Harris's new pontoon boats feature RPM Technology, which provides faster acceleration, higher top speed, decreased vibration, enhanced handling and control, added strength and stability, and optimized manufacturing efficiency. And it's built in to every Harris we make, starting with our 2024 lineup. A rugged, heavy-duty frame supports the pontoons and deck with unparalleled strength and uncompromising durability for a lifetime of safe performance in your favorite waters.
So what is this technology and why does it matter? Let’s break down the new RPM Technology components and see how they benefit you and your family.
RPM Technology starts with the chassis—or frame—of the pontoon boat. You can think of it as a skeleton or a foundation—the substructure upon which the visible part of the boat is built. Like a house’s frame or an automobile’s chassis, it provides strength and shape to the finished structure, and can reasonably be called the most critical element of construction.
In a Harris pontoon boat, the chassis consists of everything below the deck. It starts with the pontoons, which are welded from .090” aircraft-grade aluminum into multi-chambered logs that are individually pressure tested for failsafe floatation. This means the boat will float even in the unlikely event that one of the pontoon chambers is punctured. The outer pontoons feature a welded-on strake, or longitudinal ridge, that diverts spray downward and increases traction on the water, improving handling and fuel efficiency. We've also redesigned the nose cones to more effectively cut through the water and form a striking profile.
The pontoons are connected to the deck by a system of full-length M-brackets and C- and Z-shaped crossmembers that unify the entire structure for an incredibly solid feel underfoot, and an observed decrease of 35% in vibration at the helm as compared to previous models*. The M-brackets run the entire length of each pontoon, forming a continuous connection that resists twisting and bending. Like the beams under the floor joists of a house, they support the C- and Z-shaped crossmembers that connect the M-brackets to the deck.
RPM Technology results in—according to rigorous testing—5-10% higher top speed, 10% faster acceleration, and 10% more fuel efficiency than previous Harris models*.
What does all this mean for the family enjoying a day on the lake? It means that you’ll never have to think about things like multi-chambered pontoons, longitudinal strakes, M-brackets or crossmembers, because we’ve developed RPM Technology to be a rock-solid foundation that provides a lifetime of worry-free enjoyment on the water.
Learn more about Harris RPM Technology—and the entire construction process—here, and start your journey to a safe, comfortable life in the great outdoors.
*Compared to previous Harris models under comparable test conditions. Fuel efficiency based on average across various load conditions. Acceleration based on average improvement in 0-30mph time. Handling and spray based on characteristics in similar turns performed on the same models from prior years and under similar water conditions. Many factors may affect the performance of boats. Such factors include, but are not limited to, installation of certain options such as towers, vessel loading and trim, weather and sea conditions, engine condition, propeller condition and hull bottom condition.
