Is a 1997 Triton TR-18 a good starter boat?

[NY_Bass_Assassin]

I'm looking at getting my first bass boat and found a really nice 1997 Triton TR-18 for a decent price and was wondering if anyone knew if that would be a good choice for me?

It has a 150 Mercury EFI, a 80 lb trolling motor, and a Hummingbird Helix 5 SI. Asking price is $6500.

Wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this boat and if this sounds like a fair deal or not?

[Bud Kennedy]

The price is about right if the motor has been checked out and is ok.  Don't forget also to pay attention to another key element which would be the trailer.  Checking for rust or hub or axle problems is essential along with the condition of the tires.  All of these things cost mail.

the fact remains that it is still a 23 year old boat and ongoing problems should be considered likely.  Really helpful if the seller can provide some maintenance records to help with your decision after you take a test ride.

[NY_Bass_Assassin]

Good point. I didn't even think about the condition of the trailer. I'll be sure to check it out thoroughly before deciding. Tires and bearings can get pricey and they take time to swap out as well. Thanks for the heads up!

[Bassinkorea]

First of all, welcome to UB.com 

I also have an older Triton TR-185. It is a 2005 model and I have had it for almost 10 years and absolutely love the boat. So long as the transom is in good shape and the motor checks out good, I think you'll be more than happy with the boat.

[Oldfart9999]

Good point. I didn't even think about the condition of the trailer. I'll be sure to check it out thoroughly before deciding. Tires and bearings can get pricey and they take time to swap out as well. Thanks for the heads up!

Tires, bearings and lights are normal maintenance items, check the axle and frame for rust that could be all the way through the metal and or bent.
Rodney 

[Sixpack]

My first Triton was a TR-186 with a Mercury 150 XR6. Once I started getting more involved with club tournaments I decided to buy a bigger boat a Triton TR-22. You can't go wrong with a Triton boat, they are some of the best hulls in the water today. The trailer for the 186 on the other hand rusted through and broke when I hit some RR tracks. If it has a tube frame make sure to check the bottom in front of the fenders. The tube frames are bad about holding water and rusting out...