So, what do its customers want?
More space and storage, along with performance versatility.
Larson’s engineers accomplished the former in part by using a “pickle fork” bow design, which carries the beam further forward to create extra acreage up front. There’s more elbowroom and legroom for passengers, deeper storage compartments to hold all your gear and even enough width at the nose for an optional four-step boarding ladder.
The company’s patented VEC manufacturing process allowed for a deck that is 2 inches lower than in similar models. This not only translates to more usable interior space but adds a level of safety and security thanks to the higher freeboard. (In case you don’t know, VEC is a computer-driven, closed-mold process that creates a one-piece hull with built-in stringer system and flotation chambers — light, strong, precise and wood-free.)
That pickle fork bow also enabled Larson to use wider chines and strakes that run the length of the boat. This, in turn, gives the 190 LXH greater stability and lift, and a quicker plane time. “Our preliminary performance numbers show the 190 bottom and hull design are certain to make sure the owners are able to pull a skier, tuber or wakeboarder, or even beat some other similar-sized boats to the dock,” said Gary Zimmer, VP product development and engineering for Larson.
For those who like the option of rigging their boat just the way they want it, the 190 LXH comes in both outboard and sterndrive configurations. Owners can choose from a Mercury, Evinrude, Yamaha, Honda or Suzuki with a range of 115 to 200 horsepower (outboard) or a MerCruiser from 200 to 250 horsepower (sterndrive).
Twin high-backed seats with flip-up bolsters and armrests serve the two consoles. Take command of the 190 LXH at the ergonomic helm, which boasts a car-like instrument panel, handy cup holder and optional remote for the standard Boss Bluetooth-enabled stereo.
Under the bench seat aft, more storage is available for life jackets, water toys or whatever else you want to throw in there. Even more storage can be found in the transom walk-through step and in a finished compartment at the sun pad — perfect for fenders, lines or used as a cooler.
An integrated swim platform and telescoping ladder at the stern ensure that water fun is within easy reach, something that all boaters can appreciate. Ditto the Shoreland’r trailer with disc brakes and swing-away tongue — a nice standard feature.
Options include an upgraded stereo and subwoofer, bimini top, snap-in carpet, depth finder, extended swim platform, wakeboard tower and more. In the end, the harder choice might not be to buy the new 190 LXH, but how to equip and enjoy your new baby. The possibilities, like the spaces on this boat, are wide open.
Larson LXH
Length Overall: 18’9”
Beam: 8’3”
Draft: 1’4”
Dry Weight (w/o engine): 2,400 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 37 gals.
Base Price: $39,567
www.larsonboats.com
Author: Brad Kovach is the editor of HeartLand Boating magazine
