Boat Test Monday: Lowe RS 25DL

First Impression
Known as the RS 25, the Lowe RS 250 Dual Helm Conversion Lounge we tested included the extreme TLX Triple Log optional package. However, we simply refer to it as an amazing pontoon that is priced well and provides tremendous added value.




Highlights
Starting with the conversion lounge, the stern seating area behind the dual captain chairs provides multiple ways to use this space, including a bench seat, rear-facing loungers, or it can even lay completely flat as an ultimate sunpad. We're guessing the rear-facing loungers will be the most popular way to configure it, but the two chaise lounges in the bow is another area your passengers will seek out. The premium furniture is included as one of the many standard features, and we especially like the quilted accents in the vinyl for a high-end look.

At the elevated helm, the clean-looking dash is centered on a Simrad touchscreen, which is set up with Mercury's Smart Craft Connect system. This easy-to-use display provides full engine and system vitals, chart plotting, depth, as well as controls to the RGB lighting. Also at the helm is access to the KICKER sound system that includes six total speakers. And down below there is even a wireless charging pad for the captain.

Speaking of staying connected, your passengers will appreciate the five total USB/USB-C combo charge ports that are located in the recessed seating locations. It's a modern touch that we're seeing more and more of as layouts evolve. A great addition to the RS 25 Dual Helm Conversion Lounge, is the optional Privacy Cover, located in the bow chaise. This optional feature can be nice to have, especially for those with younger children. Plus, it's the ultimate space-saver that disappears when not needed. 

Other highlights include an in-floor ski locker, a large ski/tow bar with safety chains, and an elegant wakeboard tower that completely ties in the sporty vibe.

Closer Look
Triple 25-inch diameter pontoons with cross members on 16-inch centers come standard on this model, but this particular Lowe was upgraded to the optional TLX package. These upgrades include a 50-gallon fuel tank, .100 gauge logs with wave tamers, lifting strakes and a heavy-duty keel on each pontoon.

Up top there is 19 feet of usable deck space inside the bow and stern gates on this 26-footer. The rail height, equipped with Quietride Fencing, varies from 21 inches tall in the stern to 29 inches for the majority of the layout.

Throttle Down
With the Mercury 250 on the back we easily reached a top speed in the mid 40s after a zero-to-20 mph time of just over four seconds. The TLX package helped improve the handling, and although the steering was a little stiff in the extremely tight turns, this was overall a fun boat to drive. 

Why Buy
We see a lot of added value with this Lowe; it is powered well and loaded with a nice mix of standard and optional features. It's a solid option to consider for those looking to get into boating for the first time, yet are on the hunt for a pontoon that looks and feels like a much higher-priced model. 

Lebanon, Missouri
800-641-4372
www.loweboats.com

Number Of Occupants            13
Price As Tested With Power   $75.7K
Maximum Speed                     45.3 mph
Wild Ponies 250hp
No. Of Gates 3
0-20 MPH  4.5 seconds
Ladder Measurement 48” deep

Why we love this boat...Packaged well, we love the blend of key standard features with the right mix of options that come together on a great all-around model at a budget-friendly price point.

Just being picky...Even on a price-point boat, we'd still like to see a designated trash receptacle as well as a locking glove box to store those smaller loose items such as keys and wallets.

NOTABLE STANDARDS
Simrad Touchscreen w/Smart Craft Connect & NMEA Backbone, RGB Lighting, Premium Furniture w/Quilted Accents, Premium Fiberglass Conversion Lounge Base, 6 Speaker KICKER KMC50 Audio System, Wireless Charging Standard In The Helm, 5 USB/USB-C Combo Charge Ports, 290 Lumen Docking Lights, Elevated Fiberglass Helm w/Mat, Blackout Pkg., Premium Raised Logos, Dock Fender Buttons, Ski/Tow, Playpen Cover, and Power Bimini.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Wake Tower w/Sun-Shade, TLX Pkg. (50-Gal. Tank, 5 Chamber Logs,. 100” Gauge Aluminum, Wave Tamers, Lifting Strakes, & Heavy Duty Keel), RGB Lighting Integrated Into Furniture, Cupholders, Speakers, And Below Deck, Wireless Charging Pkg. (Adds Charging Locations In the Mid-Ship Cupholder & Bow Furniture Arm), and Privacy Enclosure.

VITAL STATS
LOA                26’ 3”
Beam               8’ 6”
Hull Design     TLX Triple Pontoon
Dry Weight     3,288 lbs.
Fuel Capacity 50 gals.

TEST DRIVE
Engine             Mercury 250 Verado
Cylinder Type V8
Displacement/Horsepower     4.6L/250hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio           1.85:1
Propeller         14.5 X 17

RPM vs. SPEED  vs. DB-A
1000    4.3       77
1500    6.8       81
2000    9.5       81.5
2500    14.1     87.5
3000    18.2     90.5
3500    22.5     94
4000    27.6     96.5
4500    32.0     97
5000    38.2     99.5
5500    44.9     101
6000    45.3     102.5

PRICE
Price As Tested           $75,768
(Boat & Engine)

Base Price                   $51,450
(Boat Only)