What’s the difference between a direct-drive towboat and a V-drive towboat?

When shopping for a towboat, the difference between a direct-drive and a V-drive can mean a lot. The distinction is in where the engine sits in the boat. A direct-drive came along first and put the engine in the center of the boat where it turned the drive shaft and the propeller in a straight line. The drivetrain was on a direct path from the engine, which was how the name direct drive came about. V-drives, on the other hand, put the engine in the rear of the boat and the drivetrain makes a turn about halfway down, creating a V shape.

Direct-Drive and V-Drive versus Inboard/Outboard

When it comes to watersports, direct-drives and V-drives are very different. However, it’s important to consider that both keep the propeller tucked safely under the hull and provide superior watersports performance when compared to an inboard/outboard (or I/O). I/Os bring the propeller out from under the hull, closer to swimmers and in dangerous proximity to surfers. Surfing should never be attempted on an inboard/outboard.

Which is better, a Direct-Drive or a V-Drive towboat?

While both configurations are inboard towboats, they each have their own strong suits. The direct drive configuration makes the best tournament and recreational slalom boat in the world, the Malibu Response TXi. The weight distribution of its direct drive engine makes the TXi’s wake small and easily crossable for slalom skiers of all levels.

The V-drive, on the other hand, can produce the best wakeboard and surf wakes in the world. Malibu’s iconic Wakesetter series of boats and its top-of-the-line M240 use V-drive configurations because they put more weight in the back of the boat to produce better wakes and waves. Additionally, customers love V-drives because the engine sits at the back of the boat so the lounge has plenty of unobstructed space for storage and seating.

What if I can’t choose between a Direct-Drive and a V-Drive towboat?

While both types of towboats have their advantages, you can’t go wrong with inboard propulsion for watersports. It’s just a question of which sports you like the best. If you’ve having a hard time picking between slalom and board sports, you owe it to yourself to test drive Malibu’s Wakesetter 20 VTX. This crossover towboat uses exclusive Malibu innovations to blur the lines between a V-drive and a direct-drive, offering huge slalom performance as well as perfectly shaped wakeboard and surf wakes your family will love. If you’re leaning more toward wakeboard and surf but you still want to ski, several Malibu’s from the Wakesetter 21 VLX to the 23 LSV provide good slalom performance as well as wakeboard and surf wakes that will please anyone from amateurs to professionals.

Where can I test a Direct-Drive and a V-Drive towboat?

We invite you to get out on the water today and see the difference between a direct-drive and a V-drive towboat for yourself by contacting your local Malibu dealer. We will take care of everything free of charge, all you have to do is show up with your family, ready to enjoy the lake.