The A24 has a big reputation, and it has built on that since its inception, but Axis decided to totally redo it for 2018 to make it an even better boat. With its bigger running surface, the A24 puts out a long, girthy wave. Combined with Surf Gate and the Power Wedge, that wave is shaped into an epic ride that can be easily customized by the driver — or the rider, using the Surf Band remote. Throw in even more friends and you have a pro-level surf wave that is tons of fun to ride.
We tested the A24’s surf with three aboard and a set speed of 11 mph. The pocket was incredibly long, and the face of the wave had a ton of steepness and power to it. From the start, it was easily configured and tweaked to our liking. The wave behind this A24 was big and clean thanks to its wake-shaping hull and the surfing features it shares with the hulls of its big-sister company, Malibu Boats. Like all Malibu models, the Axis A24 can be equipped with Surf Gate. With Surf Gate, the A24 creates a huge, consistent wave that has a ton of push and oceanlike power, and it’s equally impressive on each side without having to move around weight. For wakeboarding, the Autoset Wedge, a hydrofoil, helps shape sizable wakes without any input from the helm.
When designing its boats, Axis does not neglect the crew hanging out to watch or waiting for their turn in the water. The A24 has a large open-bow seating array filled into the pickle-fork design. Because the bow carries the beam wider forward, passengers who hang out up there will not feel cramped or knock knees while the boat’s underway. Combined with the wraparound bench layout in the cockpit, the boat holds up to 17 people. With the new Sliding Skybox seating, the transom bench can be converted to a rear-facing lounge. That’s a great place to serve spotter duty and have a friend or two sit with you to watch the action.
When not in sport mode, the A24 can scoot across the water. With the ballast tanks drained, we climbed onto plane in just over 3 seconds en route to a top speed exceeding 37 mph. So if you’re just looking for a joyride, the A24 has got you covered there too.
High Points
* Internal ballast system can hold up to 3,750 pounds of ballast, which helps you produce the waves and wakes watersports enthusiasts of all levels will enjoy.
* New-for-2018 design improves upon the already legendary wake sculpting to truly allow you to deliver a personalized wake and surf experience.
* Now available with Power Wedge, Surf Gate and Surf Band.
Price: Unavailable (at press time)
How We Tested
Engine: PCM Monsoon 450 6.0L inboard
Prop: 15″ x 14 1/4″ Acme 4-blade Nibral
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Fuel Load: 32 gal.
Crew Weight: 450 lb.
More Information
Axis Wake Research – Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; axiswake.com
