Bombard 500 SB Explorer

Oli. · 11 August 2012, 16:42

I have just had a fantastic week away in Annecy with the family and our Valiant V400. There are five of us, including 3 children of 3,5 and 11, and I feel by next year we will have outgrown this rib.

On the last day, the above rib was launching next to us and looked ideal, size size, looks etc, it had a 70hp as well, which will be great for me wake boarding etc, with my mates. I have since been googling and seen they do it with a 550 size that can take up to a 90hp.

Anyone got any views on this boat? - 90% of the time it will be on the sea, with up to five aboard, fishing, doughnuting, boarding, skiing etc, with the final 10% every year on holiday to France.

Cheers in advance

Oli

Ps I have an immaculate 2007 V400 up for sale soon, complete with Mariner 40hp, JOBE ski pole, electric start and tilt etc. I am the second owner. It has a full comprehensive history with it. £6000 Ono

SPR · 11 August 2012, 16:56

I have the 550 DB with 50 HP on back, great sea handling - I don't get wet!

With a 90 on back it will fly, although with one up (1.5 up I am big) - on flat day I get 30 knots, and can starting to chime walk, goes away with trim down.

I think the SB is the sane hull but with a more consumer fitting out!

regards

Oli. · 12 August 2012, 17:57

Thanka for reply

Any other views?

IndyR1 · 26 August 2012, 13:26

I have an Explorer 5.0 with. Yam 60 2St and has been a great sea boat. Just last weekend had two 75mile days on the Menai at Anglsey Wales.
Used for pulling a donut for the teenagers and fishing off the east coast.
Only limitation I find is that I only have seating for 3 in current configuration.
2 up with fuel does about 30 knots. Generally average between 0.6 and 0.7litres per mile.

Si

Sibbo90 · 26 August 2012, 18:32

I have the 530 SB with a Suzi 70df which seems to be the standard fit for this size rib and will push it along at over 30mph with 4 adults on board.

It is my first rib but I can report it is very dry and stable and more than capable in a reasonable swell, I find it particularly good for my family due to the leisure config, I have added a table to the front area and a bimini which keeps SWMBO happy!!