300/440/550 550 as a starter ski?

[ATX]

Thinking about getting into stand-ups and want to know thoughts on a '96 550 SX as a first ski. I have ridden a buddy's RN SJ a half dozen times and like it, but SJs seem super hard to find and do not exactly fit my budget just yet. Are there any things to watch out for with the 550s? I have found what looks to be a super clean and well taken care of 550. I am basically looking to learn and just have fun in this miserable heat. Any tips/thoughts are appreciated. A lot of good info on this site. Thanks in advance.

 

[restosud]

last year for 550 is 1993.
do the usual checks before buying.cranks and seals are the weakest links,otherwise very reliable with modicum of maintenance.
a few mods will wake an sx up nicely.

 

[ATX]

Looks like I need to confirm the year model. I found some history on the net which states the 550sx was in production from 91-95. Thanks for the advice.