Lowe SS 210

November 2014 Boat Test Monday

This article originally appeared in our 2014 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing this in print along with 25 other boat reviews, click HERE to purchase the back issue.

What You Need To Know

Just a handful of key changes have been made to the 2014 version of the SS 210, yet it’s amazing how much Lowe was able to pack into this 21-footer. There is great use of space with this family-friendly layout that actually feels larger than it really is.

The Highlights

A new fencing design has been added and the exterior blue color is the ideal match for the Grand Cayman tan interior, which is a new color option for the new model year as well. The tan helps give the ‘toon a high-end feel, but it’s the blue accents in the vinyl that give the boat a much-needed splash of color. Even the simplistic logo is the exact blue color and stitched nicely into the seats. You can’t go wrong with this color combination and although other accent colors are available, we love the blue color that is used throughout.

With a lower leg bolster that’s not quite as aggressive as other seating configurations we’ve tested in the past, the seat comfort is truly improved. There is one chaise lounge onboard and with a passenger rating of 11 people, there are plenty of great seats for everyone to get comfortable.

At the Grand Cayman tan fiberglass helm the three-spoke steering wheel will get a lot of attention and rightfully so. We love the sporty look and feel to the tilt wheel as well as the angled elevated footrest that allows the captain to truly get comfortable. The dash includes large, easy-to-read gauges, lighted switches, as well as a 12-volt port and access to the Fusion stereo. If we had to be picky, we’d like to see more than just two speakers as part of the standard package, but an upgrade to a six-speaker system is available as an option.

In the stern is a large traditional sundeck with storage below that works as a large box for tubes and other water toys, but you do have the option to make this into a pop-up changing room if needed. The boarding ladder has extra wide handholds and the optional ski/tow bar will see plenty of action with the Mercury 150hp outboard.

Inspection Notes

The 25-inch diameter pontoons are multi-chambered and include full-length keels. Plus the cross-members are on 24-inch centers and extend the full width of the boat. From the weld quality to the overall fit and finish work, this Lowe earned high marks for its craftsmanship.

Up top there is over 14 feet of usable deck space from the bow gate to the rear bench seat. From a safety standpoint, we like the consistent 26-inch tall rails throughout the perimeter of the boat that will help keep younger children safe while giving moms one less thing to worry about.

Performance Evaluation

With the Mercury 150hp on the back we jumped up on plane quickly for a smooth ride. At full throttle we just missed the 40 mile per hour mark and our zero to 20mph time came in at a respectable 5.5 seconds. The three-logged pontoon turns well and overall she handles great at all speeds.

Our Take

Again, great use of space on this 21-footer leaves plenty of room to move around as needed. Little added touches like the elevated footrest for the captain, blue accent colors on the tan vinyl and a trash receptacle built into the lone chaise lounge really add to the value of this Lowe.

Number of Occupants 11

Maximum Speed 39.5 mph

Wild Ponies 150hp

No. of Gates 3

0-20 MPH 5.5 seconds

Ladder Measurement 4’ 2” deep

Why we love this boat…A true classic pontoon with a great color scheme and high-end features all wrapped together at a budget-friendly price.

Just being picky…As tested the Fusion stereo system comes with two speakers and even on a 21-foot boat that doesn’t appear to be enough. We’d like to see two more speakers come standard.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Pressure-treated plywood deck, all stainless steel hardware, stern entry w/ heavy-duty 4-step boarding ladder, new all-aluminum motor pod, heavy-duty 9’ bimini top w/boot & quick disconnects, interior courtesy light on console, 22-oz carpet, Fusion Marine RA50 AM/FM Stereo w/ MP3 plug, 12-volt and full instrumentation.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Ski/tow bar and tilt steering wheel.

VITAL STATS

LOA 21’ 4”

Beam 8’ 6”

Hull Design Three Pontoons

Dry Weight 1680 lbs.

Fuel Capacity 32 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine Mercury 150

Cylinder Type Inline 4-Cylinder

Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 183ci/150hp