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WATERSKI MagazineLightning C4
OVERVIEW
Somebody at Centurion must have been watching the MTV show Pimp My Ride to come up with the new Lightning C4. While it has a lot in common with the V-drive Lightning, this Lightning C4 can be fully tricked out with additional upgrades, including the Sideswipe exhaust system and the Brett Eisenhauer package. Dripping with those amenities, this boat has a killer wake surfing and wakeboarding vibe.
The Sideswipe lets the driver direct the exhaust fumes to either side of the boat with a control on the dash, so wake surfers can breathe easy. The Eisenhauer package consists of a brushed aluminum tower with board racks, center and dual rear ballast tanks, edgy gelcoat graphics and four-speaker Sony CD stereo with Kicker amp and subwoofer.
The Lightning C4 isn't just about flash, though. Functional features include an available EZ Rider bolster for superb visibility from the driver's seat, a drainable cooler in the bow walkway and big personal storage. But that's not what's going to turn heads at the lake.
SKIING
As you might expect, skiing behind the Lightning C4 is definitely possible, especially if you're just looking to do some free skiing in open water. Tracking is good, the boat holds speed well, and the turns are tight and responsive for a V. As with many Centurions that offer a deeper V in the hull design, this boat is capable of handling choppy conditions and bigger lakes.
WAKEBOARDING
While you're tricking out this ride, make sure you get the optional trim tab, which refines wakes to the intermediate and advanced level. Otherwise, the transitions are steep and landing zones are short. The lippy swells have a hard pop. Dialing in the trim tab can level all that out for more perfectly shaped wakes.
LOWDOWN
• New boat for 2005 has more available upgrades than its Lightning sibling.
• Advanced riders will want the Eisenhauer package and trim tab.
• Sideswipe exhaust system designed for wake surfing on either side of the boat.
• Engine compartment under rear sun deck offers easy access to the MerCruiser power plant.
• New optional swooping tower stays sturdy with rider in tow.
• With the EZ Rider driver's seat bolster, you can see everything.
PERFORMANCE
Top Speed 43.2 mph 5,200 rpm
Accel. to 30 mph 5.8 sec. 142.6 ft.
Accel. to 36 mph 7.7 sec. 235.1 ft.
Noise Levels (db) Neutral 64 D 65 R, 36 mph 91 D 91 R
SPECS
Length 21 ft. 6 in. Beam 93 in.
Seating Capacity 10
Fuel Capacity 36 gal.
Test Prop Acme 13 x 17.5 4-blade
Test Engine MerCruiser Black Scorpion 5.7L, 330 HP
