As announced, Michael Menken followed up with the new 575 MC at Interboot 2024 and added a second model to his own brand Infinity, which was launched in 2022. However, the newcomer arrived a year later than originally planned. The first model, the 455 MC, already impressed with its good performance at a favourable entry-level price.
Menken remains true to this business idea with its brand. The 5.70 metre long newcomer is designed to appeal to newcomers who want a little more space with a clear increase in comfort. Up to seven people are allowed on board in coastal areas with CE category C and outboards with up to 140 horsepower can be fitted. This is a significant improvement on its little sister in all areas.
Exclusive production for the German market
Of course, the price is also in a different league. The basic version of the 575 MC is available from 22,990 euros. In addition, there is of course the engine including accessories and installation, as well as some essential accessories such as the anchor installation or a tarpaulin. Even a horn, navigation lights and a compass are on the options list. Depending on the choice of motorisation, an additional cost of between around 12,000 and 19,000 euros is incurred, including installation and starter battery.
Nothing has changed in terms of production either. The boats are manufactured exclusively for the German market by Saver in Sicily according to the specifications of the Menken boat centre in Gersthofen. With an unladen weight of 780 kilograms plus engine and accessories, the boat is in a range that is still easily trailerable. So there are no restrictions on where it can be used. Whether fishing trips with friends on the local coast or family use on holiday, everything is possible.
Layout of the Infinity 575 MC
On board, the high sides immediately catch the eye. We measure 68 centimetres from the deck. The upholstered rear bench, including a laminated storage box, ends at the rear. There are side steps next to the outboard motor and a bathing ladder on the port side for easy entry and exit. The laminated recess, which is designed to accommodate the optional bimini and poles, is a practical feature. This keeps everything out of the way and is concealed by the rear seat cushion.
At the front is a variable double seat for the driver and front passenger. By folding down the backrest, a seating area is created at the rear, which can also be supplemented with a table if required. In front of this is the asymmetrically mounted control console. There is enough space here for the engine instruments, which can be mounted at a favourable reading angle. There is also space for a small plotter. Switches and 12-volt or USB sockets are mounted at the bottom next to the hydraulic steering (standard). There are also cup holders and a small glove compartment next to the steering position. An acrylic glass windscreen offers moderate protection and a stainless steel bar all the way round serves as a handrail. There is storage space under the console and a seat at the front.
Storage space on board
The bow also has a laminated U-shaped seat construction with storage space and cushions. A flat stainless steel railing is also fitted here on both sides, providing good support. An anchor locker awaits the accessories in the bow. The front area can be transformed into a 1.77 x 1.55 metre V-shaped sun lounger with inserts and additional cushions, which is included as standard. Another remarkable feature is the large storage space under the floor, which runs from the bow to the stern. Water skis, wakeboards, inflatable tubes or bobs, but also fishing rods or other longer items such as the boat hook can be stowed here.
Driving characteristics of the Infinity 575 MC
The Menken boat centre offers the Infinity 575 MC with outboards between 44.1 and 103 kW (60 and 140 hp). As the test candidate was configured for use on Lake Constance, a Mercury F100 ELPT is bolted on. Even with this, we achieve stable planing at 14.6 knots and 3,000 rpm after just five seconds. The top speed of 31.3 knots is reached after a total of 22 seconds at 5,000 rpm. Thanks to the 120-litre built-in tank, very decent ranges are possible. At the most economical cruising speed of around 20 knots at 3,500 rpm, 134 nautical miles are possible with 15 per cent reserve remaining in the tank.
When manoeuvring, full circles with a diameter of two boat lengths are possible forwards and even 1.5 boat lengths backwards. Fast full circles can be mastered with three boat lengths in diameter. The directional stability is good and there are no surprises when the steering is turned. Travelling through the choppy waters of Lake Constance is also easy, splashes are diverted far to the outside thanks to the shape of the hull. The build quality leaves a good impression and the assembly of all components is free of any recognisable defects. A fire extinguisher and manual bilge pump were not on board.
Conclusion
The Infinity 575 MC is a solid entry-level boat that can be used universally and has safe handling characteristics with its 100 hp engine. The test boat is easy to trailer and is well made. The installations are also of a high standard.
Advantages
Good driving performance and manoeuvrability
High level of safety due to high drop sides
Disadvantage
Missing compass and safety equipment
Measurement results
Technical data
- CE Category: C7
- Length over everything: 5,70 m
- Width: 2,35 m
- Displacement (without motor): 780 kg
- Draught (without motor): 0,38 m
- Fuel tank: 120 l
- Water tank (opt.): 45 l
- Max. motor power: 103 kW (140 hp)
- Test motorisation: 1 x Mercury F100 ELPT with 73.6 kW (100 hp)
- Base price (o. M.): from € 22,990
- Distribution test boat: bootscenter-menken.de
