Had 50 degrees with a blue bird day and a tiny ripple on the water. I had a blast tweaking in my jackplate setting testing a 28P bravo XS1 on my 2012 Cougar 250 Pro XS combo. My boat came with a 26P Fury, but I did not like how it “plowed” through the water. Took it to Steve and he said the cup was all messed up which explains why it wasnt lifting well. He recommended I try out a used Bravo he had just taken in on trade and Im really glad that I did. Under 7 seconds from idle to 30 mph. It studders for a split second then comes roaring to life. It has great lift, even at lower rpms. Runs very smooth, and corners well. The prop does not blow out in sharp turns, or when it comes over at launch despite my inner plate being now set 1 inch above flush. Acceleration feels good, and it performs well on top (80.2 at 6000 solo, 77+ with a buddy). I was carrying my normal fishing load (15 rods, 50 pounds of tackle, 20 pounds of tools and other crud, 15-20 gallons of fuel, and empty wells). Did not notice a great deal of prop torque with the higher plate setting, 25+ lbs of pressure, rooster well below height of motor. When I finally got the height right, it required very little input. I felt like I could have taken my hands off the wheel at wide open throttle. This was a great experience at all speeds. I have also run a worked 27P Tempest that has slightly slower hole shot, tendency to blow out, and runs 1 mph slower. I have not run a healthy 26P, 27P Fury, but I would be surprized if I was more impressed.
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