Redesigned for 2018, the T22 takes traditional wakeboat looks, with the bow tapering to a V rather than a pickle fork, and adds Axis performance and attitude. The hull itself is designed to sit deeper in the water at slower speeds to create more water displacement, i.e., throw a bigger wake. The results did not disappoint.
Like the A series in the Axis line, the T22 can be equipped with Surf Gate and the Power Wedge II. The boat we tested had a standard wedge, so for surfing we left it up to keep the wave clean. With Surf Gate deployed, the T22 kicks up a sizable wave that flattens out toward the back, allowing you to surf back at the curl while still providing enough push to get you forward with ease. If you want to customize the shape of the wave more, opt for the Power Wedge II and you can sculpt the wave to match the ability and style of the rider.
Wake fans who prefer the stylings of a traditional bow will love the T22. It’s been redesigned so it looks better than ever and has room for 15. With the wave’s moderate shape and large push, it is ideal for riders looking to progress.
At the helm, the interface is also incredibly easy; there’s a toggle switch at the dash set to neutral, left or right. There’s no guesswork and no fiddling — it just works. When you want to switch sides or transfer while you’re riding, all you have to do is signal the driver and hop over the rooster tail, and you’re riding on the other side. The T22 is a deep boat with plenty of room for storage, ballast and people, so you can weigh this thing down pretty good. Opt for maximum plug-and-play ballast so everything is plumbed in and you just need to hit the ballast-fill buttons to be ready to surf.
Without ballast, we recorded a top speed of 34.3 mph and it climbed onto plane in under 4 seconds.
Creature comforts? The bow lounge and the cockpit hold plenty of people. Cushioned transom storage hatches open up on gas struts to reveal plenty of stowage space underneath. The Sliding Skybox feature is awesome; the transom bench slides out and, with backrests, creates theater seating for the show behind the boat. It’s a killer setup with a price point that shouldn’t kill you.
High Points
* With the optional Power Wedge II, Surf Gate and Surf Band, just push a button and immediately start surfing a killer wave; it's that simple.
* Sliding Skybox reverse bench-style seat lets the crew turn around and watch everybody ride in comfort.
* Teardrop swim step on the transom allows wakeboarders to easily slide into the water after gearing up.
Price: Unavailable (at press time)
How We Tested
Engine: PCM Monsoon 450 6.0L inboard
Drive/Prop: V-drive/15" x 14 1/4" 4-blade Nibral
Gear Ratio: 1.72:1
Fuel Load: 36 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Axis Wake Research - Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; axiswake.com
