Upgrading 2012 242LS to 2020 242 SE questions

[Skysurfer2010]

I put a deposit down today on a new 2020. I haven't driven a new model. How do they compare? I have thrust vectors installed on my 2012 but havent really felt like they're needed. I don't plan to install anything on the 2020 since they're supposed to not need anything with the keel and rudder, right? Does the boat track better now holding a straight line?

Is the front of the new models still a dry ride? I also notice the new models are a little heavier. Does it cut through wakes any better than older models?

Thanks... I tried a search but didn't find anything helpful.

 

[captras]

I have a 2016. I love the boat. I did install Cobra Fins, more for slow speed control. I did see some advantage at higher speeds, especially maintaining a much greater degree of control if you need to throttle down quickly. It is definitly a dry ride in the front, even in rough waters. The only time you get wet is if the wind is strong enough to blow the spray, but I have yet experienced any problems. MUCH better than my old stern drive.

 

[Weeb]

I just put on lectrotab trim tabs which makes a world of difference planting more of the boat in the water in the chop.

 

[Quickdraw]

I took out my new E-Series for the first time last weekend and loved it. Coming from a traditional stern drive (and never driven a jet) this was a whole new experience for me. At higher speeds the boat tracks incredibly well and I found that syncing the two drives while cruising and in no-wake zones was the key to keeping it straight. maneuvering around the docks was much easier in dual throttle mode. The E-series truly gives you the best of both worlds and I'm glad I spent the extra money to get it. My previous stern drive was quite a bit heavier than my new Yamaha so I expected the Yamaha to under perform in the chop--this wasn't the case at all--in fact, I'd say the Yamaha performed better then my previous boat which was totally unexpected. As far as aftermarket steering mechanisms go, the boat is so maneuverable as-is that I never felt like it was missing anything. Again, I don't know the difference, but I sure didn't feel like I needed "more" steering capability.