First Impressions of WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider
Summer is synonymous with watersports, and for years, my family has relied on inflatable towables for our lake adventures. But as the kids grew, our old two-person tube felt cramped, and frankly, a little boring. That’s why the WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider caught my eye – a promise of bigger thrills and more shared fun on the water.
I’ve been searching for a towable that could accommodate our growing family and offer multiple riding positions. The Super Bubba’s advertised capacity for up to three riders, along with its versatility for sitting, kneeling, or laying down, seemed like the perfect solution. Other options I considered were the Airhead Mach series and the Sportsstuff Big Bertha, but the Super Bubba’s chariot-style design and abundance of handles ultimately won me over.
The package arrived, and I was immediately impressed by the size of the deflated Super Bubba. Its robust construction was evident even before inflation. My initial reaction was pure excitement; the vibrant colors and seemingly durable materials suggested this would be a significant upgrade over our previous towable.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider was on a clear, sunny afternoon at our local lake. We had a mixed group of riders – my two teenagers and a younger cousin. Inflation was surprisingly quick, thanks to the speed valve.
The towable performed admirably, even with three riders. We experimented with different riding positions. The kids loved the chariot-style kneeling, while the younger cousin preferred the seated position for a more stable ride. No immediate issues arose, and everyone had a blast during our initial run.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Super Bubba has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to our watersports gear. The heavy-duty PVC bladder and nylon cover have held up well against the inevitable bumps and scrapes. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse with fresh water is all it takes to remove lake grime.
Compared to our previous towables, the Super Bubba offers a significantly smoother and more comfortable ride. The multiple handles provide ample gripping options, and the overall design feels more stable and secure. It definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider
Specifications
The WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider boasts the following specifications:
- Capacity: 1-3 riders, maximum weight 510 lbs (231 kg). This generous capacity allows for a variety of rider combinations.
- Riding Positions: Sitting, laying down, or kneeling chariot style. This feature enhances versatility and caters to different rider preferences.
- EVA Foam: Seat and knee pads. These provide added comfort and cushioning during the ride.
- Handles: 12 double webbing foam handles and 6 flat handles. Ample handle options ensure secure gripping for all riders.
- Construction: Heavy-duty PVC bladder and nylon cover. These materials provide durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Valve: Speed valve for fast inflation and deflation. This significantly reduces setup and takedown time.
- Deflated Dimensions: 75″ x 73″ x 45″. This provides an idea of the overall size and storage requirements.
These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the product’s performance, safety, and overall user experience. The high weight capacity and multiple handles accommodate a wider range of riders, while the durable construction ensures the towable can withstand the rigors of regular use. The speed valve simplifies inflation and deflation, making the entire experience more convenient.
Performance & Functionality
The WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider performs exceptionally well in its primary function: providing a thrilling and enjoyable ride. Its stability and maneuverability are commendable. The multiple riding positions cater to different preferences.
The Super Bubba’s strengths lie in its versatility, durability, and ease of use. One area for potential improvement could be the addition of a drain plug to facilitate water removal after use. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a towable in its class.
Design & Ergonomics
The Super Bubba’s design is both functional and visually appealing. The use of high-quality materials and robust construction inspires confidence in its longevity. Its ergonomic design, with ample handles and cushioned pads, provides a comfortable and secure riding experience.
The Super Bubba is user-friendly. The quick-inflation valve and intuitive design minimize the learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Super Bubba’s durable construction suggests it will last for many seasons with proper care. Maintenance is minimal. Rinsing with fresh water and storing it in a dry place are sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider doesn’t offer extensive customization options. No accessories are included beyond the towable itself. However, it’s compatible with standard tow ropes and inflation pumps.
Pros and Cons of WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider
Pros
- Versatile riding positions (sitting, kneeling, laying down). This caters to different rider preferences and skill levels.
- Durable construction with heavy-duty PVC bladder and nylon cover. Ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Ample handles (12 double webbing foam handles and 6 flat handles). Provides secure gripping options for all riders.
- Speed valve for fast inflation and deflation. Significantly reduces setup and takedown time.
- High weight capacity (up to 510 lbs for 1-3 riders). Accommodates a wide range of rider combinations.
Cons
- No drain plug. Water can accumulate inside the cover and be difficult to remove completely.
- Relatively large deflated size. Requires significant storage space when not in use.
Who Should Buy WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider?
The WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider is perfect for families with multiple children or groups of friends who enjoy watersports activities. Its versatility and high weight capacity make it ideal for those who want a towable that can accommodate different rider preferences and skill levels. Anyone looking for a durable, well-built towable that provides a thrilling and enjoyable ride should consider this product.
This product might not be the best choice for solo riders or those with limited storage space. Individuals who prefer highly specialized towables with specific features (e.g., a dedicated kneeboard or wakeboard towable) may also want to explore other options.
A high-quality tow rope is a must-have accessory for the Super Bubba. An electric inflation pump will also save time and effort when setting up the towable.
Conclusion on WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider
The WOW Watersports 17-1060 Bubba Series Towables Super Bubba 3 Rider is a fantastic addition to any watersports enthusiast’s collection. Its versatility, durability, and ease of use make it a standout product in its category. The price of $399.99 is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and overall performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Super Bubba to anyone looking for a reliable, fun, and versatile towable. Don’t just sit on the sidelines this summer – grab a WOW Watersports Super Bubba and experience the thrill of the ride!