The 2001 GS is 106" long, 46" wide, and 39" tall. This is verified to fit in the garage.
The 1996 XP is 100" long, 41.3" wide, 36.2" tall. This is also verified to fit (but smaller in every dimension).
The 2014 Spark 2up is 110" long, 46" wide, 41" tall. This is not verified to fit.
I'm looking to use the ski I purchase as tender/entertainment for our larger boat, out in fresh water. The ski will always be stored inside the boat (so not easy to perform maintenance more than once monthly or so). It will be used by both amateurs and experienced riders. The amateurs on the 1996 XP I am looking at scares me a bit. Also, I'll probably be the one using it the most, and I'm sorta a big dude (6'3" 220lbs). The XP looks like a ton of fun, but wondering if the combination of maintenance, rider ability, and my size makes it a poor fit. We won't be using the ski for long cruises much, mostly just around the shallows where the main boat is anchored, or quick 10 mile runs up and down the river.
Or is the Spark 2up a better idea, to be more comfortable for two riders (mostly for beach landing/transport), more maintenance friendly, because it's newer, and better gas mileage.
My third option is buying both. The XP is said to be recently overhauled, and in great shape, for $1200 with a trailer. The Spark is freshwater only, and looking to get $3800 without a trailer. I'd sell whichever one I don't like, or keep it in the water (not ideal) next to the boats. I'd prefer not to be out $5000 on this whole endeavor though.
Let me know what you guys think makes the most sense. Just nervous as the season approachs, and I get to test fit the Spark, the XP will be sold.
