Bombard

[mickter]

Just bought a 2007 Bombard Explorer SB500,
has Yamaha 60hp efi fitted.
1st rib i`ve owned, anybody else got one, as I would like any info available.
Thanks Mick.

[SixtyNorth]

I have never owned one but you may find some useful info. here:

https://www.bombard.com/en/shop/prod.../explorer-500/

[mickter]

Originally Posted by SixtyNorth

I have never owned one but you may find some useful info. here:

https://www.bombard.com/en/shop/prod.../explorer-500/

Thanks will have a look

[Solent Seadog]

Hi Mick and welcome to the forum.

Congratulations on your your newly acquired rib. We've had some good summers since buying our Bombard Explorer. A great family rib for adventuring down rivers and across the open water. What information would you like to know?

Steve

[mickter]

Hi Steve,
thanks for the reply, really after general info as per, sponson pressures,fuel tank capacity,
anything I should look out for.
Cheers Mick.

[Solent Seadog]

Mick, not sure what previous rib experience you have but nothing springs to mind that's specific to the Explorer except it's plated surprisingly for 9-10 persons. I've got close to that number but wouldn't recommend it if you want to stay dry.
There's more experienced seadogs on here than me so as I don't use an air pressure gauge I discovered the norm to be around 1.5-2 psi but this varies between ribs and sibs seem much higher. I found if the tubes feel and sound firm then you're ready to go, but don't over inflate as a hot sunny day makes a big difference. I believe there are 3 internal sections which are interconnected. Make sure though you have the correct fitting to connect to your valves before setting off.
The fuel tank is I think 60-64L and the economy from the Yam is very good. We've been round IOW a couple of times and it uses less than half a tank depending on conditions. Your fuel tank size may differ depending on your console and seating arrangement.
Perhaps you can post a photo here. Do you have yours on a trailer? We're often around cruising out of Poole & Christchurch or if you like let me know if you're planning to come across the Solent.
Steve

[mickter]

Hi Steve.
Never had a rib before so any advice is gratefully received,
will be using for fishing and with only 2 of us.
Don`t pick it up till Friday so no photos yet.
Had grp boats from 14ft -23ft so not a novice.
Mick.

[BigE]

I've got A Bombard Explorer 500, just a few years in age now.
Has a Honda 50 on the back. I personally find it quite a heavy boat and wish I had more power. It's quite a tough boat though which is reflected in it's rugged looks.

[Mrpoody]

Excellent- I picked my 2005 version 3 weeks ago.

It has. 55ltr fuel tank under the steering console which has so far proved very economical with my 75hp evinrude 2 stroke fitted.

So far seems well built, stable and certainly nippy enough to cope with the river speed limits.

Way better than the previous sibs I have had and being a family rib layout has proved useful too with the seats fitted etc.

Only negatives - quite stern heavy which causes quite a wash on the river at slow speeds and the bombard gauges all a bit temperamental.

I have all the manuals if useful I could copy and mail.

Does yours have any a frame or the front sun bed table option at all?

Hoping to hit the Solent next week as now confidence has grown in the new boats reliability.

[mickter]

Originally Posted by Mrpoody

Excellent- I picked my 2005 version 3 weeks ago.

It has. 55ltr fuel tank under the steering console which has so far proved very economical with my 75hp evinrude 2 stroke fitted.

So far seems well built, stable and certainly nippy enough to cope with the river speed limits.

Way better than the previous sibs I have had and being a family rib layout has proved useful too with the seats fitted etc.

Only negatives - quite stern heavy which causes quite a wash on the river at slow speeds and the bombard gauges all a bit temperamental.

I have all the manuals if useful I could copy and mail.

Does yours have any a frame or the front sun bed table option at all?

Hoping to hit the Solent next week as now confidence has grown in the new boats reliability.

No A frame fitted, has has sun bed option plus a bimini.
not picked up yet so not sure what paperwork comes with it.

Have seen one for sale with trim-tabs so may look at that idea.

[Solent Seadog]

Originally Posted by Mrpoody

Excellent- I picked my 2005 version 3 weeks ago.



It has. 55ltr fuel tank under the steering console which has so far proved very economical with my 75hp evinrude 2 stroke fitted.



So far seems well built, stable and certainly nippy enough to cope with the river speed limits.



Way better than the previous sibs I have had and being a family rib layout has proved useful too with the seats fitted etc.



Only negatives - quite stern heavy which causes quite a wash on the river at slow speeds and the bombard gauges all a bit temperamental.



I have all the manuals if useful I could copy and mail.



Does yours have any a frame or the front sun bed table option at all?



Hoping to hit the Solent next week as now confidence has grown in the new boats reliability.

Agree with Mrpoody, stable and nippy when it needs to be and helped by its deep V hull. As he says keep your distance from any rowers on the rivers even at 4-5 knots but by adjusting the trim it often helps. Suggest also you balance the bow with anchor, extra fuel and passengers to offset the weight of the engine and helping to get onto the plane.

The A-frame is a nice touch and handy for nav lights, GPS etc. The Bimini is kind in the heat as well as from any vertical water. Front cushions and table keeps the family happy.