WaterSki Magazine

luke
2009-10-15 13:00:00 | 612 views | 0 Comments

BOAT REVIEW

Malibu’s wakeboard flagship gets some serious upgrades for 2009. So many, in fact, the brand’s best-seller is basically a new wakeboard boat. Performance-minded riders will appreciate the new hull that’s optimized for controlled turns under power and bigger and better-defined wakes. Automotive-inspired design updates like the “cove” hull and stainless bow vents are even sleeker and more aggressive. Fully outfitted with optional MaliView, Power Wedge and maximum 1,250-pound ballast system, it’s tough to find a more technically advanced wakeboard boat.

INSIDE THE BOAT

With stylish three-color design and stainless-steel accents, the wraparound lounge belies the VLX’s hard-core reputation. Throttle men will dig the swivel driver’s seat with oversized bolster and adjustable lumbar. The optional MaliView LCD control center makes the cockpit feels like a jet fighter.

BEHIND THE BOAT

This brand-new wake-crafting machine offers a wonderful mix of pro-caliber size and not-a-drop-out-of-place shape. The ’09 Malibu Wakesetter VLX wakes are noticeably bigger and cleaner. And with the Power Wedge and rider presets, they’re completely customizable. A world-class wake all the way!

SPECS

Dry Weight: 3,600 lb.
Standard Engine: Malibu LCR 5.7L, 320 hp (Monsoon 350 hp in California)
Storage: 101 cu. ft.
Passengers: 11
Load Cap.: 1,650 lb.
Fuel Cap.: 46 gal.
Ballast: 900 lb. (one 500-lb. center tank; two 200-lb. rear tanks)

BEST FEATURES

1. Cove Hull: This cool automotive-style design detail was inspired by Malibu’s Corvette Sport-V.
2: Auto Wedge: Automatic adjustments linked to speed save fuel and get on plane quicker.
3. Keyless Ignition: This convenient option offers unlimited code opportunities and no stress about lost keys.

TEST MEASUREMENTS

Length: 21 ft. 6 in.
Beam: 100 in.
Bow Width: 54 in.
Bow Length: 64 in.
Floor to Tower: 66 in.
Gunwale Height: 30 in.
Main Lounge: 59 sq. ft.
Sun Pad: 24 sq. ft.
Platform: 12 sq. ft.