Used Bowrider Recomendations

[somekevinguy]

I am looking to buy a used bowrider and was looking for some recommendations on brands and drive trains. I am looking for around a 20' and I am hoping to keep it around $17K or under but am willing to go a little higher if that is what it takes. I want at least a mid grade boat. Around 2004 or newer would be nice. I want decent power too. Fuel injection seems like it would be nice. Not sure what year they started injecting them. I am in California if that makes a difference. Pro/cons on some of the brands? Handling, value, etc.? Volvo/Merc reliability? One of my friends has a Chaparral and that seems pretty nice to me. Thanks.

 

[dsiekman]

Re: Used Bowrider Recomendations

Take a look at Cobalt. They hold their value pretty well...for a boat. Really solid, well built, dry ride, etc. Oh yeah, and a Kevlar hull. This year we moved up from a 252 bowrider to a 293 cuddy with twin 5.0's. Can't say enough good things about them. Personally, I wouldn't go less than a 5.0, but many here swear by the 4.3 which I understand is also a really good engine. Yes, look for fuel injected.

 

[Searay87]

Re: Used Bowrider Recomendations

I'm in the market for a 20 footer late model as well. I'm partial to Doral then Sea Ray. As for the power package Mercruiser is most common with lots of parts and expertise available.

 

[98Shabah]

Re: Used Bowrider Recomendations

Have you ever looked at pre 2002 Mariah boats?

The Mariah Z202 is a very well equipped/very well made boat.

http://www.fishrapnews.com/boattests/theboattest.aspx?x=199

 

[MPII]

Re: Used Bowrider Recomendations

Cobalt makes a great boat! I would consider that to be of the higher end. The middle of the road would be Rinker, Four Winns, etc.

 

[captkevin]

Re: Used Bowrider Recomendations

Go for fuel injected. Mercury motors come with quick drain systems that make draining the block as easy as turning a knob. Not sure in winterization is a concern but it makes things easier.