I have an 84 Riviera soft top and love it. Yes the layout is different than the various flybridge boats, but we love that too. It handles well at all speed ranges and easily comes up on plane. It handles Lake Erie's close frequency waves with ease and has been comfortable for our family. My wife and I truly appreciate putting our kids in the aft cabin and having an engine room of privacy between us and the children. As noted though, the engine space is somewhat a PITA to get to. Other than that we see this boat lasting us until retirement.