[Fr. Frank]

Comparable performance could be achieved with a 175 - 200 hp outboard on a bracket. But a better choice would be a 225 or 250 hp motor, as they will use slightly less fuel at the same speed, and you will put less strain on the motor at a given speed, as well. Nonetheless, a 200 is plenty.
If you're using a flotation bracket (highly reccomended), I'd consider one of the new 275hp '06 Verados. Scuttlebutt has Mecury releasing a 350 hp and possibly a 400 hp model by '08. I do know that Mercury is currently testing engines of 350 and 400 hp configurations. Look to see them in racing before they hit the consumer market.
Also, one of the boat rags I looked through in the grocery store had a bit on some guy out on Lake Powell who had altered his 300 Verado on the back of his 26' Sleekcraft to produce 485 hp. It pushed his 26' cuddy cabin boat to over 75 mph.
I wonder how long the engine lasted. [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]