2017 Sea-Doo WAKE 155 Review

More than just another PWC that can tow

Most PWC manufacturers’ commitment to tow sports ends with a ski eye or tow hook. Sea-Doo offers watersports enthusiasts a choice beyond the norm. The WAKE 155 offers features to benefit both the towsports driver and rider, while retaining the fun and versatility of a personal watercraft at its core.

Serious about boarding or skiing? The WAKE 155’s a serious tool to help you pursue your passion.

Bag of Tricks

As the name implies, WAKE models are distinguished by their board-riding-specific features, namely a list of extras designed to make towing and hauling the necessary gear both better and easier.

The tow pylon is perhaps most obvious addition. Attached to the platform and seat base immediately behind the saddle, the extendable, three-position pylon isn’t designed so much to provide bigger air, but a more predictable, reliable pull. Standard tow points drop the rope into the jet wash, where it gets snagged and often jolts the rider. Elevating the towrope gets it out of that turbulent water. The pylon also provides a more level rope to the rider. The rider isn’t the only one to benefit. The pylon also functions as a handhold for the rear-facing spotter. Dual padded grips offer additional security, as do angled chocks to brace against at the tail ends of the footwells. When not in use, the pylon retracts to a lower position below saddle height.

WAKE models also include a removable board rack that mounts conveniently to the gunwale. Slide your wakeboard or wakeskate into the rack, secure over the top with a bungee cord, and you can bring a board along for the ride without clogging up a footwell. It’s a relatively secure setup. Boards stay put during normal riding, but I wouldn’t get crazy; remove the rack for aggressive riding.

Arguably the biggest addition to WAKE models, however, is a feature not so obvious. In addition to the typical Touring and Sport power-delivery modes offered on Sea-Doo models, the WAKE gets a third, SKI option. Enabling it allows the driver to choose one of five acceleration profiles, each progressively stronger to match the needs of the rider you’re pulling. Use the most aggressive pull for slalom skiers; use a gentler acceleration for wakeboarders who use a board with more surface area, or kids starting out. Speed control will then lock speed in at the rider’s choice, and keep the boat – and in turn the pull – steadier than can be matched by the human hand on the throttle. Speed control will also compensate in the corners, when drivers typically scrub off speed or overcompensate with a sudden surge.

WAKE models also, naturally, get cool, one-of-a-kind colors and graphics, in the case of the WAKE 155 a cool white/Belize Blue combo with a bright lime accent. Other features not specific to WAKE models but that certainly aid in towsports include the spring-loaded rebounding ladder, variable electric trim, and dual, wide-angle mirrors.

Still A GTI 155

It may be obvious, but the model at the core of the WAKE 155 is the GTI, not the GTX. The hull offers its own unique ride. GTIs feature a shallower, 16-degree deadrise, meaning they lack the pronounced vee of GTX models. This makes the hull a little more playful in its handling, able to skid and slide a little when desired but still able to lock into a tight corner when aggressive handling is the goal. In this way, it’s a boat with dual personalities, precise when you want it and loose when you prefer a lighter feel on the water. And yet, it also defies conventional wisdom in rough water, offering a confident, stable, comfortable ride.

The aforementioned naturally aspirated engine is more fuel-efficient than its supercharged counterpart, but no, you won’t get the same top speeds. A top end of 55-56 mph is typical. It’s a tradeoff that, given the boat’s purpose, WAKE 155 buyers will probably readily accept. The surrounding deck features an upscale style, as well as the ergonomic benefits pioneered on the GTI, including sloped, canted footwells to keep feet in contact and relieve pressure on the knees and a comfortable saddle.

There’s also no shortage of features, including Intelligent Brake & Reverse. iBR provides precision low-speed control in tight confines while keeping eyes on the water and hands on the handlebars. At speed, it provides braking power, rapidly slowing the craft when applied to drastically shorten stopping distance.

It’s Legit

Yes, any personal watercraft can tow. It’s one of the strengths of this type of craft, a nod to their impressive versatility. But a select audience wants more than just a craft to take them for a ride; they want a craft that will allow them to truly focus on their riding and even progress in their skills. In that regard, the WAKE 155 isn’t just another PWC that can tow…

…it’s a wake-up call.