Face it, Malibu is on a roll. Year after year they continue to refine their product line with impressive performance and innovative features. From Industry accolades like Powerboat Magazine’s Boat of the Year Award to consumer demand that they can barely keep up with, it’s obvious Malibu knows exactly what they’re doing.
For 2008, the Wakesetter 23 LSV model, one of the staples of their lines, is the subject of their attention. From the hull up, this 23 foot powerhouse is completely new. Riding on the Cut Wake hull Malibu introduced on their 247 LSV and VTX models the two previous years, this new model makes use of all of Malibu’s existing wake building technology, as well as some new advances making their debut.
Inside, a brand new interior features a redesigned dash console, new Malibu branded JBL headunit (no longer located under the armrest), and a new transom configuration that features an available walk-over. Compared to other manufactures offerings, we really like the walk-over Malibu has designed. Instead of a clunky molded-in passage way that completely occupies one side of the boat, Malibu has designed a slender pathway that divides the two rear hatches. The result is an elegant padded path to reach the swim platform, that doesn’t detract from the aesthetics of the boat.
Also making their debut on the Wakesetter 23 are Malibu’s new LCD Switch Panels. These intelligent switches replace traditional rocker switches on the dash and features controls for the boats new theater-style interior lighting effects, as well as the ability to store rider or event specific presets for the 1300lb. MLS ballast system, Power Wedge, Malibu Precision Pro Speed control and Malibu/Rockford Fosgate stereo system. Imagine selecting your “left-foot forward” surfing preset to instantly configure the ballast system, Wedge and speed control for surfing. This is one really cool feature that we can’t wait to explore.
We’ll have the opportunity to spend some time behind the new Wakesetter 23 LSV in the coming days, so stay tuned for a full review. In the meantime, here is Malibu’s official press release announcing the redesigned boat to give you your fix.
(Merced, CA) – Malibu’s advanced hull design has created a precise collision of ride, handling and wakeboard performance in the new Wakesetter 23 LSV. This completely new hull design exudes the perfect combination of performance and accommodation for 14. Malibu’s new Wakesetter 23 LSV creates a storm of big wakes, luxurious ride and supreme control.
The exterior follows the sharp look of the intimidating 247 LSV with the addition of the new Frameless-Vented Windshield. But the advanced hull design of the Wakesetter 23 LSV offers performance all its own.
Malibu engineers have found that sweet spot among ride, handling and wakeboard performance. This was accomplished not with a simple strake or chine change, but by tweaking the hull transitions between the keel and the strakes. They shaped these compound curves to dissipate the shock and noise of choppy water without a handling compromise. The best riding hulls in the industry have reached a new level of performance with the introduction of the new 23 LSV.
An available 1300 pounds of customizable Malibu Launch System (MLS), Precision Pro Speed Control, Ballast Monitoring System (BMS) and the available Patented Power Wedge allow the Wakesetter 23 LSV to slide effortlessly between beginner and pro on a water sports scale. The 23 LSV is the perfect tool for beginners looking to attempt their first roll and professionals striving for that top tier podium finish.
This is a rider’s machine, but waiting for a turn to ride is a non-issue, there’s plenty to do. The 23 LSV benefits from well-placed hand covered elements that add to the luxury of this model and complete the one-of-a-kind look. The rear seat lean-back is designed with such an element as well as an available rear LCD switch panel. This option controls theater-style interior lighting, the new Malibu-Rockford Fosgate® Sound System, available heaters and new Malibu Rider Presets. These presets allow riders to set-up a profile designating a specific speed, Power Wedge position and ballast levels. Or Choose from a list of factory presets to match your skill level or push you where you want to be.
The new dash derives its look from the chiseled lines of the boat’s exterior and houses new gauges and LCD embedded switch panels for literal finger-tip control over this boat’s systems. This command includes the new available Malibu-Rockford Fosgate® Sound System. Malibu has frosted the side panels with new backlit stainless “Wakesetter” branded shields.
Rear locking storage is easy to access with a split-lid hatch. These hatches cover above engine storage as well as 30 cubic feet of tank-free space and hatch door bins for those small important items you need before or after a ride. Not comfortable stepping on these works of art to get to the swim step, opt for the color-matched sun pad step and walk over the transom worry free.
Once you get to the swim step to prepare for your next session, take a seat. Literally, Malibu has tooled a padded Staging Seat into the deck of the new 23-footers to aid in the water sports preparation process. After all you have bigger things to worry about than where you are going to sit to get your board on.
A storm’s brewing at Malibu. They’ve dubbed this one the 2008 Wakesetter 23 LSV. The Wakesetter 23 LSV joins 16 Malibu boat models in the 2008 line-up. Prepare to be blown away.
Specifications:
Length: 23′
Width: 102″
Draft: 27″
People: 14 persons
Fuel: 55 gallons
Standard HP: 340
Max HP: 450
Prop: 13.5×16
Stay tuned for more exclusive coverage of Malibu’s 2008 line of boats.
