Re: Are Bayliners really that bad???
Hmmm. I own a 1985 Bayliner 1900 Cuddy. Sharp looking boat. Even has the dreaded 125 Force on the back. In three years, hasn't ever left me stranded, and I haven't done anything to it other then fog it for winter and replace the impeller.<br /><br />I feel my $2900 Bayliner is an awesome starter boat. You learn A LOT about boat care and maintenance owning a Bayliner. And if you break it, you are not out big money. I am ready to move up and will probably sell mine for $2500. Not a bad loss for my three years of light use.<br /><br />My complaints about Bayliners? They use cheap plywood. If it gets wet, its done. I am now anal about sealing any crack, loose screw, or fitting with sealant to be sure the wood stays dry. It set me up to take care of a better boat easier because I know the ins and outs of the boat care.<br /><br />On the Force? Its underpowered. I added trim tabs, made a world of difference. The water intake is down on the bottom of the outdrive, so if the prop is in mud, you suck mud into the engine. Pull the thermostat housing, rev it up, ad the mud flies out and you move on. REAL easy to work on. Makes me pay attention to depth finder, another thing that will come in handy on a new boat.<br /><br />So, for a starter boat on inland lakes and rivers? I HIGHLY would recommend a Bayliner. Kinda like learning to drive in a Chevette. Then you are ready to move up to something better constructed, more powerful, and you will know how to take good care of it.<br /><br />Coming from someone that owns probably the worst era of Bayliner with the worst engine combo, I'd say I would even recommend them.
