits you can add to most kayaks and they are very cool indeed if you want to go that route.