Parts for the Hobie are available around the world. There are dealers for Hobie Cats and parts all over the world. The 5.2 has not been built in many years (what? since the mid 80's) and the 16 is still a thriving boat and class world wide. I would beg to differ on the parts cost being higher. The Hobie 16 is also one of the driest rides of all cats. Narca construction has it's own issues, so saying soft decks area a significant issue to be concerned about is false. There are tens of thousands of old Hobie 16s still sailing strong. You want a daggerboard boat? The Hobie 18 is also a great choice.