CLOSE
Sign up to get news on contests, pro events, new products and special offers.
WATERSKI MagazineGekko GTS 20
OVERVIEW
Gekko is going old-school with its reintroduction of the GTS 20. It's a practical, value-priced, closed-bow ski boat the likes of which we almost never see these days. If you and your ski partner are serious about your sets — and serious about not shelling out much more than $20,000 — this is your boat.
For an exceptionally low price, you still get impressive slalom performance, a solid drive and a custom trailer with brakes. With a length of 20 feet — which includes the platform — and a width of 90 inches, our test GTS only needed a MerCruiser with 315 horsepower to whip up one of the fastest hole shots around. It's an exhilarating sensation that redefines “nimble.” Other features that set the GTS apart include the molded-in swim platform, a curved Plexiglas windscreen, big bow storage, a removable rear bench and low-profile gunwales. A boat like this can fast open up the world of direct-drive skiing to the masses.
SKIING
For years, Gekko has impressed our test team with the terrific tracking of its ski boats. The GTS 20 stays true to that performance, with a V-shaped entry and a keel that sticks to a line very well as the skier cuts back and forth. Spray isn't a factor in these soft, small slalom wakes that are attackable at 15 off through shortline, but with a slight bump at 22 off. This workhorse ski boat is perfect for the high-end skier on a budget or for someone looking to get started in the sport. Better yet, the GTS is tailor-made for producing great acceleration without needing an engine upgrade.
LOWDOWN
• The GTS 20 aims to be a steal of a deal for avid skiers.
• A uniquely low MSRP of $20,995 includes what you need to get it to the lake (a trailer) and get it going (a 315-horsepower MerCruiser).
• Tracking from the V-shaped hull is a real standout.
• Interior space favors two skiers out for a morning slalom set.
• Plexiglas windscreen replaces traditional windshield.
PERFORMANCE
Top Speed 45.7 mph 5,100 rpm
Accel. to 30 mph 4.1 sec. 97.7 ft.
Accel. to 36 mph 5.3 sec. 155.5 ft.
Noise Levels (db) Neutral 72 D 68 R, 36 mph 98 D 97 R
SPECS
Length 20 ft. Beam 90 in.
Seating Capacity 6
Fuel Capacity 25 gal.
Test Prop Acme 13 x 13 3-blade
Test Engine MerCruiser 350 Mag 5.7L, 315 HP
