challenger 230 w/315 hp

[robertm]

Anybody have one? Or ridden in one? What do you think of the power?

We are strongly considering moving up to a larger boat after this season and I really like the bigger challenger. I'd much prefer to stick with the two non sc engines though. I like the idea of no sc to deal with, better gas mileage and cheaper gas. It all adds up.

I'm just a bit concerned if it will be powerful enough. Our 180 carries about 9lbs per hp (dry). The bigger boat would be about 11.6lb/hp. Definitely not going to be the rocket the smaller 180 is. I don't care about top end at all. If it will do 35 loaded up I'm content. I'm more concerned about being able to pull a wake board/ tuber with 8 people/gas/coolers/etc on board. And obviously being able to get up on plane with a full load of people and gear.

We'd probably go with the SP model. The local dealer has one on the show room floor and I'm afraid its ruined me ;-)


Thoughts? I've got 6+ months to research/pontificate/change my mind and then change it again. So no hurry :cheers:

 

[rookie101]

I have not heard from or read anything about the 230 with the 310 package, but everyone with the 310 20' speedsters, and Utopias love the power. If memory serves me correctly Kustomkarl mentioned that he has raced the 430hp speedster in his 310hp and there was very little difference.

The best way to find out would be to talk the dealer into a water test. I would like to hear someones firsthand experience with the big Sea-Doo and the 310hp engine combo. When you compare it to other manufactures boats of similar size and weight, even at 310hp the Sea-Doo typically has better power to weight ratio.

Aaron:cheers:

 

[robertm]

49 views and no one has any input on the 315hp challenger 230? Maybe that in itself says something. hmm..

I just noticed the '07 & '08 230 wake models both came with the 315hp option. This would be the ideal choice for me. It would get me the perfect pass and ballast that the '09 SP model doesn't come with. Plus you get the tower speakers, PA and wake board mounts. Unfortunately the '09 wake doesn't come with the 315hp motor option.

 

[Craigmri]

Robert,

I'm gonna guess that the 310hp package is still a very satisfying performer. Remember the 310 package has no superchargers so less is sometimes more. Especially in terms of reliability and maintenance.

Are you a speed demon? If you lust for more power then maybe the 430 is for you. Heck the 510 must be sheer overkill.

I had the 310 package in my U-205 and I felt it was excellent. Obviously the 230 is a much larger vessel but I think it'll push it nicely while still getting great economy.

Craig

 

[robertm]

I'm not looking for top speed. Honestly if the boat will do 35-40 loaded up and get on plane I am totally happy.

Since no one chimed in I started looking for articles last night. Found this one on the '09 SP model with 315 hp:


http://www.trailerboats.com/output.cfm?ID=2139607

Cutting and pasting from the article:

"During sea trials with two aboard, and in relatively calm conditions, our 310 hp rig topped out at 44.3 mph, and accelerated to 30 mph in a scant 5.9 seconds. And even when loaded with seven passengers, full fuel, gear and a large double tube in tow, we still had ample power to hop on plane and cruise without maxing out the engines."

Also found this one on a 2007 wake with 315hp:

http://www.trailerboats.com/output.cfm?id=1245187&sectionid=314


It also had nothing bad to say about the 315 setup.

So, I think I'm pretty settled on that configuration. Enough power for what I need, better gas mileage than the 430, cheaper 87 octane, and no SC issues to deal with or maintain. Sounds like a great compromise for my needs!