R8 Outboard Boat test

[AsLan7]

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For anyone interested.

Boating Mag's R8 Outboard boat test with twin Yammie 300's last week.

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[Norris_Boating]

looks cold, I wonder when they did that picture.

[CobaltDeadHead]

It will be interesting to see how the OB Rs evolve. I would think they'd expand upon options for fishing to include more than just rod holders.

To me, an R8 Outboard is really only a saltwater cruiser with how it can be configured currently. I wouldn't want to give up the large swim platform I/O allows for. To make it more desirable for freshwater, having options like live wells and removable cushions in the bow and sun pads with optional fishing seats to make casting platforms would make some sense. It would also be welcome on the salt as well.

Would love to take a rip on one. 64.5mph is no joke!

[stifflkd]

Can someone explain why an outboard is a saltwater option? Is closed cooling now an option? I have been in saltwater all my life and never had a desire for an outboard unless I was in the market for a center console.

[CobaltDeadHead]

Being able to lift the engines fully out of the water while on the dock has its maintenance advantages. Saltwater is more corrosive than fresh. Also better for skinny water due to less draft.

I boat on the freshwater, but live on the NH Seacoast and have several friends with boats on saltwater slips. Every one of them prefers Outboards and say those with even modern I/Os have vastly more issues. Just look at the resale value of saltwater Cobalts vs fresh. That's telling

[stifflkd]

I agree with what you mentioned (less more issues) but they apply to both fresh and salt. My number one priority boating in saltwater is to have closed cooling which no outboard that I am aware of can offer.

[CobaltDeadHead]

Seven Marine (RIP) offered closed cooling. I don't think it's that big of a deal though. Raise the leg and let it drain after each use. Fresh water flush several times a season. My one friend does it after every use, but that's probably overkill. Though his twin 225 Yams still run great after 23 years.

[Big Block Power]

You still have to flush a closed System IO. Outboard is the way to go in salt. It's you can get them out of the water. Yes both will work. I guess it depends on how will you take care of them.