I've had a 154/3 since it came out and after one ride I moved the limiter strap up one hole, to make it even more wheelie-ish (aka responsive to throttle and weight position). It's a party sled, even in just a few inches of fresh. Not the best for straight up pokes on the steepest faces, but you can make it work, once you figure out how to ride it. Definitely more athletic. And I disagree about the 2.5" tracks. My backup sled is an XM w/ a 2.5 and while it's fun to spin the track, and sometimes even an advantage, but not better on balance. I care the most about track performance when it's deepest. When I'm breaking trail in the woods and just barely making it, the paddle makes a huge difference. Would never go back. My best riding buddy has an '18/165 and it's plenty fun, but not the same. It's easier to hold a sidehill on it, but that's not my highest priority I'm 5'10"/170# though, so maybe the 165 would feel like a 154 to you.