Malibu does not use a fly-by-wire steering wheel, they do use a fly-by-wire throttle, this is why its like butter when you put it in gear. The steering system uses a standard cable set-up. One of the great things about the malibu is the quad hard tank ballast system, totally user friendly for all levels of riders. Sounds like you guys went full tilt, with full ballast and wedge.... this will launch you if you are not ready for it!