I think it's just the hull shape, they don't have a steep stem and never dig in as such, I don't think weight has a lot to do with how they go, it's just a simple shape that works (the later ones this is) I have been in 23' hundreds of times too, and they are a great boat, but they are BIG and take a bit of getting used to, the 5.2KC and the 18' Sharkcat are the ideal size for general fishing, towing and storage. The 5.2 is a great boat, they tend to rock from side to side a bit, but go OK, but (in my opinion only) the 18'/5.6 Sharkcat has the performance edge, when running.