Achilles HB-280DX 2007 boat specs
Achilles
Achilles HB-280DX 2007
2007
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VS
Achilles LEX-88 2007 boat specs
Achilles
Achilles LEX-88 2007
2007
View full specs →

Achilles HB-280DX 2007 vs Achilles LEX-88 2007 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 vs Achilles LEX-88 2007 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Achilles HB-280DX 2007 at 9,0 ft versus Achilles LEX-88 2007 at 8,0 ft. At 148 lbs and 66 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 15 hp for the Achilles HB-280DX 2007 and 6 hp for the Achilles LEX-88 2007. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.

Both boats are rated for 4 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 comes in at 10 lbs per hp versus 11 lbs per hp for the Achilles LEX-88 2007. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.

Bottom line: The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 and Achilles LEX-88 2007 are closely matched on the specs that matter most. Test-ride both on the water you actually use, check current dealer pricing, and factor in long-term service access before you sign.
General Boat Info
MakeAchilles
MakeAchilles
ModelHB-280DX
ModelLEX-88
Model Year2007
Model Year2007
Measurements / Dimensions
Beam5 ft. 5 in. (166 cm)
Beam4 ft. 9 in. (144 cm)
Beam - Meters1.65
Beam - Meters1.45
Beam - Inches65
Beam - Inches57
Weight - Detail148 lbs. (67 kg)
Weight - Detail66 lbs. (30 kg)
Weight - kg67.13
Weight - kg29.94
Weight - lbs.148
Weight - lbs.66
Length - Feet9
Length - Feet8
Length - Inches2
Length - Inches8
Length overall - Detail9 ft. 2 in. (280 cm)
Length overall - Detail8 ft. 8 in. (265 cm)
Length overall - Meters2.79
Length overall - Meters2.64
Length overall - Inches11
Length overall - Inches104
Pontoon and Inflatable Specific
Tube diameter17 in. (43 cm)
Tube diameter15.5 in. (39 cm)
Engine and Drivetrain
Drive typeOutboard
Drive typeOutboard
Engine max15 hp
Engine max6 hp
Operational Info
Maximum capacity1,035 lbs. (470 kg)
Maximum capacity910 lbs. (415 kg)
Maximum people4
Maximum people4

Achilles HB-280DX 2007 vs Achilles LEX-88 2007 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the Achilles HB-280DX 2007 or the Achilles LEX-88 2007?
The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 is the longer of the two at 9,0 feet overall. The Achilles LEX-88 2007 comes in at 8,0 feet, making it roughly 1,0 ft shorter — a meaningful difference in deck room and overall on-water presence.
Which is easier to trailer — the Achilles HB-280DX 2007 or the Achilles LEX-88 2007?
For trailering, the Achilles LEX-88 2007 has the edge at 66 lbs dry weight versus 148 lbs for the Achilles HB-280DX 2007. Add a motor (typically 300–500 lbs for an outboard in this class), gear, and a partial fuel load and the difference grows. Lighter is friendlier on smaller tow vehicles and on fuel economy while hauling.
Which boat can handle a bigger outboard?
The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 is rated to a maximum of 15 hp, giving it the larger power ceiling. The Achilles LEX-88 2007 tops out at 6 hp. Keep in mind that maximum ratings are just that — matching the motor to the actual load and usage pattern usually matters more than chasing the ceiling.
How many people can each boat hold?
The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 is Coast Guard rated for 4 passengers, while the Achilles LEX-88 2007 is certified for 4. Note that legal capacity and comfortable capacity aren't always the same thing — on a full day out, most experienced boaters aim for about 80% of the rated number to keep things comfortable.
Which boat has the better power-to-weight ratio?
The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 has a better power-to-weight ratio at 10 lbs per hp compared to 11 lbs per hp for the Achilles LEX-88 2007. A lower number means quicker acceleration and faster time to plane — the number that actually matters most on short, sporty boats like these.
Which boat is wider, and does it affect trailering?
The Achilles HB-280DX 2007 measures 65" wide, compared to 57" for the Achilles LEX-88 2007. The US standard-width towing limit is 8’6" (102") in most states — anything over that may need a wide-load permit. Confirm your specific route requirements with each state's DOT.
Are the Achilles HB-280DX 2007 and Achilles LEX-88 2007 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the Achilles HB-280DX 2007 and the Achilles LEX-88 2007 are built by Achilles. That means shared dealer networks, common parts availability, and consistent build quality across the line. The choice between them is essentially a question of how much boat you need, not which brand you trust.