Whats up folks, Quick intro. My name is Louie i'm from Downey Ca. I've been bitten by the jet boat bug. Never owned a boat. Have a few friends with Boats, but no jets. I build harley's in my spare time, So i'm selling one to fund a boat. I'm kinda torn between an open bow and closed.  I love the look of closed, but i also like the idea of a having a few friends hanging up front as well.  Any info you vets can give, Or pros and cons? anything i should stay away from? I have about 5-7k to spend. I was really liking this boat below, but its sold. Thanks. Looking forward to spending sometime here and soaking up the knowledge.  Lou.

http://www.socaljetboats.com/boats/1979-ranger-jet-boat-open-bow/

Welcome to the Fun Zone, but understand that this hobby WILL, not can, get spendy.  But then being a Harley guy you understand all about that shit.   My advice on buying a boat would be two fold.  First, take along someone who know these kinds of boats and knows how to look for the weaknesses.  They are all 30-49 years old now and usually have been through several owners.  Often these owners are first times like yourself.   Secondly, once you have found one or two that pass the driveway test, insist on either a test on the water, or at least take it to a boat shop like  Jim at Cyclone Marine, and have a pro check things out.  Might be the cheapest $150 you will ever spend.

OUCH . . . was that an Olds bash Daniel?     If so nicely done.   

I own the Ranger that you posted. I like closed bows and the girl likes open bows. You know what they say: happy wife, happy life lol.

The kids love the bow for cruising and floating. However, like said it's a rough ride in chop or when getting on it and everyone migrates to the back for comfort.

For us, it's the perfect boat. It does have a panther pump which limits top speed and ease of parts replacements. It's a family river boat that fits our needs, so not a big loss for now.

Follow the above suggestions as a guide and then decide if you can make exceptions for the right boat, like we did for the panther pump, as long as you know what you're compromising on.