Flat Back Question

[gatorheuss]

Looking for a boat to restore, either an Aquasport 22 Flat Back or 22 V-Hull.  Besides one being a flat back and the other a v-hull (12 degrees?) what are the pros and cons between and early model flat back and a early 70s v-hull Aquasport?  I have heard a lot of talk about bow steering, but what are the differences in performance, draft, ride, etc.  Thanks, this will help me narrow my search.

[gatorheuss]

Anyone with any differences/preferences in the ride, performance, draft etc.?

[slvrlng]

Have you read lilricard's thread? At the end of it I think I remember him talking about bow steer. Maybe maddog will chime in since he should have some good info with the 12 degree hull now that he's been on the water for a while. I would say more but no personal experience.

[Mad Dog]

Anyone with any differences/preferences in the ride, performance, draft etc.?

I cannot speak for the flatback but the 12 deg dead rise is a great ride.  I use trimtabs to get on plane fast with less draft.  I have experienced bow steering but only in extra choppy water coming off plane to fast.  I would think that the flatback will draft less when drifting but be about the same when cruising.  Consider your primary use and choose accordingly.  There are no boats perfect for every circumstance.

MD  

[Patton222]

If you get a FB make sure you get the weight right in the rebuild.  They will definately bow steer and thats no fun if its unexpected.  With positive trim it should run fine, just be careful when tabbed down.  My main concern/dislike with FB's is the "sliding" effect when turning, it takes some getting used to and is manageable.  They just don't grip and rip like V bottom boats.

I had a 1970 FB for ever and now I have a 12 degree, FB's have their pros but too many cons IMO.  Wouldn't be so bad if you added some fins/extended keel though.

[gatorheuss]

Thanks for the info, I am still looking for the right boat.  Right now it will either be a flat back or modified-v Aquasport or Proline, which ever I can find and like.

[GoneFission]

I think you would like the 12 degree Osprey better than the flatback for almost all conditions.  The Osprey has a wider beam and handles water better.  The semi-V does draw 1"-2" more water than the FB, but if you are really serious about going in skinny water, stick with the Osprey and put a jet outboard on it.  The jet will draw a lot less water than a FB with a prop.    

If you want a flatback, here's a 67    in nice shape - about as classic as they get:
http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/boa/1616373441.html  

A 76 Osprey:
http://newyork.craigslist.org/lgi/boa/1620993999.html

Here's a '77:
http://newlondon.craigslist.org/boa/1620387603.html

Not sure if this is a FB or Semi-V:
http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/boa/1608143066.html

See ya on the water!

[LilRichard]

Where are you located?  I would recommend trying to bum a ride in both and make your own decision.  I am in Tampa, happy to take you for a spin...