Why not the 26M?
FrankThe 26M looks very sharp, both the exterior and interior. I like the blue hull (that's offered as an option but it's also something that over time may not be worth the maintenance of because of the issue of oxidation).The woodtrim, carpet and the cushions give a nice look and feel. The 26M does have a rotating mast and dagger board that should improve sailing performance. The trailer is built heavier (in part to accommodate the additional weight of the boat (about 150 lbs.) and motor, which to get the same motoring performance I suspect will require the optional 70 HP.The negatives are: The head is just about useless (you need to back-in and don't try to turn around, no headroom,no sink and it's forward so not quick to get to from cockpit especially if the table is in place. If people are eating you're out of luck. Also I prefer the head so it vents out quickly, not through the entire cabin.The galley has less working counter space and under cabinet space. To cook on the stove you are kneeling on the seat. I don't need a mirror in galley-- just something else to clean which has no real function and to me looks out of place. Also, you will lose the ice cooler, the one they plan to put in the 26M is useless (too small and not removable).The cabin is darker than the 26x-- even though it has two rows of windows, the size of lower windows are not as large and you lose light because of the head blocking light from front and starboard side.With the 26M you lose the walkthrough transom-- Harder to board from dock, water or when on the trailer- you will need to board from the side.The cockpit has less usable foot space because of the step up into the cabin. The centerboard is a feature I like since I don't know where I will bring the boat in the future (other lakes, bays or rivers) I don't want to worry excessively about what may be hidden below the surface. I like the idea of a kickup centerboard. Finally, the fact that it is just coming into production I'm not sure they have worked out all the bugs. The 26X meets my requirements and has the advantage of being improved on over time. While I may lose a little on sailing capability, I'm not that good to notice or be concerned with the difference in sailing capability at this stage of my boating career. My wife doesn't like the interior colors of the 26X (thinks they are dated) but we can correct that ourselves.Good luck with your decision, I spent over a year dreaming and researching before I signed on the dotted line. Let me know if you need any other info.