Axis Wake Research, a spinoff of legendary builders Malibu boats, aims to provide buyers with a killer wake at a more affordable bottom line. Such is the case with the Axis A24, which proved to shape one of the best wakesurfing waves we’ve ever ridden. The pocket was incredibly long, and the face of the wave had a ton of steepness and power to it. From the start, it was easily configured and tweaked to our liking. For crews of varying ability and style, the Axis A24 may just be the ideal watersports boat.
Want to know more about how it surfed? The wave behind this A24 was so big and clean thanks to its wake-shaping hull and the surfing features it shares with the hulls of its big-sister company, Malibu Boats. Like all Malibu models, the Axis A24 can be equipped with Surf Gate. With Surf Gate, the A24 creates a huge, consistent wave that has a ton of push and oceanlike power, and it’s equally impressive on either side without having to move weight around. And now for 2017, the Surf Band is also an option. With the push of a button, you can change the speed, transfer sides and adjust the volume of the stereo as well. For wakeboarding, the Autoset Wedge, a hydrofoil, helps shape sizable wakes without any input from the man at the helm.
The A24 has a large, open-bow seating array filled into the pickle-fork design. Combined with the wraparound bench layout in the cockpit, the boat holds up to 17 people. With the ballast tanks drained, we climbed onto plane in just under three seconds en route to a top speed exceeding 37 mph. So when not towing riders or conducting a surf session, the A24 is definitely game for a family cruise. The top speed of 37.3 mph is on par with most inboard surf and tow boats of this style. Handling also proved to be equal to other boats in this category.
At a price ranging from $50,000 less than top-end tow boats, the A24 encourages customization, and is definitely up there with the best surfboats in the industry. For that, we’ll give the Axis A24 an A plus.
High Points
* Internal ballast system can be optioned out to hold up to 3,750 pounds of ballast to add more depth to the wake.
* Autoset Wedge hydrofoil helps shape the wake for surfing and wakeboarding without input from the driver.
* Tower easily flips down for garage storage or for when trailering the boat on the highway.
How We Tested
Engine: Indmar 550 Monsoon
Prop: 15″ x 14¼” Acme 4-blade Nibral
Gear Ratio: 1.50:1
Fuel Load: 11 gal.
Crew Weight: 450 lb.
Ballast Tanks: Empty
Price
$71,120 (base)
Contact
Axis Wake Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; axiswake.com
