Recommend 2011 GTX 260 IS Limited Edition or stay away?????

[mcbrocket]

Have an opportunity to purchase a set of very clean 2011 GTX 260s. Only have about 10 hrs each and serviced at the same location. Look good but haven't test drove them and not sure the store will arrange it (need to ask). They have the extended warranty but not sure that buys you too much these days but at least some coverage. Was pretty excited until I started to do research here. A bit worried reading threads as it appears as if the 2011's have had some problems for several here. What are your thoughts? Do you own one or have in the past? Recommend them or stay away? Very much appreciated. We haven't owned PWC since pre-kids 12 years ago but loved them when we owned Seadoos in the past.

Appreciate hearing your opinions!!!

 

[Coastiejoe]

What specific issues have you read about for the 2011's? I would do my VERY best to ride and drive as that is really the only way to know all is good. I own an RXT-X with the 255 set up and love the ski. As well as a 2010 GTX with the 155. Also a fantastic ski. Super Charger issue was resolved in 09. There were issues with some of the suspension skis but you didn't mention if these ski's were.

 

[KK40384]

I would personally avoid any and all suspension skis. It's just one more thing to fail and from what I understand after talking to my dealer, they are very pricy to work on. I haven't had any experience servicing one but I don't imagine it being fun with all that mess in the way. Riding one to me feels like being on a top heavy marshmallow. Not a fan.

 

[mcbrocket]

I saw a few issues with engines shutting down or only going in reverse during the first years people had them brand new. Although sounds like some of that may have been the break in and or operator learning. The other issue was the 'sinking' of the early IS versions and getting water into the front area where the suspension movement occurs. Then lately I saw someone had an issue with the speedometer. I completely agree on going for a test ride to truly test it out and see how we like the ride and performance. I've asked the dealer and waiting to hear back, but if they say no then a big red flag. I'm actually trying to surprise my husband for fathers day with these if they work out. Think it will have to be a test drive surprise rather than having them pulled up in front of the house. He'll love it just the same and glad he'll have the chance to drive them first and any red flag then we won't go through with it.

As for the IS maintenance, it's a good point about the cost for repairs. If no other issues about the ski itself for that year/model though I am leaning toward it as I've had back trouble and some surgeries so prefer a smoother ride (but fast!). My husband on the other hand can take it out of suspension mode to manual if he'd prefer.

I will let you know how the test drive goes. If we end up buying I'm sure you will see us here often.

Any other opinions are welcome as I'd really like to hear from more of you that know Seadoo well and/or who actually own/owned a 2011 GTX260 IS. Very much appreciated and thank you for all the past posts as they have been most helpful in this decision.

 

[Coastiejoe]

Ok,,, I have a moment to answer this with some time...

I believe any engine issue that did exist is corrected as it was an electronic issue, not mechanical. Thus, if the dealer does a filmware/software update it should resolve the engine concern.
The only in reverse issue was also an electrical issue that has been corrected through the computer. So again, now that the ski has been out a couple of years Seadoo has had the opportunity to resolve these "glitches" for lack of better words.

Now,,, the iS concern is a real one. The new skis it is resolved. I THINK that the 2011 was a model year it was an issue but I need to do some digging to confirm that. I would ask the dealer about it and ask if there is or has been a modification done to eliminate the sinking concern.

Further,, the iS ski does help in slight chop to pretty smooth water. In rough seas or riding it can actually make things worse, especially if the suspension is set up to loose. If the sea is allowed to bottom out on its travel when the ski and seat are coming together, it will be a pretty hard jar as you have two opposing forces coming at each other. The seat would need to be LOCKED or set to a very high resistance to eliminate that concern.

The GTX is a fantastic ski and SUPER comfortable. If I could put that seat on my RXT-X I would do it even if it cost me 500 dollars. The GTX is like riding in a Caddy where the RXT is like riding in a Porsche. The 260 engine is proven and will last for hundreds of hours. It can easily goo 500 hours with proper maintenance.

If at all possible, I suggest riding one ski with the iS and one without it. You will find the iS ski is a bit top heavy by comparison. The smaller and lighter you are this diminishes quickly. But put 200 pounds on the seat and you will feel the difference.

I don't think you will go wrong with the ski. The technology is both a wonderful thing as well as a potential cost detriment. It is not an easy fix when you have issues. But when it is all working as it should, it is an absolute joy....

Any other specific questions? Just ask...

 

[Coastiejoe]

Forgot to mention, the hull is an S3 hull which cuts the water very well and provides a better ride...

 

[mcbrocket]

Thanks Costiejoe! This feedback is very helpful. I am trying to set up a demo ride and will see if they can bring one of the 2014 models without the IS to try in comparison. Most of the riding will be on lakes in Arizona so no ocean riding in our near future unfortunately.

One last question if you all don't mind......Do you recommend I run a VIN check like you do with a car? If so, what is the best site to use and/or should a dealership have that and would it be trustworthy (similar to the Carfax today....although I know those aren't 100% accurate either).

 

[markusAkino]

The iS models are great. I feel that most of the hate towards them is jealousy. Mine is at 120+ hours, and no issues. The sinking is a factor if you ride them like a pole ski. I fish from mine, and if it has tipped over, I consider it fair game that it would sink. You are riding it incorrectly.

The suspension is absolutely amazing and I'd never go back

My 2c

 

[red2blue]

I don't hate the iS skis...just don't care for the ride. The seat is too high outa the water for my taste....meaning....center of gravity is higher than mine...w/ or w/o the suspension up.

Maintenance is an issue...unless you got deep pockets. If you get an iS...learn how to remove the complete top deck.