hi wonderrod

any time you get a new toy it's a win situation. as for the paddling up stream, it is relatively easy to paddle up stream with a kayak. i have SIK and do this all the time. like the beaver river, clarion, french cr. and allegheny i can do with ease. even in riffle section it can be doe with effort, but a rapid section like the yough above ohiopyle, oh boy you better be in shape.

as for standing, depends on your balance. SOT's are more stable than that SIK and can be done. getting in an out is easier in the SOT but I have no problems with my SIK. check out wind and water near butler, they have a very nice selection and sponser demos in the spring. if you want to try one out, give me a shout, i currently have 4 with 2 being for sale.