Uflex USA V61B Steering Wheel Review

How the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel Surprised Me

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel promises a touch of classic elegance combined with modern durability for boaters. Manufactured by Uflex USA, it boasts a thermoplastic antishock material, a standard 3/4″ taper, and a burlwood finish. I was skeptical about how well these elements would truly come together in a steering wheel.

My old boat wheel was falling apart; the grip was slick, and the plastic was cracking from years of sun and saltwater. I needed something durable, comfortable, and that wouldn’t look completely out of place on my vintage vessel. I considered a stainless-steel wheel and a few composite options, but the allure of burlwood kept drawing me back. It spoke to the classic lines of my boat.

Unboxing the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel was a pleasant surprise. The “burlwood” is obviously not real wood at this price point, but the finish looked surprisingly authentic. The wheel felt solid and well-made, and the antishock thermoplastic had a nice feel in my hands.

I considered a similar steering wheel from a competitor, but that one had a flimsy plastic feel. Another option had real wood, but the price was significantly higher. I chose the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel because it seemed to offer the best balance of aesthetics, durability, and value. My initial impression was definitely positive. I was eager to get it installed and see how it performed on the water.

Real-World Testing: Putting Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel on my 21-foot center console boat, which I primarily use for inshore fishing and cruising. The first test was a weekend fishing trip in the Chesapeake Bay. Conditions were choppy, with a moderate breeze and occasional spray.

The wheel felt surprisingly grippy, even with wet hands covered in fish slime. The ergonomic design made it comfortable to hold for extended periods, reducing fatigue during a long day on the water. I was pleased with the responsiveness and control it provided. There were no surprises, only a significantly improved steering experience compared to my old, worn-out wheel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of fading, cracking, or discoloration from sun exposure or saltwater. The finish remains smooth and glossy, and the antishock material still feels comfortable in my hands.

I’ve wiped it down with a mild soap and water solution after each trip. This keeps it clean and prevents any buildup of salt or grime. It’s been incredibly easy to maintain. Compared to my previous plastic wheel, the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel feels like a significant upgrade in terms of both durability and comfort. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel

Specifications

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel boasts the following specifications:

• Material: Thermoplastic antishock material, offering a balance of durability and comfort. This is crucial for absorbing vibrations and impacts, especially in choppy conditions.
• Taper: Standard 3/4″ taper, ensuring compatibility with most boat steering systems. This makes installation relatively straightforward.
• Hub Included: This saves you the hassle of sourcing a separate hub. It’s a convenient addition.
• Standards Compliance: Meets EN 28848 and ABYC P22 standards. This confirms the wheel meets strict safety and quality requirements.

Performance & Functionality

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel performs its job admirably. It offers precise and responsive steering, improving boat handling. The thermoplastic antishock material reduces vibration and provides a comfortable grip, even in rough seas.

The wheel’s strengths lie in its combination of durability, comfort, and classic aesthetics. Its weakness is that the “burlwood” is not real wood, which might disappoint some purists. It meets and exceeds expectations for a steering wheel in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel features a classic design that complements a wide range of boat styles. The build quality is excellent, with solid materials and a well-executed finish. The wheel feels comfortable in hand, even after hours of use, and there’s no learning curve involved. It’s intuitive and easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The thermoplastic material is highly resistant to UV damage, saltwater, and general wear and tear. With proper care, the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel should last for many years. Cleaning is simple: wipe it down with mild soap and water. There are no special maintenance requirements.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel comes with a hub, but doesn’t offer additional accessories or customization options beyond the standard model. Compatibility with aftermarket steering knobs is possible, but should be verified for the specific knob.

Pros and Cons of Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel

Who Should Buy Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel?

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel is perfect for boat owners who want to upgrade their steering wheel with a durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing option. It’s especially well-suited for:

• Casual cruisers
• Inshore anglers
• Owners of classic or vintage boats looking for a period-appropriate look

This product might not be the best choice for:

• Boaters who demand real wood accents
• Those seeking highly customizable steering wheels

A must-have accessory would be a steering wheel cover to provide added protection when the boat is not in use.

Conclusion on Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel

The Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel is a solid choice for boaters seeking a blend of classic style, modern durability, and comfortable handling. While the burlwood finish is simulated, it’s convincingly executed and adds a touch of elegance to any boat. At $232.49, the price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and compliance with safety standards.

I would personally recommend this steering wheel to anyone looking to upgrade their boat’s steering system without breaking the bank. It’s a worthwhile investment that will improve both the look and feel of your boating experience. If you’re ready to enhance your time on the water, give the Uflex USA V61B Antigua Burlwood Steering Wheel a try!