WaterSki Magazine

Kristin
2009-10-08 10:31:40 | 365 views | 0 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
The Moomba Outback sports a sharp new gelcoat color scheme and a choice of four different graphics for 2008, but it was the wake — or lack thereof — that really impressed us during our slalom run, especially at line lengths 28 off and shorter. According to our resident swerve masters, the Outback boasts a very respectable high-end slalom wake — flat and soft, with minimal spray at short line lengths. And with a standard 325 hp Indmar Assault V-8, there’s adequate power. Our acceleration tests documented 30 mph hole shots that averaged just over five seconds. That should make most skiers happy, especially at a base MSRP below $30,000.

BEST FEATURES
Sound system
With the new iPod/MP3 connector in the glove box, we find-tuned our own floating soundtrack.

Cruise
We found the Simple Cruise system, which comes standard, intuitive and easy to manage with a single button.

SPECS
Base price: $28,995
Dry weight: 2,750 lb.
Draft: 22 in.
Storage: 47 cu. ft.
Passengers: 10
Load cap.: 1,400 lb.
Fuel cap.: 28 gal.
Length: 20’6”
Width: 7’11”

TEST MEASUREMENTS
Bow: 16.5 sq. ft.
Floor to tower: 6 ft. 6 in.
Gunwale height: 2 ft. 4 in.
Main lounge: 57 sq. ft.
Sun pad: 12 sq. ft.
Platform: 31 sq. ft.

WAKES
For the boat’s relatively low cost, it’s tough to beat the wake performance of the Outback. Our skiers thought this was an impressive high-end slalom wake — flat, low and soft. Overall: The wakes compares well to other tournament ski boats, although it’s not world class. There is a 22 off bump that was relatively big, though not overly hard, but 28 off is good and 35 off is really good.

ACCELERATION
With standard 325 hp and OJ 13×11.5 three-blade prop
To 30 mph: 5.4 sec., 132.3 ft.
To 36 mph: 7.3 sec., 228.9 ft.
Top speed: 43.2 mph, 4700 rpm

HANDLING
Bow rise: 21 degrees during typical acceleration for skiing. The ski mirror was mounted a bit low and required the driver to look around it. Limited headroom at observer’s seat is more pronounced during acceleration. Tracking: The Outback holds a respectable boat path for skiing. Turns: At high speeds, the Outback turned fairly well with no tendencies to slide, although it was a little stiff. The radius seemed a touch wide.

VIBRATION
Gs crossing wake at 22/30 mph: 1.6/1.1 Nothing rattled, whistled or swayed.