Posts: 32880
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | In this case both Pros are running THEIR choice of product, including the boat and motor. Both could run about any product they wish. In this case, TJ is absolutely correct.
I just looked at the Mercury Hydraulic Tiller handle pricing, some Mercs will be available with a dealer installed hydraulic system, and some with factory installed systems. That system will allow you to steer that big rig with a fingertip. Yes, the Smart Craft system is an option, but it does MUCH more than just set the speed. As far as the 'catch up' statement, I believe TJ was looking at the Smart Craft system, and Merc has had that available for years. The handle issue is debatable, and is a personal preference. If I had a choice of any tiller motor out there, I'd choose the fastest, most fuel efficient motor I can buy and definitely have the hydraulic steering installed. In this case and following that criteria, it would be an Opti Max. Read up.
That said, Yamaha builds a very fine product, and will continue to no doubt. Look at all the options, get in the boat on the dealer's showroom floor, and grab that tiller handle.
Guest, really now. Why did you select your boat brand, and what happened to that brand's entire Pro Team last year? HMMM, the company sold, and POOF, everyone out there who had worked their collective fannies off to promote that boat was pretty much left holding an empty sack. Just because you do what you do doesn't mean a true Nationally recognized Pro like Ron has to, wants to, or needs to.
Bulldawger,
When was the last time you spent a summer working hands on with In Fisherman and the sponsors of a National tournament circuit, and over 100 Pros? A lifetime's and more contact with engines, boats, and Pros in short order, and I speak form personal experience; I attend and work at the same events. Service trailers and the best of the best factory wrenches there, factory support personnel, the top Walleye Pros in the world, and all of this in an intense atmosphere where the product HAS to perform. Yamaha has a number of sponsored anglers, so if you want to be rude, you could make the same 'run what pays best' comment about them. I can tell you, it's a personal choice by most Pros what motor they run, and most are intensely loyal to the brand. |
