The ALL NEW VLX21 Bass Boat

VLX21 – The Boat Built for the Everyday Bass Fisherman

Why Did iKon Boats Build a New Model – The VLX21? 

I first got involved with iKon Boats back in the summer of 2020.  At that point, the name ‘iKon Boats’ hadn’t even been conceived.  The only people that were involved were the executives from HCB Yachts, an East Tennessee Bass fisherman by the name of Brent Butler, and several experienced engineers from various backgrounds.  That original team had developed a rough CAD drawing of the LX series, which after several revisions and thousands of hours of testing, was eventually introduced in March 2023.  The LX series, which includes the LX20 & LX21, has been a huge success. It is an expensive boat model.  I’ll agree with that opinion.  Is it worth the money? Yes! The LX’s have just about everything an avid Bass fisherman would want in a boat, and are built better than any boat I’ve been around.  It’s meant to be iKon’s luxury model and that’s exactly what it is.  But… Even in those earliest stages of development, there were already plans for the eventual VLX Bass Boat series.   We already knew back then that we wanted to offer a bass boat for everyone… 

How Much Will the iKon VLX21 Cost, and How Fast is It?

Top Speed and Price… Let’s go ahead and get this out of the way.  These are two of the most frequent topics of discussion when it comes to bass boats.  Yes, the new VLX series is less expensive than the LX series.  The official Nationally Advertised Price (NAP) will be announced during the 2024 BassMaster Classic Expo in Tulsa, OK.  What I can say is that it will be competitively priced with other popular brands, and a nicely rigged 21’ model will come in well below the $100k mark. As far as top speeds go… Well, that can have a lot of variables.  With modern bass boats and 4-cycle engines, climate (elevation & temperatures) and load (people, tackle, gear, fuel, batteries, etc.) are the two main factors in determining speed.  To get to the point… Yes, it’ll run over 70 mph if it’s properly rigged with a stock 250 HP outboard.  Will it run 73 – 75 mph?  You’ll have to wait and see…

What are the Differences in the VLX Bass Boat?

The new VLX 21 is less expensive, but it is built to the same standards of quality as the LX and has many of the same features.

Size and Weight

The VLX21, the first of the VLX Series, is 21’ 0” long. It still has a 98” beam, so you won’t lose that extra-wide front fishing deck. It comes in at approximately 200 lbs less dry hull weight than the comparative LX model. 

Tackle & Gear Storage

It wouldn’t be an iKon if it didn’t have large storage compartments.  The port-side rod locker hasn’t changed much.  It will still hold way more rods than you need.  The starboard storage compartment and day box have been combined into one single compartment.  The center storage has been completely redesigned.  It’s not as deep as the LX models, but boasts a molded tackle storage area that will hold close to 30 Plano 3700 tackle boxes. 

Electronics Options

There will be three available factory electronics packages that will include a single bow and single console graph from either Humminbird, Lowrance, or Garmin. Trolling motor options will include Minn Kota, Lowrance, and Garmin.  And of course, a custom 8 AWG tinned copper wiring harness will be built into the boat.  There’s still no need  to have an aftermarket wiring harness installed. 

Is the L2 Livewell System Available with the VLX Series?

Yes, the full L2 Livewell System, that includes the automated chiller plate and Fish IV system are an upgradable option. The L2 Livewell was developed to help protect fish both during and after the tournament.  It’s a big part of iKon Boat DNA.

Console

The popular front-access hood is gone from the VLX Series, but ease of access is not.  A closeout panel that’s located underneath the console is hinged and opens down when access to wiring and other mechanical features is needed.  The bus bars for electronic accessories are conveniently mounted to that panel for easy access. A custom smart gauge that displays all of your engine’s necessary data replaced the 5” & 7” control screen.  Digital button pads that control all your boat’s functions are located on the left and right of the steering wheel.  The console has a clean, sporty look that’s built to last.

Seats 

The one-piece fiberglass shell E-Seats from the LX Series have been replaced with a new custom seat that’s designed for a comfortable ride at high speeds and in rough tournament conditions.

Hip Flair

The hip flair that is one of the most noticeable features on an iKon is also part of the new VLX Series.  Aside from simply being a styling feature, it has several purposes. The most important aspect is that it allows for the extra wide front deck that extends all the way to the bow. Secondly, it creates more room for large tackle and gear storage compartments.  And lastly, it cuts down on some of the spray when navigating in rough water conditions.  

Back Deck and Storage

The back deck features two large storage compartments.  If the optional chiller plate and compressor is installed, the port-side rear compartment will have a shallow drop-in tub. The same removable wing-style lids that are featured on the LX are incorporated into the new VLX.  Same clean interior look with the same accessibility.  

Trailer & Storage

A custom tandem axle BoatMate trailer with swing away tongue, surge brakes, and a bow step will safely transport the new VLX21 to your favorite fishing destination.  Stylish 14” wheels will come standard with options for 18” low-profile wheels.  The same travel cover, with iKon’s APS anti-puddling system, is available with the VLX series.  In my opinion, it’s by far the best travel cover in the industry.

Summary

In closing, the new VLX Series of bass boats has been designed for the working man.  It’s a more affordable, faster and lighter-weight cousin to the LX Series. It’s built to the same, industry leading, standard of quality iKon is quickly becoming known for.  And finally, we’re still just getting started.  That’s right!  We have a lot more coming in the near future.