Test drive SV 211 or 226?

[BJ Sorensen]

I have a 2006 196 and I am looking to switch to either a 226 or SV 211 around the same year, but I have never had the chance to ride behind either one. I was wondering if any fellow Nautique owners in southwest Florida would be willing to give me a pull behind there 1st Gen 226 or SV 211? Wake and maybe surf? I am currently down in Fort Myers for the week feb 24th. I would be willing to compensate you for your time. Thanks for any help.

BJ

[dfoster]

I can't offer you a pull (unless you come up to the Boston area once the ice thaws), but I can offer some feedback based on my 211.

You ask above about wakeboarding and surfing.

Do you slalom as well? If you slalom, the 211 will give off a nicer wake at speed than a 226.

How many people do you typically have on board when you go out? The 211 officially seats 9, but starts to feel cramped at 7 or 8 people. Throw a sac on the floor or extra boards and people are tripping over each other. The 226 will have more room if you routinely take out 8.

The 226 will give you a better surf wake and probably bigger wakeboard wake. That said, with 2 750lb sacs, I can get a nice surf wake on my 211, but the sweet spot is a bit small. The wakeboard wake is great for me and the kids and gets pretty big if you really sac it out... but it isn't a G21 or even a 210. Although some beginners have liked our 211 wave as it has a smooth transition and didn't seem as peaky as their friends 210.

Best bet is to get rides behind them. I ended up doing a lesson out in CA at a school that used 211s so that I could both slalom and board behind one when I was looking. Cost me $250 but was worth every penny to know what I was getting.

Good luck on your search!

[Neverenough]

Never been in a 211 but the 226 is the best ski boat I've owned for rough water. If your on a big lake you might think about that. 226 does have a really good surf wake. Lots of weight in either corner and you'll be good.