Outboard Motor Buying Guide

• Boat length and weight
• Maximum capacity rating on your boat's plate
• Typical passenger and cargo load
• Water conditions you'll navigate
• Desired top speed and acceleration
• Fuel efficiency priorities

• 14-16 ft boats: 25-60 HP
• 17-19 ft boats: 75-150 HP
• 20-24 ft boats: 150-300 HP
• 25+ ft boats: 300+ HP
• *Always check your boat's maximum HP rating on the capacity plate

An underpowered boat can experience:

• Poor hole shot and slow planing
• Difficulty in rough water conditions
• Excessive fuel consumption trying to reach plane
• Safety concerns in emergency situations
• Increased engine wear from constant high RPM operation

Never exceed your boat's maximum HP rating - this is dangerous and may void insurance. However, having power at the upper end of the recommended range offers:

• Better performance in rough conditions
• Improved hole shot with heavy loads
• Safety margin for emergencies
• Ability to cruise at lower RPMs

Fuel consumption depends more on how you use the motor than its size. A properly sized motor running at optimal RPM is often more efficient than an undersized motor working at full throttle. Consider:

• Larger motors at cruising speed can be very efficient
• 4-stroke engines typically use 40% less fuel than 2-strokes
• Proper propping is crucial for fuel efficiency
• Weight distribution affects fuel consumption

It's often better to have slightly more power than you think you need. This gives you better hole shot, allows you to maintain speed in rough conditions, and provides a safety margin for emergencies. You don't have to use all the power all the time, but it's there when you need it. Always check your boat's maximum HP rating on the capacity plate.