Bayliner's new 160 outboard bowrider

American built boats have a reputation for quality and value for money that can be appreciated by anyone taking a look at the newest offering from Bayliner – the 160 outboard bowrider.

The Bayliner 160 was launched by the Knoxville, Tennessee, manufacturer at the start of the northern summer as an answer to constant queries by customers for a smaller and more economical boat that offered room and performance to put a family on the water.

The boat was an immediate success in the US and is now imported into Australia by Berowra Waters Wholesale, the local distributor.

The bowrider styled 160 features Bayliner’s clever beam forward design that puts the most space in the boat where people need it. The design uses every inch of available space to maximise seating and to improve storage capacity while giving passengers plenty of room to move about the boat.

The 160 outboard bowrider comes equipped with everything needed to make tubing, wakeboarding and other watersports easy and fun.

A wraparound tempered safety glass windscreen opens in the centre to allow access to the extra seating in the bow. The helm offers waterproof instruments and ample stubby holders and storage.

Performance from the standard 60hp Mercury outboard is adequate for most families but a range of two and four stroke engines up to 90hp are available. Those wishing to tow adult skiers will opt for the higher power.

Owned by the giant Brunswick Corporation, Bayliner has been in business for more than 50 years.

Matched with a galvanised trailer, the Bayliner 160 bowrider can be towed by a family car. The boat comes complete with a large bimini top to offer sun protection and a cover for the bow.

The boat has an overall length of 16 ft 2 ins (4.93 m) and a beam of 7ft 2in (2.18m) and a fuel capacity of 68 litres.