Entry-Level 2011 Sea-Doo May Feature iControl

PWC Expert Charles Plueddeman has been quiet now for a few months, but the new-model season has arrived, so that’s all changing starting right now. Sea-Doo is rolling out the red carpet for Charles and other members of the personal watercraft and sport-boat press in a few days, so it won’t be long before official word on the 2011 models will be on the streets…and right here on Boats.com, of course. Following is the preview from Charles to whet your appetite.
—John Burnham, Editor

Sea-Doo is hinting that it plans to replace the GTi SE shown here with a new entry-level model that will feature its hand-control iControl brake/reverse system.

Sea-Doo has launched a web-teaser for its 2011 models that’s worth a look. It hints at a new entry-level model priced at “less than $8,999” that will have at least some elements of its very sophisticated iControl package, specifically the iBR brake/reverse system.

In 2010, the $11,599 GTX with the 155-hp engine (see my review from last September: “2010 Sea-Doo GTX 155: Lots of Bells, No Whistle” ) was the lowest-priced model with iControl features, while the 130-hp GTi SE model was a price-leader at $8,999. The current GTi lacks any iControl, and uses the previous-generation hull and deck design. It will be interesting to see how Sea-Doo has put together an iControl boat that will match the price of the 2010 GTi. The video says it’s all new.

I’ll be in Florida on Thursday, August 26, representing Boats.com at the media launch for the 2011 Sea-Doo watercraft and sport boats, but all information from the media event will be under an “embargo” until noon EDT on August 30…which means if we divulge anything before then they’ll never invite us back.

We’ll have a story and photos ready to post on the 30th, so come back to see what’s really new.

About the author:

Lenny Rudow

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Lenny Rudow is Senior Editor for Dominion Marine Media, including Boats.com and Yachtworld.com. With over two decades of experience in marine journalism, he has contributed to publications including Boating Magazine, Marlin Magazine, Boating World, Saltwater Sportsman, Texas Fish & Game, and many others. Lenny is a graduate of the Westlawn School of Yacht Design who has won 28 BWI and OWAA writing awards.

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