Ownership records prove bowriders are the most popular boat type, but performance buyers have been slow to jump aboard, clinging to the traditional closed-bow, sportboat style. Checkmate’s 2400 BRX may just change their mindset. Equipped with a 500 hp Mercury Racing outboard mounted on a Bob’s Machine Shop 10-inch hydraulic jack plate and set back 10 inches off the transom, this family-friendly speedster rocketed to near-85 mph on a windblown test day. The setup allows higher elevation of the motor, reducing drag and allowing the surface-piercing cleaver prop to be positioned at the optimal height for maximum performance. In better conditions, Checkmate claims to have seen 90-plus mph from the 2400 BRX. We believe it.
The 2400 BRX is spun off from Checkmate’s legendary Pulsare, giving performance enthusiasts the sleek go-fast they demand while also being able to share the fun with family and friends. The sizable bow features a pair of lounges that, like other bowriders, invite stretching out in the sun or pulling up to four passengers together for socializing. Move aft and the Pulsare’s familiar cockpit sets the stage. Captain and mate get comfortable bucket seats, optioned to include welcome flip-up bolsters on our test boat. Aft, a full-width bench awaits. The DEKit flooring underfoot is branded with the Checkmate logo. Spanning the consoles, a frameless smoked windscreen provides sleek protection from the wind. Plenty of underseat storage adds an ounce of practicality to the performance.
Still, given the target audience, the best seat in the house will likely always be found at the helm. Throttle and shift are classic Livorsi, as is the color-matched wheel. Controls for the massive Mercury K-Planes are within easy reach. Crank the wheel at speed and the 2400 boasts not only straight-line speed, but also confident, aggressive handling. Credit Checkmate’s optimized 22-degree deadrise hull. It features a narrow, V-shaped running pad and multiple lifting strakes that deliver the intended ride without alarming those not experienced with high-performance hulls.
High Points
- High-performance thrills combined with loads of seating.
- Fiberglass hull-to-deck joint.
- Standard 7-inch SmartCraft display, optional 9-inch SmartCraft or old-school analog.
- One-piece anchor locker includes a notch for rode.
How We Tested
- Engine: Mercury Racing 500R
- Drive/Prop: Mercury Precision Series Outboard CNC Cleaver 14.5″ x 26″ 5-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.60:1 Fuel Load: 45 gal. Crew Weight: 435 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $126,890 (starting with a Mercury 250 Pro XS); $171,691 (as tested) |
| LOA: | 24’0″ |
| Beam: | 8’3″ |
| Draft (max): | 1’6″ |
| Dry Weight: | 2,200 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 12/1,620 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 54 gal. |
Checkmate Powerboats – Washington, North Carolina; checkmatepowerboats.net
