2015-2020 24ft models - what should I buy?

[CaptRedbeard]

Considering plunging into the used boat market to upgrade to a bigger boat from our 2006 AR210. Definitely leaning towards a size upgrade. I really like the idea of the upgrade from 220hp to 360hp. I already know that I don’t want to spend the 70k+ to get into a new 25ft boat. Pretty sure that will land me in a last generation 24ft model.

Question for all of you with experience: what would your preference be between an AR240, 242LS, 242LSE, and a 242X?

I have ballast bags already and I’m not opposed to plumbing my own ballast system if need be. I’d want speed control, but would I be better off going with an AR240 and installing ride steady? I’ve heard mixed opinions on the Connext speed control. Not terribly concerned with “nicer” trim interior, mostly concerned with functionality differences.

Current pricing I’m seeing for 2015-2020 boats:
AR240: $44k+
242LS: $48k+
242LSE: $51k+
242X: $59k+

Tow vehicle capacity isn’t a concern. Thanks guys!

 

[Neutron]

I would opt for the 242ls or the ar240. Not a fan of the e series huge fixed bimini.

 

[WiskyDan]

I would steer clear of the 2015’s due to the 1.8L timing chain issue but that’s just my opinion - I had a 2015 242LS.

I updated to a 2018 242LSE at the end of last season for a few reasons:

- E-throttles. One thing that drove me crazy was trying to sync the throttles on my 2015. The E-series boats have the E throttles which are silky smooth and since my hands are arthritic it makes a huge difference for me. You can also choose a mode where you control both engines with just the port throttle. I will never own another boat that doesn’t have an E throttle system.

- Speed control. I thought this was going to be something I used all the time but I haven’t used it once. We don’t tow inflatables/boards much anymore and the E throttles have been so smooth I haven’t felt the need.

- More of the controls integrated into the bigger 12” Connext screen touch display. This has been a bit of a bust so far. After I took delivery in late August of 2024 the Connext touch screen functionality stopped working once the display got hot. The tachs, fuel level indicator, and depth gauge all worked but none of the inputs at the top and bottom of the screen worked. The dealer that I bought it from got the OK to warranty it from Yamaha but it’s been on order since last October and they have not been given a delivery date. This hasn’t been a big deal so far as we can use the boat (we cover the helm with a damp towel when floating) but it’s a bit annoying.

I know you mentioned that you’re not concerned with the trim level but we spend a lot of time on the swim deck and like the padded seats on the LS series boats.

 

[CaptRedbeard]

Thanks for the input guys. Anybody have any pros/cons with the e-series speed control? I’d hate to decide to spend a premium for an e-series and find out the speed control is not great on the Connext.

 

[CaptRedbeard]

I've found a 2016 242LSE with 118 hours listed for 37,500 with a galvanized trailer and looks like a history of life in NY - I assume that means salt water usage. Also found a 2019 AR240 also with 118 hours and a sound system (I'd be adding one if I bought one without anyways) listed for 45,000. Both have been listed for a while so I assume some flexibility on asking price. Both about a 6-8 hour drive from me.

Any more input on e-series features from people who own them?

 

[Neutron]

Not 100 percent sure but doesn't the 19 ar have the new style reverse split design? Which if so it should be a better reverse response

 

[CaptRedbeard]

Just put a deposit down with a dealership for a 2018 242X with 42 hours. Is anybody familiar with this snap cover setup? It looks like it was custom made to me.

 

[gthorson]

Yep, custom. I had mine made and it is similar.

 

[CaptRedbeard]

Yep, custom. I had mine made and it is similar.

Do you trailer with yours on? I’ve always trailered with my Yamaha OE cover on my current boat.

 

[WiskyDan]

I have one that looks similar as well but the stern cover on mine comes all the way to the end of the swim deck. I like the two piece covers for a few reasons:

• Much easier to put on if the boat is in the water
• As long as the poles are in/tight you can trailer it safely at higher speeds than the Yamaha mooring cover - at least that's what I've read
• When the fall days turn a little more cool, or if it's raining, you can put the bow cover on which helps

BTW: Great looking boat!!

 

[gthorson]

I have one that looks similar as well but the stern cover on mine comes all the way to the end of the swim deck. I like the two piece covers for a few reasons:

• Much easier to put on if the boat is in the water
• As long as the poles are in/tight you can trailer it safely at higher speeds than the Yamaha mooring cover - at least that's what I've read
• When the fall days turn a little more cool, or if it's raining, you can put the bow cover on which helps

BTW: Great looking boat!!

Ditto to every point by Wisky. Also, if canvas it shrinks over time and shrinks more in the long direction by proportion. It also shrinks if it dries when loose. I like that yours doesn't have the fixed buttons at the stern. Probably to alleviate the problems with shrinkage ("I was in the pool, I was in the pool") and allows venting so the inside doesn't get so musty from wet gear.

 

[Cambo]

Good choice On the XE series it will have better resale compared to plumbing out the AR series and the finishes are much better. I leave the Bimini off most of the time and when we anchor I just drape it up on top if the sun is blazing, with two people its a quick install and removal just watch the ratchet buckles don't hit the wind shield or your head. Nice low hour boat that color combo is real nice

 

[CaptRedbeard]

Well it was a bit of a whirlwind of a last couple of weeks for us. Turns out the dealership took multiple deposits on the 2018 242x and they backed out of the deal because we were the second ones to put our deposit down. It was a bummer but I get it, things happen at big dealerships.

Switching plans, we ended up finding a CLEAN one owner 2016 AR240 in my favorite gray color. Engines manufactured in 2/16 so updated timing chain, which was important to me. I drove the 13 hour round trip to pick it up yesterday. The previous owner was meticulous in his maintenance regimen, that was very evident. Excited to get settled in on our new boat!

 

[Neutron]

Well it was a bit of a whirlwind of a last couple of weeks for us. Turns out the dealership took multiple deposits on the 2018 242x and they backed out of the deal because we were the second ones to put our deposit down. It was a bummer but I get it, things happen at big dealerships.

Switching plans, we ended up finding a CLEAN one owner 2016 AR240 in my favorite gray color. Engines manufactured in 2/16 so updated timing chain, which was important to me. I drove the 13 hour round trip to pick it up yesterday. The previous owner was meticulous in his maintenance regimen, that was very evident. Excited to get settled in on our new boat!

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Have the same exact boat that i bought new in 16 and still love every bit of it. Congrats

 

[David Martin]

Sweet looking boat!!!!