I believe the change occurred in the 2022 model year. I understand why they may have changed the dimensions, but it doesn’t stsnd out in specifications.
The 145 model I bought mid-2000 time frame and the 140 model that my sister bought had the same spec dimensions until around 2022, but they dropped the max cap load rating of thec140 from 325 lbs to 300 lbs. (Without changes to dimensions). The mid-2000 specs were:
145: 14’6" long, 24.5" wide, 350 lb max cap, 16" deck.
140: 14’0" long, 24.0" wide, 325 lb max cap, 15" deck.
I downloaded the 2015 pdf and saw a wide range of kayak models, including the Focus models, Tempests, Zephyrs, and Tsunami Pro versions. Reviews show the focus as a criss between the rock solid Pungo rec line and the same features that morphed into an entry level sea kayak in the Tsunami line. The focus is a crossover between the Tsunami and the Tempest. The Focus features a steamlined width, less rocker than the Tempest, and a shallow v-hull with a rounded chine. The advantage is improved tracking and speed in flat conditions, but less controlability in choppy conditions. It is a beginners boat that requires advanced skills, so it apparently died unmissed.
Manufacturers list specs that I would hope reflect actual dimensions and capacities. Note that the 140 model for 2015 year show a 300 lb max cap, yet the length and width had not changed. Yet a Focus model shows a 15’ by 23.5" model with a 325 lb max cap. I wonder if the marketing manipulated numbers up or down to influence sales. The 2015 model year showed an explosion of product options including some 13.5 foot versions, narrower models and different build material.
Since 2015, the line has been stripped out. The 140 Pungo was an incredibly versitile recreational boat. Its now gone.
What puzzles me is how they essentially erased the differences and made the 145 and 140 the same width but a shorter length. My sister didn’t like my 145 Tsunami at 24.5" wide, because the deck and coaming interferred with her paddling. The reduced dimensions of the 140 matched her perfectly (she’s about 145 lbs). So they changed the width, creating two models of the same width, with one being handicapped by being 6 inches shorter. The added width shows it increases the max load capacity, rated at 325 lbs, but that is the same rating of the mid-2000 model. Why? It would have made more sense to increase the 145 to 15 feet and keep the 24.5 width, and incease the 140 to 14.5 feet and keep the width at 24 inches. That might sound like spliting hairs, but it would have improved the versatility and weight range without impacting on usability. Since I actually overloaded the 145, the length would improve the max capacity sliightly without impacting padfdle clearance. The recommendation is based on the 175 at 24 inches having equivalent stability with better paddling clearance, more footroom, and greater speed, especially in choppy conditions. Based on my paddling experience, I know where compromises could be made to improve handling without compromising load capacity. The boat would benefit all around from adding length, and wouldn’t suffer from reduced width, considering how the 175 model at 24 inches wide is designed for large paddlers (my guess is a person at 6’3" and 285 lbs with suze 13 shoes would be at home in it. The additional 1.5 inch width on the 140 and 145 technically adds nothing according to the max capacity (although it must incease capacity; specs just don’t show it), but the added width will make the paddling experience harder.
@Craig_S bought a 25.5 inch wide new model 145 Tsunami for his son. I haven’t had the opportunity to compare it to my 24.5 inch model. Craig speaks favorably about the wider version, so I wonder if the load water line remains similar, while the gunnels alone increased in width to keep the cockpit drier.
The Wilderness Systems Pungo and Tsunsmi line use the same multi-chine hull profile. The 28 inch wide Pungo through the 21 inch wide 120 Tsunami SP have the same incredible primary stability that I consider ideal for flat through moderate choppy conditions.
For anyone needing a boat for a juvenile paddlers, look for a used 135 Tsunami at 13’6" long by 23" wide with a max capacity of 275 lbs. In comparison, the 125 Tsunami is 12’9" by 26" wide with around a 300 lb max capacity. The drawback again is the width that interferes with padfling comfort of a small paddler. The 135 Tsunami is a perfect transition boat for young paddlers. The 120 Tsunami SP at 21" wide only has a max capacity of 180 lbs.
