Comparing 2014 GTX iS 260 Limited vs GTX 215 limited vs RXT-X aS

[Cmpdman]

The last pwc we owned were SeaDoos RXT 215 '07. Sold them in 2011. They were a lot of fun. We are now looking at newer toys. We only ride in smaller lakes in Utah & Lake Powell. I've been comparing the following models: 2014 GTX iS 260 Limited vs GTX 215 limited vs RXT-X aS.

My main question is on the suspension:
How good is it?
What complications have you seen?
If you have ridden a machine with it, did you like it?
How about tubing with the suspension? Would a heavy tube pull it out of alignment?

My top priorities would be: dependability, reasonable fuel use, comfort & safety.

Thoughts?

 

[Coastiejoe]

I own both an RXT-X 255 and a GTX 155. Can't go wrong with either ski, especially with the larger engine for the GTX.
Suspension: In 2011 (I believe) they had a sinking issue due to a poor design where the upper and lower hulls intersected. This has been resolved. The theory behind the suspension is great. The reality is a bit different. The suspension skis are more top heavy than the same ski without suspension. Also, in rough water the suspension can bottom out (though you can adjust the stiffness) and it creates a pretty good impact as you are traveling down and it is traveling up. On an inland lake, I doubt it would get rough enough for this concern. Then again, on an inland lake I doubt you would need a suspension ski.

Any engine from 215 and up will have a Super Charger that will need to be rebuilt every 200 hrs. (100 hours on older model skis).

Ride: The RXT is like a BMW and the GTX is like a Caddy. On the RXT you will feel more of the bumps and what not due to the seat design as well as the hull design. The GTX has a SUPER comfortable seat on it that I would LOVE to put on my RXT if it was possible. It provides a very nice ride and some back support as your butt is against a raised section.

 

[AircraftDoc]

LOL, coastiejoe thinks Lake Powell is small.. Hugh waves are common from frequent thunder storms, really large yachts and tour ships (especially when two or three are passing each other in the narrow channel). Not to mention longer distances that a SeaDoo can't make a round trip without refueling.
I ride my pwcs on Lake Powell every year. Houseboat trip. If you are planning to ride great distances on the lake, the cruise control and suspension will be a plus. But I do find the jumping the big wakes with my RXP a lot of fun. If you are not cruising long distances, than stay with the lighter non suspension Doo's. I think you will have more fun.