When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Checkmate Convincor 260 2013 and the Checkmate ZT 230 BR 2011 are deep vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Checkmate Convincor 260 2013 measures 28,0 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 5,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Checkmate ZT 230 BR 2011 at 22,8 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Checkmate Convincor 260 2013 tips the scales at 434 lbs — 405 lbs more than the Checkmate ZT 230 BR 2011 at 29 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The Checkmate ZT 230 BR 2011 tops out at 425 hp. Engine specs for the Checkmate Convincor 260 2013 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Checkmate ZT 230 BR 2011 carries 63 gallons versus 8 gallons in the Checkmate Convincor 260 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Bottom line: The Checkmate Convincor 260 2013 at 28,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Checkmate ZT 230 BR 2011 at 22,8 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.