Stingray's 200LX provides an exciting blend of sporty performance and generous creature comforts.

We thought the helm layout was ideal, thanks to an optional tilt wheel and standard adjustable helm seat. Gauges were nicely arranged for easy viewing. Both the driver side and passenger side benefited from the windshield vents. Few boats offer this great feature.

Handling was terrific. The Z-Plane hull holds its arc, no matter how tight a turn and without tripping on its chines. The top-end speed of 57 mph was thrilling. Even though the 8.6-second hole shot was middle of the road, the 200LX produced plenty of torque to pop big skiers out of the water. If you really need more low-end power, a short prop would make it a stump puller.

Stingray managed to design a deck plan that provides a large sundeck without crowding the cockpit floor space. We liked that a lot. The rear bench seat featured racy-looking head rests that will please poker-run wannabes.

The bow area seating was roomy, wide and designed to allow two riders to lounge back comfortably. That's saying something for a boat just over 20 feet.

Stingray's integrated swim platforms and notched transom allow the boat builder to mount the drive higher in the transom, which increases performance and fuel efficiency. An added benefit is that the outdrive is nearly concealed below the platform.

This 20-footer is ideal for trailering, and its solid ride will be comfortable on many of the roughest boating waters in North America.

Boating Life Magazine
January/February 2001