VLX, SSV, 205V or X-Star owners in Michigan! Need Help!

andy mogg

Hi everybody!

I'm looking for some help. I'm originally from the Lansing area, but have been living in Germany for the past 12 years. During July I am visiting my parents in Michigan. I somehow managed to find some people over there that were into waterskiing, and then about 5 or 6 years ago, we got into wakeboarding. That's about all we do these days is wakeboard. We even founded a wakeboard club and have now saved enough money to buy a wakeboard boat.

These wakeboard specific boats are pretty scarce in Germany and therefore hard to test-drive. We are interested in one of the boats I mentioned above. (Used) Our problem is that we have never ridden in one of these boats, and don't know which boat would be best for us. I was hoping that some of you owners out there would be willing to share the ups and downs of your boats with us/me.

That means: either tell me why you think that one boat is better than the other. I would even be willing to drive anywhere in Michigan to meet with someone to talk about boats, wakes, wakeboarding, etc. The best case scenario would be of course if I could get a pull behind one of these boats. Laughing

I have my own Wakeboard and bindings and am willing to pay for gas and food of course.

Also: we are planning on importing our boat into Germany this fall/winter from the michigan area. (Ohio and Indiana is OK too.) So if any of you are looking to sell after the season is over, let me know now and maybe we will buy your boat!

I/we would be very greatful for any advice or info that you could share with us!

Thanks,

Andy

I will be in Northern Michigan throughout next week without access to a computer, so I won't be able to check for posts here, but if for some reason someone wants to work something out for the 4th of July week, here is my cell phone number: 517-930-0754

Kewlboarder27r · Soul Rider Joined: 16 Jun 2005 Posts: 497 City: Mound

i would say that a used launch would proboally be your best bet or a used x-star

MrBlean · Posted: Jul 03, 2005 8:28 am Post subject:

Andy - something you need to be aware of is the European Craft Directive. Is a piece of half-**rsed legislation to protect the French and Italian boat building industries. It applies in all EEC countries although some will police stronger than others.

In the UK, is is policed but you would be unlucky to get caught. Basically it is illegal to import a boat into Europe unless it is CE approved. Is normally only available on boats built since 2003 and destined for export to Europe. Boats sold in the US will not have the aproval as it costs money and requires some extra parts (like a drip tray under the sump in case of an oil leak). Approval can be achieved after the event (costs around 2500 Euros) and only a few firms can do it. If you browse around on the web you'll find all the info you need.

You may choose to ignore it and take a risk but it's worth checking out the insurance situation. You know how they will use any excuse to wriggle out of a claim and if they find your bat is "illegal" that's all the excuse they'll need.

DBudman · Posted: Jul 05, 2005 6:07 pm Post subject:

Hi Andy,

I have a new X2 (205 hull) and just love it. However this weekend was the first weekend that I was able to use it.....I traded in my Maristar 210 for it. Liked the room of the Maristar (X10 body) but the handling of the X2 is much nicer for me. Although it seemed a little rougher in chop over the Maristar...obviously due to the hull shape. Just great all around...ski/wakeboarding boat. I know I'm not much help for you...but you could call the dealer where I purchased it and maybe they can help you out more. Great guys. I purchased at Watersports Marine in Waterford, MI. They have a dealer in Fenton as well. Watersports number is 248-674-1932. Aaron was the rep that sold me the boat. But also Jeremia could help you out too. Jeremia has a X-Star out on our lake. If you call......you could tell them Brad from Budweiser gave you their number. Good Luck

Tmac1 · Posted: Jul 06, 2005 8:54 am Post subject:

I'm in west bloomfield -- I have a 2005 Malibu V ride, -- no vlx -- but it's in Union Lake and I'd be happy to take you out if you are ever in the hood.

just pm me.

andy mogg · Posted: Jul 10, 2005 1:43 pm Post subject:

Tmac1,

Actually, your boat is from what I was told, the same hull as the old VLX's and the new VLX's are different. Since we are looking to buy used, the V-ride would be perfect to find out how the old VLX's are. Would love to go for a ride. I'll send you a PM.

Later,

Andy