The Ri217 may be the smallest boat in Centurion Boats’ Ri line, but thanks to its Ramfill and QuickSurf systems, our day testing and riding on the lake proved it packs a sizable wave and provides big watersports fun. It also possesses great style, and the new black-framed windshield and the black low-profile Ramfill vent are two reasons why.
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Next, take a look at its basic performance. With a 409 hp Pleasurecraft Marine engine under the hatch, the Centurion Ri217 scooted to 36 mph turning a 14½-by-14¼-inch Nibral prop through a 1.72-to-1 reduction. It accelerated briskly, reaching 20 mph in 6.9 seconds, and even when the ballast was full, it achieved plane in under 5 seconds. (Ballast empty, it planed in less than 4 seconds!) So, in addition to packing the power and torque to carry a crew and throw a wave, it delivers enough speed to have fun cruising to a favored surf spot, or to get you back to the dock in a jiffy if weather should threaten.
Notably, the Ri217 differs from its sister ships, the Ri237 and the Ri257, in a more significant way than just length overall. It utilizes the signature Centurion deep-V hull from years past. With this setup, you’ll utilize CATS more to dial in the wave and get it just how you want it. For our purposes surfing on the starboard-side, CATS was set to 10. With QuickSurf engaged and ballast set up, the wave was clean and had a playful, moderate shape and steepness. While it doesn’t reach the size and power of the Ri237 or Ri257, the Ri217 still packs a punch that a wide variety of riders will enjoy. At under 22 feet, it’s not set up to make the mega-size waves its bigger sibling models are capable of, but nonetheless it delivers impressive wakeboarding and wakesurfing experiences. Total ballast capacity is 4,950 pounds, with Plug N Play included.
For those who want the Centurion pedigree in a more manageable package, the Ri217 wave suits a wide range of riders and ability levels, especially with the giant Ramfill ballast and QuickSurf system. You still get Centurion’s killer side-by-side touchscreen-dash setup and Downfire speaker system, all in a boat that holds 14. Bring on the fun in the sun.
High Points
* CATS: The Centurion Articulating Tracking System is like a skeg that can move, allowing you to customize wakes and waves.
* Ramfill (optional): Filling up a giant subfloor ballast system in 90 seconds has its perks.
* QuickSurf Pro: This system turns a mass of water into a totally surfable wave with the push of a button.
Price: $148,870 (as tested without tax/prep/shipping)
How We Tested
Engine: 409 hp PCM GM L96
Drive/ Prop: V-drive/14 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ 4-blade Nibral
Gear Ratio: 1.72:1
Fuel Load: 45 gal.
Crew Weight: 365 lb.
More Information
Centurion Boats – Merced, California; 209-384-0255; centurionboats.com
