Handling of Checkmate Pulse 185

[kielbasa]

Hi guys, will be looking at a boat, however I have zero experience with these...it's a Checkmate Pulse 185 (bowrider), 1993 vintage...seems pretty nice shape.
That little flat on the bottom, is that even a pad?
Are these boat squirrely, or easy to drive....will be mainly used as a family cruiser on smooth water, up to 2 foot chop.
Not sure if it's a rough rider?
Currently has a 175 Fast Strike, no jackplate or setback.
Appreciate any info, thanks!

[staylor]

I ran a 1993 Pulse 210 bowrider for 10 years. The 185 is very similar. The hull is a vee- pad as you've noted. At roughly 55 mph the hull lifts up on the pad and will want to chine walk a bit- but it's very easy to control. Ride was very smooth in the rough due to the rather high deadrise for a boat of this size. I thought it was a great family boat since it did everything I asked it to with no issues. We cruised, tubed, water skied, fished with two adults and 3 kids. Top end was 72 with a 225 Evinrude. I only sold the 210 because the kids grew up and it was a bit of a pain launching and retrieving it alone due to its size. After 10 years it had zero isses- no transom hairlines, solid core, windshield wasn't even loose.
Doug

[Speed Jr.]

There's a kid on my lake with an mid 90's 185 BR. With a 200 it runs 70. He loves it and it sure seems to eat the water up fairly well for an 18ft boat. It does take a little bit a driving to keep her on the v pad though....

[pyro]

I'd like to own one of these for a more family-friendly boat that actually fits in my garage.

[tb2054]

iv had 13,16,21 checkmate great boats. easy to drive if not over powerd really great bay boat can take some chop. my 21 was great id go anywhere with it,, but keep them dry love to rot