Rookie Looking For Info.

[Hal 212M]

I would like to possibly get into racing next season. I weigh 160 lbs. and I am not sure what class would be best for me. Originally I thought BSR would be good, but it seems like the motors are relatively expensive. I noticed that the 25 class using the yamato 80 might be more reasonably priced with more used equipment available, but I am not sure. Also, I would like to know the difference between a marathon hull versus a short course hull. Any other information that can be shared would be appreciated.

[seanp3]

I would suggest getting with the yamato 302,which would allow you to run a lot of different classes: 20ssh. CSH, osy400, 25SR, CSR. For starters I would suggest the 20ssh class. Once you get a little experience you can add other classes using the same motor.

[B Walker]

Yamato 302 is currently the best value in Stock Outboard, easily. I have seen many used 302's with all the basics done to them in the 2200-2500 range.

Closed course runabouts have much difficulty making right hand turns, marathon boats do not.

Marathon boats often have built in gas tanks holding 4-5 gallons of fuel, most closed course boats do not.

Marathon boats are build a little heavier and stronger than closed course.

Closed course boats generally have a little more width to the bottom.

In a straight line, a closed course style boat is only 1-2 MPH faster than a Marathon boat. But, thats enough.

BW

[Hal 212M]

Thanks for the information. I like the versatility of the 302, but I'm not sure I weigh enough for CSR, but maybe I can run in the 25SSR. How much does a typical runabout for 25SSR weigh? How much does the 302 weigh?

[ddh]

heres the book http://www.apba-racing.com/Forms/2009/009SOMOPROJ.pdf

[seanp3]

The weight for 25SR is 430 lbs, CSR is 475 lbs. That is for the boat, motor, you and all your safety equipment fueled up and ready to race. The 302 itself weighs just under 100 lbs, I think its around 90 lbs. It looks like you're gravitating toward the runabout classes? Most likely whatever class you chose you will have to play around with weight in you boat to make the proper weight for the class - not really a big deal.

For a 302 there is basically 2 ways to go. Buy a new one, then have all the tricks done to it (shave the head to specs, blue printing, shape gearfoot), or buy a used one from a know person who has good legal equipment. The used motor can be a good way to go. Looks through the for sale section and see what you can find. Then ask folks in your local club and they'll get you going in the right direction.

[crfabbro2F]

What is your budget? Knowing that would help in what direction you can go.

[Hal 212M]

I was hoping to spend around $2000 or less for everything. That is part of the reason I was looking towards the 80. I have an older hull already, but I'm not sure what the regulations are for hulls. I've read the APBA rule book and the only concern I have is that the transom has air holes in the upper portion of it. I'm hoping that if I cover them I will be legal, but I'm not sure. I think the hull would allow me to race A, B, and 25. With my weight at 160, I thought the 80 would be the best because of price and the lower weight restriction. I don't expect to be competitive, but I am excited to get some experience and learn. I appreciate everyone's input, please keep it coming.

[Joel Kiddy]

80 in 25ssr

After this year starting november 1st you will not be able to run a 80 in 25ssr. you can still use it in 20ssh but NOT in 25ssr.

[Hal 212M]

Well there goes that plan.

[Gunjumper]

Where are you located? We need to get you to a race, you'll learn more talking to people in the pits than online. Plenty of used competetive equipment around, everyone online here started at some time or another... Greg

[modhydro]

Yamato 80 in 25ssr

Unless it is a typo in the stock minutes, the Y-80 is legal until November 1st, 2010. You should still have one year for that.

After November 1 of 2010, I'm afraid another runabout class will bite the dust. That is a shame.....

Steve Roskowski

[B Walker]

Why would the Stock Outboard Racing Committee let 25SSR die?

The stated goal of both the SORC and the steering comittee is to drive growth by having new or reconditioned motors available for immediate purchase for every class.

They have repeatedly said the class participation levels will be closely monitored to assure growth is occuring and that older out of production motors will not be removed from classes until there is enough participation with currently available motors for the class to be sustainable.

In other words, there is no plan to allow any Stock Outboard classes to die.

The 4 year transition chart was created so people could read the writing on the wall and plan for the future accordingly.

BW