[ocuyler]

I just reviewed the POWERBOAT REPORTS article in their Jan. 2003 issue. The test 23 had a Honda 225. They recorded 31.2 MPH @ 4000 RPM for 3.4 MPG and 85 db.

Interestingly, a 4500 RPM cruise yeilds a SLOWER 30.35 MPH and 2.5 MPG. What's up with that?

Top speed at WOT was 38.4 at 5600 RPM w/ 91.5 db.

I find the top speed quite low and we KNOW the hole shot is going to suffer compared to a DI, which should also give a substancially higher top end.

Trayder, I spoke at length with my local dealer, who sells both Ficht and Honda. He felt extemely confident that no matter who buys Bombardier, they will continue the push with the E-tec, etc. Further, he heard that the Bombar.dier family want a majority interest. I think that says something. As I've known this dealer/owner for 30 years, I have every confidence in a 5 to 10 year outlook for my 23 with a Ficht.

The only personal leaning I could get out of him was that the Honda was very quiet and smooth at idle, which is perfect for 2-3 MPH trolling on Lake Ontario. I don't do that.

I'll have pricing for both (installed) and will post the results. As I tell the kids, "we'll see"...

[ June 04, 2003, 12:34 AM: Message edited by: Otto Cuyler ]