and I really like it. Fast (for a short playboat), forgiving, easy to roll, initiates either end by just thinking about it.  Only negative I have is that the boat is 48 gallons and I'm 190lbs which is (IMHO) slightly over the S8-225's optimal weight limit. As a result I've always got a bow or stern submerged unless my posture is perfect.

For play, this is not a bad thing - it will throw down and surf better than any other other boat I've paddled. However as a general "river runner" the S8-225 is not so great for me. Unless I'm spot on in posture I'm loosing speed and in heavy, big or funny  water I tend to be slapping braces as my submerged bow or stern catches water... A lighter (and better?) paddler may not have this problem.

I'm 6'1", sz 11 and comfy but if I were 1/2" taller there would be pain.

If you buy a used one make sure that it has the 2003 outfitting. I know several who have had MAJOR issues with the pre-2003 outfitting - especially the backband / thighbrace interface.