Triton 189 Tiller

[Eyecon]

Has anyone had the chance to run a Triton 189 Tiller. I'm in the market for an 18' glass tiller rated for more than a 90 hp. Until yesterday I was unaware that Triton offered a tiller. The salesman told me the 115 Yamaha four stroke won't push the 2001 hull very well but the 125 Merc two stroke will plane out easily and run a top speed of about 44mph. The 2002 hull is said to be much better and should run fine with a 115 four stroke. I can make a good buy on the 2001 boat/2002 Merc 125 complete with all the options,upgraded trailer,trolling motor and batteries etc. for $21,995. Looks like a nice boat, I have spent some time in the Triton 205 and feel its a very nice boat, I just can't give up my tiller. Whats your thoughts.

[david]

What about the 1890 Warrior with the 125? Nice boat but may be a little more pricey.

Also Skeeter has a newly designed 18 ft tiller coming to the market rated for a 115, guess it's going to be a great boat.

I'd opt for the 4 stroke in either case, in my estimation it's totally worth it.

[Eyecon]

I'm not interested in a Warrior(leave it at that I'm being polite) I would be interested in an 18' Skeeter though. What have you heard and when is it coming?

[david]

I stand corrected, Skeeter's new 18 isn't going to be out till 03 - so I guess that doesn't do you any good.

Regarding the Triton, are you talking to a dealer in MN? If so I think the price you've been quoted is high, should be more like 20k even with the 125 2 stroke. I know of someone that was inquiring to buy what I think is this same boat.

Look forward to your thoughts.

[Eyecon]

Yes, the dealer is in Elk River Minnesota. What did your buddy get quoted for a price? I'm thinking of waiting till boat show time and check out the 2002 models, the hull is faster from what I understand. I would like to stay with a four stroke.

[david]

eyecon,

Yeah, we're talking the same boat, his price was 19,999 that was w/ the 125 merc.

I've got the same mentality as you, there is no way I'd spend that much money on a boat to have the old technology Merc 125 on there. If I did rig it with a two stroke it would be a 135 Opti, other than that I'd look for a four stroke.

It does suprise me that this boat didn't do well with a 115 four stroke. A number of people on this board run the new 620t with a 115 and have had good performance, and this rig is heavier than the Triton. Actually if money wasn't an issue this would be the tiller boat to have in my estimation, Ranger built this boat for the tiller fisherman, whereas the Triton is a counsel boat converted to a tiller model(not designed for it).

Good luck with your search.

[Ozarkeyes]

Doesn't the Mercury 125 come in Optimax? If you decide to go with 2-stroke- at least go with a direct injection, you will save a lot of gas money. Of course 4-stroke is better overall.

Have you looked at the Ranger 620T? Just a thought. Plenty of room.

[Hookin]

After running the 189 I can't imagine that that boat will do anything with just a 125 on it. Mine is slow to get on plane and it's maxed out with a 175 on it. I would also seriously question the 44mph.
If you would care to email me I will be more specific with you.

[Eyecon]

David agreed, the Ranger 620T tiller is the best boat out there as far tillers go and would be my first choice. I just don't need or want a boat that big, 18 feet is plenty. I wish Ranger would revamp the old 690 Tiller with a modern hull rated for a 115 plus horse power. I don't know why the 115 Yammie four stroke could'nt push the Triton with three adults, it seems to push the bigger Ranger ok. Thanks for the heads up on the price!