Lowe 165 FS

[xmarksthespot]

I am considering purchasing a Lowe 165FS (90hp) but I am somewhat hesitant on the way it appears to ride in the water. From the pictures on the brochure, it seems as though the boat never really comes up on plane the way other boats do. I am not sure if this is due to the hull design or just the angle of the pictures. Can anyone comment on their experience?

I am going back and forth between the Lowe 165FS and the Princecraft 164SS (90hp). The Lowe has more storage and a bigger fishing deck so I am would prefer more functionality, however, I am concerned with the ride. The Princecraft seems to cruise better. Any thoughts on this?

Thanks in advance.

 

[dahogman]

Re: Lowe 165 FS

There is not much space on a 16 ft boat for fishing. Add in the fact that you are considering a dual console and your space is going to be an issue. You should really think about a bigger boat. I just sold my 2008 Lowe FM 165 with a Merc 60hp 4 stroke for that very reason. Just not enough room. The boat was great lots of storage and would get about 30mph. I really liked the boat but fishing with 3 men there just wasn't enough space. My Lowe would come on plane at about 4000 rpm and handled well, there was some prop blowout while turning sharp at speed. Trimming the motor down a little solved this though.

 

[Lowe170]

Re: Lowe 165 FS

I have a 2000 Lowe 170 (16.5 feet) with 70hp Johnson (just bought this year.) It usually does quite well getting on plane, although ometimes I do get my passenger to sit forward on the deck as we start to help get on plane. I can hit 35mph pretty easily and max out at 40mph. It's true that the fishing area is limited; I'll often leave the front seat back at home to have more room up front (and better visibility.) Yes it's small compared to my buddy's Ranger glass boat, but it's paid for and runs great...