Quote:
Originally Posted by PigSticker
. . . Hard to make a comparison giving two different set ups.
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I agree, the key to a soft ride is good balance. Trim tabs can help compensate for a stern heavy situation, but they'll add drag, increase fuel burn and reduce speed. I've ridden in the 18 Snookerd had with a 130 hp 2-stroke that rode very well and I don't believe it had trim tabs.
The key metric to test would be the min planing speed on both rigs w/o using trim tabs. All of Moesly's designs (the 21, 19 Bowrider, 20cc and Seafari, 27 Seamaster and 25 Seafari) with original power (~300 lb motors on the OB models) seem to plane at about 12 mph, but min planing speed will increase as motor weight increases. I would bet that an 18 with light 2-stroke power will ride
better than a 20 with a ~500 lb 4-stroke on the transom. I speak from experience because my boat rode better with a 300 lb motor on the transom than it did with a 430 lb motor shifted 30" aft on a 150 lb bracket. Min planing speed went from 12 mph to 22-23 mph! By adding trim tabs, a Doelfin and a stern lifting 4B prop, I got it back down to 12 mph but at some penalty in speed and fuel burn.
And if you want more storage, take a look at a 20' Seafari or Sceptre!