Test driving an Axis wake boat is an exciting opportunity to experience first-hand the innovation, performance, and comfort that have made Axis a favorite among water sports enthusiasts.
We also recognize that purchasing a wake boat is a significant investment for you and your family. So whether you’re new to wake boats or a seasoned rider, a test drive will allow you to evaluate your favorite models and gain the peace of mind that it will indeed deliver everything you need it to, for years to come.
In this guide, we highlight some key steps you can take during your test drive, ensuring that you make the most of your time with the boat and so that you can be sure that you are getting the perfect model for your needs.
BEFORE THE TEST: HAVE A PERSONALIZED CONSULTATION WITH YOUR AXIS DEALER
Start by discussing your specific needs with your Axis dealer and share your dreams and desires with them. Are you primarily a wake surfer seeking the ultimate wave? A wakeboarder chasing air? Do you need space and lots of seating for a bigger crew? Or are you a young couple seeking maximum thrills on the water. This conversation will ensure that your Axis dealer can perfectly match you with the ideal Axis model and configure it for an unparalleled demonstration.
1. INITIAL IMPRESSIONS: COMFORT AND ERGONOMICS
Before leaving the dock, ask your dealer to demonstrate the boat's systems. Understanding what they are and getting a basic feel for how they work will help you to focus on the boat's features and performance aspects that matter most to you, once you're underway.
Assess Comfort and Visibility from the Helm
Once you’re at the helm, don’t rush to hit the throttle. Take time to get a feel for the captain’s chair, the visibility through the windshield, and the ergonomics of the control layout.
Ergonomics
Axis boats are designed to feel intuitive: simple to control but built for serious fun. You should be able to easily:
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Adjust ballast and surf settings from the touchscreen
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Check mirror angles and see your riders clearly
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Access controls without reaching or looking away for too long
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Hear your crew without being drowned out by the engine
Take mental note of how naturally everything falls to hand. A boat that feels like second nature at idle will likely feel just as intuitive at 20+ mph with a rider off the back. Now fire up the engine and let's leave the dock!
2. ENGINE PERFORMANCE & HANDLING
Once you're on the water, you'll immediately notice the smooth, reliable startup and consistent idle that Axis boats are known for. As you accelerate, experience how the boat responds to throttle inputs with smooth, progressive acceleration and efficient planing characteristics.
Start your test drive at low speeds to get a feel for the boat’s handling. Axis wake boats use direct drive, inboard configurations, which means they turn 'in the middle,' offering a different feel compared to some other propulsion systems.
Handling Test
Test the steering responsiveness at various speeds to appreciate the precise handling that makes Axis boats so enjoyable to operate. The boat will track straight and true, demonstrating the excellent balance and engineering that goes into every hull design. When turning, you'll experience predictable, controlled responses that inspire confidence at any speed. At cruising speeds, enjoy the stable, comfortable ride that absorbs chop smoothly.
An Axis makes it easy to boat like a pro, even if you're a beginner.
Practice basic maneuvers such as slow turns, reversing, and docking. Note that Axis boats typically reverse more efficiently to the starboard side. Take your time to get comfortable, especially if you’re new to inboard boats.
If there's any chop on the water during your test, note the smooth spray free ride offered by Axis.
3. SURF SYSTEMS & WAKE CUSTOMIZATION
One of the defining features of Axis wake boats is their Surf Systems that allow you to quickly and easily customize the wake for wakeboarding and wakesurfing, for industry leading wake performance.
In fact, Axis Boats include several world-famous wake shaping technologies inherited from Malibu Boats, the world's biggest manufacturer of wake boats. They include Surf Gate®, Power Wedge III®, hard-tank ballast and Surf Band®.
If you haven't already done so at the dock, be sure to now familiarize yourself with the surf controls on the touchscreen at the helm. To make this step even easier, all new Axis Boats come pre-loaded with several default rider profiles.
POWER WEDGE® III
Test the Power Wedge® III, a hydrofoil system that lets you adjust the shape and size of the wake with the touch of a button. Once deployed, the Power Wedge III immediately adds ballast to the boat, allowing you to craft even bigger and better wakes. The best way to experience the customization that Power Wedge offers is to get behind the boat & play around with the settings while you're on the wake/wave.
SURF GATE®
Activate the Surf Gate® system, which if activated, deploys automatically at speeds around 7 mph. Surf Gate allows riders to switch sides without shifting ballast, creating clean, customizable waves for surfing. Listen for the alarm indicating deployment, and watch how the wake changes as you adjust settings.
TIME TO SURF!
Let's all agree: This is the part you came for! And we don't blame you one bit. After all, Axis boats are built to throw big, clean wakes and waves with serious push. This is where Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, and Axis' hard tank ballast really come into play.
If the dealer has set things up ahead of time, great. If not, ask them to dial in a typical riding setup for your style (wakeboarding, wakesurfing, etc.). Then, either get out and ride or have someone else ride while you observe from the boat.
Surf System Performance
Here’s what you can expect when riding behind the demo Axis:
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World-class wakes and waves with impressive size and definition
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Powerful surf waves with long pockets and tons of push for riders of all levels
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Effortless wave customization to suit different styles and skill levels
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Reliable, consistent wave performance in every condition
An Axis surf wave should feel powerful and forgiving, with plenty of room to move. Wakeboarders will appreciate the firm ramp, the clean lip, and the customizable pop.
CONCLUSION
A thorough test drive including a test surf of your dream Axis boat will showcase the exceptional quality, performance, and versatility that define Axis boats. Once you're back at the dock, we anticipate you'll be ready to Go All Out and ready to sign the papers for your own Axis!
Take time after the test drive to discuss your test experience with the dealer and, if you feel it's necessary, you can even explore how different models or configurations might best match your specific preferences and intended use now that you have a feel for what an Axis boat can offer you. Contact your local Axis dealer today to find out what they can offer you and to schedule a demo of your favorite model!