This is the classic best-buy pontoon that looks — especially with the Bentley
emblem embossed on the helm — more expensive than it is. This company's rise to
the upper echelons of the pontoon biz was meteoric — and that's not an
exaggeration. In three years they've gone from pretty much zero to projecting
about 5,000 orders for 2005. The concept behind the company seems simple: Build
a quality product that average people can afford. How tired do you get of
saying, "Yeah, it's nice but the price is outta my league"? We doubt that will
be said about the 200 Cruise.
Our test boat was rigged with a 60-horse four-stroke, not intended to burn but
ample power for dawdling around. We'd go with maybe a 75-horse or max out to a
90 to make it a bit faster and stronger, and we give that recommendation because
the bargain price tag on the boat allows for some upgrades.
The 200 comes fully outfitted with 24-ounce carpet, and the helm features
simulated wood accents, so it has those classy dinner-cruise surroundings. Two
of the entry gates are 31 inches wide and the forward gate is a gaping 36
inches, so boarding with gear is a breeze. The deck is 8'6" wide compared to
many that are six inches slimmer. All the storage compartments have poly liners
with drain holes, so gear will stay dry. Rails are powder-coated and the tubes are 25 inches in
diameter, both uncommon features on a value pontoon boat.
The Bimini is made of Aqualon, a breathable and waterproof fabric, and provides
nine feet of shade on the deck. The interior accoutrements include a sound
system with four speakers, courtesy lights and a dinette table — all necessities
for the cocktail hour. Not bad for a day when the lawn's begging to be mowed, but
the sun is shining and the fish are jumping. From Boattest.com ...
| 2009 Bentley Pontoon 200 Cruise Motor Pkg. | Info | Boat Mart and Boat Locker Price |
| w/ 50 Merc ELPTO | incl.deluxe single axle trailer and cover | $17,800 |
Notable Features
• Lifetime warranties on the deck and pontoons are transferable
• Rocker switches are aligned along the helm and backed with easy-to-find
circuit breakers
• Rotocast furniture bases will not rot
• Bentley offers a fishing version with casting chairs, rod holders and a
livewell
• The 25-inch tubes keep the boat high on the water
• Powder-coated rails blend with upholstery
Test Drive
Test Engine: Mercury ELPTO EFI 60-hp 4-stroke
Test Prop: 14.25 x 11, aluminum
Test Load: People (200 lb.); Fuel (18 gal.)
Top Speed: 21.8 MPH @ 5,600 RPM
Time to Top Speed: 11.1 sec.
Stats
Length Overall: 20'
Beam: 8'6"
Dry Weight: 1,620 lb. (w/o engine)
Seating/Weight Capacity: 15/2,670 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 24 gal.
Max HP: 90
For more info e:mail
Galen Freeman
or call (615) 791-1780 e: theboatlocker@comcast.net
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Boat Locker,Inc. All rights reserved.