The TT in the model designation stands for TriToon®, which means a third tube is added along the centerline to increase performance and handling, a system JC pioneered. Sitting at the helm and punching the throttle, I could feel the TT effect aboard the new JC Spirit 242 as I quickly hopped on plane, busted through another boat’s wake and cut all the hard turns needed for tubing.
JC Manufacturing introduced the Spirit series this year with the goal of offering a more affordable pontoon that doesn’t sacrifice quality or per formance to meet a price point. As I pushed the 150 hp Evinrude E-Tec to wide open, and the boat responded smoothly to helm and power, I could say, “Mission accomplished.”
The Spirit 242 TT uses the same U-shaped tubes with the same performance-enhancing aluminum bottom skin as in its top-of-theline models. The 55-gallon fuel tank is built into the center tube, right on the center of gravity, to improve balance. The cleats and swim ladders are high-grade stainless steel. The helm is a fiberglass unit, and all the chaise lounges are built on solid rotocast components with recessed toe kicks. All the drains run outboard, including in the cup holders.
The Spirit 242 TT, one of six floor plans and four lengths offered in its series, has a traditional L-shaped lounge aft and wraparound chaise lounges forward. A changing room with space for a portable toilet is available at no extra cost. JC also limited the side-panel color choices to black, white, burgundy and blue. With the TT package, the 242 gets you on the water with fewer frills but definitely all the thrills.
Extra Points
Comes standard with a waterproof Clarion CMD 5 stereo system and four speakers.
The stern swim ladder and cleats are all stainless steel.
U-shaped tubes on the TT package feature a performanceenhancing aluminum bottom skin.
The 55-gallon fuel tank is built into the center tube for better balance.
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Test Drive**
» Test Engine: Evinrude 150 E-Tec HO
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» Test Prop:** BRP Viper 14¾” X 16″ Three-Blade SS
» Test Load: People (400 LB.); Fuel (20 GAL.)
» Top Speed: 35.9 MPH @ 5,200 RPM
» Time to Plane: 3.5 sec.
» Time to 30 MPH: 6.8 sec.
Vital Stats
» Length Overall: 23’7″
» Beam: 8’6″
» Dry Weight: 2,200 LB.
» Seating/Weight Capacity: 15/3,600 LB.
» Fuel Capacity: 55 GAL.
» Max HP: 150
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» MSRP:** $31,600 (w/ test power)
