I am currently boat shopping and Skeeter is running towards the top of my list. Right now the ZXR series would be my style. I've seen quite a few lately and I'm really liking the layout.
While pros are easy to list, what are the cons?
The one ZXR21 in my club has issues with water in his storage boxes. So I would like to know what other issues the newer rides have. Especially the major ones
Thank you for your assistance in my search for the next ride
I can't say much about the ZXR as I have the FXR series.. I will say it seems like several guys are constantly buying stuff for their ZXR trying to get some of the finer details that come with the FXR's. I will say if I had to do it over again I would look hard at the ZXR myself and just simply go without the luxuries. In addition, I think I would go with the 20 footer. Probably quicker than my 21 footer; although the space is nice. And yes there is an issue with water in the boxes. I applied silicone over the deck screws and this resolved my issues.
My ZXR that is for sale in the boats for sale section has never leaked. I guess I got a lucky one. The only possible con I can think of on a 2021 ZXR is the “team advantage” deck layout. Some people don’t like it. After using it for a few years I really like having the two day boxes that come with the “team advantage” layout and I like being able to sit on one of the two center storage doors while having the other one open.
I have run a number of ZXR's and currently have a 2024 ZXR20. For the features you get, it is one of the best values out there. I add a Garmin Livescope to the bow and that's about all I change from the stock boat. In terms of a con, it does not have multiple livewell pumps like the FXR.
Compared to my Phoenix the Skeeter layouts would sell me. Sharp looking designs too.
2017 Phoenix 819
2016 200ProXS, s/n 2B359849, Mod 1200P73BD
I have a 2022 ZXR21 and a buddy has the FXR21 Apex. His has a ton of little bells and whistles and is an amazing boat but I could not justify the extra $20,000. I love mine and think I definitely got the right size. If you can have some patience, look for a gently used. I bought a year old one with 40 hours for over $10,000 less than new.
2022 Skeeter ZXR 21
I used to think an Fxr wasn’t worth the extra $15k to $20k over a zxr, until I got an Fxr. The zxr is a nice deal on a fully rigged boat, but for $80k it should seem nicer imo, I can’t stand the cheap rocker switches they use in them, nothing against rocker switches but those just look super cheap. Personally, I’d be looking for a 2022 to 2024 used low hour Fxr over a new zxr for the same price or cheaper. As for cons, the only issue I’ve had with mine is the Flo rite drain plug, it just doesn't work and never has. I’m also one of the lucky ones that the compartments have never leaked.
Compartments leak and pump out on mine is absolutely useless. 2023 ZXR20. Who ever thought it was a good idea to put the pump out hose to hit the motor cowl is insane. I did take mine back to the dealer and they said they took the deck off and sealed it and the screws, i haven't fished in the rain since so not sure if it will leak or not.
Other than that i like the boat.
Completely forgot about this!Originally Posted by nix03
I'm the exact opposite on the FXR vs ZXR preference. I just don't see enough difference to justify the price. I much prefer the rocker switches as it seems no matter the brand the touchpads all eventually have issues and usuallycare not supported long term by the manufacturer.
I also don't like fiberglass fenders on a trailer. I loved my FX boat but have enjoyed the ZXR tge most. It just fits my preferences better. Mine is built like a tank and has held up very well. Minus a leaking rod locker when it rains there is not much I can complain about.
+1. Only thing I'd like in my ZXR that the FXR has is the spare prop holder/trash can down in floor. I guess dual pumps on the Livewells would be nice too. And as mentioned above, other than leaking rod lockers I absolutely love mine.
I got my 2022 in August of '21 when the new model was first released. Came with upgraded hydraulic jackplate and out the door I think I paid $67k and that was with extended YES warranty. I know prices have gone up, but at least then it was the best deal out there by far.
2022 Skeeter ZXR20
Yamaha 250 SHO
I am in a 23 ZXR20 that is at a year old. I love the boat. No issues and I feel the trailer is FAR better than the ez loaders. I have the same thought process as Mark about rocker switches and fiberglass fenders. I use a small piece of 3/8 hose in my livewell pumpout and hang my weigh bag on my ladder and works perfect.
The only thing I like about ZXR is the price. The boat/trailer/components just look cheap and plain Jane. I could have bought an ZXR 20 for $58,000.00 in 2021 but went with the FXR Apex. It cost just a little bit more to go first class!
My buddy has had 2 in A row 23 and 24 model where the top cap came off. He has been A die hard skeeter loyalist he claims this will be his last.
Time for another CSI award, customer service award.
Mark, I completely agree on the fenders on the trailer for the ZXR over the FXR. I love the aluminum fenders over the fiberglass.
2022 Skeeter ZXR 21
My cons of Skeeter in general (can't make specific comments about the ZXR other than it is the updated version of my ZX pretty much...)
If they are still using the aluminum deck, water in rod boxes is common. Usually due to loose screws near lockers/hatches, but sometimes also comes in from nose of boat.
If they still have the smaller bilge lid opening setup, it is a major PITA to do anything with batteries or PP pumps.
No viable center glove/coin box - there is a cooler there but no dry storage like most boats have.
No real solution for storing a spare prop in bilge due to how they mount charger
Single Bilge pump (at least on my year)
Weak recirc system/pump out system (at least on my year)
Carpet only padded under front section of desk, at least on my years. Mid deck/lids and and rear deck/lids the carpet is not padded. Newer models may not have this issue.
Livewell opening are really small, IMO.
Wiring is suspect, lots of open/non waterproof/heat shrinked connections in bilge - just take a peek at the pump wiring it's a mess usually.
Touch pad (like most touch pads) don't last. My year has Carling Rockers which are rock solid.
Overall Skeeter QC is pretty poor, this is a common complaint from many owners regardless of model.
I guess all brands have issues, but my experience with Skeeter (and also my dealer, although that is location specific) I am pretty sure my next boat will not be a Skeeter.
Try some silicone lubricant on the oring. also make sure you get into your bilge with a vacuum and suck everything up.
PM you.
I have a lightly used 2023 ZXR20 and have had zero complaints. It doesnt leak either. Blackout edition.
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