Mid-Michigan

If looking at the checkmate go for a 300 (newer 283) with a single. Better yet get a 300 with the fully notched transom (it has a notch that runs the full width of the transom). The 283 or 300 will have more cockpit and cabin space then the 270 and will ride a little better in the rough.

Second wind is right, look for one with upgraded tabs, steering and engine and you will have a blast. There is more than a few of these that run well over 100 with big power. A very well built boat.

I don't have enough room to store that (I have 30' so even the other two are going to be tight) and trying to stay at 25k or under.

Mainly looking for stock power, should net me around 67-68mph. Hopefully I can find one to go out on before I make a decision. Curious to see how I will like it. I loved the Classic 18 but really want to be able to over night. Both will be faster in stock form than any other boat I've owned.

I love my Velocity. Handles fantastic. Quality parts and workmanship. At first it takes a little practice to learn how to drive it. Once you figure it out you won't want to drive anything else. I would rather have the 280 but it wouldn't fit in my garage. Try to take a ride in one if you can.

Here is a nice Velocity 280 in So Cal.
http://eliminatorboat.com/pre-owned/...percharged-502

I have a all freshwater use - 2000 year model Velocity 280 - completely OEM stock 454 HO MAG 385 hp this is a very reliable package and most shops will work on it plus have the parts to work on it.

It has extremely low hours - will have to check it to be exact as it has been properly stored now for over 2 years for a couple of reasons - one - our lakes here are half dried up ponds for the past 4 years and I am super busy all spring till mid Sept getting everyone elses boat ready for them.

My plan is maybe selling it - matching tandem trailer - aftermarket trim tabs - 4 blade S.S prop. Bravo Drive, thru hull exhaust only.

I have to put new tires all the way around and of course make it a turn key boat at my expense. price $ 28,500 if I could get close to it, will most likely sell. 25k or lower I am not selling, it will take more than that.

The 280 is a fun boat to drive. They are fast, nibble and turn on dime plus hold very well in turns. Will say, not a true wave crusher but fair to good in rough waters.

I am in Western NY. A little far for a ride in a VR 1.

Padraig

There you go. Nice boat and with Bup as the owner you know you are getting a sound boat, motor and drive train. Price seems very reasonable.

Padraig

I am not too far from you and have a Checkmate 253. Very similar to a Checkmate 270. You are more than welcome to come look at it if you want to see what the Checkmate is like. I will probably be out on Saginaw Bay on Memorial weekend with it also. I am not looking to sell. Just offering up a look or a ride to assist you in your research.

I have a Checkmate 253 and boat the Saginaw River/Bay every weekend. I live just south of Midland. You are more than welcome to stop by and see mine as well.

You give a Checkmate some extra power and they are a drivers boat in the good way that Saris spoke of. Mine is a pad bottom with a notched transom like the 270 would be. All of the low speed porpoise can be mitigated with tucked drive and/or some tab. The right prop also makes a huge difference with that. The porpoise is gone by 45 mph and is really only there right above planing speeds. Gel and build quality of a CM is excellent. Not too many better for the price.