The Leader 5.5 Bow Rider (5.48 m) is designed on the same hull as the Leader 5.5. It has the same layout as the 6.5 BR, i.e. a forward cockpit and a central passageway for easy passage from the aft cockpit to the forward cockpit. The foredeck houses an optional U-shaped cockpit saloon with meridians, which also converts into a sundeck (still an option).
The cockpit is designed with a double console. On the starboard side is the instrument panel with cup holder and storage. Accessible through the central passageway, the consoles house two large stowage compartments, but the opening of these is not practical: the door is completely removed when it would have been simpler to install it on hinges.
Pilots and co-pilots have bolster-style seats with a flip-up seat for sit/stand driving. Behind the windshield you are very protected from the wind thanks to the central passage closure (high and low transparent closure).
At the rear is a cockpit bench seat (in the Premiere version) with a large central storage compartment. Numerous options allow the aft cockpit to be customised according to its use: aft sundeck, cockpit table, rod holders, sun canopy, bimini, ski mast or wakeboard tower..
Two platforms frame the outboard motor with a swim ladder on the starboard side for easy access to the sea. The entrance to the boat is on the side, given the size of the bathing platforms. Circulation on board is easy, although the space on the foredeck with the centre table is somewhat reduced.
The Leader 5.5 BR is inspired by Scandinavian boats, but adapted to the Mediterranean basin. It is designed for multi-programme yachting, i.e. it is equally suitable for family outings (with optional sunbathing), water sports (water skiing, wakeboarding...) or fishing (open aft cockpit and rod holders).
Quick and easy to operate
For our test, our Leader 5.5 BR was equipped with a 100 hp Yamaha outboard engine. The maximum power output is 120 hp, but the recommended engine is still 115 hp. During the test, we were 4 people on board, in calm seas, without chop.
The sitting position (with the end of the seat up) is still the most comfortable for driving, with the steering wheel firmly in front of you, even if you can also drive standing up. The engine control unit installed on the starboard bulwark is easily accessible.
With an overall length of 5.48 m and a beam of 2.36 m, the boat tended to heel with two people sitting side-by-side on the aft bench seat. So be sure to distribute the weight on board. It responds easily to manoeuvres, turns quickly and has excellent sea passage. For more comfortable sailing in the aft cockpit, simply close the central windshield and the central door to cut the wind.
With a light breeze and a slight chop, the boat does not slap too much (much less than the larger 6.5 BR model), even when installed on the front cockpit benches (the most uncomfortable places). At 4,500 rpm, a cruising speed of 23.1 knots is reached with a fuel consumption of 22.2 l/h. At this speed, the best performance of 0.96L per nautical mile is obtained.
At 6000 rpm, the maximum speed of 32.7 knots is reached with a consumption of 40.8 l/h and an output of 1.25 l/nautical miles.
The Leader 5.5 BR proves to be very intuitive to drive, fun and responsive. Its size and layout are particularly suitable for a family day trip, to enjoy both the thrill of sailing and a moment of well-being on the water.
