PDB Shootout JC TriToon

First Impression

We went into this test with already high expectations, but there were some added features that we didn’t see coming as JC somehow found a way to improve on its already impressive SportToon lineup.

Highlights

New this year is the High Tide Hull (HTH), which opens up a lot of possibilities with the layout including a built-in anchor locker in the bow. As you take a walk through the stainless “saloon” style gates, the floorplan is inviting with JC Grass flooring to tie it all in.

In the bow the long benches with chaise lounges include fold-down arms so you can really spread out and get comfortable. Speaking of comfort, we absolutely love the optional Mister-Comfort single-zone floor misting system that runs off its own 5-gallon fresh water tank. It can lower the surrounding air temperature by as much as 25 degrees on those hot summer days!

At the elevated helm console is an upgraded 9-inch Simrad GPS map touchscreen with analog gauges on each side to complete the symmetrical look with rocker switches below. The captain also has access to the JL media master head unit that with JL 8.8 speakers located everywhere (including two on the tower), sounds amazing. The “bubba” helm chair is 31 inches wide and might just be more comfortable than your home recliner, and directly across for the first mate is a reclining chair with a flip-up footrest.

On the side of the helmstand are two control panels for the RGB interior and exterior lights so if you want blue inside and red outside, it’s easy to dial it in. To complete the sporty look of this model, the Sport Arch (with power fold-down option) takes this model over the top.

Worth noting, in our last JC review we mentioned we loved the in-floor ski locker, but at just 12 inches deep we felt it was a little too shallow. We’re pleased to report that we’ll have to find something else to be picky about because the ski locker has been redesigned for 2019 and with the HTH design is now 17 inches deep.

Inspection

The three high-volume U-shaped pontoons include lifting fins on the inside of the outer tubes and on both sides of the center pontoon and the bottom is fully covered with an aluminum bottom skin. Above deck the rail height varies from over 24 inches tall in the bow to over 34 inches on the sides.

Performance

Another benefit to the HTH is JC is now able to offer a 25-inch transom, which makes the Suzuki 350hp outboard possible. The over-built JC is a little heavier than some of its competitors, but you wouldn’t know it by the way it performs. The blistering zero-to-20 mph time of 4.24 seconds is flat out impressive and she banks sharp in the tight turns for a fun and smooth ride. Even on rough water, this JC cuts the chop like a hot knife through butter. 

Parting Thought

Fully-loaded doesn’t seem like a strong enough description of just how many unique features are packed into this JC. We are truly impressed with the care and thought that went into designing this beautiful pontoon.

For More Information:
North Webster, Ind.
574-834-7307
www.jcpontoon.com

SPECIFICATIONS
Number of Occupants: 16                   
Price As Tested With Power: $107.3 K
Maximum Speed: 48.3 mph                   
Wild Ponies: 350 hp
No. of Gates: 3
0-20 MPH: 4.24 seconds 
Ladder Measurement: 3’ 8” deep

Why we love this boat…With dual RGB controls, misting system, massive sound system, this JC checks all the boxes including its comfy and sporty layout with the performance to back it up. 

Just being picky…The dual swim platforms are a signature look that we like, but we’d prefer not to have to kneel down to access the boarding ladders below.

NOTABLE STANDARDS

Hydraulic steering w/power assist, lifting fins, upholstery trim pkg., full instrumentation, including a 5-inch Simrad GO5 touchscreen, Clarion CMD8 w/four JL 7.7 speakers, iPod interface/Bluetooth, Sirius satellite radio and dual battery power management system.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Rear fiberglass DSL stern, High Tide Hull (HTH), power sport arch, raised helm platform w/Marine Mat, RGB interior/exterior lighting, 9-inch Simrad touchscreen GO9, glove box, dual swim platforms, JL Media Master stereo and JL 8.8 interior speakers and JL 8.8 tower speakers, Mister-Comfort floor misting system and leg lift companion reclining chair.

VITAL STATS
LOA: 26’ 7”             
Beam: 8’ 6”
Hull Design: TriToon
Dry Weight: 4,400 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 49 gallons

TEST DRIVE
Engine: Suzuki 350
Cylinder Type: V6
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower: 267.9/350hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio: 2.29:1
Propeller: 21 X 21

RPM     vs.      SPEED     vs.    DB-A
600                  1.5                     69
1000                3.0                     79
1500                4.8                     82
2000                6.9                     88
2500                9.4                     90
3000                12.3                   96
3500                18.9                   101
4000                23.8                   103
4500                28.5                   108
5000                34.4                   109
5500                41.3                   112
6000                43.6                   112
6200                48.3                   115

PRICE
Price As Tested (Boat and Motor): $107,350
Base Price (Boat Only): $49,650

This article originally appeared in our 2019 Shootout issue. If you are interested in seeing more boat tests like this, click HERE to subscribe.