Why are 04-06 226's so much cheaper than other models?

[SkiNautique2001]

I'm looking at a 226 as one of our options right now because we need more space. We have 3 kids (young kids), so the walk through transom is appealing, and the extra space over the 210 is really nice for friends with kids too. The 2005 era 226's seemed to be priced low when compared to comparable (comparing hours and options) 210's, 220's, & 230's. Obviously the 230 is the closer size with a better layout than the 226, but the 220 seems to have a much worse layout to me. I'm concerned about resell value, so am I missing something on the 226? I haven't test driven one yet, so should I expect to be disappointed?
Wake-wise, I am a recreational wakeboarder that is 35 years old. The tantrum is the best trick in my bag, and I'm more concerned with living vicariously through my kids wakeboarding than I am in progressing my own skills. As long as the wake is decent (and I'm coming from a 1989 Ski Nautique 2001), I'm not overly concerned. I'm more concerned with resell and any potential problem areas on the 2005 226.

[s_kelley2000]

It sounds like a 226 would work very well for your family's needs. There is definitely nothing wrong with a 226 but there just isn't nearly as much demand for them as the pure wake boats (210, 220 and 230). I think it's more a matter of the 210, 220 and 230 having inflated values because there is so much demand for them compared to the 226.

[ViSoR]

Personnally I've always thought the walkway on the side of the sunpad looks awkward on the 211 and 226 models. Maybe that's another reason.

[shag]

Coming from a 89 2001, as I did - you should be happy with a 226 wake. IMO, it's the same wake as a 230 without the added ballast. You will notice a larger wake that is not as steep as the 2001 hulls. I agree with inflated (somewhat) pricing as more people desire the actual 230...

[SkiNautique2001]

Thanks for the replies. I was second guessing the 226 based on the pricing, but the value seems to be the best for us. I'm supposed to be picking up a 2005 Team with the ZR6 on Saturday!

[Chris4x4Gill2]

I'm in the same situation - ready to move up from an '89 SN2001 and noticed the same. Although they seem to be fairly rare, when i do see them they are generally priced pretty reasonable. Wish I could find one local to look at in person.

[SkiNautique2001]

Chris4x4Gill2, I sold my '89 SN2001 in February. It was a fantastic boat! I had it for almost 10 years, but with 3 kids we were way overdue for more room. I hated to see the 2001 go though!

[Suicidal-Element]

I have a 2005 226. Love the boat. Great wake, lots of room and the walkthough saves your seats big time!!! My only complaint is the tower. Mine is flexible as **** when loaded up. Other than that, great boat!!!

[eyekode]

Any comparison out there between 210 and 226 for surf and wakeboard?

[SkiTower]

as you said, the only concern would be resale. They aren't as popular so the next buyer will have the same concerns. But it should meet your needs very nicely. And I will second that the walk-thru is great for saving your vinyl, especially with kids. One of my fav features of my 211.


2007 SV211 SE

[Chris4x4Gill2]

Chris4x4Gill2, I sold my '89 SN2001 in February. It was a fantastic boat! I had it for almost 10 years, but with 3 kids we were way overdue for more room. I hated to see the 2001 go though!

I've had mine for about 7 seasons now. Love the boat, but like you we are starting to need more room. It was great when it was 4-5 of us gpoing out for the day, now all of the nieces / nephews are gettting into wakeboarding as well and want to go alot more.

[s_kelley2000]

Congrats on the new boat! Be sure to post up some pics if the deal goes through.