Scorpion RIBs 2007 Demo Boat
Graham Jelley from Scorpion RIBs always exhibits at the annual RIBEX show. Scorpion have never really set out to build outright racing ribs. However the fact that their models not only win races but also establish some remarkable world records in what are essentially fast cruising RIBs bears testimony to his craft.

Nevertheless, Graham thought it would be fun to build a new rib as a demonstrator for 2007 taking onboard some of the features that appear on the racing circuit. Therefore using one of his 8.5m Mk II hulls, a stepped hull design from Lorne Campbell Design, a pair of ultra short shaft engines, racing gearboxes and the fitting of extreme tapered tubes, his concept has been developed. To complete the overall package, a new sports console designated the Sports V was designed and built. This is the fifth demo rig built by Graham, hence her name "Jellignite V".

At a chance meeting with Graham at Seawork 2007, I was invited to Lymington the following day to drive his latest demo rig. This Scorpion variation also sported some other interesting features. New bolster seating for pilot and navigator incorporating electric controls mounted in the backrest bolster, thus keeping any electric motors and wiring free from the deck. Conveniently placed rocker switches made the seating adjustment a cinch when 'on the go'. Air operated, deck mounted (in addition to console mounted) trim switches. Seen for the first time (although designed several seasons ago) a sleek GRP 'A' frame. The new console included angled integrated footrests which worked very well in co-ordination with the adjustable bolster seats. The new sporty console also belied an enormous front locker. A deck locker and a rear seat locker incorporated in the full width aft lounge seat provided lots of storage space. The boat overall was finished in a very classy ice white and blue with a little red piping here and there. The tubes have a nice touch with white tops and navy blue below which match the two tone finish on the console.

How Did She Perform?
Well how did she perform? I'm told she's quite lively doing Lymington to Cherbourg in 1.5hrs for lunch and then returning! Our ride on the Solent was in very calm conditions so it was no surprise to quickly hit 55kts. However 60kts was not far behind and you could take your hands off the wheel as the balance and steering is perfect. Indeed such is the balance that in flat calm conditions normal handling of the steering wheel induces precise steering corrections from the excited hand tremors thro' the sheer adrenalin of the ride. If you're over 60 (kts) you can keep your hands off this lively lady!

What's remarkable is that the props are not yet sorted, there's still another 800 RPM to go in order to reach the engines' recommended RPM! Graham, I believe, has achieved his objective in building an impressively fast and exciting fun rib. Scorpion's finish is once again at a level of quality that very few can rival. If you are looking for a crowd puller, fantastic performance and great fun you will have to take Scorpion's demo boat "Jellignite V" out for a trial very soon, before it's bought by someone who appreciates a real thoroughbred.

Features:
Two-tone extremely tapered tubes with white stepped hull; flexiteek non-slip deck with moulding margins on a white deck; raised forward locker; "Sports V" console with foot rest, hand holds and electrically operated hatch; stainless steel frame twin bolster with electrically operated seat bases; blue and white upholstery finished with red piping; full width aft seat integrated with the twin engine outboard well; Lenco trim tabs; VHF/DSC; Navman GPS with depth sounder; CD player; compass; MCB distribution panel; Scorpion designed anchor stowage box; GRP "A" frame with flag eyelets; LED navigation lights; socket in console for phone/cooler unit; 2 x 225hp Mercury Optimax outboards with Sport Master gearboxes and Morse control throttle and gear shift; individual covers and overall cover.

June 2007