One of the first things you notice while getting into the 2019 Axis A22 is the new interior. The materials and patterns have been updated for 2019, giving the Axis line a whole new look and feel that we really enjoyed. Add in a new more streamlined captain’s chair, an adjustable rear bench seat and a pop-up ratchet seat back on the port side, and you have an interior that’s comfortable and customizable for everybody.
The dash continues the Axis tradition of combining digital and analog gauges and switches, making control of the boat’s functions simple and easy. A new head unit to the left of the steering wheel features a large knob for easy volume control, and the audio system has zone control, so you can blast the tower speakers while pulling a rider, but keep the cabin speakers at a lower level.
Where the A22 really shines is in on-water performance. Design tweaks to the hull help it push more water, thereby creating larger wakes and waves. The new Power Wedge III has a larger surface area and offers more set positions to choose from, meaning riders of all styles and abilities can customize the shape of the wakes and waves to suit their preferences. With the Surf Gate hydraulic gates on either side of the transom, you get clean consistent waves that allow riders to transfer from side to side with ease. All of these systems can also be controlled by the rider via a Surf Band remote worn on the wrist. Don’t worry about screaming at the driver; just push the buttons and do what you want. With the stock ballast and the optional plug-and-play system, wakes can quickly go from a beginner to an advanced level.
The new A22 hits on a number of levels for watersports, especially with the new updates. For many buyers first getting into a watersports-dedicated boat, 22 feet is the “just right” mark. At that length, you get more room for passengers than in a 20-foot boat, but it’s often easier to handle, not to mention tow and stow, compared to a 24-footer. This is the A22 in a nutshell, and it might just be the boat Goldilocks picks when she decides to try wakesurfing with 14 of her bear friends.
High Points
- Power Wedge III has more set positions, providing more customization to the wakes.
- Upgraded interior materials and designs look better and are more comfortable too.
- The larger bow offers more space for passengers to ride up front comfortably.
Price: $70,633 (starting)
How We Tested
Engine: PCM Monsoon 409
Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 15″ x 14.25″ 4-blade
Gear Ratio: 1.72:1
Fuel Load: 13 gal.
Crew Weight: 340 lb.
Axis Wake Research – Loudon, Tennessee; 865-458-5478; axiswake.com
