Bayliner Element XR7: Video Boat Review
Join us for an in-depth look at the 2015 Bayliner Element XR7.
If you've seen our written review of the Bayliner Element XR7, you already know a thing or two about this all-new model. Now, let's get an in-depth look at the boat on the water, running it in real-world conditions.
Boat Test Notes
Concept
Design and build a boat that has the performance of Bayliner's M-hull, but the basic lay-out and deck space of a pontoon boat.
Construction
-Unlike pontoons, this boat's all molded fiberglass.
-Deck hatches aren't finished on the underside, but they have gas-assist struts and beefy hinges.
-Fiberglass "gates" eliminate the usual rattles and vibrations associated with those on aluminum pontoon boats.
Performance
-A Mercury 150 Four Stroke outboard brings the boat up to a cruise in the upper 20's and a wide-open throttle speed of 38.7 MPH.
-Fuel efficiency is good, topping out at 4.2 MPG while cruising at 4000 RPM.
Handling
-The M-hull acts more like a V-hull than a pontoon when going through waves, but maintains excellent stability.
-Though not quite as smooth as a deep-V, the M-hull does ride much more smoothly than a tri-hull or flat-bottom boat.
-Carving tight turns the prop gulps a bit of air, bleeding off some speed.
Unique Features
| SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| Length | 25'6" |
| Beam | 8'6" |
| Draft (hull) | 2'3" |
| Deadrise | NA |
| Displacement | 4,464 lbs |
| Fuel capacity | 40 gal. |
-Pontoon-ish layout will be roomy for a huge number of people. Maximum capacity is 16, and though it might be a bit crowded, you really could take this many people aboard.
-Fully enclosed head compartment with monster stowage cavern is a cut above what's found on pontoons.
-Elevated helm station boosts visibility.
-Advertised price of under $40,000 seems surprisingly reasonable for this rig.
If you want more information on the Bayliner Element XR7, visit Bayliner. Or, check out these Element XR7 listings on boats.com.
