The Gibbs Quadski XL is unlike anything else in the power sports world. This atv / pwc hybrid has the ability to not just be ridden as a four wheeler, but can transform into a jet ski as well.
Since its introduction into the power sports industry, the Gibbs Quadski has caught a lot of people’s attention. Then, just as people were starting to get used to it, the Gibbs Quadski XL was released. The XL is much like the classic Quadski, except it’s even bigger, and has an astounding price tag to show for it.
Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may make a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Overview
The original Gibbs Quadski was first released in October 2012, and it didn’t take very long before just about everyone knew what it was. Not too long after that, the Gibbs Quadski XL was announced, surprising people almost as much as the original Quadski did. After all, no one thought Gibbs would take such a large contraption, and somehow manage to make it even bigger.
From a distance, the Quadski XL and the original model look very similar. It’s not until they’re examined up close that the differences become more apparent.
Gibbs Quadski XL Review
The XL borrows has all the same features as the classic, but it comes with an even larger seating capacity. Surprisingly, this didn’t have too much of an effect on things like top speed or the Gibbs Quadski XL price. Despite the change, everything is relatively the same.
Gibbs Quadski XL Top Speed and Engine
A powerful and fuel efficient BMW Motorrad K1300 engine is the driving force behind the Quadski. With this 140hp engine, the Quadski XL can reach a top speed of 45mph on both land and water. What makes this so impressive is that it shares the same top speed with the classic Quadski despite weighing significantly more.
Although 45mph isn’t the fastest top speed in either the atv or pwc worlds, it’s pretty acceptable to say the least. Given the size and weight of this amphibious vehicle, it’s not nearly as bad as it could be.
Gibbs Quadski XL Features
The revolutionary retractable suspension on the Quadski is what really allows it to stand out. It provides a nearly seamless transition from atv to pwc within just 5 seconds. Once the retractable wheels are folded up, the Quadski can function exactly as a pwc would.
On the bottom is an easily distinguishable pwc hull. This lightweight composite hull allows for proper handling while on the water. When it’s being ridden as an atv, the hull provides a low center of gravity giving it a more nimble feel.
Both the original and the XL feature a patented water jet drive that is lighter and more compact than those found on other pwc. This helps it reach its top speed in a matter of seconds, and give it incredible maneuverability.
Currently, there are 4 standard color options available, along with custom color options like camo.
Related: How much does a jet ski cost?
Gibbs Quadski XL Price 2018
After hearing about the XL, most people are quick to ask how much it costs. After all, something that cool can’t be cheap, right? Unfortunately, that’s a correct assumption to make.
The Gibbs Quadski XL price in 2018 is $40,000. Sadly, this means most people aren’t able to afford it, but renting one may still be an option. Ultimately the availability of rentals will vary based on location, but it’s still a viable alternative.
Even though the high price tag is a bit of a let down, it’s still somewhat commendable. The original Quadski has a price of $40,000 as well, so keeping them the same despite being bigger is pretty spectacular.
The factors that determine how much a Quadski costs aren’t easy to get around. After all, it’s an amphibious vehicle. Creating an atv / pwc hybrid isn’t an easy process, so it’s natural for the price to reflect that. This coupled with what is likely very high production costs makes an affordable price hard to hit. If there were a way to make them cheaper, Gibbs would probably do it. For all the public knows, that may be something they’re already working on.
Hopefully in a few years the Gibbs Quadski XL price will be a bit more affordable, but for now, most people are forced to sit on the sidelines.
Related: Must have boating accessories
Difference between Gibbs Quadski and Gibbs Quadski XL
For the most part, the Quadski and Quadski XL are the same. The major difference is the larger seating capacity on the XL. The standard Quadski has a seating capacity of 1 person, while the XL can seat 2.
All of the other real differences are regarding various measurements. Because of the larger seating capacity, the XL has larger dimensions. Aside from being nearly a foot longer, the XL also weighs approximately 100 lbs more. It also has less ground clearance, decreasing from 8.9 inches (22.6 cm) to 8.6 inches (21.8 cm).
Other than the larger seating capacity and dimensions, both models have the same features. The Gibbs Quadski XL price, features, and top speed are all the same as the original model.
Gibbs Quadski XL Specs
Below are a few of the more notable Quadski XL specifications. For more information on the Gibbs Quadski XL, be sure to visit their official site.
Engine:
- BMW K1300cc engine
- Water cooled
- 4-stroke in-line four-cylinder
- Sequential transmission, electronically controlled with centrifugal clutch
- electrically operated land reverse gear
- Maximum power: 105 kW / 140hp water Displacement: 1293cc Bore & Stroke: 80.0 mm x 64.3 mm
- Lube system: Dry sump Power: 140 hp (105 kW)
- Torque: 87 ft-lbs (118 Nm)
- Fuel type: 98 RON. Premium plus unleaded
- Cooling on water: Closed loop and
Dimensions:
- Track width: 55.5 in / 1,410 mm
- Overall width: 62.5 in / 1,587 mm
- Overall length: 140.2 in / 3,560 mm
- Overall height: 53.0 in / 1,345 mm
- Wheelbase: 82.3 in / 2,090 mm
- Ground clearance: 8.6 in / 215 mm
- Weight (curb): 1,437 lbs / 652 kg
Land Features:
- 2 person seating capacity
- Land speed: Up to 45 mph
- Brakes: 4 wheel disc brakes
- Suspension: Independent coil springs and hydraulic dampers
- Drive layout: RWD
Marine Features:
- 2 person seating capacity
- Water speed: Up to 45 mph
- Propulsion system: Gibbs jet drive with reverse
- Lightweight composite hull
Hull & Drive Unit Hull:
- Monocoque dual skin composite
- Type: Single stage mixed flow
- Impeller: Stainless steel 5 blade
- Stator: 11 blade cast aluminum
Wheels & Tires:
- Wheel size: 5.5J x 12
- Front tire: 25 x 8.000 – 12
- Rear tire: 25 x 8.000 – 12
Great review. Sucks to know it costs so much. Hopefully one day they’ll be a little more affordable so more people can ride them. It seems like theyre a lot of fun.
Now out of production from what I can tell, mainly because of poor business decisions. These would have sold like hot cakes for 15K which would make more sense since you can buy a much bigger boat and accommodate more people for 40k. Hell, they could have not sold them and opened up rental business all along the coast and made a tremendous amount of money just from rentals. Great idea poorly executed.
Does anyone know when the XL will be in production again? If not does anyone know where I can purchase 2 used?