MALIBU WAKESETTER VLX

There was a time when driving a wakeboard boat required almost as much skill as that of the rider being towed, but Malibu makes the art of the perfect drive easy. This high-tech helm features a sunlight- friendly 6.5-inch LCD color dash display called MaliView, which gives you important information including ballast status and even depth. It also features a keyless start system with a combination keypad for enhanced security. Every VLX comes equipped with Precision Pro Speed Control to maintain that perfect tow.

This VLX is the official boat of Wakestock and is designed for the most discriminating pro. The Malibu Launch System boasts 1,250 pounds of ballast in the sub-floor quad ballast deck tanks and the optional bow tank, which unfortunately prevents bowriders from sitting upright.

If that’s not extreme enough, there’s a power wedge, which has the net effect of adding 1,200 pounds of ballast to help create a monstrous, well-formed wake. To save gas, Malibu has introduced the Auto Wedge that reduces the time it takes to get on plane and reduces deflect angle when turning, reducing fuel consumption by up to one-third. For safety reasons, the wedge can only be operated while the boat is in gear.

While much of the attention is on the driver and rider, those waiting their turn to crash and burn are well taken care of with surround cockpit seating that would be at home in a bachelor’s penthouse with plenty of storage beneath. And with the optional Rockford Fosgate stereo system, you’ll feel the music as well as listen to it.

With the standard Indmar Monsoon that cranks out 350 hp, the VLX rips onto plane in just 2.5 seconds and with smooth fury reaches 30 mph in 5.4 seconds. As you would expect from a traditional straight inboard, top speed of 43.6 mph is lower than the speed of a sterndrive, which is the price you pay for prop safety. The chines and strakes have been tweaked to create a hull that handles well under any condition and corners like a slot car.