I also chose the CLC 16 and at 230 pounds I ned a 17'. I think the Max Paddler weight and the Max pay-load can cause some confusion. When packing "Pay-load" (camping gear, water etc,) the load is carried below the water line. I have a large chest and upper body. Not so much a fat guty but a rather large frame muscular guy. I definitely don't feel safe/stable in a lot of paddling conditions because my COG is just too high for the 16'. I just posted a WTT on the forum looking to trade my completed CLC 16 for a higher volume 17'...
Anyhoo, I am too heavy for the 16' hull.
David