Is Xpress still the gold standard in aluminum hull bass boats?

I have a 2012 Lowe Stinger ST175 (bought it new)....LOVE IT!!!

All depends on what features you want and how you will use the boat.

I had a nice SeaArk with a GTR that I traded for a carpeted 18' Xpress with a 115. When I realized I wanted an outboard for good, the Ranger caught my eye. Got it without carpet and have had for a year and a half and it is a great all around boat.

As far as aluminum bass boats go, Xpress is a great brand. We had a 2005 17.5 ft boat with a 115 Optimax that was a beast. Even took it in saltwater a few times with no problems.

Xpress bay boats, on the other hand, are pieces of shite.

I would not call xpress the gold standard. Google xpress boat problems are read about welds breaking etc. G3 Lowe, duracraft, ranger, etc make a solid aluminum boat. Xpress boats are priced they way they are for a reason.

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But, it is definitely a nice boat. I wonder if we know the same guy....

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I know of two of them. One I think works with my brother and the other is big into cycling, running and shite. The pics I saw had a 200 sho I think it was.

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other is big into cycling

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I work with him. He has a 90 Yammy four stroke on his.

Strictly in terms of value, probably so. They're good affordable boats. Of course, there are better, more expensive options. Primarily the local boat builders like Gaudet's, Scully's, hanko, etc.

Buddy of mine is selling I think an express boat with a low hour merc or yamaha on the back.

Talking under 9k.

I always recommend everyone shop all of the local builders before buying a mass produced aluminum rig. They may want too much for what you want and that's fine. They can't compete with express prices, but they will absolutely deliver you a better product and the support after the sale will be the best you can get. At least give the local guys a chance make you an offer (or maybe even turn you down) before you give your money to a dealer. Everyone I've ever met as those yards has been a great down to earth guy who just likes building boats.

Xpress does build a good boat and what they do best is give people an affordable way to get a big boat with lots of space. It won't ride like a top line glass boat and you can't carelessly crash it into shite like you can with a custom rig, but it's definitely the best way to get a big boat on a budget.

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Xpress does build a good boat and what they do best is give people an affordable way to get a big boat with lots of space. It won't ride like a top line glass boat and you can't carelessly crash it into shite like you can with a custom rig, but it's definitely the best way to get a big boat on a budget

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You better look at Xpress prices again. A fully loaded Xpress will get you up there with the glass rigs.

All aluminum boats have there advantages but If you're looking for performance in an aluminum boat, Xpress is the gold standard.