FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date:
August 13, 2004
Contact:
Steve Roth
402-437-6400, steveroth@sramarketing.com
Ranger Boats Sets Higher Standards For
Innovation & Performance –
Introduces New Z-Comanche Series
FLIPPIN, AR — August 13, 2004 marked a significant day in the history of
Ranger Boats with the introduction of the new Z-Comanche Series boat models
at the FLW Tour Championship held in Pell City, Alabama. Bass fans attending
the weigh-in for FLW's biggest tournament, as well as those that watched the
live web cast of the event, were treated to a dramatic product unveiling
complete with a specially created music, fog, video, and laser light display.
"New model introductions provide us with a great opportunity to showcase
many of the latest innovations, features, and designs that we've been working
on," Ranger Boats' President Randy Hopper said. "From our very
beginnings, nearly four decades ago, we've always been obsessed with
excellence. It's a huge part of our legacy, the fact that we never stop
pushing ourselves to higher standards while striving to deliver even greater
overall product value and pride of ownership. The 2005 model year marks some
very exciting milestones as we continue our commitment to deliver the
strongest product line in the industry."
Ranger doesn't mince words when it comes to talking about the new designs,
calling the Z-Comanche models "a series of total performance fishing
machines with more best-in-class features than any other tournament rig on
the water." Many differences in the new Z-Comanche boats are readily
apparent. The trademark Comanche hull stripes are raked forward creating an
aggressive style that is further accentuated by muscle-car-inspired contours,
polished aluminum hardware, and a lengthy roster of standard equipment
features. According to Hopper, "The Z-Comanche series features numerous
technological innovations and breakthrough design standards. The high
performance look is engineered to complement the overall design goals, but it
goes much deeper than the obvious first-glance differences."
With total performance receiving such a strong priority, these models benefit
from a number of exclusive distinctions. The ultra-wide 95" beam
eclipses all other rigs in its class while delivering a solid fishing
platform and more floor, storage, and fishing space. Hopper further explained
that Ranger was quick to capitalize on the unmatched strength of their
pultruded fiberglass transom and foam-filled fiberglass stringer system by
integrating a 10" engine setback on every Z-Comanche model. "It all
adds up to a completely new hull design engineered for faster, shallower hole
shots, strong top end delivery, extremely responsive handling, and a smooth,
dry ride."
Looking throughout the interior, it's obvious that dryness is a prominent
feature of this series. One of the many noticeable differences in the
Z-Comanche layout is what Ranger calls its Dri-Latch™ compartment
locking system. Featuring an innovative method for locking storage and rod
boxes, the lids are left solid with no holes cut out for key locks and lift
rings. Instead, the exclusive fabrication includes a set of extruded
longitudinal rails running alongside each box. The added strength and
machined fitting of the rails allow for a pivoting, dead-bolt style of
tamper-resistant security. The system is further equipped with an automatic
lid lift that acts much like the hood release on a car, popping the lid up
for easier access when unlatched. While the security of these boxes is
unparalleled, the lack of a key hole in the lids also removes the possibility
of water pooling in the key lock and funneling into the box. Combined with a
new 360? raised lip-and-channel lid seal, the chance for water leakage has
been virtually eliminated allowing Ranger the opportunity to promote the
industry's driest storage.
At the helm of the new series, the high performance cockpit has also undergone
a transformation. Sleek, windswept consoles have been stretched to include
even more legroom as well as added vertical height below the consoles. On the
dash, custom-branded, multi-function gauges tout increased visibility. Even
with a full array of standard instrumentation, including a speed, tach, fuel,
temp, water pressure, volt meter, and built-in Garmin fishfinder, the new
dash system still has room for personalized extras. Also at the helm, an
all-new digital key and touch pad is equipped with solid state switching.
Fuses have been eliminated and circuits are resettable from the cockpit
keypad. Not to be outdone by the rest of the rig, the bolstered bench seating
includes a custom built S-R-S soft ride system in an all-weather design that
has the luxurious look and feel of automotive leather. It all combines to
create a ride where comfort and convenience has taken center stage.
Trailer features on the new Z-Comanche models are equally impressive. Up
front, an innovative swing jack has been relocated to the center of the
frame. Retracting flush to the trailer frame, the new position allows the
stand to support a more balanced load, making the rig easier to move and more
secure on the trailer. Using the enhanced performance of racing technology, Ranger
has also adopted the use of aluminum brake calipers in conjunction with the
hydraulic surge brakes. This system benefits from extremely low heat
transfer, resulting in even greater reliability and added peace of mind.
According to Ranger officials, these exclusive features join a number of
other Ranger firsts including their exclusive Road Armor trailer protectant,
brighter LED lighting, torsion axles, C.O.O.L hubs, and more.
Produced in 20-21- and 22-foot single and dual console sizes, the NMMA certified
Z-Comanche models clearly set new standards for the next generation of bass
boat design. "The Z-Comanche series represents a whole new level of
leadership," Hopper concluded. "Developed through extensive
computer modeling and field performance tests, this series is engineered to
raise the total performance bar even higher while delivering the most
technologically advanced rig on the water."
CLICK HERE
for more information.
Ranger Boats, headquartered in Flippin, Ark., is the nation's largest
manufacturer of premium fiberglass fishing boats, including a series of bass,
multi-species, fish 'n play and saltwater boats. Founded in 1968 by Forrest
L. Wood, Ranger Boats continues its commitment to building the highest
quality, strongest performing boats on the water. More information on Ranger
Boats and the benefits of the Ranger Owners Group can be found by visiting www.rangerboats.com/ or calling
toll-free 1-800-373-2628.
Genmar, with approximately 5,000 employees and 8 manufacturing centers in the
United States and Canada, is the builder of 16 premier brands of recreational
boats and the industry's technological leader with the development of VEC™
Technology and the VEC Shield™ finish, the Roplene®
process and the Genmar Integrated Vessel System. Genmar boat brands include
Aquasport®, Carver®, Champion®, Four Winns®,
Glastron®, Hydra-Sports®, Larson®, Marquis®,
Nuvari®, Ranger®, Seaswirl®, Stratos®,
Triumph®, Wellcraft® and Windsor Craft™.
For the most up-to-date information, news release archives, downloadable
high-resolution logos and photographs of Genmar products, visit the Web site
at www.genmar.com/pr. Check back
regularly for new stories on Genmar and its companies.
END