We are pumped we have wanted a Nordic badly for a couple of years now. We found the right one (2006 Rage MCOB 496) and worked out a price so pending a lake test and shop test we will own it.

Our previous boat was a 1996 22 Scarab with a 7.4 LX/MPI. It was a real fun boat and handled our waters real well.

What can I expect from the Rage, and anything to look for on our tests. Is there things that should be changed right away or known problems?

I would look very closely for wood rot (they didn't start building wood free until around 2008) and mold in anyplace that can collect water, very close at places that can't be cleaned easily. Mold is easy to miss and can be cleaned up temporarily. Look for loose seat basses on the driver and passenger sides and spongy flooring spots around them. If the shop can have them give you an hour printout off the motor with RPM times and ranges.

My rage is an 09 with the 525 so I can't really comment to much about the older boats and the 496. Test the handling in rough water to make sure it meets your expectations since you may have had a boat with a deeper V bottom. My rage needs to be trimmed down with the tabs in the rough water to smooth it out, otherwise the ride can be rough. Great boat you should love it.

Eninge scanned 82 hours, with no real rpm shock in the readout. I am doing a lake test soon and will check the rest of the items mentioned.

What are the ins and outs of the drive & throttle controls. I have never had a boat with the offshore controls.

Well we bought it, and wow. I am amazed with only one ride under my belt.

Congrats. I have a 2010 rage with 496HO and I really like the handling. Once you are running over 50mph the ride smooths out IMO. Under 50 and the hull rides totally different.

I definetely need and want to get some more seat time. We had 80s last week then hit 3-4 inches of snow this week. I am really pleased with our first run though, super nice.

Congratulations on your new Rage and welcome to the Nordic Navy.
I am sure you'l enjoy it for years to come.
Regards,
Steve

Congrats! I have the same year and set up and have loved the boat since the day we brought her home new from the dealer and I'm sure you will too! Have a great Summer!