Fountain

Figuratively speaking of course

the 344 cheetah has some nice lines and cool creature comforst like the flip out rear bolsters. but with out doubt does not handle as well as the beak. in stock or modified situations. as a matter of fact the faster you go the worse it gets.
i had a client whom owned one and after a season of boating earned the nick name drunken grass hopper.

This same thread is over in the Hustler forum, and odd as it might seem, and for the most part they say the Fountain is a POS.

beaks have had their fair share of faults as for finishing touches and the like. as for handling at speeds they are rarely equaled and in my opinion yet surpassed.

I'd agree. I've spent some time tweeking some little chit this winter on the new one. And would at times wonder to myself why someone missed it, nothing big, and I can be a little over-anal. But I'd rather fuss with a cabinet hinge, or put a few more tie wraps on a wiring whip than to be f'n with a boat that just will not handle right, and I've been there as well.

So, while I've got you here, What is your opinion on the best prop set up for an '06 Lightning with 525's??? They are on 34" centers, the X is 19" and has stock non-lab 32 Bravos. Any advice here on set up? Short Sportmasters worth anything? Tips are always appreciated.

Fountain

Tough decision, and thanks for all the input.
I bought the Hustler. I knew the person that configured and has serviced the boat. Same person that configured my VR1. One of those trust things.
I do think Fountains are great boats.
Again, thanks all.

I've got a set of labbed 32 Bravo's if you would like to try them. I'm up in the
Lake George area if you wanted to pick them up.

Congrats on the purchase. The 344s are sweet looking and fast too!