Posted by KenOhki (i) on April 22, 2003 at 08:49:10

In Reply to: 18hp on Boat I think is rated for 15hp posted by MoreCowbell on April 22, 2003 at 04:44:50:

Personaly, I would not think twice about it, Being a strong believer that saftey rateings are listed somewhat below the actual capacity.

However, when you do overpower a boat, It is up to you to decide if the boat is sitting properly in the water, if it handles ok, and most importantly, If you wish to risk life and limb of yourself and all who ride with you.

I have been looking at allot of mini speed boats lately, ( 8-12 foot ) Most have 20 and 25's, some even larger, and they look way overpowered ( if you ask the coast guard ) But to me,, It all falls back to the driver to handle his/her boat in a safe manor, Just becuse the motor has more power then is concidered safe dosent mean you have to twist up the throttle and use it. I will decide what is safe for me and my boat. SO in your case,, Its Up to you to decide saftey vers what you can afford or currently have for a motor and boat.