Yeah, the Crossfire was great---in its day---some other more modern boats...
I paddled a Crossfire when it first came out---and yep, it was a great leap forward. But if you're new to kayaking, you might be better served by getting a boat that is a little more modern---incorporating a lot of big leaps forward in design that have occured since the Crossfire came out (in the early 90s!).
If you like a longer, more voluminous, more forgiving modern river runner, here's a few to check out:
Pyranha H:3 (no longer in production---its replacement is the Burn---also great to check out)
Pyranha Karnali
Wavesport Diesel
Dagger Mamba
Liquidlogic Hoss/Lil' Joe (no longer in production)
Liquidlogic Remix
Jackson Hero series
You'll appreciate the shorter length and "edges" on these boats (some are more pronounced than others) than a "displacement" (rounded) hull like the Crossfire. A boat that's 7 to 9 feet will perform a lot different than an 11 footer like the Crossfire (not that long boats don't have some advantages!).
The best advice is just to get out a try as many different boats---and kinds of boats---as you can. Check out a local paddling club (is there one at your school?)---or go to a shop that has on-water test paddling available.
You might also try some "river running playboats"---shorter (usually in the 6 1/2 to 7 foot range), stubbier looking things that open up a lot more possibilities for playing and having a ball on the river. If you're an aggressive beginner, these boats can serve you well.
In short (sorry this got long)---kayaking is so cool that almost any boat can be fun to paddle in the beginning. But don't lose your heart too soon---you've got many, many great choices these days.
And definitely check out the used-boat market to get you going. Good luck!
