2004 MB B52V TEAM
OVERVIEWIf you're a wakeboarding-obsessed boat buyer perusing the MB Sports lineup, know that the B-52 V3 has all the appeal of the B-52 V. Both have pro-level wakes, luxury appointments and killer graphics. Where the V3 differs is in two unique features: a two-speed transmission and a 2,100-pound ballast system.You read that right — two-speed and 2,100 pounds. Both are otherwise unheard of in the industry. In the first gear, the V3 has enough low-end torque to get such a heavily weighted boat out of the hole relatively fast and furious. Once on plane, the boat cruises in the higher gear for a smooth ride.The V3 sports other incomparable features such as a new billet aluminum swept-back tower, new Bimini, driver's seat bolster for perfect visibility and super-plush upholstery in the wraparound lounge.
WAKEBOARDINGThe B-52 V3 is practically begging you to flip the helm switch for the ballast and let the water rush in until the gauge reads XXL. Once that happens, you have 800 pounds in each of the two massive tanks that run under the floorboards from transom to amidships, plus 500 pounds hidden under the bow seating. With that, you've got to be a brave rider to add any fat sacks. The swells are, as you'd expect, pretty big with all that weight. But sheer volume doesn't necessarily translate into a great wake. Luckily, this one has great shape to go along with it. And switching between the two transmission speeds was a smooth transition, thanks to a switch on the throttle that works seamlessly with the Perfect Pass.
LOWDOWN• MB amps up the wakeboarding potential of theB-52 even further with the addition of a two-speed transmission and 500 pounds more ballast.• Lower gear gives enough "oomph" to get a weighted-down boat out of the hole and on plane.• Total of 2,100 pounds of ballast is amazingly hidden under the floorboards in tanks built into the hull.• Ballast system has side discharge so you can see it empty.
