WaterSki Magazine

Kristin
2007-12-03 11:52:37 | 2122 views | 1 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
With its role as Moomba's most economical V-drive wakeboard and ski boat, the Outback V is big on value. We found the boat to be packed with winning standard features to rival its more expensive Supra cousins, from the hand-laid fiberglass construction and foam-filled hull to the swim platform's new grip platform. Even details like standard courtesy lighting and the same beefy shocks on storage doors that Supra has show that Moomba engineers can deliver a solid boat at a price that makes V-drives available to more potential buyers. After skiing behind the tournament-worthy direct-drive Outback, our skiers felt this version satisfied the needs of recreational skiers at an amazing price.

BEST FEATURES

Safety
The sturdy, solid stainless-steel bow rails show how Moomba doesn't cut corners on quality when safety is concerned.

Updated Helm
Anchored by two oversized black-faced Beede gauges, the new dash boasts a brow for added visibility in bright sun.

TEST ANALYSIS

Wakes
Our skiers found the wakes behind The Outback V to be medium-sized but manageable for casual sets. At 22 off, there's a solid rooster tail, although skiing across the downside of the wake there's not much of a trough. Recreational skiers at longer line lengths and slower speeds will enjoy the ride. Overall: Compared to other V-drives we tested, we were happily surprised by wakes that were smaller and softer.

Handling
Bow rise: 19.9 degrees during typical acceleration.

Tracking: This boat holds a line like we'd expect from a V-drive of this size, good for nontournament sets through the course.

Turns: More than adequate for turning at speed, with the sub-21-foot size making this Outback V very manageable.

Acceleration
With standard 325 hp engine and OJ XMP 13×11.5 four-blade prop.

Vibration
Recorded with driver and passenger turning through a double-up at the sport-specific speed.

SPECS
Dry weight: 3,000 lb.
Draft: 24 in.
Storage: 87 cu. ft.
Passengers: 10
Load cap.: 1,480 lb.
Fuel cap.: 40 gal.

TEST MEASUREMENTS
Bow: 18 sq. ft.
Floor to tower: 6 ft.
Gunwale height: 2 ft.
Main lounge: 50 sq. ft.
Sun pad: 24 sq. ft.
Platform: 11 sq. ft.

For more information, please visit www.moomba.com.