Foot disease

[Chrispval]

Looking for some feedbakc and input as I contemplate an upgrade. I first came about buying a cobalt, last year when my local dealer showed me how amazing the R series is. I was set out to find a comfortable cuddy 25-27, and then quickly realized I must buy an open bow because thats all they build anymore and the market is really geared towards open bows. I found myself upon a 100 k purchase of a new R5, and it seemed like a fabulous deal. I took a breath though and realized, if I were to spend 100 k on a boat, I really would want certain options (bigger engine, windlass, etc.). I found an older A 25 for a great deal, but again found myself questioning buying a used boat that wasn’t “perfect”. I ended up with my R3 and love it. But I am still missing some features (pump out head, windlass). It is loaded with everything I would order it with otherwise though, even the bigger engine. But its 2 feet smaller than I originally set out for, and doesnt have a bathroom or windlass. I want to upgrade, and bought it with the intention of the new R6. I am reluctant though to spend the money on the R6. I think the R7 is still the way to go.

My question is this: am I foolish if I move down a few years (2018 R3 with 50 hours), to a 2013 R7 or A28 (150 hours), if I gain my pump-out head and windlass? I am giving up a newer boat, with potentially a greater resale-ability, with arguably a better engine. I gain 4-5 feet. But I lose years. Dollar for dollar, If I could sell mine and buy this fictional A28/R7 for same price, what are people’s thoughts?

[akorcovelos]

You will never have an issue with resale on an A28, unless it’s terribly neglected.

[Big Block Power]

To me the big problem is your losing all the new tech. The glass dashes and the 6.2 vs 6.0 unless you find merc. I loce the A series.
There is a guy on here looking for a R3 so I bet it will sell fast. You're spending that kind of money buy what you want.

[Kyboater]

You bring up excellent points. I almost bought a 2018 R5 with 300hp that didn’t have the options we wanted (tower,table, premium sound etc). So I actually spent more on a new R3. I went through the same exact debate and still do. A buddy has an 2015 A25 with an 8.2 mag he is planning on selling at the end of the season. I have had and currently have an offer to sell my R3. So do I go to a 4 yr older boat to gain some space, a windlass and bbp? I’m strongly leaning towards no and here is my reasoning for what’s its worth.

Reasons not to sell
1. I bought new from a local dealer that has been wonderful and I know he is there if I have any issues. With the demand on dealers to service these days I’m know I wouldn’t get the same treatment if I showed up with a used Cobalt purchased elsewhere.
2. 5 years of warranty. As everyone knows these aren’t cheap to work on. 5yrs of peace of mind is worth a lot.
3. Newer technology as mentioned above. Mainly glass dash
4. I trailer a fews miles every weekend. A25 would push the limits of my 1/2 ton. Prob 700lbs more. I tow the R3 with zero concerns.
5. The wife is very happy with the R3 and thinks I’m crazy. Happy Wife = Happy life.

Reasons to sell and purchase A25
1. Bigger boat with bigger engine = better ride, performance and space. Hard to say what that is worth.

Good luck in your decision.

[Big Block Power]

You bring up excellent points. I almost bought a 2018 R5 with 300hp that didn’t have the options we wanted (tower,table, premium sound etc). So I actually spent more on a new R3. I went through the same exact debate and still do. A buddy has an 2015 A25 with an 8.2 mag he is planning on selling at the end of the season. I have had and currently have an offer to sell my R3. So do I go to a 4 yr older boat to gain some space, a windlass and bbp? I’m strongly leaning towards no and here is my reasoning for what’s its worth.

Reasons not to sell
1. I bought new from a local dealer that has been wonderful and I know he is there if I have any issues. With the demand on dealers to service these days I’m know I wouldn’t get the same treatment if I showed up with a used Cobalt purchased elsewhere.
2. 5 years of warranty. As everyone knows these aren’t cheap to work on. 5yrs of peace of mind is worth a lot.
3. Newer technology as mentioned above. Mainly glass dash
4. I trailer a fews miles every weekend. A25 would push the limits of my 1/2 ton. Prob 700lbs more. I tow the R3 with zero concerns.
5. The wife is very happy with the R3 and thinks I’m crazy. Happy Wife = Happy life.

Reasons to sell and purchase A25
1. Bigger boat with bigger engine = better ride, performance and space. Hard to say what that is worth.

Good luck in your decision.

your right don't buy it. Send him my way!!

[Table Rockin]

The solution is easy. Just buy a used 2017 R7. its got most of the new tech and you might luck out and find one with a 6.2 vs. the 6.0. If you cant and NEED the 6.2 look at 2018 models. The 2017s should be around your price range if your budget is in the 100k range. 2018 will be a bit more obviously. I like the new tech but size matters.....ALOT.....so just get both and then you can quit warring with yourself.

[akorcovelos]

We’re comparing a 21’ R series to a 25’ A series, not exactly apples to apples. Personally I think the A series is the most beautiful boat Cobalt ever made, the A25 in particular. 4’ makes a BIG difference, so even with the big block it won’t perform like your R3, but will ride considerably better. As for tech, personally I think the analog dash looks way more classy than the glass dash, and if you plan on keeping the boat for more than a few years will probably be more reliable. Just my .02.

[Kyboater]

We’re comparing a 21’ R series to a 25’ A series, not exactly apples to apples. Personally I think the A series is the most beautiful boat Cobalt ever made, the A25 in particular. 4’ makes a BIG difference, so even with the big block it won’t perform like your R3, but will ride considerably better. As for tech, personally I think the analog dash looks way more classy than the glass dash, and if you plan on keeping the boat for more than a few years will probably be more reliable. Just my .02.

I’ve been on both side by side. The A25 is bigger and definitely feels bigger but 4 feet? I’m confused.

A25 loa is 25’6”.
R3 loa is 23’10”

That is only 20 inches if my math is right.

Weight is another story. 5,125 vs 4,450.

I agree the A series is probably the most beautiful.

[akorcovelos]

We’re comparing a 21’ R series to a 25’ A series, not exactly apples to apples. Personally I think the A series is the most beautiful boat Cobalt ever made, the A25 in particular. 4’ makes a BIG difference, so even with the big block it won’t perform like your R3, but will ride considerably better. As for tech, personally I think the analog dash looks way more classy than the glass dash, and if you plan on keeping the boat for more than a few years will probably be more reliable. Just my .02.

I’ve been on both side by side. The A25 is bigger and definitely feels bigger but 4 feet? I’m confused.

A25 loa is 25’6”.
R3 loa is 23’10”

That is only 20 inches if my math is right.

Weight is another story. 5,125 vs 4,450.

I agree the A series is probably the most beautiful.

That’s including the swim platform, so from a usable space perspective it’s 21’ boat. My old ‘84 21’ was bigger than an r3.

[Kyboater]

We’re comparing a 21’ R series to a 25’ A series, not exactly apples to apples. Personally I think the A series is the most beautiful boat Cobalt ever made, the A25 in particular. 4’ makes a BIG difference, so even with the big block it won’t perform like your R3, but will ride considerably better. As for tech, personally I think the analog dash looks way more classy than the glass dash, and if you plan on keeping the boat for more than a few years will probably be more reliable. Just my .02.

I’ve been on both side by side. The A25 is bigger and definitely feels bigger but 4 feet? I’m confused.

A25 loa is 25’6”.
R3 loa is 23’10”

That is only 20 inches if my math is right.

Weight is another story. 5,125 vs 4,450.

I agree the A series is probably the most beautiful.

That’s including the swim platform, so from a usable space perspective it’s 21’ boat. My old ‘84 21’ was bigger than an r3.

Correct. My old 220 was 2” bigger than my R3, but using the same methodology the A25 Is a 23’ boat. You can’t take 2’ off one without the other right? Lol. Both the A25 and R3 include the swim platform in loa unlike our older boats.

I just wasn’t understanding why the A25 would be a 4’ bigger boat. No big deal.

[Big Block Power]

I’ve been on both side by side. The A25 is bigger and definitely feels bigger but 4 feet? I’m confused.

A25 loa is 25’6”.
R3 loa is 23’10”

That is only 20 inches if my math is right.

Weight is another story. 5,125 vs 4,450.

I agree the A series is probably the most beautiful.

That’s including the swim platform, so from a usable space perspective it’s 21’ boat. My old ‘84 21’ was bigger than an r3.

Correct. My old 220 was 2” bigger than my R3, but using the same methodology the A25 Is a 23’ boat. You can’t take 2’ off one without the other right? Lol. Both the A25 and R3 include the swim platform in loa unlike our older boats.

I just wasn’t understanding why the A25 would be a 4’ bigger boat. No big deal.

I don't get it. It's only 4ft. Where at the swim platform?

[Chrispval]

I am heading to look at an R7. I am sure I will love it. But I still question, big enough? Different enough? Shouldnt I just get the R30 with twin 430’s. That boat must be fast. But then I think an A28 keeps me affordable and trailerable.

[Table Rockin]

I am heading to look at an R7. I am sure I will love it. But I still question, big enough? Different enough? Shouldnt I just get the R30 with twin 430’s. That boat must be fast. But then I think an A28 keeps me affordable and trailerable.

We’ll wait a minute now...,your thinking R30 wit twin 430s? There should be no more conversation. But now

[Krob1114]

Looking for some feedbakc and input as I contemplate an upgrade. I first came about buying a cobalt, last year when my local dealer showed me how amazing the R series is. I was set out to find a comfortable cuddy 25-27, and then quickly realized I must buy an open bow because thats all they build anymore and the market is really geared towards open bows. I found myself upon a 100 k purchase of a new R5, and it seemed like a fabulous deal. I took a breath though and realized, if I were to spend 100 k on a boat, I really would want certain options (bigger engine, windlass, etc.). I found an older A 25 for a great deal, but again found myself questioning buying a used boat that wasn’t “perfect”. I ended up with my R3 and love it. But I am still missing some features (pump out head, windlass). It is loaded with everything I would order it with otherwise though, even the bigger engine. But its 2 feet smaller than I originally set out for, and doesnt have a bathroom or windlass. I want to upgrade, and bought it with the intention of the new R6. I am reluctant though to spend the money on the R6. I think the R7 is still the way to go.

My question is this: am I foolish if I move down a few years (2018 R3 with 50 hours), to a 2013 R7 or A28 (150 hours), if I gain my pump-out head and windlass? I am giving up a newer boat, with potentially a greater resale-ability, with arguably a better engine. I gain 4-5 feet. But I lose years. Dollar for dollar, If I could sell mine and buy this fictional A28/R7 for same price, what are people’s thoughts?

Just reading forums while on break at work...since I have to social distance.
As for the length, extra space disappears after a while. I remember big upgrade on s.f. in house, but now we have no room for extra stuff.
15 months ago, bigger R3 was hard to get used to.....seems like it shrunk now.
Any decisions yet?

[Chrispval]

No decisions yet. But I am going to list the R3 for sale. I believe the market could get flooded next year with boats being sold by all the non-boaters who bought only for lack of something better to do because of Covid.
Hopefully I will find something over the winter, or early spring.