I have rowed both- 16' and 14'and I just bought a 14' Willie four weeks ago. Like you it sounded like a good idea, I am always looking for "the bigger and better deal". (the BBD for short) After three drifts, I still like it... However they don't row that much better than a 16'. The overall weight savings is less than 30 pounds. This boat does turn on a dime and plugs well, but with the narrower floor, it draws more water which is painfully obvious in every tailout. The narrow floor also makes the boat prone to list if your passenger isn't centered. Forget putting two up front! The front seating is way too small. Also, the front knee locks are too low to be effective ( they are mid-shin if you are taller than 5'8") and there isn't enough room under the front tray to tuck your boots. I'll keep mine for awhile but would not recommend a 14' to anyone else.

Sorry
JTD