WaterSki Magazine

Hickman
2001-12-27 15:00:00 | 237 views | 0 Comments

Unique Performer

Recommendations:
Multi-Sport
Family

    Gekko created the G3 to appeal to  a family looking for a big, multi-purpose water-sports boat, as well as the hardcore water-sports enthusiast. To do this, they created a digital model of the running surface of their successful water-sports machine, the GTO 22, then stretched it out to 102 inches wide by 23 feet, 3 inches long. This combination of size and proven running surface is what Gekko says lets the G3 accomplish its versatility goals.       
    Much about the Gekko G3 is innovative. First, its overall looks are dramatically different. It features an oversized stern with massive storage, which gives the boat a wedge-like profile on the water. The dash is comprised of soft-touch silicone switches, which replace standard rocker switches, and the G3 has a keyless ignition with a digital touch code. This boat also features a unique lift-out cooler, an innovative tower design with built-in speakers and board racks, a giant swim platform, custom Faria gauges, a Momo steering wheel, adjustable trim plate, custom-designed hard ballast tanks and more.
    This is one of the most distinctive water-sports boats you will see. The wakes are amazingly skiable for a big V-drive. It has great tracking characteristics as well. Due to its size, you must add more than average ballast to get a response from the wake. But, take note, the G3 comes with good wakeboarding characteristics right out of the box.

UPSIDE
Dual-event capacity. Respectable wakeboarding performance and it has one of the softer wakes for V-drive slalom ability.
Keyless ignition allows worry-free trips to the lake.
The removable cocktail table is a great feature for entertaining guests.
Plenty of storage throughout the interior of the boat.
Swivel pylon cuts down on wear and tear of the rope.
Removable carpet throughout is easy to unsnap and clean.
Pop-up cleats allow for easy docking.

DOWNSIDE
The grab rail on the swim platform needs to be modified for increased comfort getting into the boat.
There is only one 12-volt adapter, and it was too far away for the fat sac pump to reach.
A deep transom makes for a big step to the swim platform.  

Length 23 ft. 3 in.
Beam 102 in.
Seating Capacity 12
Fuel Capacity 44 gal.
Test Prop OJ 13 x 14 4-blade
Test Engine MerCruiser Black Scorpion MPI, 330 HP
TOP SPEED 42.8 mph 4,900 rpm
ACCEL. TO 30 5.5 SEC. 133.3 FT.
ACCEL. TO 36 7.4 SEC. 221.0 FT.
NOISE LEVELS (db)
Neutral 69 D 69 R
36 MPH 91 D 92 R