WaterSki Magazine

MasterCraft is prepared to win over skeptics and fans alike with its all-new X-2, the next in its long line of powerful wakeboarding boats. At only 20 feet long, the X-2 is set to become the compact superhero of the wakeboarding boat industry. Packing every bit as much punch as its bigger siblings, but in a surprisingly small package, the X-2 incorporates a unique modified step hull and factory ballast to offer buyers a multifaceted wake maker that riders of all abilities can enjoy. All that, and a spacious interior that’s impressive for its class size, ensure that MasterCraft has once again designed a standout wakeboard boat.

This mini-me version of the X-Star is sure to stoke riders in 2006. We tested the MasterCraft X-2 in its stock ballast configuration, which offers about 650 pounds of wake-inducing weight in addition to the boat’s beefy 3,200-pound frame. With this setup, the swell-producing hull delivered moderately big wakes with excellent shape, assuring intermediate-level riders of a real treat without adding extra ballast. Although advanced wakeboarders will need to load up with more ballast to execute their toughest moves, one thing’s for sure: Riders of all skill levels will agree on the sweet, rampy wakes this hull churns up.

The driver of this ride is set up with all the necessities for a worry-free towing session. For one, the MasterCraft Digital Throttle Control offers instant response and smooth acceleration. And now that cruise control is standard with all MasterCraft engines, a driver’s job has never been easier. The X-2 doesn’t drive like your typical 20-foot boat — it feels more like a cruiser. In fact, one test ride will have you saying, “I can’t believe this thing is only 20 feet; it feels so much bigger.” The X-2′s tracking is rock solid and it handled double-ups quite well, although it lacked the agility of some other MasterCrafts.

It may look small from the outside, but once you step on board the all-new X-2 you’ll find plenty of space to move around and seat up to 11 passengers comfortably. There’s additional space in the bow thanks to the SuperFly bow design, which opens it up to give passengers more seating space and legroom than usual. Under-seat and sun-deck storage compartments provide 70 cubic feet of space to store your boards, gear and anything else you carry on. The MasterCraft X-2′s unique design will make sure your wakes aren’t the only things turning heads on the water.

Base price: $56,290

Length: 20 ft.

Beam: 94 in.

Seating capacity: 11

Fuel capacity: 45 gal.

Test Prop: OJ 13.7 x 17.4 4-blade

Test Engine: Indmar RTP-1 5.7L, 310 hp

Top Speed: 42.8 mph 5,100 rpm

Accel. To 30 mph: 6.2 sec. 151.6 ft.

Accel. To 36 mph: 8.4 sec. 259.2 ft.

Noise Levels (db): Neutral 59 D 60 R, 36 mph 86 D 90 R