Newbie wanting a speedster 200

[Newseadoo24]

Ok so I have started saving my hard earned cash for a seadoo speedster 200. I hope to have around 12-14k by the April/May time-frame. I am a complete noob when it comes to boating and seadoo. What advice can you give me when looking at used boats. What are some things to watch out for and what kind of boat can I get for that kind of budget? Does everyone test drive before they buy? Should I completely stay away from the supercharged versions? I am not a mechanic guy by no means. Any advice would be very much appreciated! Thanks so much

 

[pwgsx]

Having owned one I would stay away from any s/c one from 2004-2006 I think....as the valves are hollow and can snap destroying your motor. Make sure it was never used in salt water and never stored in water. Corrosion on these are horrible if you ever have to remove the pump. Personally I would look for a newer Challenger with the one engine if you are set on SeaDoo. 2 motors are twice the amount of work, burn twice the amount of fuel. I will be getting a Yamaha AR192 in a few years. You should check them out but they will be about 34k new. You might be able to find a older SX190.

 

[Eclipse1701d]

Always test drive, before you buy. Drive it for at least ten minutes. Turn it off and then back on after about 5 minutes to test for problems with the starters, or hydro-lock caused by a leaking manifold. Change speeds often to check for problems with the fuel system. Insist on briefly bringing it up to wide open throttle to check the top end, non sc should be around 7300-7500 RPM. Look at the engine and bilge area. Lots of rust and corrosion - walk away. Corrosion on the ends of the cables - they may need to be replaced. Look under the boat and check for chips in the hull. A properly maintained boat should have none, or only one that should be quickly repaired. Look into the grate at the bottom, the shaft and propeller should be free of rust. Look at the propeller, it should be smooth with no dings or gouges. The list goes on and on, but that should cover the basics. Also, stick with an '08 or above to ensure you have an engine that is free of problems that were corrected by that time. Good luck!

 

[Newseadoo24]

Thanks for the quick advice guys! Not sure that I can swing an '08 on a 14k budget? I have looked at the Yamahas but I like the look of the speedster 200 a lot better but they are not ruled out. I guess I am in an odd budget area where I cant hardly get something really nice but also dont want to get a boat thats going to leave me paying thousands to repair. The family says I have to give the sport bike days up so this is going to be my replacement. Hopefully I can get something that will treat me well and maybe I can even learn to wake-board or water ski.