2023 R6 Sterndrive

[Bootkie2]

We found ourselves in a situation where we had to make a difficult decision to trade our Formula 260BR. The Cobalt dealer we were at had a few lightly used/low hour 23’ R6 stern drives that were water ready. We were weary about the size of the R6 but decided to seize the opportunity rather than stretch our budget for an R8 or wait for a pre owned R7.

We are on a sizable lake where conditions can change quickly, and of course we took delivery of the R6 last weekend where there were 15mph sustained winds and 3ft-4ft swells in the open areas. On a day where I was almost certain I was going to miss the offshore DNA of the Formula the R6 actually performed admirably in comparison. I was pleasantly surprised.

We ended up with the VP-350-DP. Plenty of power for us as it’s now mostly my wife and 2 kids going out for the day. It's nearly impossible for some reason to find detailed test data on this engine.

I am just curious for those who have this engine, what are you getting on average in your R6 for optimal cruise speeds and top end? What are you getting for RPM, GPS speed, GPH in relation to each scenario?

pics to come soon!

[AsLan7]

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Looking forward to your pics, bk2…

Love Formula boats. Great to hear your perspective.

So glad you found us and welcome aboard mate!

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[stifflkd]

I have a 350VP on a 2021 R5. Love the engine. Wide torque range and fresh water cooled (standard). Tops out at 52-53 mph @ 5800 RPM lightly loaded. The R6 is about 1,000 lbs heavier but with a flatter hull, I would think it should hit 50mph? I average about 6 gph