Opinions on 243 VR?

[waternutt]

Looking for opinions from owners of the Chaparral jet boats. I am in the market for a jet boat (first boat) and have primarily looked at the Yamahas, but I have come across a leftover 2016 243 VR at a decent price. I have read a lot of the comparisons, but what made you choose Chap over Yamaha and how do you like it?

Also, I know it is a sterndrive, but I found a nice 246 SSI for sale as well. For some reason, I keep looking at Chap sterndrives as well even though I think a jet would be better.

 

[Chapvrx]

Chapparel vrx faster @57 mph top speed,
feels more spacious ,easy walk true in and out , thicker haul , inter cooled engine , it was easyer to negotiate a better deal, compare to Yamaha my experience .

 

[props2you]

Have you water tested any of them yet? I would start there, it sounds like you've done your research, now it's time to put that knowledge to the on water test. It really depends on your intended uses and activities for t your potential new boat. Do you do water sports, do you travel alot, etc. Lots of considerations. I have personally been on both and tested both, my buddy bought a 21ft Chap Fish 'n Ski and loves it. Not my preference, but works well for him and his situation. I personally did not care for the ergonomics of the VR, very similar to a wakesetter, Moomba, Malibu style. I am a fan of BRP though, those motors are great! It really depends on your preferences.

 

[waternutt]

I have not had any out on the water. I have done a lot of research, and this is a big purchase for us (as it is for most). I am confident in what our use would be, although I still question whether I would need a tower or not. I sometimes suffer from "paralysis from analysis" hence all the questions.

What exactly about the ergonomics did you not like with the VR? They seem fairly similar to me in regards to layout.

 

[props2you]

What exactly about the ergonomics did you not like with the VR? They seem fairly similar to me in regards to layout.

It seemed "stiffer" if that makes any sense. More square and structured and blocked off, less rounded and free flowing. The helm seemed very flat/blocky and less wrap around for the captain. The VR seemed more of a rigid hardline design than the Yamaha, also seemed like the interior was shorter, shorter gunwale? It's purely preference, similar to car interiors.

 

[waternutt]

Anyone have experience with the lower tow point on the 243 VR? Seems awfully low for watersports.

 

[blackhawkpilot]

The tow points are very low unless you have the ASP. The ASP option puts the tow point just above the platform and below the step through. Not sure why Chap doesn't do that with all their Vortex boats.

 

[waternutt]

Is it just me or does that still seem pretty low?

 

[blackhawkpilot]

Yeah, it's still pretty low. Our rope ends up in the wash often.