Help picking colors 2012 200

[Nautiquehunter]

Dave
What makes you feel so strong about the OB. I was thinking CB because the bow is so low and prone to wash-over . This boat will only be used in early morning sessions with two people on occasions three.

[bsb4fsu]

I would ask for a deposit anyway, but yes especially with a CB. I'm definitely a CB to OB convert.

Another option:

This one looks good. I think it would be better for re-sale.

I ordered the closed bow on my '12 200. I had a demo OB 200 and as soon as you put anyone in the front it wants to nose in when coming around. My dealer said that it looks like the trend is going back to CB. I like the look of the CB much better anyway.

[ClemsonDave]

Dave
What makes you feel so strong about the OB. I was thinking CB because the bow is so low and prone to wash-over . This boat will only be used in early morning sessions with two people on occasions three.

Usually starts a big argument here, but I'll share my opinion. I was a 100% CB guy until I owned the 200OB. Within a month I was totally converted. I have also has other people (even on this forum) that argued that CB is the only way to go, be quickly converted after riding in mine. Another guy on this forum recently converted after his friend purchased an OB. I suggest keeping an open mind and trying one. Of course, there is nothing wrong with liking the CB. To each their own.

1. On a hot day, leave either the window open or remove the walk through air dam. The breeze keeps you cool. I leave the window closed when I am driving tournaments, but the air coming underneath is very welcome.
2. Looks. I love the look of the 196, but I think the CB is a bit too long on a 200CB. The 200OB looks more natural.
3. Maintenance. Vinyl is easier to keep clean than gel coat. Some will dispute this, but a CB will get scratches that you have to buff out. Its also easier to wipe vinyl down with protectant than waxing/polishing gel coat.
4. Loading on trailer. I usually do this myself. Just drive on trailer, open window, walk to the front and right onto the truck.
5. Easier storage. You can just toss bags or whatever in the front. Even with the OB, I bet I could slide 2-3 slalom skis UNDER the passenger seat. There is a closed pocket that goes all the way to the bow.
6. Rare, but my kids have ridden up front. Much more fun for them.
7. Resale.

As far as wash-over, it could happen with the CB or OB. Just have to be careful. The bow is the same height on both. I've been drenched a few times on a 196. It comes quickly over the bow and over the windshield. I have seen it come over a 200OB, but the passengers don't get wet. The floor in the OB is fiberglass with a snap in carpet for easy drying.

[tracyda]

I like the look of the solid sides with the new graphics better. That blue looks great and think that orange would be spectacular, but more risky on the resale. I would also love to see that design with the metallic blue in person.

As for CB vs OB, l like your explanation and ties well to your use. In my case, I liked the looks of the CB better as always thought the 196 was too stubby looking up front. Very functional, but stubby so the longer nose 200 was a welcome design. Also, we really only ski early morning and boat is on a lift, so the enclosed storage is desirable. It we skiid more in the afternoons and trailered a ton, I think the OB would be more desirable.

On the resale of CB vs OB, atleast here I am also hearing the CB is coming back and becoming just as, if not more desirable. So, in short, I guess is depends on your use, preference of look, and region.

[DealsGapCobra]

I like the last one best but then it looks a lot like my 2010. As for the OB/CB...I was a 100% CB man. I ended up buying the OB simply because it was in stock and I thought my 9yo daughter would love it...I was right. What I didn't expect is that the convince of the OB is much more significant than I thought. Loss of storage isn't significant as the CB storage is inconvenient. The ONLY downside is the water that we collect on occasion. It happens rarely to me but quite often to my other, less experienced, drivers. Not a big deal but it is always a topic of discussion. Keep in mind that my boat is a family boat not a tournament boat.

[NigelC]

Thumbs up for the metallic blue first followed by the orange second. From experience, I would not go with a coloured deck stripe though. A white top deck is much easier to maintain.
For a new boat order, I would highly recommend the extended mirror option.

[swc5150]

I used to go back and forth with Dave on OB V CB, and became a convert 24 hours after my brother took delivery of his 200. The 200 OB layout is great, and still retains that cool CB look from the outside.

[TxJole]

The way these crazies drive on Texas lakes the brighter the better here for me.

[ClemsonDave]

Thumbs up for the metallic blue first followed by the orange second. From experience, I would not go with a coloured deck stripe though. A white top deck is much easier to maintain.
For a new boat order, I would highly recommend the extended mirror option.

Thanks. Both my 200s have had black top deck. I made a template for the transom sections and cover it with 3M Clear film. Does an excellent job of protecting the finish. Without that, I completely agree. The rope scratches it. I'll take a look at the ext mirror.

[ClemsonDave]

Follow up on the 3M film. Below is the link showing what I did.
http://www.planetnautique.com/vb3/sh...cratches-fixed

[tracyda]

would you recommend doing this for a white top boat?

[ClemsonDave]

Yes. Scratches are not as visible on white, but they are there.

[Nautiquehunter]

Dave
You make a strong case for the OB over the CB I will definitely look at both closely. We have already decided on the 200 as the final addition to the fleet. I am hoping to be ready in 1-2 years if job status permits. Ether way you will have a great looking boat . Make sure you post pics especially if its orange.

[NigelC]

Follow up on the 3M film. Below is the link showing what I did.
http://www.planetnautique.com/vb3/sh...cratches-fixed

Thanks Dave. Don't recall seeing this thread before.

I had considered using film. Think it's marketed as Venturefilm here in the UK but seems difficult to get hold of for DIY fit. Most suppliers seem to supply and fit shaped parts for specific car and motorbike applications.

[ccs]

Have you seen the Midnight Blue in person ? - - I feel very strongly that the "in person" effect of this color is MUCH different than the "pictures" of it....Just my opinion, but I think the Midnight Blue is very, very dark (gotta be tough with scratches, I'd think) and gives a much different feel, look and impression in person versus the pictures / schematics.