I think that the 5.2 has more floatation than the Hobie 17. I am not sure but I hear people talk about worrying about overloading the 17 while the 5.2 can handle alot of weight.

I would look around for a 5.2, granted they are no longer made but neither is the Hobie 17. THey are once again canceling production on it. The 5.2 looks a little more modern and you don't have to worry about the 17's bad sails.