WaterSki Magazine

Kristin
2009-10-08 10:25:00 | 1806 views | 8 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
This year, Tigé let us get our hands on two new boats in their line. While the RZ4 is their top-of-the-line, high-end wake boat, the new Z1 is meant to fill a need on the other end of the spectrum — one that not enough companies really address. The Z1 is simply a great entry into the world of V-drive water-sports boats. This 21-footer is sleek, compact, relatively affordable and is an ideal way to make the jump from a stern-drive. We were impressed with how tight and responsive the Tige Z1 handled when we took it out, and it proved to throw a good wake for both novice skier and wakeboarders, depending on settings.

BEST FEATURES
Huge sun pad
It’s a pleasant surprise to have a full 22 square feet of padding on which to stretch out, especially on a 21-foot boat.

Nimble steering
We loved how quickly we could whip around in this boat to pick up a fallen skier or rider.

SPECS
Dry weight: 3,714 lb.
Fuel cap.: 38 gal.
Length: 21’
Width: 8’4”

TEST ANALYSIS
Measurements
Bow: 16 sq. ft.
Floor to tower: 6 ft. 9 in.
Gunwale height: 2 ft. 7 in.
Main lounge: 55 sq. ft.
Sun pad: 22 sq. ft.
Platform: 11sq. ft.

Wakes
For the skiers in the family, the Z1 gets it done on the recreational level. Long line at slower speeds works best. Once we filled up the optional 500 pounds of ballast, this boat proved to be a great beginning wakeboarding boat as well. The wakes are well-shaped and small enough to not intimidate newbies, although make sure to keep the line shorter than 70 feet or the wake will get too wide.
Overall: The Z1 delivers a good novice ski experience and an equally good wakeboard ride.

Acceleration
With 340 hp upgraded engine (315 hp standard) and Acme 13.5×16.5 four-blade prop
To 30 mph: + 5.5 sec., 127.4 ft.
To 36 mph: + 7.2 sec., 212.7 ft.
Top speed: + 44.8 mph, 5,200rpm

Handling
Bow rise: 20.7 degrees during typical acceleration. The curving dash is only slightly above the curve of the steering wheel, so visibility is maintained.

Tracking: This boat is pretty small, so the driver should be ready to correct a little when towing someone.

Turns: Nimble and maneuverable, we were impressed with how quickly we could change direction and pick up a fallen rider.

Vibration:
Gs crossing wake at 22 mph: -1.47
Recorded with driver and passenger turning through a double-up at the sport-specific speed.