Hull design/performance differences? '96 GTI vs '96 GTX

[c good]

I will be finalizing the purchase of a 96 GTI and originally thought it was the same hull design as the GTX. I have ridden a friends '98 GTX in the past and really liked it. After doing some more reading I'm finding out the GTI is a different hull design. What kind of differences in performance will I notice in the water? Thanks for any input. c good

 

[LouDoo]

It depends on how you ride. I have a 96GTI and I prefer the hull design, it's an elongated X4 hull. I also have a 96XP with the X4 hull. Anyway the hull tends to ride on top of the water rather than cut through it. I actually prefer the older hull design. Also the GTX has 25 more hp so the GTX if going to have a higher top end and also get there quicker.

I love my 96GTI I affectionately call it the Buick, it's a great cruiser, very stable, has the most reliable motor 720, that SeaDoo ever used and will keep up with most ski's. Top speed is 50-52mph indicated so actual is about 46-47mph. I also have a 96XP and a 96GSX, if I could only have one ski it would be the 96GTI.

Lou

 

[Dr Honda]

As Lou said... the "X" has a bigger engine... so it will have more speed. But... in '96, the 3 passenger skis was still a split year. The "X" is the new round nose hull... and the "I" was the old square nose.

The GTX will ride deeper, and cut harder in a corner. The GTi will slide around more.

 

[c good]

Thanks for the input guys. So was there a production change mid '96? Were some with the square nose "I" and the later production run with the "X" hull still considered a '96 production? Cam (c good)

 

[LouDoo]

Well not exactly, the 96GTI was made on the older platform more like the X4 hull. The 97GTI used the newer hull design. However the 96GTX used the newer hull design. Have we completely confused you?

Lou

 

[c good]

No, not at all. I always appreciate any and all info. I was reading in the Seadoosource models section when I realized the 96 GTI was a different hull than the 96 GTX. I always thought they were the same. Then in '97 the GTI and the GTX both use the same hull just different engine size and gauge clusters. I'm leaning towards the '97 hull design since that's what I'm familar with from riding my friends '98 GTX. Although, I am getting a good deal on the 'GTI at $850 with the trailer in great condition so It might be worth getting it just to try it. If I don't like it I don't think I will lose money on it if I decide to sell in the springtime. Thoughts? Cam

 

[LouDoo]

For $850.00 including the trailer your not going to go wrong. I personally think you're going to like the ride better than the newer hull design. I've got a friend who has a 2004GTI with the same motor (720) and I can out run him.

Lou

 

[c good]

Excellent info. Thanks Lou! I'll be finalizing things tomorrow. Will keep everyone posted on the progress. Cam