WaterSki Magazine

Kristin
2009-10-15 10:55:02 | 825 views | 0 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
One idea kept getting tossed around on the dock while we were testing the ProStar 214, and not just from the guys at MasterCraft. They and a few of our testers kept referring to the 214 as the future of slalom. By taking the tournament-level 197 and lengthening it by almost two feet, the 214 maintains very effective advanced slalom wakes while making room for up to 11 people and adding more crossover opportunity. The ProStar 214 has more room than you’d think possible on a direct-drive ski boat so family and friends can enjoy the water, and you can still get a quality pull into short line. After testing out this forward-thinking ski boat, we’re all looking forward to the future.

BEST FEATURES
Wraparound lounge
The full wraparound seating in the 214’s lounge is unique to direct-drives while still accommodating the engine box.

Dash
Ultrasleek and beautifully designed, the dash further gives you the impression that this boat is the future.

SPECS
Dry weight: 3,100 lb.
Passengers: 11
Load cap.: 1,705 lb.
Fuel cap.: 40 gal.
Length: 21’4”
Width: 8’

Test measurements
Bow: 15 sq. ft.
Main lounge: 83 sq. ft.
Platform: 11 sq. ft.

Standards Checklist
Engine: Indmar RTP-1 5.7L, 310 hp
EFI

Top features
Cruise
Ballast None
Hardware
Stainless steel
Driver’s seat
Bolster
Drain plug access
Cockpit floor

Test analysis
Location: Lake Sheen, Florida
Elevation: 100 feet
Air temp.: 84°
Water temp.: 81°
Humidity: 47%

Wakes
At longer line lengths, the 214 was a little rampy and the wakes were surprisingly large for a direct-drive, and 22 off the rooster tail were moderately big. But as we got to 28 off and above the wake settled down a lot with a very flat table and smooth trough.
Overall: Longer lengths are a little rough, but once you hit 28 off, it’s great skiing.

Acceleration
With 350 hp upgraded engine
To 30 mph: 5.5 sec., 134.1 ft.
To 36 mph: 7.2 sec., 218.2 ft.
Top speed: 45.1 mph, 5,000 rpm

Handling
Bow rise: 22 degrees during typical acceleration. Good visibility with low dash profile and low bow lines.

Tracking: The 214 held a great line throughout our testing both with and without a skier behind us.

Turns: Although it’s not as brilliantly agile as the 197, the 214 handles and turns very well.

Vibration:
Gs crossing wake at 30 mph: 1.1
Solid MasterCraft construction led to a very smooth ride.