Performance Overview
Berkshire’s 25 Sport RFX9 is a quick-performing pontoon boat with the Mercury Verado 300; we dropped the throttle handle and had it planing at 14 mph in just 3.75 seconds, and we hit 30 from a dead idle in just 6.9 seconds. Ours was a 50 mph performer, and we achieved our most economical cruise at 3,500 rpm, 22.5 mph and 7.7 mpg. At that speed, the 52-gallon tank (mounted in the center tube) yields a range of just over 118 miles, with a 10 percent reserve. That’s solid performance from a boat that’s competitively priced.
Technical Specifications
- LOA: 25’7″
- Beam: 8’6″
- Dry Weight: 3,000 lb.
- Seating/Weight Capacity: 14/2,025 lb.
- Fuel Capacity: 52 gal.
Hull Design
Below deck, three 25-inch diameter tubes with four stepped lifting strakes and two outside spray rails give the Sport RFX9 3.0+ a sturdy ride at cruising speeds without sacrificing comfort or rough-water capability.
Helm and Controls
For the pilot, the helm is raised 4 inches off the deck for easier egress and better visibility all around, especially if someone sits in the lounge in front of the helm. The steering wheel is a solid stainless-steel unit with spinner knob, a nice touch for around-the-dock handling. The boat is equipped with hydraulic steering with electronic power steering assist.
Entertainment and Lighting
The audio system features:
- 165-watt interior speakers
- Two exterior aft speakers
- Two aft-facing Kicker can speakers mounted on the arch
- LED floor lighting
- Exterior rail lights
- LED rail-mount docking lights
Comfort and Amenities
The Sport is well-equipped to handle its rated 14-person capacity. The interior furniture is nicely stitched with plush vinyl, and it matches the brown vinyl teak-look flooring. Crew are protected from the sun by the 10-foot Bimini top mounted to the sport arch.
Watersports Features
- Extended stern deck with transom washdown – Stainless-steel boarding ladder – Aluminum Sport Ski Tow
- Combination anchor light/tow pylon mounted on the arch – Removable faux mahogany table with a lighted base
High Points
- Murphy 7-inch dash display with GPS is user-friendly
- Powered arch sports four speakers, ski tow, anchor light
- Furniture features 28-ounce soft-touch vinyl over triple-density foam
- Dual aluminum framed captain’s chairs with adjustable aircraft-aluminum arms
Test Results
- Engine: Mercury 300 hp Verado L FourStroke
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Mercury 14.7″ x 16″ pitch 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
- Fuel Load: 13 gal.
- Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Visit: forestriverinc.com