WaterSki Magazine

Kristin
2007-12-03 10:49:32 | 588 views | 0 Comments

BOAT REVIEW
The Tige 20i is what slalom specialist pros such as Jamie Beauchesne and Chris Rossi choose to ski behind. We've seen Jamie run into 41 off behind this ski boat at home in New Hampshire — not the easiest lake to ski. It was the very first boat we tested at Possum Kingdom Lake near Tigé's new factory in Abilene, Texas, and we were immediately impressed with how roomy and deep the boat was. We appreciated how Tigé stretched this 20-footer to a 96-inch beam for good walk-around space alongside the low-profile engine box. The upholstery was cushy for passengers, but too cushy for our skiers trying to find sure footing. Still, we could picture spending more time both in and behind the 20i.

BEST FEATURES

Storage
In the back, behind the jump seat and up front, it seemed that every inch of this boat was concealing storage.

Deep Freeboard
Even with a couple people sitting up front, we didn't have to worry about bow wash as we cruised the lake.

TEST ANALYSIS

Wakes
The wakes are fairly small and soft, although frothy as our skiers took the 20i through its paces. The TAPS2 wake plate seemed to produce the best wake for our slalomers at the 2 setting, both at long and shortline slalom. Overall: This is a solid ski tow with respectable performance for high-end recreational skiers all the way up to family tournament skiers who want a little more room in their direct-drive.

Handling
Bow rise: 19.6 degrees during typical acceleration. Visibility was unobstructed throughout testing. No seat adjustments were needed for a clear view. Tracking: The 20i is pretty good while pulling a skier, and was fairly agile during our test, with its three tracking fins helping to hold a line. Turns: At low and high speeds, we found the 20i to offer solid performance, no surprises.

Acceleration
With 340-hp upgraded engine (325-hp standard) and Acme 13.5×11.5 blade prop.

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

SPECS
Dry weight: 3,268 lb.
Draft: 26 in.
Storage: 50 cu. ft.
Passengers: 8
Load cap.: 1,160 lb.
Fuel cap.: 30 gal.

TEST MEASUREMENTS
Bow: 16 sq. ft.
Floor to tower: N/A on test boat
Gunwale height: 2 ft.
Main lounge: 61 sq. ft.
Sun pad: 13 sq. ft.
Platform: 11 sq. ft.

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