Looking at the VLO series (176, 186, 189) for a first bass boat. Can anyone offer opinions on performance, issues they've had, the addition of power poles on a 115 HP engine, etc??
Looking for general advice and would appreciate any feedback.
Thank you
I have a 2012 189VLO. I absolutely love this boat. It was so well thought out when they built it. No wasted storage anywhere. I love the cooler be on the top deck and accessible without getting in the boat.. Mine has a 150 evinrude etec HO and it is plenty of motor for it. The boat rides great. This is my third stratos.
Last edited by Chillymac; 04-07-2018 at 04:32 PM.
I love mine. I have the 2014 186 and it performs well. 115 etec. I will be upgrading to a larger boat really soon, just wish it would be another stratos. you
I have a 2015 186 with a Etec 135HO. Runs about 58 on GPS when not loaded down. It been a good boat so far, no real issues. I added a talon and really haven't noticed much of a hit on performance. Still jumps on plane instantly and still runs high 50's
I was looking for an Aluminum boat when i found this. Still might get one in the future as i fish mostly shallow rocky lakes and ponds but no regrets with this boat!
I have a 2012 186xt and it's the perfect rig for how and where I fish.
More details... http://www.bbcboards.net/showthread....798&highlight=
Scott
Stratos 285XL
I have a 2013 189 VLO and it's been a pretty good boat. Only issue has been gas gauge. Top speed for me is right around 61. Handles pretty well, been on Lake Erie on a calmer day and it did fine.
Did your gauge ever work? Mine came from the factory wired backwards, i switched the wiring on the gauge and it's been working ever since!Originally Posted by Bimmer
The 189 is a pad hull, so is capable of more speed than the 176/186.
Well, I pulled the trigger last Friday. I now am the owner of a 2015 Stratos 186VLO with a 115 Evinrude. Engine, as it turns out, was started 22 times and it had 14hrs on it. Added a 8'ft talon (was warned that two would effect performance) and an Elite 9 at the bow/Hook7 at the console (had the 7 already). One sweet ride let me tell you for a first time boater. Hoping to get out on the water with her this weekend.
Nice! You'll love it
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