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Best Boat Brands: Which are the Top Boat Manufacturers & Brands?

Are you thinking about buying a boat? The thought of getting out onto the water for some fun is exciting. Boating is a great pastime for families and friends and a great way to strengthen your relationships while you enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings.

However, choosing a boat is like buying a car. Some manufacturing brands have a better reputation in the market than others. For instance, we all know the prestige of buying a Mercedes-Benz versus a VW Golf or an F150 truck.

It’s the same with boats; some brands offer you a more premium boating experience than others. If you have no experience in the boating industry, you probably have no idea about the difference between boating brands. So, which offers you the best balance of performance, design, reliability, and luxury for your time out on the water.

That’s okay; we did the research for you. This guide unpacks our choices for the best boat brands available. Each brand has a different approach to building boats and the prices they ask for their models.

We’ll make our recommendations on the best model to suit your activities out on the water and your budget. Are you ready? Let’s dive in!

Boston Whaler

If you’re looking for the best boat brand available, then we have to say that Boston Whaler is one of the leading brands at the top of the heap. Boston Whaler offers you a wide range of models and lengths, with boats anywhere from 11′ to 42′ and 38 models to choose from for your preferred activities.

Whether you’re keen on fishing , watersports , or you want a watercraft suitable as an all-rounder, Boston Whaler has the boat for you. The brand has a 60-year legacy as one of the best boat-building brands in the world, with a reputation for manufacturing “unsinkable” boats.

While the build quality in Boston Whaler watercraft is nothing short of excellent, there are plenty of other boat brands out there that offer you the same level of design and performance , so why go with BW over others?

One of the main reasons we recommend you get a BW is the brand’s excellent retention of its resale value. Boats depreciate in value like cars, but Boston Whaler vessels seem to hold their retail value better than many other brands.

Take a look in the pre-owned market, and you’ll find that a 24-footer that’s in good condition at around a $60,000 price point. An 18-footer could retail in pre-owned condition for as much as $25,000. That’s almost the same retail price as a new model.

BW has an excellent industry reputation, and they boast an astounding 15 consecutive CSIA awards, with seven NMMA Innovation awards over the last decade.

Visit Boston Whaler

Bertram is another leading boat brand with an excellent range and world-class build quality. If you drive into a marina, you’re likely to see more than a few of the legendary Bertram 35 models floating in the slips.

Bertram doesn’t offer you the extensive range of models that you get with Boston Whaler. Instead, it focuses its energy on refining its three models, the 35, 50, and 61. As a result, you get a boat engineered to perfection, offering you the best balance of performance and efficiency, with long service life and high build quality.

This iconic boatbuilder won the Boat Trader “Boating Madness” customer popularity showdown, showing a huge loyal following for the brand.

While Bertram reduced its range of boats to just three models, you can find plenty of the older 28 and 31 models available on the pre-owned market, and Bertram still produces spares for these models. Like BW, Bertram boats also hold their value in the secondary market.

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Chaparral is one of the most popular boating brands in the world. Pull into a marina, and you’re likely to see more than a few of the legendary 257 SSX waiting to go out to sea. Chaparral has a wide range of models, from bowriders to bay boats and dedicated watersports and cruiser models in lengths from 19′ to 33′.

The balance of affordability and performance offered with the Chaparral range makes it one of the best-selling brands in the world. The brand scored big in the Boat Trader Boating Madness tournament, and it’s one of the most searched boating brands online.

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Chris-Craft

Chris-Craft is one of the more established boat brands in the market. Founded in 1874, the company has nearly a century and a half of building some of the most revered watercraft in the business. The Chris-Craft Corsair 34 is a great example of a top model from this brand.

The Chris-Craft Launch 36 won the award for Boat of the Year in 2014, and it’s one of the brand’s top-selling models. You get a combination of the best characteristics of a cruiser, with an open-plan and elegant design.

The new models from the brand, like the Chris-Craft Catalina 26, are an example of a class-leading boat with outstanding design and build quality. The range doesn’t hold its resale value as well as BW or Bertram, but they do better than most other brands in the pre-owned market.

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Wellcraft is a leading manufacturing brand in boats, with an excellent reputation.

You get plenty of features and excellent performance from all the boats in the Wellcraft range. The Wellcraft 352 Fisherman is our choice for one of the best-dedicated fishing boats available. If you want to get out for some angling in deep waters or on the lake, this model is a top choice.

Boat owners choose Wellcraft boats for simplistic operation, high safety standards, and top-quality finishes.

Wellcraft hand-builds its boats to the highest quality standards, with four models in its range. Wellcraft gives you options for its Sportsman, Coastal, Scarab, and Fisherman models for specific use out on the water.

The Coastal is an express cruiser offering you world-class features and a level of luxury that satisfies the most demanding needs for any boating enthusiast. The 290 Coastal is one of the top-selling boats in Florida, and you’ll find them in almost every marina across the state’s coastline.

Wellcraft also excels in its Fisherman range, producing a range of boats for sports-specific fishing offshore or in inland waters.

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Grady-White

Grady-White is another leading global boat brand worthy of a place in this review. The brand has an excellent reputation for building top-of-the-line expresses, center consoles, along with dual-consoles like the Freedom 307 model.

Grady-White has an impeccable customer service and satisfaction record and one of the industry’s best reputations for build quality and design. The brand also has several industry awards, including the J.D. Power and Associates, Marine Matrix, and NMMA CSI awards.

Like Boston Whaler, Grady-White has one of the best resale values on the pre-owned market .

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Lund also deserves a spot on this list. The boating brand has one of the best industry names in the game, and the Lund Pro Guide is an excellent example of one of the flagship models from this manufacturing brand.

Founded in 1948, Lund has nearly 75-years of experience building high-quality aluminum watercraft. The brand frequently tops the rankings in customer service and satisfaction surveys, winning an NMMA Innovation Award in 2020, with BoatU.S. Magazine nominating the brand as “Best Boat For Your Money.”

Lund offers you a high-quality design and excellent performance in an affordable package. You get a complete range of models, from Jon boats to sports-specific, fishing, and pontoon models.

MasterCraft

If you’re looking for a sports-specific model for wakeboarding or skiing , MasterCraft is an affordable and reliable boating brand.

MasterCraft earned the 6th place ranking on the Ranker Boat Brand rating system, and it’s the winner of five innovation awards in the last six years, making it a thoughtful and functional design.

We like the brand’s industry-leading 5-year “MasterCare” warranty offered on all its boats. You get full cover for any problems with your boat, and the warranty is also transferable when selling the vessel in the pre-owned market.

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Sea Ray is another leading manufacturing brand deserving of a place on our list. Sea Ray produces award-winning boats in several categories, and it lands at the top of the list on Ranker, and it’s a dealer’s top choice in boating brands.

Sea Ray has headquarters in Knoxville, Tennessee. The brand manufacturers 40 boat models available in different lengths. You get boats ranging from 19′ bow-riders to 65′ luxury power yachts. Some of the top-selling models in the range include the Sundancer, a luxury cabin cruiser, and its “L-Class,” standing for “Luxury.

When it comes to a brand delivering top levels of performance, luxury, and value, you can’t beat Sea Ray. Sea Ray boat dealers frequent the Boating Industry’s Top-100 dealers list more than any other boat manufacturing brand.

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Yamaha is one of the most trusted brands in watercraft., The company has a huge range, offering you everything from sports-specific models to PWCs . The AR190 model is a top-selling sports boat with an excellent industry reputation as one of the best models available for its price, performance, and value.

Yamaha produces the best range of jet-powered watercraft available, with innovative technology and a build-quality that you would expect from a leading Japanese manufacturing brand. The brand frequently lands at the top of customer satisfaction surveys for boats in the 19′ to 24′ range.

They are a top-searched boat brand online, and they hit #8 on the Ranker list. You get any model you could want from Yamaha, from bowriders and bay boats to dedicated watersports models for skiing and fishing. Yamaha builds its reputation around performance and reliability, and they hold its value in the secondary market.

While they previously had a reputation as a sports-specific brand, the company recently branched out into the world of fishing boats, offering you a pair of jet-powered center console models that are a ground-breaking innovation in fishing boat design.

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Tracker is one of the most popular fishing boat brands on the market. The company also produces an exceptional line of pontoon boats , making them a great choice for anyone looking for a dedicated fishing vessel, dive boat, or party boat.

The Sun Tracker model is one of the best-selling ranges in pontoon boats, and they have several awards, including winning the NMMA CSI award for the last six consecutive years. This brand specializes in dedicated fishing vessels and utility boats, and it’s a great choice for an all-aluminum model.

Tracker gives you a 5-year warranty on all its boats, and the warranty is transferable into the secondary market. You also get a limited lifetime warranty on the frame for peace of mind.

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Viking Yachts

Viking Yachts are a great choice if you’re looking for a luxury vessel . The Viking 68C is the flagship model from the brand and an indicator of what you can expect from Viking’s build quality and performance.

While Viking is an expensive brand, they make up for the high price tags on their vessels with outstanding build-quality, performance, and an excellent resale value on the secondary market. These boats are nothing short of beautiful to behold, but they are hard to find due to the high price tag associated with all models in the Viking range.

Viking manufactures yachts from 37′ to 93′ feet, and you have options for motor yacht and fishing boat designs.

Visit Viking Yachts

Bayliner is one of the most popular entry-level boating brands on the market. They have a huge following, and you’ll probably see these boats at any marina you visit on either coast of the United States and around the Gulf of Mexico.

The Bayliner 2021 VR5 Bowrider is the companies flagship model, and the industry-standard all bowriders musty match if they want to gain recognition in the market. With a 60-year legacy in building high-quality, affordable watercraft, Bayliner has a trusted reputation in the United States and worldwide as a leading manufacturing brand.

The VR Series is a legendary range, offering you a high-performance bowrider suitable for use inland and offshore.

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John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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Best Outboard Motors

• By Jim Hendricks
• Updated: June 4, 2021

Outboard motors dominate today’s boating market. And with good reason. Today’s outboards are powerful, quiet, reliable, easy to service, and offer excellent power-to-weight ratios, as well as outstanding corrosion resistance. American boaters can choose from more than 180 models (not counting shaft length variants), all four strokes, from manufacturers such as Honda Marine, Mercury Marine, Suzuki Marine, Yamaha Outboards, and others, many in a choice of colors.

Horsepower ratings range from 2.3 to a whopping 600 ponies. Advanced technology abounds, with many models featuring electronic throttle and shift, electric steering, digital integration with your marine electronics , wireless connections to apps that let you view key functions, and more. While many boaters might narrow their search to the best outboard motor for the money, we instead built this list to showcase the best outboards available.

If you own an outboard motor, then you probably already know what you like in terms of brand and horsepower. But, on the other hand, you might be interested to learn about other great outboard motors, in case you buy a second boat or want to repower with the latest outboard technology. With this in mind, we looked at three outboard categories—portables, midsize and big outboards—and highlighted models from the major outboard brands that reflect some of the most notable and innovative engineering and features in each class.

Choosing an outboard motor for your boat is an important decision. Here, then, are 15 of today’s best outboard motors, ordered by horsepower from low to high, defaulting to alphabetical order for like power ratings.

Portable Outboard Motors

Honda Marine BF5

Portability, performance and reliability are the hallmarks of the Honda Marine BF5 tiller-steer outboard model, a motor that’s ideal for small boats and dinghies. The BF5 is equipped with a 0.4-gallon internal fuel tank, the largest in its class. This single cylinder outboard is also easy to pull-start, thanks to a decompression system that bleeds off cylinder pressure to reduce the pulling force. Weighing about 60 pounds, the BF5 is equipped with a 127cc overhead-cam engine that features an Oil Alert system that indicates any drop in oil pressure, automatically limiting the engine speed to 2,300 rpm. The Honda BF5 is available with an optional charging system with a capacity of 6 amps at 12 volts to power electronic devices on board.

Suzuki Marine DF9.9B

This portable outboard is the only motor in its class with electronic fuel injection for easy starting, strong acceleration and smooth operation at all engine speeds. Even more impressive is that Suzuki DF9.9B’s EFI system does not require a battery. The two-cylinder 327cc overhead-cam engine also features Suzuki’s proven Lean Burn Control System for outstanding fuel efficiency from low idle speeds well up into the cruising range. Weighing 108 pounds (20-inch model), this motor is available with electric or manual start with a decompression system for easy pull-starts. Suzuki’s class-leading 327cc displacement delivers plenty of torque for pushing inflatables, small fishing boats and more. Power tilt and trim is optional.

Yamaha Outboards High-Thrust T9.9

The Yamaha T9.9 is one of today’s smallest and lightest high-thrust 9.9 hp outboard motors and serves a perfect kicker outboard for a variety of boats. Weighing 102 pounds (20-inch model), the T9.9′s 212cc, two-cylinder, overhead-cam engine provides smooth, reliable power and torque with outstanding fuel efficiency. Yamaha’s patented dual-thrust propeller offers robust forward and reverse thrust. Shallow Water Drive System or Power Tilt allows the operator to raise the outboard during low-speed operation or fully tilt the outboard up. A freshwater flushing device at the front of the outboard allows for easy maintenance and increased longevity. Resting pads enhance storage capability.

Mercury Marine 20 EFI FourStroke

Designed for anglers, recreational boaters and commercial operators, the Mercury 20 hp FourStroke features battery-free electronic fuel injection for reliable starting, instant throttle response, strong performance and superb fuel efficiency. Weighing in at 99 pounds, this outboard model is among the lightest in its class. Available with electric start, this engine is designed with ease of maintenance, featuring a clean, no-drip, no-spill oil-drain system. The 20 hp EFI FourStroke features an award-winning multi-function tiller handle, offering ambidextrous operation. Its vertical down-stop is adjustable to accommodate specific boat layouts and transoms.

Midsize Outboard Motors

Mercury Racing 60R

The only outboard motor in its class available as a 15-inch model, the Mercury Racing 60R fits perfectly on the transom of flats skiffs and other small high-performance boats. Featuring a high-thrust gearcase, this outboard motor is geared to deliver strong hole-shot for jumping on plane in shallow water. The smallest outboard motor in the Mercury Racing line, it features a four-cylinder, 1.0-liter long-stroke powerhead tuned for torque. Wide-open throttle range is extended to 6,300 rpm to maximize acceleration and enable more propping options. Weighing in at 268 pounds, it can accommodate a lower poling platform while eliminating the need for a jack plate

Suzuki DF70A

Known for delivering strong fuel efficiency and long-run reliability, Suzuki’s DF70A pushed a 17-foot Hell’s Bay flats skiff to victory in the 2021 Florida Skiff Challenge, a non-stop, 1,300-mile race around the entire Florida coastline. This four-cylinder engine features dual overhead cams, four-valves-per-cylinder and electronic fuel injection with Suzuki’s Lean Burn Control. Weighing 343 pounds and boasting 9.17 liters of displacement, it’s the only motor in the class with an offset driveshaft for better weight distribution and balance on the transom. Suzuki’s two-stage gear reduction and 2.59:1 gear ratio delivers snappy acceleration and top-end performance. This motor also features a self-adjusting and self-lubricating timing chain and powerful 27-amp alternator for tech-laden boats.

Yamaha Outboards F70

Yamaha’s F70 outboard motor is perfect for family fishing and fun. Weighing 253 pounds, it’s the lightest in class and delivers quick starts, high performance and efficiency for aluminum fishing boats, pontoons and fiberglass boats. This 1.0-liter engine also boasts the best horsepower-per-liter ratio in its class. It offers four-valve-per-cylinder and single cam design with electronic fuel injection. A high gear-ratio and 6,300 rpm wide-open throttle rating combine with a compact single-throttle valve and long-track induction system for maximum power and thrust. The F70 integrates with Yamaha’s CL5 and CL7 touchscreen displays.Yamaha’s Multi-Function tiller handle is also an option for the F70.

Honda Marine BF90

Inspired by the engine of the Honda Fit car, the BF90′s 1.5-liter, 16-valve four-cylinder features multi-port electronic fuel injection. Weighing 359 pound (20-inch model), it comes with a multi-function display and an optional tiller handle that includes a larger shift lever, a power trim and tilt switch, handle height adjustment and trolling-speed control. The patented Blast system advances ignition timing during hard acceleration for powerful hole shots, while a Lean Burn Control system adjusts the air/fuel mixture to maximize fuel efficiency at cruise. A three-way cooling system promotes long-term durability. Honda’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) improves torque and power at higher rpm.

Mercury Marine 115 hp Pro XS

The 115 hp Pro XS has been powering bass boaters and other performance enthusiasts since its launch in 2016. Built on the proven 2.1-liter four-cylinder platform, this outboard motor lives up to the Pro XS reputation for hole shot, top-end speed, and durability. It delivers outstanding zero-to-20 mph heavy-load acceleration and a blistering top speed. At 359 pounds, it’s the lightest weight high-output engine in its class. In addition, the 115 hp Pro XS features the Idle-Charge Battery Management system, ensuring peace of mind for a full day on the water. Available with the standard or larger Command Thrust gearcase, this outboard motor is perfect for boaters looking to maximize performance on their bass boats, multi-species boats, bay boats and pontoons.

Big Outboard Motors

Honda Marine BF250

The flagship of the Honda outboard line, the BF250 outboard motor integrates an innovative design, a sleek progressive V-form style, improved corrosion resistance, streamlined maintenance, and an expanded number of rigging options. Weighing 622 pounds (25-inch model), the 3.58-liter V-6 is available with either Intelligent Shift and Throttle (iST) or electronic controls or mechanical controls. Technological innovations include Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC), Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) to delivers precise amounts of fuel and air to each cylinder, Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST) to increase performance and acceleration; and Lean Burn Control to maximize fuel efficiency in cruise mode. The motor also features digital line redundancy for added protection against connection failure.

Yamaha Outboards F300 Offshore

Yamaha’s updated F300 Offshore Digital Electronic Control (DEC) model features Digital Electric Steering (DES) and Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust (TERE) and other XTO Offshore-inspired features. Fast and precise Digital Electric Steering (DES) draws battery amperage only when active. The 4.2-liter EFI V-6 incorporates Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust (TERE) that allows the propeller to bite clean water for strong reverse thrust. Yamaha’s TotalTilt function allows complete tilt up from any position with a double push of the “UP” button, or full tilt down with a double push of the “down” button. Weighing 562 pounds (25-inch model), F300 has a color-matched lower unit, an upgraded one-piece top cowling with water-draining air duct molding and a new bottom cowling.

Suzuki Marine DF350A

Suzuki’s flagship DF350A was the first outboard to feature dual contra-rotating propellers for superior hole shot and strong acceleration for today’s larger and heavier boats. It also improves top-end speed and enhances low-speed maneuvering. Weighing 727 pounds (25-inch model), this 4.4-liter V-6 features dual fuel injectors for better power output and fuel efficiency, a self-adjusting oil-bathed timing chain with Variable Valve Timing for performance and durability, a dual-louver direct air intake to provide cooler, denser air for more powerful combustion, and Suzuki’s Lean Burn Control technology for optimum efficiency. The drive-by-wire Suzuki Precision Control system delivers silky smooth shifting and instant throttle response, along with a wide range of advanced features for anglers and boaters.

Yamaha Outboards XTO Offshore

The 425 hp XTO Offshore 5.6-liter V-8 outboard motor combines power, reliability, system integration, control and convenience. The first four-stroke outboard to use direct fuel injection, the XTO Offshore sprays fuel at high pressure directly into the combustion chamber, rather than the intake track, improving atomization and increasing fuel burn effectiveness to maximize power and efficiency. Weighing 952 pounds (25-inch model), this outboard motor also features integrated electric steering, eliminating hydraulic lines, fluid and linkages. It allows for clean rigging and an orderly bilge. The XTO provides up to 96 amps (net) at idle and reaches peak output around 1,500 rpm. It is compatible with Yamaha’s Helm Master joystick control system.

Mercury Racing 450R

The hand-craft 450R has elevated the definition of outboard motor performance. Boosted by an exclusive supercharger, the 4.6-liter V-8 FourStroke powerhead delivers 450 peak horsepower—40 percent more torque than the powerful 400R. Weighing 689 pounds, it is 300 pounds lighter than the nearest competitor. The exclusive Mercury Racing Advanced Mid Section (AMS) features heavy-duty stainless-steel guide plates and stiffened engine mounts that stabilize the outboard and enhance high-speed handling. An optional rear tie-bar bracket integral to the AMS provides a strong, ultra-light mounting point and uncluttered installation for catamaran and other high-speed applications. The 450R outboard is backed by a three-year limited factory warranty and a three-year limited corrosion warranty, the same as Mercury mainline outboards.

Mercury Marine V12 Verado

The new V12 Verado is in a class of its own, providing the ultimate boating experience for customers. Incorporating industry-first innovations, the 600 hp Verado includes a two-speed transmission, steerable gearcase, and 7.6-liter V-12 powerhead that differentiate it from any other outboard motor. Weighing 1,260 pounds, the V12 is Mercury’s quietest high horsepower engine ever built. Contra-rotating propellers maximize thrust and ease low-speed maneuvering. Maintenance has also been simplified—service intervals have been extended and all regular maintenance points are accessible via the top cowl service hood, meaning the top cowl does not need to be removed for 1,000 hours or five years. It is not an exaggeration to say that the Mercury V12 Verado establishes a new benchmark for marine propulsion.

• More: Boats , Engines , honda marine , mercury marine , outboards , suzuki marine , Yamaha

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BOATERS BLOG

A guide to choosing the best boat from reliable boat manufacturers & brands.

By Mary Wilson • November 23, 2021

Boat Insurance

Purchasing a boat is a big decision that takes time, patience, and research. Before making your final boat selection, you want to ensure the vessel not only has all of the features you desire at a great price but that your watercraft is adequately manufactured by the best boat companies in the industry. The passionate experts here at the National Boat Owners Association have put together a small guide to lead you to the most reliable boat brands and the best boat manufacturers in the USA. From high-end boat brands, yachts, and recreational watercrafts to motorboats, fishing boats, and sports boats, we are confident your needs will be met.

Powerboats & Motorboats

The best powerboat brands and motorboat brands are created by boat makers Formula Boats and Donzi Boats. Both boat companies are renowned manufacturers with a proven history of putting strong, light, and efficient boats on the water. Formula Boats are incredibly dedicated to bringing together family and friends on the water with watercrafts that are not only thrilling but safe. Donzi Boats are manufactured with over 55 years of experience, custom-made hardware, and flawless molds.

Sport Boats

Since there are a wide variety of sport boats with various features, we like to recommend a few high-quality sport boat manufacturers. Fountain Powerboats manufactures sports boats, cruisers, and fishing boats, among others. For inboard wakeboarding, water skiing, and other towing sports that provide luxury performance, you cannot go wrong with MasterCraft Boat Company . Keep a lookout for their specific sport boat brands like SaltWater boats, ProStar, MariStar, and X-Series. Last but not least is Sea Ray . This boat manufacturer has been honored with the NMMA Award for “highest satisfaction.”

Fishing Boat

Whether you are in the market for a freshwater fishing boat, saltwater fishing boat, sportfishing boat, or a high-end fishing boat, these manufactures put out some of the most reputable brands of fishing boats. Ranger Boats , Mako Boats , Contender Boats , Grady White , Bayliner , and Boston Whaler, are among the most highly respected boat makers in the industry. When comparing the best boat brands and manufacturers, there are several things to keep in mind, such as the placement and quantity of fishing rod holders and built-in tackle boxes, the size of baitwells, live wells, fish boxes, and the presence of desired fishing gear like outriggers, downriggers, downrigger ball holders, and electric reel plugs.

Motor yacht, sports yacht, and fishing yacht manufacturers can significantly vary from one to another. Once you have decided which type of vessel suits your needs and desires best, you need to set the bar in terms of comfort, aesthetics, style, and performance. Among the best yacht manufacturers are Hatteras Yachts , specializing in sportfishing and motor yachts, Silverton Marine Corporation , filling the waters with a variety of luxury yachts, and Viking Yachts , the best manufacturer for convertible, open, and sports yachts.

The #1 Performance Boat in the World

Of all the boat manufacturing companies out there, Baja Marine has been named the number one high-performance boat in the world. As an innovator and trailblazer in the boating industry, Baja Marine has been redefining performance boats for over four decades. Their nontraditional designs, intense quality standards, breakthrough engineering, state-of-the-art testing, ever-changing styles, and need for speed are all driving forces behind exceeding customer expectations with each new model.

With a wide selection of brilliant manufacturers and brands of boats, you are sure to find a watercraft that fits all of your needs and meets your desires when it comes to performance, safety, and durability. No matter what type of boat you dream of, we are confident the right one is out there waiting for you. Click here for NBOA’s comprehensive list of recommended boat manufacturers. Then, begin your marine insurance quote to ensure your new boat is protected in the best way possible.

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Best Power Boats of 2024: Review and Buying Guide

BENETEAU GRAN TURISMO 40

FOUR WINNS VISTA 255

For experienced and beginner boaters, nothing is more irresistible than the experience of cruising the open water aboard a powerful watercraft. The cool breeze and splash of water on the face, the foamy waves that trail the boat as it cuts through the water, and the sheer ecstasy that comes from steering a boat are all too strong to resist.

However, you need a good quality powerboat to experience all of these and more. For this reason, we have written this guide to show you five of the very best powerboats available on the market. Beyond that, you will find everything you need to know about choosing a good-quality boat and the category that best suits you. But before we get into all of that, let’s take a look at what powerboats are, albeit briefly.

What is a Power Boat?

Powerboat is a broad term that describes different categories of boats with engines. It can be a small boat for fishing or a larger one that can accommodate an entire family for long-distance cruises. The term even covers high-performance boats with every amenity a modern watercraft can have. Powerboats come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and they are best suited to different uses.

That’s about all the lessons on powerboats you’ll find in this article.

Considering the numerous options, it can be an uphill task to choose just one, especially if it is your first boat. Thankfully, you are reading this guide, which means that you should be able to select the perfect watercraft that matches your needs in a few minutes from now.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the best power boats and what to look for when buying one.

The XO 250 is fabricated from a 5083 marine-grade aluminum hull, making it lightweight and extremely durable. There is a lot of attention to detail in this boat, with neat internal lines that allow for plenty of built-in features.

It comes with a shock-absorbing bucket seat, and all the instruments and switches are conveniently located. The seating position is sited perfectly and gives clear visibility over the bow without the need to stand while helming fast.

The XO 250 features a 12V drawer fridge, an optional radar arch, a big plotter and sounder, and the bow has four beautifully molded lockers. The battery switch and stainless fuel tank are easy to access.

The XO 250 is the perfect powerboat for you if you want a watercraft that combines seakeeping, practicality, and style.

• LOA: 24 ft 6 in
• Beam: 7 ft 4 in
• Displacement: 551 lbs (no engine)
• Power options: 150 HP to 320 HP
• Fuel capacity: 50 gallons
• RCD category: C for 8

Check here for current listings of XO 250 .

 Yachtworld  →

• Safe and practical
• Rapid performance
• Solid build
• Low planing speed and flat transition to plane
• Excellent handling and seakeeping
• The rear bench seat has no option for replacement

AXOPAR 28 TT

If you want a powerboat that is distinctively solid like German cars, perhaps the Axopar 28 TT will be your best option. The GPR-built boat has an aggressive and radical styling.

The typical Scandinavian craft has a deck and cockpit areas that are designed extensively in G2 Flexiteek. Rock-solid guard rails top the high bulwarks moving forward. Even in out-of-sight places like the anchor locker is superbly finished without the slightest compromise that is often the norm in such hidden areas.

Under the double sun pad of the Axopar 28 TT is a carefully hidden double berth that can be accessed through the aft bench seat. So if you need to spend the night somewhere tranquil, you will find enough room to accommodate even the largest couples.

The forward seating area can be converted into a second sunbathing spot to complement the aft sun pad. The boat also has a large bathing platform that can comfortably accommodate a semi-deflated inflatable craft.

• LOA: 28 ft 2 in
• Beam: 9 ft 3 in
• Transom deadrise angle: 22 degrees
• Displacement: 3,725 lbs (no engine)
• Power options: 150 Hp to 350 HP
• Fuel capacity: 57 gallons

Check here for Axopar 28 TT listings .

 Boats  →

• Great protection from harsh weather
• Speedy performance
• Movement on deck is easy
• Many items on the rather long list of extras ought to have been included as standard items
• Options list contains only one engine manufacturer

From the French yard comes the Beneteau Gran Turismo 40 – a 40-footer that seeks to do things slightly different from the norm.

This powerboat comes with a regimented standard layout, including a chaise longue forward to port, a wet bar opposite a cockpit that has a C-shaped dinette right behind it, and a double helm to starboard located at both sides of the central companionway.

There is a central double berth in the forward cabin below, a saloon located in the middle with galley and head on the one hand and dinette on the other, and a center cabin that comes with two berths.

The boat is extremely lightweight without feeling that way. The hull is designed to take punishment without flinching one bit. There is plenty of room and seats in the cockpit.

• Length: 41 ft 2 in
• Beam: 12 ft 8 in
• Fuel capacity: 143 gallons
• Draught: 3 ft 7 in
• Displacement: 16,975 lbs

Check here for current prices and listings .

• Attractive and stylish design
• Performance with twin 300 HP engines is very high
• Unique and effective layout
• Great value
• Good seakeeping
• Only one windscreen wiper
• The finish is below premium level
• The storage in mid-cabin is slightly compromised

The Four Winns Vista 255 is a capable weekender for a couple or small family. Although it a fairly fast and efficient boat, it is not designed to be a sports boat, making it an excellent choice for easy cruising for the weekend.

It is worth noting that the cockpit is well elevated, especially considering its size. This means you will have excellent visibility, whether standing or seating. There is a convertible sunbed/back seat set up in the cockpit. This set up features a tilting backrest that can turn the spot into a seat facing aft so that you can watch skiers, swimmers, and anything that catches your interest.

The galley is equipped with a microwave and a small fridge, with enough room to accommodate a bigger fridge. Opposite the galley is the main cabin with a 6 ft 3-inches headroom. There is a full head complete with a shower, toilet, and sink. The convertible double bed/dinette is positioned diagonally. The mid-cabin has a queen-sized bed.

This stylish craft is a beamy boat, meaning it will retain its stability even when the crew moves about. The steering is considerably quick and very responsive.

• LOA: 25 ft 1 in
• Beam: 8 ft 3 in
• Draught: 2 ft 9 in
• Transom deadrise angle: 17 degrees
• Displacement: 6,194 lbs (with engine)
• Power options: 240 Hp to 300 HP
• Fuel capacity: 58 gallons

See here for Four Winns Vista 255 listings .

• A fast and efficient boat
• Quick and easy steering
• Excellent cockpit
• Quick and easy access engine
• Plenty of hull colors to choose from
• Impractical galley design
• Some couples may find the forward double berth too small
• Might not be tough enough to handle rough weather for long periods
• Too many extras, many of which should ideally be standard items

CRANCHI Z35

The Cranchi Z35 is a rare breed that falls in the mid-range sports-cruisers category. It is designed to have an open, sun-soaked cockpit with two spacious cockpits and twin diesel.

If you want a powerboat that will shine on a sunny day, this boat with a sociable cockpit will fit the bill. It has quite an impressive accommodation below decks. The well-proportioned cabins are built to have abundant storage and sleeping spaces to host adults for a few days or more.

The saloon has smart detailing and excellent headroom, too. The galley comes with plenty of storage, including cupboards and lockers that are lined in smooth GRP. The railings on the deck feature triple fender baskets on both sides of the foredeck. The guest cabin berth is large and has an infill cushion that transforms from a twin into a double berth.

• Length: 37 ft 11 in
• Beam: 11 ft 6 in
• Draught: 2 ft 11 in
• Fuel capacity: 131 gallons
• Water capacity: 42 gallons
• Engines: Twin Volvo Penta D4 260 HP
• Top speed: 34 knots

Check here for listings .

• Adequate space below decks
• Brilliant cockpit
• Attractive styling
• Punchy performance
• Good detailing and finish
• Helm seat might be uncomfortable
• Glare off the dash
• Tight engine room access

What to Look for In a Power Boat – Buying Guide

You have three choices when it comes to buying a powerboat (or any boat for that matter). These include a custom-made boat, a brand new boat, and a used one (in good condition). Whatever your choice, there are a few fundamental considerations that you shouldn’t compromise on, as they will determine whether or not you will enjoy your investment.

The following are the important things to consider.

• Engine accessibility : How easy is it to access the engine? Choose a boat with a readily accessible engine area to make it easy to reach the battery and check fluid levels.
• Visibility: According to Rule 15 of the United States Coast Guard Navigation Rules, all powered vessels must keep out of the way of boats approaching from the starboard. The problem is that visibility isn’t always good from the helm station of some boats. And if you can’t see your forward starboard quadrant, you might collide with an oncoming boat or run into some problems. So make sure you choose a powerboat that provides adequate visibility from the helm. As much as possible, avoid boats with obstructions caused by permanent fixtures, windshield mullions, hardtop supports, bulkheads, and overhead brows.
• Electronic needs : This is pretty straightforward. You want to choose a boat that has enough space for your entire electronics packages such as radar/chart plotter overlay, marine radio , radio tester, and a Wi-Fi and cellular range booster.
• Customization : Owning a boat means having the ability to customize it or include upgrades. For this reason, it is best to choose one that offers flexible customization options. For example, can you add or detach furniture? Can you make an upgrade to the galley?

It is also helpful if you read reviews from boaters who already purchased the type of powerboat you intend to buy. There are a good number of online boating forums where you can find useful first-hand information from boat owners. Are they pleased with the specific model you want? What are their concerns and complaints?

Here’s one more thing to consider. If you are buying a new boat or dealing with a manufacturer, find out if they have a comprehensive after-sales service. You want to choose a manufacturer that will continue to maintain a one-on-one relationship and an open communication channel with clients.

If you are in the market for a powerboat for cruising with your family, consider one with comfortable cabin space. For boating in the tropics or hot regions, you will need a boat with air conditioning systems.  Consider ample seating, too, because cruising with family and friends is a lot more fun and enjoyable when everyone has a comfortable place to sit and relax on the deck.

If what you want is a powerboat for offshore fishing, consider a boat with angler-friendly storage. A spacious deck where you can cast unhindered is equally important, too. Pay attention to the hull design, as a deep V-shaped hull cuts better through rough waters. Lastly, consider getting a fuel-efficient powerboat for offshore fishing, as this will reduce expenses on fuel.

Choosing the Right Power Boat

Having a list of the best power boats and knowing what makes a good one will not be of much help if you can’t make up your mind on which type to get. As you probably already know, these boats come in a wide variety with a vast range of hull forms, construction materials, and plenty of options in terms of propulsion and power.

To help you decide on which powerboat is right for you, we’ve outlined some of the more common types and their best use. This is not a comprehensive list, though, and that’s because powerboats encompass so many boat types from the small 12-footer tender to the ocean-crossing crawler and every other thing in between. So, we’ve left out some categories such as hovercrafts, personal watercraft, and catamarans.

Essentially, we’ve cut down the list to include rapid monohulls that are a great starting point for any beginner boater looking for the best power boats that suit their needs.

1. Bowriders

A bowrider is a great choice if you want a powerboat with a compact platform and adequate lounging space upfront. The open bows make them particularly suitable for frolicking on sunny days.

Although bowriders have come to be known with a traditional shape that features tapered forward lines, other options that present a whole lot of newer and spacious formats are now available. The space ahead of the helm in the traditional bowrider is quite tight. To allow for more internal seating room, newer versions have beams that are further forward, but the trade-off is a little bit of the sporting ability and aesthetic appeal of the traditional shape.

A classic traditional bowrider is the Sea Ray 190 SPX , while newer formats include Bayliner Element XR7 and Interboat Neo 7.

Here are a few things to look for in a bowrider that can perform excellently well in water sports:

• Extra cockpit seating
• Powerful inboard engines
• Automated throttle
• Wakeboard towers
• Wake-tweaking devices (e.g., fins, and ballast tanks)

2. Cabin Style Power Cruisers

If accommodation is topmost in the things you want in a powerboat, the cabin style power cruisers might be your best bet.

These powerboats fall into two broad categories:

• The sporty craft – small design with compact cabins in the bow.
• The people carrier – broader and more spacious designs with an emphasis on comfy accommodation rather than performance.

Whichever option that appeals to you, you need to consider convertible furniture to create more sleeping room. A galley at the top means more accommodation below deck. On the flip side, a cabin style powerboat with the galley below the decks creates more space at the sun deck for seating. So, make sure to choose an option that suits your accommodation needs.

Here’s a quick tip: if you are thinking of buying a cabin style powerboat as your first boat, you don’t have to break the bank to get a massive boat, even if you can. It is best to start with a smaller and cheaper option that is more efficient and manageable.

You would have learned how to operate a boat better and with more confidence in a short while. And using it for a season, you would be able to say for sure what shape and size work best for you.

Some of the best power boats fall in the category of hard-hulled planing crafts with built-in inflatable collars. These are particularly suited for water sports, fishing, lounging, diving, and load carrying.

In the end, your intended usage, price, and size will determine what type of RIBS you buy, but it is important to note some of the options. RIBS constructed from Hypalon are last longer but are more expensive than PVC-constructed tubes. Your driving style will also come into play when you consider seating features, which include traditional jockey seats, leaning posts, benches, and impact-mitigation seats.

The power option depends a lot on the type of boater you consider yourself to be. So, before you choose a fit-out and hull shape , think about how you would typically use a powerboat.

4. Center Console Powerboats

When it comes to versatility, center console powerboats take the lead. You can use them for angling or even for taking your family on long smooth rides.

Select one with less built-in furniture and an emptier deck if these type of boats appeal to you. This way, you can add the furniture that matches your needs the most. Many center console powerboats have less weight due to the inclusion of only basic facilities, which means they cost a lot less than other options. Also, they generally tend to have greater running efficiency and more agile handling because they weigh less.

5. Sport Yacht

Sport yachts are the best power boats for traveling long distances. They are faster and sleeker than traditional yachts but come with spacious cabins for overnight and extended stays. If you intend to entertain guests, this category of powerboats would be your best option. They combine luxury and performance.

For those who want to be the party, consider getting one of these powerboats that come with a full galley or one with the option for convenient upgrades to modern kitchen facilities such as a good-quality boat grill .

6. Walkaround Fisher

Lastly, there’s the Walkaround Fisher category for those who prefer a “hybrid” powerboat of some sort. If you want a powerboat that does a bit of everything, consider getting a Walkaround Fisher. A good choice would be the compact Trophy 2152 Walkaround with a small cabin for fishing and water sports.

Choosing a powerboat can be quite daunting considering all the options available, but you don’t have to settle for less than what you want. You can be sure that there’s a boat out there that matches your need no matter what it is. Do not compromise on the features that work well for you. Study the boats on this list, and you’re sure to find one that suits you.

About Chris

Outdoors, I’m in my element, especially in the water. I know the importance of being geared up for anything. I do the deep digital dive, researching gear, boats and knowhow and love keeping my readership at the helm of their passions.

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2023 Motor Boat Awards winners: Best motorboats of the year revealed

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It has taken months of testing, weeks of analysing and days of deliberating amongst our judges but the 2023 Motor Boat Awards winners can now be revealed....

As always, we have chosen a winner in each of our ten categories based on how well the boat performed during our rigorous sea trials but also how well it meets the requirements of its target market in relation to its size, style and price.

In some categories, we have also awarded a Highly Commended, not because it’s the nearest runner-up but because the judges feel it has some exceptional talent or innovation that is worthy of recognition.

Last but not least, we’d like to thank Sleipner for once again partnering with us as the headline sponsor of the 2023 Motor Boat Awards and our category sponsors Garmin and The Moorings .

2023 Motor Boat Awards winners revealed

Customer service award.

Sponsored by Garmin

Approved Boats, Boats.co.uk, Gibbs Quay Boat Sales, Haven Knox-Johnston

Winner – Gibbs Quay Boat Sales

This is the only award that is open to nominations from members of the public. However, the judges base their decision not just on the number of nominations each company gets (as this would always favour bigger companies with more customers) but also on the quality of service provided to these customers.

This year, we had more nominations than ever before, with several previous winners making it through to our shortlist of finalists, proving that good customer service isn’t just a passing phase but permanently ingrained in the culture of the best companies.

This year’s winner also enjoys a long track record of looking after its customers and particularly of helping new buyers take their first tentative steps into boating – a daunting prospect for many. This is what a few of their recent customers had to say about them:

“The after-sales experience has totally matched the pre-sales experience, dealing with minor niggles and providing us with unlimited technical advice.” “They made us feel welcome from day one and had the patience of a saint as we chose our new boat. They are a credit to the marine industry.” “Excellent after-sales service, prompt and professional boat service and good advice given at all times.”

Sportsboats up to 30ft

Aquaspirit 585 ,  Iron Boats 827 ,  Quarken 27 T-Top ,  Ryck 280 ,  X Shore Eelex 8000

Winner – Quarken 27 T-Top

Quarken’s 27 T-Top is an object lesson in practical dayboat design. Proudly built in Finland, it uses a single Yamaha F300 outboard motor for a 43-knot top end and cruising efficiency only a shade over 1.5 litres per nautical mile.

It’s fun to drive, with a novice-friendly hull and an effective helm position with direct access to a ‘skipper’s cleat’ for single-handed work. And it looks cool too, with its sleek stepped hull, flared bow and contrasting tinted panels.

There’s also masses of storage on board and all of it is useable, thanks to sensible proportions, proper linings, dual access points and quick-lift one-handed cushions. But it’s the ease of movement that really hits home.

Even if you reverse the helm seats to integrate with the diners at the aft bench, you can still pass them freely on the starboard side. And when you reach the bow, whether the forward seats are rigged for dining or sunbathing, the step-through forepeak with offset anchor means you can still disembark without obstruction.

There’s no wet bar and the heads is an open-plan affair but if you want a proper open dayboat with a serviceable cuddy at a sensible price, this is a superb debut from Quarken.

Highly commended – Iron Boats 827

Fast, agile and well-priced, with a brilliant Mannerfelt hull and a cool military aesthetic, the Iron Boats 827 is one of the most entertaining boats you will ever drive.

Weekenders over 30ft

Aquila 32 ,  Duchy Sport ,  De Antonio D36 ,  Galeon 325 GTO ,  Jeanneau Cap Camarat 12.5 ,  Rand Escape 30

Winner – De Antonio D36

De Antonio has become well-known for its unique take on the outboard-powered weekender and its new D36 is a fine exponent of that approach. It uses a raised sunbed to cover its motors, with a clever transverse tender slot and a full inboard-style swim platform.

It counteracts that extra aft weight with a pair of hull extensions for extra buoyancy – and when you get the boat under way, that translates into the kind of flat-running 50-knot performance that thoroughly validates De Antonio’s way of doing things.

Further forward, there’s a central dining zone opposite a big transverse galley, with a pull-out cushion-topped coolbox that turns it into a dining station for ten. The bow adds another generous sunpad and yet, when you step down below, the calibre of the cabins is way beyond expectations for an open weekender.

There’s a central lounge, a starboard bathroom, a forward double berth with push-button convertibility and a huge full-beam mid-cabin that can be converted from a saloon to a second double in a matter of seconds.

With masses of user-friendly day space, versatile four-berth accommodation and whippet-like performance, this is a truly brilliant family weekender.

Highly commended – Jeanneau Cap Camarat 12.5

The imposing new 12.5 features a deepset cockpit, an expandable port terrace, twin or triple outboards for 45 knots and convertible sleeping for up to five.

Adventure Boats

Axopar 45 Cross Cabin ,  Viggo C8 ,  Wellcraft 355 ,  XO DFNDR 9

Winner – XO DFNDR 9

Very few boats under 30ft offer anything like as much all-round ability as the XO DFNDR 9. Slender and soft-riding, with raised hull sides and a lofty but deepset pilothouse, there is virtually no cruising ground where its practical but innovative walkaround layout wouldn’t excel.

You can slide it onto the beach for a party. You can spend the night in the comfy forward cabin. You can open up the aft end of the pilothouse and enjoy a relaxed sunbathe or a six-man lunch – and you can achieve precisely that same feat up in the bow.

Back in the pilothouse, the helm is superb, there’s ample standing headroom and visibility is also first class. But if you slide those vast glass side panels aft, you can also enjoy the DFNDR 9 in much the same way as an authentic open boat.

Having taken it across the Baltic, we can vouch for its performance too. With twin 225s on the transom, it’s fast, frugal and beautifully balanced.

The fact that it’s built like a tank and looks like a film star is just the crowning glory for an all-action adventure boat that proves just how much can be achieved when intelligent design, quality build and rigorous development come together.

Highly commended – Axopar 45 Cross Cabin

With its stepped hull, sliding wet bar, vast sunroofs, two-part side doors and fold-down bulwarks, this is a fast, versatile adventure boat.

Sportscruisers up to 45ft

Bavaria SR36 ,  Dale Classic 37 ,  Jeanneau DB43 ,  Marex 330 Scandinavia

Winner – Marex 330 Scandinavia

The Marex 330 is full of ideas that directly upgrade your life on the water. There’s a fold-down bench at the aft swim platform and hidden fender slots beneath the side decks. There are aft and side doors, plus a mix of sunroofs and sunshades, so you can tweak the conditions to your needs.

In fact, with an aft curtain that wraps around the cockpit, you could easily use this boat as a four-season cruising machine. But it doesn’t stop there. The cockpit is deep and sociable for large dayboating parties and the saloon dinette uses a pop-out stool and reversing co-pilot bench to make best use of the space.

But the fore and aft dining zones also convert into double berths. And that means you can add another two beds to the forward double and the low-slung mid-cabin and sleep up to eight at a time.

Under way, the 330 makes a mockery of its restrained looks with plenty of poke, outstanding poise and pinpoint handling. You can spec it with single or twin V-drives or sterndrives.

And a beautiful helm position with multiple adjustment points, a wide overhead sunroof, a skipper’s side door and the option of joystick control makes single-handed helming an absolute breeze.

Highly commended – Dale Classic 37

Designed by celebrated Dale stalwart, Arthur Mursell, the new four-berth Classic 37 is built like a tank, styled like a work of art and equipped with a delightfully soft-riding semi-displacement hull.

Sportscruisers over 45ft

Fairline Phantom 65 ,  Pardo 60 Endurance ,  Riva 68 Diable ,  Sunseeker Predator 65

Winner – Fairline Phantom 65

This may be Fairline’s first attempt at a sportsfly design but you’d never guess it from the way it looks, performs and feels. With those sleek, flowing lines, it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and sportiness, yet somehow still manages to pack in up to four cabins below deck and masses of sociable living space inside and out.

Even the flybridge itself, while compact by Squadron standards, has plenty of secure seating, sunpads and a proper wet bar, as well as a comprehensive outside helm station.

However, all of this would count for little if the driving experience failed to live up to Fairline’s usual high standards. Thankfully, it’s even better than we had anticipated, delivering effortless acceleration up to a top speed of 38 knots, responsive handling and the kind of refined, long-legged cruising that feels perfectly in keeping with that other legendary Phantom built by Rolls-Royce motor cars.

Last but by no means least, those impressive dynamic characteristics are backed up by sound practical thinking, a beautifully finished interior and reassuringly solid build quality.

As we said in our original test, the Phantom 65 really does feel like it offers the best of both worlds with the looks and driving characteristics of a traditional sportscruiser but also the comfort and practicality of a flybridge.

Flybridges up to 60ft

Absolute 56 ,  Beneteau Swift Trawler 48 ,  Galeon 500 Fly ,  Leopard 46 Powercat ,  Prestige M48

Winner – Galeon 500 Fly

The Galeon 500 Fly is a supremely innovative boat. Up at the helm, push-button windows aid ventilation and a rotating seat integrates the driver with the starboard bench and the rest of the upper saloon guests.

There’s a pleasantly sociable helm on the flybridge too, with forward sunbeds and a wraparound lounge, plus a port wet bar and a huge dining space aft.

And back down on the bow, a big triangular dining area with comfy backrests provides all kinds of convertibility, including incline control for the sunlounger and sliding forward benches for a larger party.

Down below, there’s masses of natural light from oversized windows and skylights. But it’s the aft part of the main deck that really stands out. The port balcony folds down so you can perch on a stool and take advantage of the galley’s inside-outside bar.

On the other side, the saloon opens up, enabling the settee to reverse and face out over its own terrace. And in the aft cockpit, a spinning carousel enables you to face in whichever direction you choose.

In short, with its combination of rotating seats, twin terraces and inside-outside zones, the 500 Fly is more rewarding than any other boat in its sector.

Highly commended – Prestige M48

In addition to three double cabins, each with its own bathroom and staircase, the Prestige M48 provides a stupendous amount of day space and a drive as novice-friendly as any you will see.

Flybridges over 60ft

Absolute 60 Fly ,  Azimut 68 ,  Numarine 22 XP ,  Sirena 68 ,  Sirena 78

Winner – Sirena 68

It’s hard to believe that Sirena Yachts has only been making motor boats under its own name for a little over five years but with plenty of prior experience building high-quality motor yachts for Azimut, and the talents of world-renowned yacht designers German Frers and Cor D. Rover to assist them, it has gone from zero to hero in record time.

We tested two new models in 2022 alone, both of which made it through to our shortlist. But it’s the 68 which we feel is the more rounded package, offering the perfect balance of size, style, ability and price.

That starts with a modern yet elegant design that manages to pack a high-quality, high-volume interior into a surprisingly sleek exterior.

Then there’s the robust semi-displacement hull with its category A RCD rating that is just as happy batting aside heavy seas at displacement speeds as it is hoovering up the miles at 25 knots.

That low-speed comfort and stability also plays into the current trend for fuel efficient passage-making, giving a safe cruising range of almost 1,000nm at 9 knots. The result is a wonderfully capable all-rounder that is perfectly in tune with today’s needs at a price that belies its quality.

Highly commended – Absolute 60 Fly

With its versatile deck spaces, vast windows, innovative layout and refined IPS performance, Absolute’s latest flybridge is as comfortable as it is stylish.

Custom Yachts

Sponsored by The Moorings

Azimut Grande 26M ,  Grand Banks 85 ,  Pearl 95 ,  Sunseeker 90 Ocean

Winner – Sunseeker 90 Ocean

We don’t mind admitting that this was the hardest of all the categories to pick a winner in. We could make a case for any one of these finalists winning. However, after much debate we decided to give it to the one we felt was most in tune with what today’s buyers are looking for.

The Sunseeker Ocean 90 has it all: acres of versatile deck spaces packed with innovative solutions like the X-TEND seating; an intimate connection with the sea thanks to the vast sea-level beach club, glass transoms and bulwarks; masses of storage space for tenders, water toys and cruising gear; a wonderfully luxurious interior that makes full use of the unusually wide beam; and a hull that feels very nearly as agile and sea-kindly as some of its overtly sportier siblings.

The fact that this all fits comfortably into a craft with an LOA of 89ft is all the more remarkable, enabling it to offer the same space and luxury as much longer boats but without the associated running costs.

However, the biggest achievement of all is that despite its extra beam and volume and a brand-new hull shape, it still manages to look, feel and drive like a true Sunseeker.

Highly commended – Grand Banks 85

With its slippery hull shape, carbon fibre superstructure and IPS drives, the new GB85 is exceptionally fuel efficient but still just as seaworthy, stylish and beautifully built as its much heavier predecessors.

Judges’ Special Award

Sponsored by Sleipner

Winner – Pearl Yachts

From its humble beginnings in 1998, when a former yacht captain teamed up with a local businessman to launch a stylish new range of aft cabin craft, Pearl Yachts has never shied away from doing things differently.

In the face of vastly bigger, better resourced competition, it has consistently managed to defy the odds, building spacious, cleverly packaged craft with the style and quality to match.

While many of its competitors have been bought, sold or even fallen by the wayside over the intervening years, Pearl Yachts’ small but enthusiastic management team, led by its founder and managing director Iain Smallridge with the backing of its owners Tony and Margaret Whittaker, steered Pearl Yachts through the tough times and continued to invest in new product.

The introduction of world-class designers, Bill Dixon and Kelly Hoppen, in 2012 has ensured that its latest range of yachts are as fresh and innovative as ever, while maintaining the quality-to-price ratio for which they are renowned.

Now boasting a thoroughly modern range of stylish flybridge cruisers from 62ft to 95ft, including a brand new 72ft model and an 82ft project currently in development, Pearl Yachts enters its 25th year in business looking stronger and fitter than ever.

New Fjord F480 first look: 40 knot capable 47 footer

Navan s30 & c30 tour: exceptional new axopar rival, axopar 29 yacht tour: exclusive tour by the man behind it, latest videos, galeon 440 fly sea trial: you won’t believe how much they’ve packed in, parker sorrento yacht tour: 50-knot cruiser with a killer aft cabin, yamarin 80 dc tour: a new direction for the nordic day cruiser.

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The Best Boats For Your Money

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There's a big difference between cost and value. We spotlight the boats that give you the biggest bang for your buck.

Photo: Thinkstock.com/Thomas Northcut

If you've been boat shopping lately, then you know it's hard to sort through the huge range of runabouts, the copious crop of center-consoles, and the plentiful packs of pontoons. It's even harder to determine the ones that are merely cheap and the gems that represent real value. Never fear, dear boater. We're here to help. In this issue, we'll break down trailer boats into four basic classes: bowriders/runabouts, watersports boats, pontoon boats, and fishing boats. Then we'll identify top values in four different price categories: those costing less than $15,000, those less than $25,000, those less than $50,000, and those less than $100,000. We'll be sure to provide some boat-shopping insights along the way as well as tease you with you some additional options to dream about, too. Ready? Let's look at some of the best buys for boaters.

Bowriders/Runabouts

These are a popular choice among family boaters, and it's no wonder. They can be used for everything from waterskiing to fishing to pulling up on a quiet sandy beach for a picnic. They're the do-everything boat for people with diverse needs and desires. Think of them as the SUVs of the modern trailer-boating family.

Less Than $15,000

It's quite difficult to find a bowrider for less than $15,000, but one that comes in under the wire and deserves recognition for its exceptional stability and interior spaciousness is the Bayliner Element. This is one of the most unusual bowriders to hit the market in recent years, because instead of riding on a common-V or semi-V hull, it rides on Bayliner's M hull, which is essentially a cross between a V and a tri-hull and helps explain the boat's extraordinary stability. It easily handles small chop, although the downside to this hull design is a bit of a bumpy ride in waves larger than a foot. Such a hull isn't very responsive to trim, either. But because this design carries the beam well forward, it also makes for a surprisingly large bow cockpit.

Bayliner Element

LOA: 16'2" | Beam: 7'5" | Weight: 1,570 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 12 gal. | Price: $14,742

When we ran the Element (with the stock 60-hp outboard, two people aboard, and half a tank of fuel), we broke 30 mph and found that a cruising speed in the mid-20s netted more than 7 miles per gallon. The Element, with seating for four in the stern and two more in the bow, comes well-equipped right out of the box. The Mercury four-stroke outboard, swim platforms on either side of the outboard (one with a telescopic ladder), multicolor hullside graphics, two-tone vinyl cushions, and a single-axle trailer are all included in the standard package. Beverages can be chilled in a 25-quart Igloo cooler that slides neatly under the aft sunpad, and you'll find stowage compartments under the bow and aft seating. What won't you find? Another competitor in this price category that's this well-equipped, much less one with comparable stability and interior volume.

Less Than $25,000

Coming in just $549 under the wire, the Four Winns H180 OB provides a relatively low-cost option with exceptional attention to detail and finish work — plus a bit of customization. While many boats in this price range have unfinished stowage compartments, in the H180 OB they're carpeted. Other competitors leave the swim ladder exposed, but Four Winns covers it with a hatch. The average inexpensive bowrider has a plain gelcoat dash, but on this model, you'll discover top-stitched vinyl accents. And if you order the boat instead of buying off the showroom floor, you even get to choose the gelcoat and interior color schemes. Few competitors give you any sort of opportunity to semi-customize a boat at this price point, yet Four Winns will go so far as to color-match the trailer to go with your boat.

Four Winns H180 OB

LOA: 17'11" | Beam: 7'7" | Weight: 2,150 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 24 gal. | Price: $24,451

Four Winns doesn't strip the H180 OB to keep the price low, either. Big-ticket standards include the swing-away tongue, welded-tube trailer, an Evinrude 90-hp E-TEC outboard, a full-sized walk-across swim platform, courtesy lights, a tilting steering wheel, and a Bluetooth-capable stereo with iPod/MP3 port and two speakers. The H180 OB also gets a full complement of engine gauges, which is an area in which some builders skimp to save a buck or two.

Tahoe 450 TS

LOA: 18'5" | Beam: 7'10" | Weight: 3,025 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 24 gal. | Price: $23,595

Close competitors include the Tahoe 450 TS Outboard, which shaves about $1,000 off the price but also cuts off your ability to choose the hull and cushion colors. The Rinker Captiva 170 OB is another price-conscious bowrider that shoppers in this category may want to consider.

Less Than $50,000

A unique construction technique that improves the boat's strength and rigidity — and thus its ride — is what propels the Larson LX 225S IO into the leading position for bowriders under $50,000. Yes, you can get more LOA at this price. Sure, you could get a boat with more power than the stock 200-hp MerCruiser 4.5 liter (although you can upgrade the LX 225S to a MerCruiser 6.2 liter with 300 horses and still squeeze in at just under $50,000). What you can't get anywhere else is Larson's VEC construction. VEC is a closed-molding system that vacuum-infuses the hull and stringers into one single piece. The net result is felt when you smash into waves; VEC-built boats simply do less smashing than the others.

Larson LX 225S IO

LOA: 23'1" | Beam: 8'4" | Weight: 3,100 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 36 gal. | Price: $43,267

The 225S can't top the charts based on one feature alone, of course. But its comprehensive standard features list goes well beyond the norm, including items like a Shorelander trailer with disc brakes, canvas bow and cockpit covers, an iPod/MP3-compatible stereo, and multiple gelcoat color and stripe options.

At this pricing level, we wish the stock powerplant came with a Bravo III drive, and we'd recommend upgrading to it (remember, the price tag does leave some wiggle room), because the dual counter-rotating props of the Bravo III vastly improve handling and provide a better hole shot, which make for a better boating experience.

Chaparral 223 Vortex VR

LOA: 22'3" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 3,500 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 52 gal. | Price: $46,895

Those considering the 225S may also want to look closely at such other stout models as the Chaparral 223 Vortex VR and the Monterey 224FSX.

Around $100,000

For $100K, you expect a lot — and the Cobalt R5 delivers. It may be a bit surprising to see a Cobalt included in a roundup of boats that are big on value because for many years, Cobalt has had a reputation as a top-shelf boat, but one that cost a lot of money for the LOA. Yet the R5, which is 25'8" long, starts off right at the $100,000 mark. Several similarly sized competitors cost notably more. The bigger surprise?

LOA: 25'8" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 4,880 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 50 gal. | Price: $100,318

The R5 lives up to Cobalt's reputation, and if the company cut any corners to make this price point, we sure can't figure out where. Take a look at the some of the yacht-like details, and you'll understand why this boat delivers a bang as big as 100,000 bucks. How many bowriders include a thru-hull anchoring system with a stainless-steel scuff plate? A custom-stitched helm brow and dash perimeter detailed with Makassar grain accents? A black leather and stainless-steel steering wheel? Plus, Cobalt doesn't lowball you with a wimpy powerplant, but instead starts with a potent 6.2-liter MerCruiser.

The ski pylon, removable bow- and aft-cockpit carpets, portable MSD, and stereo are all included as base equipment. And that stock stereo provides another great example of Cobalt's quality level. It has a remote at the dash and iPod/USB/MP3 compatibility, like most, but while your average standard stereo comes with a pair of speakers, this one includes a six-speaker system. The bottom line? The Cobalt R5 delivers top-shelf quality while barely exceeding the $100,000 mark.

Formula 240 Bowrider

LOA: 25'4" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 5,000 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 55 gal. | Price: $105,030

If you find this model interesting, also take a good look at the Sea Ray 250 SLX, the Chaparral 257 SSX, and the Formula 240 Bowrider.

Power Curve

While the basic bowrider design has remained more or less the same for decades, the systems that power these boats have gone through many changes. Sterndrives continue to rule the roost in this type of boat, but outboards have been making inroads. Due to the latest EPA regulations, sterndrive manufacturers have had to add catalytic converters to their engines. That raised costs substantially, sometimes by as much as 5 percent of an average bowrider's sticker price, instantly making outboards a less expensive — and thus more attractive — alternative. As a result, in the past few years we've seen a population explosion of outboard-powered bowriders.

There are both plusses and minuses to having an outboard on a bowrider. They commonly post a higher top end, have improved slow-speed handling (single-propeller sterndrives tend to wander and require lots of course corrections), and are exceedingly reliable. On the flip side, mounting an outboard on the transom means you lose the full-beam swim platform, and fuel efficiency often drops in comparison with an identical model with a sterndrive.

Towing Trends

The current news in watersports boats has to do with a new propulsion system, Volvo Penta's Forward Drive. By putting a pod-like forward-facing drive unit on a sterndrive, the prop gets moved several feet forward and under the boat, tucked away from surfers and boarders. And because the drive unit can be trimmed, it can also be used to help shape the wake. This development has allowed a number of builders who produce sterndrive runabouts, like Bryant, Chaparral, Cobalt, Four Winns, Regal, and Monterey, to adapt existing platforms into watersports-specific models.

If these Forward Drive boats are so good, why didn't any win as our top picks? Hey, that's the way the cookie crumbled — we had a huge number of great boats from which to choose. And as it turns out, many of these Forward Drive boats fall into the $60,000 to $80,000 range. We noted several Forward Drive boats that, had we established a $75,000 category, might not have been overshadowed by pricier competitors.

If you like sterndrive propulsion and you want a watersports boat, you'll definitely want to further investigate Forward Drive.

Watersports Boats

If you're young, or young at heart, it's tough to beat the thrill of being towed through the water at high speeds. But whether it's waterskiing, wakeboarding, or the newly popular wakesurfing that appeal to you, you'll be needing a new watersports-specific boat. Hang on tight — this is going to be a wet-and-wild ride.

At this price point, you're certainly not going to be able to afford a fancy watersports boat with ballast tanks and tow towers. You can, however, get yourself an excellent tow-sports platform in the form of the Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230. This is one of the industry's few PWCs designed specifically for towing. It has must-have features like a three-position tow pylon, an aft-facing observer's seat with grab handles, and a board rack. But it also takes things a step further by incorporating modern performance perks that enhance watersports, such as multiple preprogrammed acceleration profiles for skiers and preset variable trim for fine-tuning the ride and acceleration.

Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230

LOA: 11'7" | Beam: 4'0" | Weight: 894 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 15.9 gal. | Price: $14,499

True, using a PWC for watersports does create some limitations. Your crew is maxed out at three, you can't create those big ripping boat wakes for surfing, and you're probably going to be wet whether you're the tower or the towee. There are, however, some additional advantages to consider. Given its dry weight of less than 1,000 pounds, you can trailer your vessel with just about anything larger than a Smart Car. Launching and retrieving will always be a piece of cake, and the small fuel tank and low operating costs make for some seriously cheap thrills.

Waverunner VX

LOA: 11'0" | Beam: 4'0" | Weight: 707 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gal. | Price: $9,599

A strong option to consider is Yamaha's Waverunner VX, which doesn't have a pylon or the acceleration profiles but does have a towing eye on the stern.

The Scarab 165 is a jet-driven towing machine powered by a 150-hp Rotax 4-TEC engine. That means it has plenty of pulling oomph, and unlike most boats of this size, it also has a full-beam integrated swim platform. Most boats this inexpensive have an outboard slung on a transom and a miniscule swim platform off to one side.

LOA: 15'9" | Beam: 7'1" | Draft: 1'0" | Weight: 1,600 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 20 gal. | Price: $21,238

Another advantage of the jet drive: the propeller, or rather, the lack thereof. Obviously, climbing in and out of small boats with exposed props can lead to problems, but it's a nonissue in this case. We also like the aft-facing seats built into the transom. While we wouldn't condone riding in them while underway at high speed, they do provide an excellent lounging spot for coving and relaxing after a long day of shredding water.

But no boat is perfect, and while the Scarab 165 is our top pick in this range, we do see room for improvement. An option to trade in the ski-tow eye for a pylon would be nice, and adding a windshield would make captaining the boat more comfortable. To make the 165 a dedicated watersports boat, you'll want to order the $2,900 tower with board racks. Luckily, there's still some room in the budget after paying this boat's MSRP of $21,238.

What about some other choices? Truth be told, there aren't many watersports-dedicated boats in this price range; you could make do by stepping back down to a large PWC or opting for a small bowrider or center-console that's designed for other waterborne activities.

Around $50,000

The 212X is Yamaha's "high-performance wakeboard edition" runabout, and although it isn't particularly large for the price point, it does represent big value. It has the features found on high-end watersports boats, many of which cost literally twice as much as the 212X, including a folding tower with wakeboard racks, a cruise-control system that maintains preset towing speeds, and, most impressively, twin ballast tanks that can be flooded to weight down the boat and kick up an enhanced wave.

Yamaha 212X

LOA: 21'3" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 3,605 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 50 gal. | Price: $57,999

Another big advantage the 212X holds over the competition is its power package. This is a twin-engine boat, with a pair of high-output 1.8-liter four-stroke jet engines. Can you think of another boat of this size, type, and price with twin engines? We didn't think so. Yet another big surprise is the stock trailer, which is a tandem-axle model. Virtually all competitors come with a single-axle trailer. Meanwhile, the Yamaha 212X enjoys those same jet-drive advantages found on our prior pick: the elimination of prop worries and the full-beam swim platform.

Other solid choices include the Scarab's 165's bigger brother, the 215, or, perhaps, the Four Winns H200RS equipped with a tower.

Pay attention to your wake when circling back to retrieve a skier. Arriving at your skier as your wake comes crashing back on you could put your skier at risk of having the boat come down on top of him or her.

Less Than $100,000

We're really glad the MasterCraft X20 doesn't break the $100,000 mark because this boat deserves to make our list. For starters, it's a MasterCraft. MasterCrafts enjoy excellent resale value, and when you consider how much more you can recoup when reselling it as compared to most other boats, in the long run, it isn't as expensive as it seems. Then note that it has the inboard V-drive power system preferred by hardcore watersports jocks. At 20 feet it's not large for a watersports boat, but it does have wrap-around seating in the cockpit and bow plus a pair of aft-facing seats built into the transom with stowage underneath.

MasterCraft X20

LOA: 20'0" | Beam: 8'2" | Weight: 4,800 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 49 gal. | Price: $91,270

And the X20 also gives you the ability to customize. We're not just talking about the boat — sure you get to pick from a huge variety of interior and exterior color patterns and yes, you get to choose the graphics, but you also get to customize the watersports experience. Thanks to the wake-generating Gen 2 Surf System (which integrates hull design, surf tabs, the 2,000-lb. ballast system, and touch-screen controls to create four different wake "zones") you can make those waves rip, curl, and build as you like.

When towing anyone behind your boat, have at least one spotter on board to keep track of the skier and relay instructions to the driver.

We should caution that many features you may want on the X20 are considered optional. Although you can take the boat home for under $100,000 it would be easy to add a lot of goodies and break the bank. Beyond that, you won't find much to complain about on this boat. MasterCraft has a well-deserved reputation for building top-shelf watersports boats and the X20 is no exception.

Super Air Nautique 230

LOA: 23'1.5" | Beam: 8'4.5" | Weight: 4,650 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 47 gal. | Price: $101,454

Those interested in the X20 will probably also take a peek at the Super Air Nautique 230 and the Supra SR.

Speedy Developments

The recent growing popularity of pontoon boats has led to some very interesting developments in the genre, and a slew of monstrous pontoons in the 28- to 32-foot size range have hit the market in the past couple of years. A 31-foot Premier Encounter with a full cabin was introduced at last year's Miami International Boat Show, and the 31-foot Dodici on display sported triple 300-hp Evinrude G2 ETEC outboards. You can find double-decker pontoons with waterslides aiming at the lake from atop 12-foot-high top decks as well as party platforms with the capacity to carry up to 24 people (yes, there are enough seats for everyone).

With size comes power, and as pontoons have grown larger, their builders have worked to beef up the structures to accommodate massive amounts of horsepower. At the same time, they've been experimenting with strakes, steps, and foils that can be welded onto the pontoon's running surfaces. The net result is increased speed, and though they're quite pricy (commonly eclipsing our self-imposed cost restrictions of this article) you can find trailerable pontoons like the Aqua Patio AP 250 XP, which can break 60 mph with a Yamaha F350 on the transom. Or the Harris Grand Mariner 250, which can blast past 63 mph thanks to a pair of 350-hp Mercury Verados.

In one documented case, a PlayCraft PowerToon Xtreme even broke the 100-mph mark, hitting 104 at the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout. True, the owner had added performance-enhancers like an 8.8-liter Dart block and twin Whipple superchargers. And no, we don't think the average pontooner should have any need or desire to go that fast. But if you do feel the need for speed, today's pontoons offer just as much capability as virtually any other type of boat.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats have been one of the strongest segments of the marine market in recent years, and it's no wonder — these boats are amazingly comfortable, versatile, and easy to operate. They're equally at home on lakes, rivers, and coastal bays (with relatively small waves; many pontoon boats don't handle large waves particularly well). And though their boxy shape may look rather untraditional to the nautical eye, that same shape makes for a huge amount of deck space in comparison with V-bottom boats of the same LOA.

The Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX is our top pick in this category. Don't let the name fool you: This pontoon is only minimally fishy, and the only fishing feature other than rod holders is a 9-gallon livewell that will work just fine as a stowage compartment. But this model does come with a bimini top, a forward console seat, two folding chairs, an aft L-lounger, interior courtesy lighting, a 20-hp Mercury outboard, and a single-axle trailer, for the eye-opening low price of $14,390. All the other small, inexpensive pontoons we looked at that came in under the $15K mark excluded the trailer or the engine — and trailer-boating without either of these two features is extremely boring. Added bonus: The 16 DLX comes with an impressive 10-year warranty, which is far better than the warranty on many boats that cost twice as much.

Sun Tracker Bass Buggy 16 DLX

LOA: 16'0" | Beam: 7'1" | Weight: 1,090 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 6.6 gal. | Price: $14,390

There aren't many other pontoons on the market that come in below this price cutoff, but the Qwest Edge 7514 CR does make the mark. The Lowe Ultra 160 Cruise does as well, but it has a short list of standard features that excludes the trailer, stereo system, and courtesy lighting and, realistically outfitted, will cost a bit more.

We're betting you didn't think you could get a 25-footer for under $25,000. We didn't either, until we came across the Lowe SS250 RFL. For providing a shocking size without one iota of sticker shock, the SS250 RFL is the clear winner in this category.

Pontoon boats are known as party barges, and this boat has everything needed for a waterborne shindig: 15 person capacity, two bow loungers, a chaise lounge, an L-couch (it really is a couch, not a seat), a Jensen MS30 Bluetooth stereo with two speakers, a bimini top, a pedestal table, and drink holders. Lots and lots of drink holders.

Lowe SS250 RFL

LOA: 25'7" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 1,940 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 28 gal. | Price: $21,497

Note that the trailer isn't included in the MSRP, and getting one pushes its price tag close to the $25,000 cutoff, but otherwise, the SS250 RFL is fairly well equipped. One more caveat: The stock engine is a mere 25-hp. For many pontooners who do their boating on inland lakes and rivers, jogging speed is plenty fast, and this will be enough power. If you want to get up on plane and travel more than a few miles, however, you'll want to upgrade.

What other choices are out there? Boaters who can't take the slowpoke speeds of 25 horses on a 25-footer will want to trade in the LOA for more power; they should look at a boat like the Princecraft Vectra 21, which posts a similar MSRP with 150 horses on the transom. Another option would be the Cypress Cay Seabreeze 210, with a 115-hp outboard.

In the pontoon-boat world, $50K gets you some serious juice, and we found the Bennington 22GL the juiciest. With a 140-hp Suzuki four-stroke and Bennington's Sport Performance System — which includes an under-deck wave shield, lifting strakes, full-length keels, and a third center tube — you'll see speeds in the low 40s. Yes, that engine and performance package does put us slightly over the mark, but why argue over a few bucks when spending $50,000? Besides, this model goes the distance when it comes to luxury, with such touches as pillow-top upholstery, a pop-up privacy enclosure for use with a portable MSD or as a changing room, a four-step boarding ladder, and a bimini top with a boot.

Bennington 22GL

LOA: 24'0" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 2,384/3,120 lb. (without/with Sport Performance System) | Fuel Capacity: 24.5/54 gal. (without/with Sport Performance System) | Price: $40,107/$52,097 (without/with Sport Performance System and 140-hp Suzuki outboard)

We also need to call attention to some of Bennington's construction techniques. Cross-members are on 16-inch centers, while those of many competitors are on 24-inch centers. Cleats and corner casings are stainless steel, while many other builders use aluminum or even nylon. And electrical connectors are of the waterproof, sealed Deutsch variety. You can feel the quality difference as this boat runs through the water: Many pontoons feel loose underfoot, as though one tube is trying to go to port while the other is trying to go to starboard. And quite often you hear endless rattles and vibrations from the aluminum fence, gate latches, and bimini supports. But these aren't problems on the Bennington.

Other pontoons that run in similar waters are the Harris Solstice 220 and the Manitou 23 SES.

Spending $100,000 on a pontoon boat sounds like a lot — and it is — but there are plenty of premium pontoons that offer large sizes, rather extreme performance, and total luxury. The boat that sets itself apart from the crowd, however, is the Marker One M25. Virtually every pontoon boat has marine-plywood decks; the decks on the M25 are entirely fiberglass. Virtually every other pontoon boat has aluminum fences ringing the boat; this one has all fiberglass. Virtually every other pontoon boat has rotomolded furniture bases; this one has all fiberglass. And virtually every other pontoon boat has frame-and-fabric pop-up changing room/head compartments; this one has a rigid fiberglass swing-up head compartment with folding doors.

Marker One M25

LOA: 25'9" | Beam: 9'3" | Weight: 5,520 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 55 gal. | Price: $96,345

Marker One is the only builder to combine a molded fiberglass topsides with the pontoon hulls, and out on the water it makes a huge difference. There are no creaks, groans, or rattles, which are commonplace on most pontoon boats. Seat bases, the entertainment centers, and the helm console all feel more firmly fixed to the boat's structure. And though it may be mere looks, the boat's gelcoated sides are slicker and glossier than any aluminum finish. The boat's detail work lives up to the promise of its exterior visual appeal, too, with touches like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a stainless-steel framed windshield, and illuminated switch panels.

Two downsides to the fiberglass topsides: First, the interior seating arrangement is what it is, and you can't choose the placement of different loungers, chairs, and settees as you can with most pontoon boats. Second, the fiberglass is quite weighty and thus requires more power to attain the speeds of some other pontoons. With the standard F200, you'll see speeds in the 30s, which many pontoons of the same LOA can attain with 50 fewer horses. If you're willing to break our price cap by a few thousand dollars, upgrading to a 300-hp Verado will take top-end speeds into the 40s and add a lot of zing to your day on the lake.

While there aren't other fiberglass-topsides pontoons to comparison-shop against the Marker One, the Harris Crowne DL 250 is another high- end luxury pontoon with slick, unbroken sides. And some major parts on the Aqua Patio 250 WB (such as the console and furniture bases) are constructed from fiberglass.

Fishing Frenzy

While the range of fishing boats is so vast that it's hard to nail down specific trends or developments that affect all of the available genres, it's possible to point to one development that's had some impact on how all anglers use their fishing boats: the advancements in fishfinder technology. While fishfinders used to look only down, they now look out to the sides. While they used to make blips and blobs, they can now paint shockingly detailed pictures of the structure below; wrecks, roadbeds, submerged trees, and the like are now completely distinguishable. And most recently, 3D fishfinding has become a reality.

The real surprise, however, may be just how affordable all this fishfinding technology really is. Whether you're looking at boats in the $15K, $25K, $50K, or $100K range, it's a sure bet that the fishfinder you can afford to put on it will be surprisingly advanced. The Humminbird Helix 5 included as a standard feature on our least expensive fishing boat pick, for example, has a 5-inch color 800- by 400-pixel LCD screen and puts out 400 watts of power. Add a mere $100 to the cost, and you get a GPS/chartplotter built in. Just $50 more expands the screen from 5 inches to 7.

Even making the leap to 3D modeling is relatively inexpensive, with the Lowrance HDS-7 Gen3, a 3D module, and transducer going for about $2,250. Five short years ago, anglers paid a whole lot more to get a whole lot less.

Fishing Boats

The world of trailerable fishing boats is massive, with literally thousands of choices ranging from species-specific boats to general-purpose boats in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and construction materials. Yet for many anglers, the choice is actually made easier by the type of fishing they do. A bass aficionado, for example, doesn't need to look beyond bass boats. A dedicated redfish angler living along the Gulf Coast will almost certainly be most interested in bay boats. And offshore anglers will gravitate toward large center-consoles.

To focus on highly specified models would greatly reduce the number of trailer-boaters who would find our top picks useful, and for this reason, we're going to stick with generalists: the boats you or I could use for chasing largemouth bass on one day, then striped bass the next. Or maybe it would be trout today and sea trout tomorrow. You get the picture.

Thanks to the popularity of simple utilitarian aluminum fishing boats, anglers have a huge number of options even at this low price point. And the field is amazingly competitive; five models within a few hundred dollars of each other vied for the pole position. But we narrowed the field down to just one: the Lund 1600 Rebel, because this boat delivers everything you need to pull away from the dealership and go directly to your favorite hotspot, all at a very low cost.

Lund 1600 Rebel

LOA: 16'5" | Beam: 6'5" | Weight: 710 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 6 gal. | Price: $13,225

Beyond the boat, motor, and trailer, prerequisites for most anglers are going to be rod stowage, a livewell, a bow-mounted electric trolling motor prewiring, and a fishfinder. The Lund comes outfitted with all of these must-haves, as well as features like vinyl flooring, carpeted raised decks, three fishing-seat bases, and a side console with a relatively tall windshield — all for $1,000 below our budget cap. That console is a big deal, too. Many boats in this price range are steered with tillers, which means the captain doesn't get any protection whatsoever. And many that do have consoles offer tiny wind deflectors that are almost irrelevant.

This deal also includes a 40-horse Mercury outboard, which is notably more potent than the 20-hp and 30-hp powerplants included with most packages in this price class. While 20 horses may sound like enough for a 16-foot aluminum boat weighing a mere 710 pounds, when you get a couple of husky buddies and gear aboard, it'll struggle to get on plane. No such worries with the 40 on the transom.

We note that the Lund's hatches have simple pulls and don't dog down. And we're not thrilled with the reboarding ladder, which is a two-step model of nylon strap; it should be more robust. These complaints aside, this is a turnkey fishing machine at a price virtually any trailer-boater can afford. Closely competitive is the AlumaCraft Escape 165 CS, the Tracker Pro Guide V-16 SC, and the Princecraft Resorter DLX SC.

In this category, the Mako Pro Skiff 19 CC is a clear winner because it's small enough to fish shallows and protected lakes and bays, seaworthy enough to head out into open water, and performs well beyond its means. Mako's Inverted V hull (think of a powercat hull with a narrow tunnel and a third, smaller V running down the middle) eats up chop and also enhances stability. Like a cat, it compresses an air/water slurry to cushion the blows and help produce lift.

Mako Pro Skiff 19 CC

LOA: 19'4" | Beam: 7'9" | Weight: 1,900 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 27 gal. | Price: $21,995

Although it may be difficult to quantify, when we first ran this hull we felt it reduced wave impacts by around 20 percent to 25 percent in comparison with an average monohull of a similar size and weight. Meanwhile, unlike many price-conscious packages, the Mako gives you a stock 90-hp Mercury that has more than enough juice. It'll provide top-end speeds in the neighborhood of 40 mph and will cruise in the mid- to upper 20s.

Though the Inverted V's ride and stability both exceed expectations, there are, of course, some downsides to this design. The boat turns flat instead of banking, and trim range is reduced.

But these are small prices to pay. Along with the unusual hull design and that potent 90-hp outboard, you also get a welded, tube-framed, hot-dipped galvanized trailer. The list of standard fishing features is well above par, too, including a 25-gallon livewell with a high-speed pickup, an 85-quart helm cooler seat, raised fore and aft casting decks, and six vertical flush-mounted rodholders. The one item not included that we feel is a must is the bow-mounted electric trolling motor. But you can add that for $1,625 without busting the budget. Comparison shoppers definitely will want to investigate boats like the Key Largo 180 CC and the Bayliner Element F18.

At this price point, is it possible to get a boat that's incredibly rugged, capable of handling both inshore and offshore runs, and comes fully equipped for targeting just about any species? Robalo says yes with the R222, our top pick in this price range. Robalos are built with Kevlar reinforcement, composite cores, poured ceramic transoms, encapsulated closed-cell foam, vinylester resins, tinned-copper wiring with Deutch-style waterproof connectors, chrome-plated stainless-steel fasteners, and 36-ounce vinyl (not the standard 28-ounce vinyl). In short, these boats are built like tanks but priced like Jeeps. You can spend a lot of time looking for another 22-foot center-console that's this well built, but you'll fail to find one.

Robalo R222

LOA: 21'6" | Beam: 8'6" | Weight: 3,700 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 90 gal. | Price: $41,395

On this type of fishing machine, a T-top is a feature most of us will want, so add $3,622 to the MSRP. Beyond that, the boat's well equipped in stock form, including a 15-gallon livewell, hydraulic tilt steering, a four-speaker Bluetooth stereo system, six vertical rodholders, four gunwale-mounted rodholders, under-gunwale rod racks, a portable MSD for the console compartment, cockpit­coaming bolsters, a raw-water washdown, and a three-step telescopic boarding ladder.

Wait a sec. What doesn't the R222 come with? Not much; the options list is shockingly brief. You could upgrade the standard F150 Yamaha outboard to a 200-hp model, but we'd say it's not necessary. The 150 gets you a top-end speed right around 40 mph and a cruising speed of 30 mph, and the 200 only bumps these numbers up by 3 or 4 mph.

Note: The R222 doesn't come packaged with a trailer. Fortunately, even after adding a T-top, there's plenty of wiggle room left in the budget to pay for one. Close competitors include the Cobia 220CC, the Sportsman Open 212, and the Sea Born LX22-CC; check them out.

If you spend the big bucks, you want the big capabilities, and the Pathfinder 2600 HPS delivers. Yes, it's officially marketed as a bay boat, but we spent an entire day fishing offshore on the 2600 HPS in 4-foot swells and found it eminently capable of handling open waters and large waves. Sure, it's a whopping 26 feet long, but it can still float in a mere 16 inches of water and creep into the backcountry creeks and cuts where the redfish thrive. Yes, it's a big boat to power with a single engine, but (in no small part thanks to a twin-step hull design) the stock 300-hp Yamaha F300 nets a top end of almost 60 mph and a cruising speed beyond 40 mph. Run to the canyons, run to the mangroves, or run to anything in between and the Pathfinder 2600 HPS will prove itself capable.

Pathfinder 2600 HPS

LOA: 26'2" | Beam: 8'10" | Weight: 3,350 lb. | Fuel Capacity: 78 gal. | Price: $88,965

Most anglers will love the fact that this boat is geared 100-percent toward fishing, with a 48-gallon aft livewell and a 15-gallon well in the bow, integrated tackle-stowage trays, a cast-net locker, a raw-water washdown, and the like. But this single-minded focus does lead to one potential knock: Despite its expansive size, the 2600 HPS doesn't make room for a head inside the console. To get that — and a number of other family-friendly features — you'll have to opt for the TRS version, which costs around $10K more than the HPS. And like many other boats of this size and nature, the trailer isn't part of the package. Plan on adding several thousand dollars to the MSRP to get a road-ready rig.

Examining Price vs. Cost

Hang out long enough at a boat show, and you'll hear a tire-kicker exclaim to his or her spouse or just a random passerby, "Who pays this much for a boat?" Usually he or she is standing in the vicinity of a flashy center-console or a luxury-filled motoryacht. And the answer is, well, no one does.

When shopping for boats, some consumers fall into the trap of equating the price of a boat with its cost. But the true cost of a boat is the difference between what you pay for it, and the money you get when you sell it, plus the operational and finance costs of ownership — not what it says on the sticker.

Most of us won't ever keep a boat for anything close to its lifetime, on average trading up or in within five to seven years. And to be fair, when you're trying to buy a boat, the last thing on your mind is the day you'll sell it. But sell it you will. So it pays (literally) to think about resale value before you buy.

Price is just one factor in the cost equation, and in fact, it's easy to envision a scenario in which a boat with a lower price ends up costing you more. We'll assume for the moment you're comparing two boats of roughly equal size, so most of those operational costs are so similar as to be a wash, and you can write them off as sunk and ignore them for comparison purposes.

Imagine a $90,000 model from a well-respected builder that holds its value very well. In a few years, you might be able to get $70,000 for selling such a boat. But also consider a $74,000 model from a less-desirable builder. In a few years, you might get $50,000 for selling that boat. So if you're comparison shopping between the two, you might think you're "saving" $16,000 when, in fact, you've cost yourself $4,000 in resale value.

Of course, it's not this straightforward. Most of us finance our boats, and the monthly payment on a cheaper boat is likely to be lower. But there are also price breaks at which the interest rate available on a loan is lower for a higher dollar amount than it is for the lesser amount. In fact, one online loan calculator showed that the monthly payment on a $74,000 loan would be $566. But on a $90,000 loan, it would be $563. Confused yet? Loans on larger dollar amounts can also often be stretched over a longer time span. The second loan is a 20-year note versus a 15-year note on the first.

I hope by now you're convinced you can't tell a boat's cost by the price on the sticker. But what can you do to compare costs effectively when boat shopping? Arm yourself with these three things before you head to a show or dealership:

1. Get an idea of the depreciation rate for common models from the brands you're interested in. The easy way to do this is to use BUCValu or NADA Guides online tools and compare across several years for the same boat model. Prices that are closer together are good. A larger spread is bad.

2. Research the terms and conditions for a boat loan online, paying special attention to interest-rate breaks and the length of available terms for your price range. Once you've done that, plug some specific scenarios into an online loan-calculator tool like the one available at BoatUS.com/BoatLoans .

3. Plan to walk away. Passion often trumps reason in boat sales. Walking away allows you time to factor in costs for insurance, maintenance, and storage, and such finance quirks as whether the model you're considering can be written off as a second home on taxes; then you'll have a realistic picture of the ownership costs of each boat you're considering. Once you know the numbers, you can let passion guide your decision, but at least you'll walk in with your eyes open.

— Michael Vatalaro

A Word About Warranties

For most people, the biggest advantage of buying a new boat is the warranty that comes with it. Simply put, the warranty is the manufacturer's promise to stand behind its products by providing service and repairs after purchase.

Because marine warranties vary widely in their coverage, compare them before you buy. Look for multiyear warranties for hull and engines, as well as coverage for osmotic blistering — a common problem on fiberglass boats that's expensive to fix. Find out whether the warranties transfer to subsequent owners — a crucial determinant of resale value.

Written warranties must be made available to you before you buy. New boats usually come with separate warranty coverage from the engine and boat manufacturers as well as the makers of other major components. Buying from a dealer who services both the boat and the engine can save a lot of frustration down the road. Make sure you fill out warranty registrations to ensure you'll get service when you need it.

— Charles Fort

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Lenny Rudow

New Boats, Fishing & Electronics Editor, BoatUS Magazine

Top tech writer and accomplished sports fisherman, BoatUS Magazine Contributing Editor Lenny Rudow has written seven practical boating books, won 30 awards from Boating Writers International — many for his marine electronics articles – and two for excellence from the Outdoor Writers Association of America. He judges the NMMA Innovation Awards, and is Angler in Chief at FishTalk, his own Chesapeake-based publication. A great teacher and inspirational writer, Lenny hosts many of BoatUS Magazine’s very-popular how-to videos, which can be found on the BoatUS YouTube channel, or at BoatUS.com

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Better Sailing

Best Inboard Boat Engine Brands

The marine world is filled with passion, adventure, and precision. The inboard boat engine is a crucial component of this experience, which powers boats and ensures a smooth sailing experience. Over the years, several brands have stood out for their durability, performance, and technological advancements. Let’s dive into some of the best inboard boat engine brands that have garnered respect in the boating community.

Mercury Marine

A powerhouse in the boating industry, Mercury Marine has been producing engines since 1939. Known for their optimal performance, durability, and cutting-edge technology, Mercury engines are a top choice for many boat owners. Their range includes the MerCruiser series, renowned for its reliability and power. With an extensive dealer network and commitment to innovation, Mercury remains a frontrunner in the inboard engine market.

Volvo Penta

Hailing from Sweden, Volvo Penta has been in the game for over a century. They’re not just about longevity; they’re about consistent quality. Their inboard engines are celebrated for efficiency, low emissions, and top-tier performance. Volvo Penta’s advancements in propulsion systems and their focus on sustainability set them apart. Their Easy Drain feature, for instance, is a testament to their commitment to making boating simpler and more enjoyable.

With a history dating back to 1912, Yanmar’s marine engines have been trusted by boaters worldwide. Particularly popular among sailors and larger yacht enthusiasts, Yanmar engines are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. Their standard rail technology ensures cleaner emissions, making them a favorite for those environmentally conscious.

Honda Marine

Known worldwide for its cars and motorcycles, Honda also has a prominent place in the marine engine market. Honda Marine is renowned for its reliability, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Their engines come equipped with advanced four-stroke technology, ensuring efficient fuel combustion and reduced emissions. With their quiet operation and long-lasting performance, they are a favorite among many boaters.

Yamaha Marine

Yamaha, another giant from Japan. The brand is synonymous with quality across its vast range of products, from musical instruments to motorbikes. Yamaha Marine engines uphold this reputation, boasting of reliability, efficiency, and power. Their commitment to research and development has resulted in engines that offer excellent fuel economy and reduced environmental impact.

Caterpillar Marine

Caterpillar, often recognized by its iconic yellow machines, is a force to be reckoned with in the marine sector. The Caterpillar Marine engines are designed for those who demand performance and durability. Often used in commercial vessels and large yachts, they offer a range of power solutions tailored to fit any marine application. Their global network ensures that assistance is always within reach, regardless of where your adventures take you.

MAN Marine Engines

MAN, a German brand, is renowned for its high-quality diesel engines. And MAN Marine Engines are no exception, delivering power, efficiency, and longevity. They’re often the choice for large yachts and commercial vessels, given their unparalleled performance and the brand’s commitment to precision engineering.

A subsidiary of Rolls-Royce Power Systems, MTU Marine is synonymous with luxury and high performance. Their engines are known for their technological advancements, fuel efficiency, and reliability. MTU engines are often found in luxury yachts and naval vessels, a testament to their quality and the trust the brand has garnered over the years.

A relative newcomer when compared to some of its century-old competitors, Ilmor still packs a punch in the marine engine industry. With roots in Formula 1 racing, they bring high-performance pedigree to their marine products. Their MV8 engine series, in particular, stands out for its power and precision.

Crusader Engines

Crusader has carved out a niche for itself in the gasoline inboard marine engine sector. Their engines are tailor-made for the marine environment, with features such as freshwater cooling and extended service intervals. Additionally, the brand prides itself on its comprehensive diagnostic system which simplifies troubleshooting, ensuring that boaters spend more time on the water and less time on repairs.

A dominant player in the inboard ski boat market, Indmar has been pushing the envelope since the 1970s. Their commitment to innovation has led to a series of firsts: from the first fuel-injected marine engine to the first catalyzed exhaust in a towboat. The brand has garnered numerous awards, reflecting its reputation for performance and reliability.

>>Also Read: Best Outboard Motor Brands

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Inboard Engine:

• Purpose:  Whether you’re into water sports, cruising, or sailing, ensure the engine aligns with your primary boating activities.
• Fuel Efficiency:  With rising fuel prices and environmental concerns, an engine’s fuel efficiency can be a critical factor in your decision.
• Emissions:  Some brands focus more on producing engines with cleaner emissions, beneficial for both the environment and compliance with regional regulations.
• Service and Maintenance:  An extensive dealer and service network can make maintenance easier and more convenient. The global reach of brands like the ones mentioned above can be a boon for those who travel extensively, ensuring that service and support are accessible worldwide.
• Price and Warranty:  While initial cost is essential, also consider the warranty and potential long-term expenses associated with repairs and replacements.

Best Inboard Boat Engine Brands – Conclusion

The heart of any boat is its engine, and with so many high-quality inboard engine brands available, making a choice can be challenging. Brands like Mercury Marine, Volvo Penta, and Yanmar have been staples in the marine industry for decades, while others like Ilmor bring a touch of high-octane racing pedigree to the mix.

It’s essential to remember that the best engine for your boat largely depends on your specific requirements: the type of boating you’re into, your budget, and your long-term plans. By considering these factors and the reputations of the brands listed above, you’re well on your way to a fantastic boating experience.

From brands with a rich heritage in marine engineering to those known for their expertise in other sectors, the market for inboard boat engines is both diverse and competitive. Whether you’re a weekend sailor, a water sports enthusiast, or the captain of a luxury yacht, there’s an engine brand tailored to fit your needs. The likes of Honda Marine, Yamaha Marine, and MTU Marine, among others, ensure that boat enthusiasts have a wide array of reliable and high-performance options to choose from. Whatever your choice, the journey is as significant as the destination, and the right engine can make all the difference.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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Best Small Motor Boat Brands: Fishing Boats, Wakeboard Boats, Bowriders and more

25th sep 2023 by samantha wilson.

If you’re in the market for a new or used small motor boat, the sheer variety on the market can be overwhelming. The thousands of different models, finishes, and styles from dozens of different boat manufacturers can make finding the perfect one like looking for the proverbial needle in a haystack. Whether you’re on the hunt for a weekend cruiser, a sporty motorboat, a nifty RIB, or a sturdy fishing boat, a wide range of different small boat manufacturers will pop up on your radar. 

Creating a best-of list of manufacturers comes with its limitations, and it’s important to remember that there are many smaller and more bespoke brands out there that might just make the perfect boat for you. That said, we can take a look (in no particular order) at some top manufacturers of smaller sized motorboats which fit within the categories of fishing boats , wakeboard boats , bowriders , and more, to come up with some top picks.

No list is complete without Sea Ray, which is undoubtedly one of the best-known and best-loved small boat manufacturers of sport boats, deck boats, and bowriders in the world. With 27 models in today’s impressive repertoire and a legion of happy and loyal customers, Sea Ray is one of the biggest players in this category of boat. Their current models range from the 19 foot SPX 190 to the 40 foot SLX 400, some older models stretched to over 60 feet, and both new and used Sea Ray boats feature highly on Rightboat.com. In fact, we currently have over 700 for sale. 

Sea Ray boats for sale  

Photo credit: Sea Ray

Boston Whaler

With a history dating back 65 years, Boston Whaler’s catalog of fishing boats, center consoles, cruisers, and tenders is one of the most impressive on the market. Renowned for their sturdiness, excellent build quality, and durability, they maintain their price in the second-hand market and are highly sought after. From the towable Boston 13 to the sleek 420 Outrage sport fishing boat, there are currently 24 models to choose from.

Boston Whaler boats for sale

Photo credit: Boston Whaler

Established in 1957 Bayliner has been on the scene for many decades, creating some of the most popular deck boats, center console boats, and bowriders on the market. Today it continues its legacy as part of the Brunswick Corporation, offering customers a sleek and sporty range of boats which stretches from the 15-foot Element at one end to a 24-foot center console at the other. On the used boat market, you’ll also find older Bayliners that are cruisers with full cabins and amenities. 

Bayliner boats for sale

Photo credit: Bayliner

Chaparral prides themselves on their range of sporty, fun and sophisticated-looking sports boats. With both outboard and inboard models, they are well-loved by runabout enthusiasts who value an elegant profile as much as they do the very latest in technology. While Chaparral’s offerings include cabin boats up to 33-foot family express cruisers, their Surf Series and Outboard models are top choices for watersports and day boats.

Chaparral boats for sale

Photo credit: Chaparral

Yamaha needs little introduction, with these world-famous jet boats often seen whizzing across the seas especially in their main market in the United States. Well respected for their range of 22 different bowriders and watersports boats, Yamaha also entered the fishing boat market with jet-powered center console models and now offers eight models of these from 19 to 25 feet. 

Yamaha boats for sale

Photo credit: Yamaha

Chris-Craft

American powerhouse manufacturer Chris-Craft has been building boats since 1874, an impressive accolade in its own right. Their current range of motorboats focuses on a passion for luxury and the boating lifestyle, and while their model line has included everything from runabouts to yachts through the centuries, today it consists of high-end luxury open day-boats from 24 to 35 feet.

Chris-Craft boats for sale

Photo credit: Chris Craft

Grady-White

When it comes to adventurous, well-equipped, sturdy fishing boats, Grady-White is a big player in the market. Extremely popular in the United States, their saltwater range of dual console, center console, and express cabin models are some of the best family boats for the money - and they maintain excellent second-hand resale prices. Described as rugged yet elegant, their latest center console models range from the 18-foot Fisherman to the 45-foot Canyon. Walkaround cabin models and the dual console Freedom models range from 21 to 37 feet.

Grady-white boats for sale

Photo credit: Grady White

Tracker boats aren’t merely popular, they’re uber-popular and Tracker claims to be America’s number-one selling aluminum fishing boat. Their lineup has shrunk in recent years (they used to offer many more small Jon boats ) but you’ll see a wide range of offerings on the used market, as well as their current lineup of 19 deep-V, modified-V, and Jon boats ranging from 16 feet to 21 feet, five inches long. Regardless of the model, they’re known for delivering a strong bang for the buck with comprehensive boat-motor-trailer packages sold in turnkey form. 

Tracker boats for sale

Photo credit: Tracker Boats

Leaders in pontoon boats (and on our list of the Best Pontoon Boat Brands Priced Under $30,000 ) along with an impressive range of fishing and small pleasure boats, Starcraft boats pack fun, adventure and reliability into all of their models. Often considered among the most popular types of lake boats , Starcraft’s range appeals to families, fishing aficionados, and watersports junkies. All of their models are easily towable, making them perfect for weekend forays to the inland waterways or launching in different coastal areas for exploring. These models can all be customized while you will also find a huge variety of used models on Rightboat.com. 

Starcraft boats for sale

Photo credit: Stacraft Marine

For over 60 years, Jeanneau has been crafting a wide array of motorboats and sailing yachts. Their partnerships with world acclaimed interior designer Andrew Winch, and the technical expertise of Philippe Briand, has put them in the very top of small boat manufacturers and rightly so. Their motorboats range from 22 to 40 feet, with the new smaller Leader (in North America) and Cap Camarat (in Europe) range perfect for fishing, water skiing, and cruising. They also have a wider range of cabin boats than most modern builders of small motor boats with innovative interior designs that make them as perfect for family coastal cruises as they are for fishing. 

Jeanneau boats for sale

Photo credit: Jeanneau

This article was published in November 2021 and was last updated in September 2023 by Lenny Rudow.

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

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Best Boat Engine Brands

December 27, 2023

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ Key Takeaways

• Technology advancements have led to improved efficiency in outboard motor brands.
• Top manufacturers like Evinrude, Yamaha, and Suzuki cater to different boating needs.
• Evaluating each brand helps in selecting the ideal engine for the boating experience.

‍ Embarking on a journey to find the top boat engine brands? Navigate the waters of quality and performance as we unveil the leaders in marine propulsion.

The best boat engine brands are Evinrude, Johnson, Honda, Mercury Marine, Tohatsu, Yamaha, and Suzuki. Each offers unparalleled reliability, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology, ensuring top performance for marine enthusiasts.

As a marine enthusiast, I've spent years navigating the seas, feeling every surge and swell. Choosing the right boat engine transforms your experience. I'm here to guide you through this sea of options. Together, we'll find an engine that matches your needs, ensuring smooth sailing and reliable performance.

Table of contents

‍ best boat engine brands.

The right motor can significantly enhance your boating experience, as different brands offer varying features and power options. When it comes to selecting the best boat engine brand, factors such as fuel economy, performance, and ease of maintenance are essential considerations.

Engine technology has advanced significantly over the years, with manufacturers creating both two-stroke and four-stroke engines that cater to boating needs. Assessing individual manufacturers' features, performance ratings, and customer satisfaction helps in choosing the right electric outboard motor brand to suit your boating expertise and needs.

Here’s a table comparing the best boat engine brands:

1. Evinrude Outboards

The Evinrude outboards are renowned for their performance, reliability, and innovative technology. They have both two-stroke and four-stroke engines, which cater to various boating needs.

Specifications

Performance.

Evinrude outboard motors are known for their top-tier performance. They have powerful engines, such as V6 and V8, which provide excellent acceleration and torque. With Evinrude's innovative two-stroke E-TEC G2, you can achieve increased fuel efficiency and superb responsiveness to meet your boating needs, whether it's water sports or aluminum fishing.

What Sets It Apart

• Two-stroke versus Four-stroke debate: Evinrude's best outboard motor engines offer all the benefits of both two-stroke and four-stroke engines with their E-TEC G2 technology.
• Technology and Durability: Evinrude's outboard engines are known for their advanced technologies, like the E-TEC G2, and their impressive durability.
• Reliability: Evinrude is a well-established outboard brand with an extensive dealer network, giving you peace of mind when it comes to service and repairs.

Recent Updates

Due to the challenges presented by COVID-19, BRP discontinued Evinrude outboard updates in 2020. This decision allows the company to focus on expanding its existing boat business, including innovating beyond the best outboard motor market.

• Evinrude outboard engines are known for their enhanced fuel efficiency
• Evinrude's E-TEC G2 engines are environmentally friendly, with fewer emissions
• It may be challenging to find a dealership with new inventory or replacement parts.
• Evinrude’s reliable outboard motors tend to be on the pricier side

Who Should Buy It

Evinrude outboard motors can be ideal for boaters who prioritize performance, fuel economy, and environmental responsibility. These engines are suitable for a wide range of boating activities, from water sports to fishing and beyond. If you're searching for a reliable outboard engine, Evinrude is a strong contender.

Where To Buy It

While production of Evinrude outboard motors has been discontinued, you can still find these engines through authorized dealers and online platforms, such as Boat Trader .

2. Johnson Outboards

Johnson Outboards has always been known for its performance in both speed and fuel economy.

The V6 engines provide excellent power output while maintaining efficient fuel usage. This makes Johnson a popular choice among boaters who prioritize speed and acceleration for water sports and fishing.

Johnson Outboards' distinguishing factor remains in their focus on simple, reliable designs. The 2-stroke engine technology provides quick acceleration and high output from a lightweight package, making it ideal for smaller boats and aluminum fishing vessels. Even after discontinuation, the robust design continues to be favored by many boaters.

Due to financial strains and strategic decisions following the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson Outboards was discontinued. Nonetheless, their engines remain popular in the used market and continue to be supported by various aftermarket services and dealerships.

• Lightweight and compact design
• Quick acceleration
• Fuel-efficient V6 Engines
• Direct fuel injection technology for improved efficiency
• High performance in various boat applications
• Discontinued, making new stock availability limited.
• Older 2-stroke engines may have emissions concerns.
• Limited access to the original Johnson parts and service network.

Johnson Outboards can be perfect for boaters who appreciate a reliable, high-performance engine for their water sport and fishing needs. Additionally, the affordable prices on the used market make it an excellent option for those who want to maximize their boating experience without breaking the bank.

Although Johnson Outboards manufacturing was discontinued, you can still find these outboard motors in good condition on used boat marketplaces and through dealer networks . Additionally, many aftermarket parts and service providers can help you maintain and service your Johnson outboard to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

3. Honda Outboards

Honda is a well-known specific brand in the outboard motor market, offering reliable and technologically advanced products.

Honda offers a range of outboard motors that cater to various boating needs. Some popular Honda outboards include

Honda's outboard motors are renowned for their performance, efficiency, and reliability. These engines are designed to offer optimal fuel economy, with innovative features like battery-less EFI, which simplifies the fuel system and enhances overall performance. With Honda’s lower unit design, you can expect minimal ethanol problems and improved fuel efficiency, making your boating experience enjoyable and cost-effective.

What sets Honda's outboard motors apart from other outboard motor brands is its focus on utilizing technological advancements to ensure durability, reliability, and performance. By incorporating industry-leading features such as the battery-less EFI and progressive fuel injection, Honda outboard engines stand out from the crowd.

The commitment to quality service and maintaining long-lasting relationships with customers further reassures boaters of their investment in a Honda outboard motor.

Despite facing challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Honda Marine has continued to roll out new technology and features for their outboards. For instance, the Honda 105 Jet is a recent addition to their lineup, providing boaters with a reliable four-stroke engine that offers excellent fuel economy and superior performance.

• Technologically advanced features
• Efficient fuel consumption
• Reliable and durable engines
• Excellent horsepower range
• Solid dealer network and support
• Limited options in certain horsepower ranges
• Higher initial cost compared to some competitors

Honda outboards can be excellent for those who prioritize reliability, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. They're suitable for a wide range of boating activities, including fishing boats and water sports.

You can buy Honda outboard motors from their official website or through their vast dealer network. Check out the Honda Marine site to locate an authorized dealer near you.

4. Mercury Marine Outboards

In this section, we will discuss Mercury Marine Outboards , one of the best outboard motor brands known for its reliable and high-performing engines.

Mercury's outboard motors offer excellent performance and power for various boating activities, such as fishing, freshwater, and pontoon boating. These engines are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and smoothness. The Verado series, Pro XS models, and SeaPro 500hp are specifically designed for high-performance and heavy-duty applications.

Mercury Marine sets itself apart from other outboard motor brands with its innovative technologies, such as:

• Adaptive Speed Control : Maintains engine speed regardless of load or condition changes
• Joystick Steering: Provides smooth, intuitive control over the boat
• Electric Start: Offers quick and easy starting

Despite facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercury Outboards continues to invest in technology and expand its product offerings. The release of the Verado 600hp V12 was a significant milestone that demonstrated Mercury's dedication to innovation and performance enhancements.

• Wide range of models to suit different boating requirements
• Fuel-efficient engines
• High-performance and reliable Mercury Outboard Mrotors
• Network of authorized dealers for sales, service, and support
• Warranty coverage for peace of mind
• Higher initial cost compared to some other brands
• Requires maintenance to prevent fuel system and ethanol-related issues
• Limited availability of some engine models

If you prioritize power, performance, reliability, and innovative technology in an outboard motor, Mercury Marine is a great choice. This brand is especially suited for those looking for high-performance engines for fishing, pontoon, or freshwater boats.

You can purchase Mercury outboards through their official site or authorized dealer network .

Whether you are a seasoned boater or a newcomer, Mercury Marine outboard motors won't disappoint.

5. Tohatsu Outboards

Tohatsu is a reputable brand in the outboard motor industry, known for its high-quality outboard motors since 1956.

• High power output: Tohatsu motors are designed to deliver exceptional performance, meeting the power demands of both small fishing boats and larger vessels.
• Fuel efficiency: With a focus on fuel efficiency, Tohatsu outboards offer significant savings on operating costs.
• Durability: With reliable four-stroke technology, Tohatsu outboards are built for durability, ensuring a longer lifespan and low maintenance.

Tohatsu's focus on fuel economy and advanced four-stroke technology creates a balance of performance, efficiency, and reliability that separates them from competitors such as Yamaha and Suzuki. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Tohatsu has continued to refine its engine technology, leading to improved effectiveness and durability.

Tohatsu has recently launched a new line of outboard motors featuring updated technology to further enhance their performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency. This new line includes powerful and compact models suitable for various boating experiences.

• Wide range of models catering to different boating needs
• Advanced four-stroke technology for a smooth and efficient performance
• Improved fuel economy for cost-effective operation
• Durable and reliable, ensuring a longer lifespan with low maintenance
• Limited dealership network, potentially affecting service and repairs
• It may not be the most popular choice among boaters compared to brands

Tohatsu outboard motors can be ideal for those seeking a reliable engine with impressive power output, fuel efficiency, and affordable operating costs. If you require a four-stroke engine for your fishing boat or need a solid motor that delivers optimal performance but doesn't break the bank, Tohatsu might be the right choice for you.

You can find Tohatsu outboard motors on their official website . Make sure to purchase through an authorized dealer to ensure you receive a genuine product backed by Tohatsu's quality guarantee.

6. Yamaha Outboard

Yamaha is a well-known and highly respected brand in the boating world. Their outboard motors offer reliable performance, fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge technology for various boating needs.

Yamaha offers many outboard models to cater to various boating needs, such as the Yamaha F25, the Yamaha F250, and the Yamaha V-MAX SHO 115. Here is a brief overview of these models:

Yamaha outboards are known for their exceptional performance. They deliver excellent fuel economy by utilizing superior technology and design. The Yamaha V-MAX SHO 115, for example, is known for its top-end performance, which is perfect for fishing boats and water sports enthusiasts.

High-quality engineering and technology back Yamaha outboard motors. They undergo tough testing to ensure durability and long-lasting performance. Yamaha's focus on technological advancements contributes to achieving better fuel efficiency and power output, such as in their V6 series.

Yamaha continues to update its outboard engine lineup regularly. Their dedication to innovation helps them maintain a strong presence in the market, even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Reliable performance that caters to a variety of boating needs
• Cutting-edge technology for better fuel efficiency and power
• Excellent dealer and service network for support
• Yamaha outboard motors can be pricier than some other brands
• Limited availability on certain models due to high demand

If you value reliability and performance, Yamaha outboard motors are perfect. Whether you're into fishing, water sports, or casual boating, Yamaha's extensive lineup offers something for everyone.

You can purchase Yamaha outboard motors from their official website . It is important to ensure proper installation and service when buying an outboard motor, so visiting a local dealer with a comprehensive service offering is recommended.

7. Suzuki Outboard

Suzuki is a renowned name in outboard motors, known for its reliability and advanced features. Catering to a wide range of boating needs, Suzuki outboards offer impressive power, performance, and fuel efficiency.

Suzuki outboards are known for their excellent performance on the water. They deliver smooth and responsive power, making them suitable for various types of boating activities, including fishing and cruising. The advanced fuel injection system (or EFI system) allows for precise fuel delivery and excellent efficiency, while the lower unit enhances the boat's overall handling.

The Suzuki Dual Prop System is one feature that sets the Suzuki outboard apart from other outboard motor brands. This innovative system utilizes two sets of propellers that counter-rotate, leading to increased performance, better fuel economy, and a smoother boating experience.

Additionally, Suzuki's Lean Burn Control Technology further improves fuel efficiency across their entire lineup, making these motors ideal for boaters who prioritize eco-friendly options.

Suzuki has continued to innovate and adapt to the changing industry. Even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, they managed to release new models like the DF115BG and DF140BG, featuring enhanced features and performance. These outboards showcase the company's commitment to continuously improve its products and stay on top of technological advancements.

• A broad range of engine options
• Advanced technology like Dual Prop System and Lean Burn Control
• Reliable and efficient performance
• Suitable for different types of boats and activities
• Excellent fuel economy
• Limited dealer network in some areas
• Price can be higher compared to other brands

If you're in the market for a reliable outboard motor that offers advanced features, excellent fuel efficiency, and smooth performance, Suzuki is an excellent choice. Their motors cater to various boating needs and come in a diverse range of horsepower options. Whether you own a small fishing boat or a high-performance vessel, Suzuki outboards provide the power, reliability, and efficiency that you need.

Suzuki has an extensive dealer network across the globe, making it easy to find the perfect outboard motor for your boat. To locate the nearest authorized Suzuki dealer, simply visit the Suzuki Marine website and enter your location.

Engine Maintenance and Durability Analysis

Analyzing engine maintenance and durability reveals the pivotal role of consistent care and brand-specific guidelines in ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of boat engines.

Understanding Maintenance Requirements

Different boat engine brands require specific maintenance routines. Four-stroke engines often need frequent oil changes, whereas two-stroke engines demand regular fuel system checks. Adherence to each brand's maintenance guidelines is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Longevity and Reliability Across Top Brands

Each boat engine brand has a unique reputation for longevity and reliability. For instance, Mercury Marine and Honda are known for durable engines. However, longevity also depends on maintenance quality and operational conditions, such as exposure to saltwater.

Tips for Prolonging Engine Life

Proper care is essential for prolonging engine life. Regular cleaning, especially post saltwater use, timely part replacements, and annual professional check-ups are key practices. Winterizing the engine in colder climates also helps in maintaining its condition and ensuring long-term reliability.

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About THE AUTHOR

Brian Samson

I have a deep love of houseboating and the life-changing experiences houseboating has brought into my life. I’ve been going to Lake Powell on our family’s houseboat for over 30 years and have made many great memories, first as a child and now as a parent. My family has a passion for helping others have similar fun, safe experiences on their houseboat.

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After spending over 30 years on houseboats, the memories and knowledge we've gained will never fade. Learn from our experiences here on LakeWizard. You can read more about us and our team, here .

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10 Best Motorcycle Brands in 2022

If you’re in the market for a motorcycle, you’ll notice there are countless motorcycle brands to choose from. All these brands of motorcycles will have their pros and cons. Asking your motorcycle friends what brand to go for will probably turn up a lengthy motorcycle brands list. Let’s face it, all the top motorcycle manufacturers have their loyal fans. So how do you identify the top motorcycle brands for you?

You want to make sure to choose the motorcycle type and motorcycle brand that fits you like a motorcycle glove. Are you after style and speed? Maybe consider a machine from one of the European motorcycle brands. Are reliability and low maintenance at the top of your priorities? A two-wheeler made by a Japanese motorcycle brand might be just what you’re after. Are you after a strong statement? American motorcycle brands offer plenty of edge.

To help you on your merry motorcycle way, we listed the top 10 motorcycle brands for you according to popularity, reliability, design, and power.

Honda Motorcycles

We start our list with what could be considered one of the most inspiring motorcycle companies. The story of Honda begins during World War II with the manufacturing of piston rings. Unfortunately, the company is ravaged by the war, and founder Soichiro Honda is forced to sell his failing business. All but deterred, the visionary engineer uses the proceeds of the sale to establish Honda Motor Co. and he starts producing a motorized bicycle.

From its humble beginnings, Honda has grown to be the biggest motorcycle company in the world. Since its inception, Honda has sold over 300 million motorcycles. Given its sales volume and popularity, Honda could be considered as one of the best motorcycle companies worldwide. Honda is also responsible for the single most sold motorcycle worldwide: the iconic Honda Cub.

To date, Honda has a finger in the pie in all motorcycle disciplines. Their range spans from the lofty and luxurious 1800CC GoldWing and their sporty CBR series to their indestructible CRF off road bikes and street motorcycles aimed at urban riders. Across the various riding disciplines, Hondas have one thing in common: They are praised for their reliability and low maintenance. If you’re looking for a solid, reliable bike that will serve you for years, Honda might be one of the best choices.

Yamaha Motorcycles

Yamaha is the second Japanese motorcycle brand on our list. The Yamaha motorcycle factory branched off from the world’s largest piano manufacturer. Its origin is still carried in the Yamaha logo – the three intersecting tuning forks. If you ask us, that just adds to the poetry of riding!

Yamaha is currently the second biggest motorcycle company in the world. Out of all the brands of motorcycles, Yamaha might enjoy the largest fan base. Since 2004, the legendary MotoGP racer Valentino Rossi has been the star of the Yamaha team. Many of his loyal fans will touch only Yamaha blue.

Yamaha caters to motorbikes lovers of all kinds. Starting from the iconic PW50 for the kids to the $3-million, 1700cc V-twin, 24-karat gold Yamaha Roadster Chopper for the connoisseur with the big wallet, Yamaha motorcycles span a wide range of disciplines and there’s something for everyone whether it’s sportbike riding, off-road adventures, or road riding.

Suzuki Motorcycles

Much like Yamaha, Suzuki didn’t start off as a motorcycle brand. And yet, the popularity of its motorized bicycle revived the company after World War II. Until the early 1970s, Suzuki only built two-stroke motorcycles. The biggest capacity two-stroke Suzuki ever produced was the GT750.

In 1970, Suzuki was the first of the Japanese manufacturers to win the motocross world championship with a 250CC. In that same year, Suzuki also took out the 500CC class in both road racing and motocross.

Suzuki’s sports bikes are the motorcycle brands’ secret weapon. While globally sport bikes don’t account for much of the motorcycle market, one in four Suzukis sold is a sports bike. The Suzuki GSX-R, colloquially referred to as a “jixxer”, comes in different displacements. All of them are well-loved by motorcycle enthusiasts. Suzuki also sells one of the fastest off-the-shelve two-wheelers, the GSX1300R Hayabusa.

In addition to dominating the sports bike market, Suzuki is well-loved by dual-sport and off-road riders. So much so, in fact, that riders worldwide still cherish Suzuki’s DR650 single-cylinder dual-sport model which hasn’t seen any essential changes since the 80’s. Similarly to Honda, Suzuki is well-known for reliability and durability – all bonus points in our book.

Kawasaki Motorcycles

With Kawasaki, we complete the Japanese Big Four – the largest motorcycle manufacturers in Japan and indeed some of the top motorcycle brands in the world.

Kawasaki started off as an aircraft manufacturer. Because of this, some of their early motorcycles display an emblem with “Kawasaki Aircraft” on the fuel tank. Imagine how cool it would be if it actually took off!

Kawasaki is another motorcycle brand famous for its sports bikes. The Kawasaki name is almost synonymous with its iconic Ninja range. Most of these bikes are bright green, fast, and agile. These bikes have stolen the hearts of many a rider and launched plenty of track-racing stars.

In addition to its sports bike range, Kawasaki is well-loved among adventure riders: their iconic Kawasaki KLR650 is still being used for round-the-world motorcycle journeys and weekend adventures alike.

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad has been producing motorcycles since 1923. It has manufactured solidly engineered, proven motorcycles for many years. But when BMW’s bikes became the stars of the wildly popular Long Way Round series , it re-established itself.

With the LRW TV series, adventure riding became an almost overnight craze. Unsurprisingly, BMW saw itself at the forefront of the muddy madness. The R1200GS and R1200GS Adventure at one point accounted for almost a third of all BMW sales. Whether these bikes are indeed the best to ride around the world on will forever be debated. But one thing is for sure: they position BMW as one of the best motorcycle brands in the adventure market.

The adventure mania aside, BMW is also known for its well-built sport bikes, sport tourers, urban motorcycles, and street bikes. If you’re looking for prestige, excellent engineering, and a motorcycle brand name that speaks for itself, BMW is the way to go.

Ducati Motorcycles

Italian Ducati is one of those motorcycle brands people fall in love with. In their bikes, Ducati perfectly marries form and function. The result is fast, expertly made bikes that look like modern art pieces. To top it off, much like true Italian nonnas will never change their recipes, all Ducatis are still made by hand in Italy.

Ducati is also among the top motorcycle brands that have seen great success in racing. This further solidified the brand in riders’ hearts and ears. Ducati’s trademark V-twin engines’ distinctive sound adds to the allure of the brand. Some devotees even believe that Ducatis are the only motorcycles with souls!

Ducati is the undisputed king of style, so if you’re looking for a motorcycle that’s more than a bike but also a statement, this is the brand to pick.

Triumph Motorcycles

British Triumph is technically one of the youngest in our top 10 motorcycle brands list. The current company started manufacturing in 1984. However, they carried on a lineage that has been making a name for itself since 1902.

As a young company with an old established name, Triumph entered the cruiser market with the Thunderbird model. It fit in well with the streetbike brands with the Triumph Speed Triple and its baby sister, the Street Triple. These magnificent machines were literally the engine behind the new era of success at Triumph. The Triumph Daytona captured the hearts of the speed-hungry. And with the range of Tigers, Triumph managed to secure a slice of the adventure market as well.

Ultimately, however, the Triumph name belongs on this best motorcycle brands list because of its classic lookers. The Bonneville and Thruxton have brought the old into the new, and with that defined the café racer as a style that came to stay.

KTM Motorcycles

Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM traces its foundation back to 1934. KTM is one of the best motorcycle brands for off-road bikes. Over the years, KTM’s designs and color schemes have changed; in 1996, KTM went orange to stand out from the field. Thanks to KTM’s unparalleled Paris-Dakar race wins year after year, nowadays, KTM orange is as iconic as the Ferrari red.

In the late 1990s, KTM first tried its hand at manufacturing road bikes. Being one of the leading off-road motorcycles brands helped KTM to nestle itself among the streetbike brands. Since 2015, KTM sells roughly equal amounts of road bikes and off-road bikes.

KTM is one of the largest European motorcycle brands, and among the best motorcycle brands worldwide. Whether you’re looking for a powerful enduro machine or a large-capacity adventure bike, few other motorcycle brands can compete with KTM’s explosive engines and highly-strung racing capacity.

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycles

One of the most iconic American motorcycle brands, Indian Motorcycles started production in 1901. Indian enjoyed a successful entry into the market as well as the racing scene. The Indian Motorcycle factory team secured first, second, and third place in the 1911 Isle of Man Tourist Trophy.

Having experienced plenty of ups and downs, Indian Motorcycles went bankrupt in 1953. Yet, arguably the biggest achievement on an Indian motorcycle took place in 1967: Burt Munro, a 68-year-old New Zealand native, piloted a heavily modified 1920 Indian Scout to a new land speed record. His 184 mph record still stands today, and Indian Motorcycles have made history.

After a chain of bankruptcies and acquisitions, Polaris took the Indian Motorcycle reins in 2011. Since then, they have successfully produced a range of cruisers, and due its iconic roots, Indian Motorcycles remains one of the most beloved American motorcycle brands. If you’re looking for a cruiser with a name, Indian is the way to go.

Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

Harley-Davidson was founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The motorcycle brand experienced plenty of fluctuations throughout the past century. Eventually, however, it came out on top with a religiously loyal following worldwide, numerous owner clubs, events across the globe, and a myriad of merchandise. When it comes to motorcycle brands, Harley-Davidson is possibly the biggest in the world and arguably the best-known.

The Harley-Davidson motorcycles paved the road for the chopper style. Originally, Harley-Davidsons were large displacement cruiser-style machines. More recently, however, the brand also warmed to the smaller displacement market with the Harley-Davidson Street 750 and 500. In addition, Harley-Davidson has ventured into the adventure motorcycle market with their Pan America beast, and in North America, it’s selling like hot cakes. We bet that has something to do with Jason Momoa endorsing the brand – but shiny marketing images aside, the Pan America does show promise.

Harley-Davidson also produces the LiveWire, an electric motorcycle meant for urban and adventure riding. Made famous by – once again – Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman in the Long Way Up series where the duo rode two LiveWires from South America to Los Angeles, Harley Davidson proves they’re up for a challenge of venturing deep into new waters.

Whether you’re into cruiser motorcycles , street bikes, electric machines, or large-capacity adventure bikes, Harley-Davidson is a motorcycle brand that needs no introductions and sticks to its origins of an all-American, chrome-decked, powerful bike. If this is your cup of tea, it’s impossible to go wrong with Harley.

What is the largest selling brand of motorcycles in the world?

No one wants to be stuck on the side of the highway wondering why their motorcycle fails to do its job. That’s why reliability is a key priority, although the reliability of each machine will be influenced by age, service history, and handling.. The motorcycle brands may have something to do with it, too. So, what are the most reliable motorcycle brands?

Topping the list of most reliable motorcycle brands are Yamaha, Kawasaki and Victory. With respectively 11%, 15% and 17% of their bikes requiring early repairs. These three are safe choices to keep the wheels turning. Unfortunately, Victory had to close its manufacturing doors. This is why this dependable motorcycle brand didn’t make our list of top 10 motorcycle brands.

We don’t have the same numbers to report for Honda and Suzuki. But these popular motorcycle brands are considered on par with the other Japanese motorcycle brands when it comes to reliability.

The USA flagship motorcycle manufacturers at Harley Davidson find themselves comparable to Italian Ducati and British Triumph on the reliability scale. At the bottom of the reliability ladder are Can-am and BMW. Over 40% of their bikes require early repairs.

What are the worst motorcycle brands?

We’ve looked at the best motorcycle brands. However, let’s not forget some popular motorcycle brands you might want to avoid . Potentially due to their reliability, Can-Am receives pretty low consumer ratings. Moto-Guzzi also didn’t live up to the owners’ expectations. Still, it may be Royal Enfield at the very bottom of the motorcycle brands list. Despite RE being one of the most popular motorcycle brands in India, Royal Enfield often fails to update their two-wheelers for the American market.

By contrast, motorcycle owners rated Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki as the top motorcycle brands.

So now you know…

With the best motorcycle brands listed here, you’re one step closer to finding your perfect two-wheeler. There is plenty of variety to choose from, and each motorcycle brand brings something unique to the table. It may be style, design, function, reliability, or a combination of all, and ultimately, it’s up to you to choose what works best. The best Japanese motorcycle brands like Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, and Kawasaki offer reliability and performance. Italian motorcycle brands like Ducati are all about power and style, whereas German bike brands like BMW are known for their superior design and quality. British motorcycle brands like Triumph are aimed at cafe racer-nostalgic bike fans, and American motorcycle brands like Indian or Harley-Davidson combine heritage, statement, and powerful engines.

If you still need some guidance on the way to your best bike, check out the best motorcycles of 2021 . Perhaps that can point your handlebars down the right road – or off-road!

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The 7 Best Motors for My Motorboat

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Important Things to Keep in Mind about Engines When You Rent a Motorboat

If you decide to rent a motorboat , we are generally talking about the kinds of outboard motors or engines that come with these boats. Some of the major engine manufacturers are Mercury, Yamaha, Evinrude, and Suzuki, and we’ll look at some of their latest offerings when we talk about it below. Most motorboat motors offer generous warranties of up to six years, so they are generally very reliable. The biggest differences between all of the motors are in terms of horsepower and efficiency. Fuel range and economy are also concerns if you decide to rent a motorboat for a big group of people. Here are seven of the best outboard motors that you should consider when renting a motorboat, especially if you want to purchase a motorboat in the near future.

Mercury Motors

The new Mercury 4.6-liter V8 Verado 450R features a 2.4-liter twin-screw supercharger and a Sport Master gearcase. It is lightweight at only about 70o pounds. It’s available with a 25-inch shaft or a 20-inch shaft. The three-year warranty should give you confidence that your motor will last a long time on the water. Also, it runs on 89-octane pump gas, which makes it easy to refuel. The 450R is one of the best motors you can get these days.

Evinrude Motors

Evinrude offers a new 150 horsepower E-TEC, which is a 1.9-liter three-cylinder direct-injected two-stroke engine. It has a good fuel efficiency of 12 mpg at a fast pace on a 20-foot boat. These 150 horsepower outboard motors can be used on all kinds of boats because they can be controlled via a mechanical steering cable, external hydraulic, integrated power steering, and even a tiller. All in all, these Evinrude motors are pretty simple to operate!

Torqueedo Travel 1103C Motors

Torqueedo is known for big outboard motors called Deep Blue motors, which are up to 80-horsepower equivalent. However, those types of motors are only designed for the megayachts of billionaires. While one of those 80-horse motors and its BMW-developed battery pack sells for more than $50,000, the new Travel 1103C is under $3,000, and it is perfect for any boat that weighs less than about 3,400 pounds. The new Travel 1103C has an onboard 915 Wh lithium battery, and it can run for six hours at half-throttle, which could mean up to 20 miles of range (depending on your boat). The Torqueedo is perfect for a small motorboat—it only makes 33 dB of noise and weighs less than 40 pounds. What’s more, you can extend the battery life by charging it with a solar panel while you are boating.

Yamaha XTO Offshore Motors

Because some modern center console boats stretch well beyond 50 feet, Yamaha has built an engine designed for these types of boats: the 425 horsepower XTO Offshore . This is a 5.6-liter V8 with direct fuel injection. It also features integrated power steering, and it can weigh up to 1000 pounds. According to Yamaha’s performance report, four of these motors on the back of a 41-foot Regulator center console will allow it to reach a speed of almost 65 mph.

Suzuki DF350A Motors

Although Suzuki is better known as a mainstream value brand, the new DF350A motor shows that they are trying to get into the high-horsepower game. The DF350A is a big 4.4-liter naturally aspirated V6, which uses two counter-rotating propellers to increase hookup and negate torque effects. This can be important and economical for single-engine boats. For example, on a Sea Pro 239, the DFA350A pushed the boat to 54 mph and got 3.35 mpg while cruising in the high 20s. Quad 350s pushed an aluminum Gaudet 38 to 65.8 mph. So, the DF350A offers a lot of horsepower for the price. While the MSRP is $31,565, it is possible to get slightly used DF350As for much less than that.

Hangkai 6.5HP Outboard Motors

These are some of the best motors you can buy because they are powerful yet fuel-efficient. The 6.5 Hp 4 stroke engine is well-designed with an ergonomic handle and a comfortable grip, which helps you carry it easily, especially because it is relatively light. It can power a boat carrying a load of 4 people, but the boat will go faster when fewer people are onboard. The motor has a 12-liter gas tank that uses pure gasoline. It has a pump impeller with a start rope and start key for easy ignition. It also features a water cooling system to prevent overheating.

Sea Dog Water Sports Motor

If you want a boat primarily for maneuvering through narrow areas and for towing people, then this Sea Dog motor will provide all the necessary power you need. It is a 2 stroke outboard engine with 2.5 horsepower, enough to power a small motorboat. It has a 1.2-liter fuel capacity , and it uses gasoline and oil mixed at a ratio of 25:1. It is air-cooled and has an economical, compact design that makes it easy to carry around. It has a CDI ignition system as well as a recoil (manual) start system. Its idling speed is 3,000 rpm, and the propeller’s diameter is only 18cm, which allows it to run quietly with minimal noise.

Make the Most of your Motorboat Rental!

Just like the car industry, the boating industry is full of all kinds of motor manufacturers that compete to build and sell the best motors for their market. When it comes to selecting a motor, it all depends on the kind of motorboat you might be buying. Big brand names like Mercury, Yamaha, Evinrude, and Suzuki have dominated the industry for decades, but now we are starting to see companies like Hangkai making a splash. It is a great idea to rent a motorboat through Boatsetter and do the research and try out all of these brands by seeing how they look on the back of a boat at some of the country’s biggest boat shows .

If you are considering these types of motors for a boat you might want to purchase, it is a good idea to rent a motorboat through Boatsetter so that you can try out some of your options before you buy your boat. Also, remember that the costs of owning a boat can be higher than you might expect. You will need to factor in some other aspects of boat ownership: storage, boat insurance , maintenance, and all of the various licenses you might need. Boatsetter offers a unique service that matches boat owners with potential renters. Be sure to take advantage of our services today! If you browse through our impressive fleet , you will be sure to find a wide range of boats near you that will greatly exceed your motorboat expectations!

Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent  a boat,  list  your boat, or become a  Boatsetter captain  today.

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What are the best boat motor brands

• boat engines

There are many brands of boat motors and you wonder which is the best for your watercraft. Are there brands to choose between two boat engines at the same price? Is there a brand that stands out to decide between identical outboard motors? This guide answers all your questions about best boat motor brands . It explains which brand of boat engine to choose according to your boat. Indeed, if you have a sailboat tender, the engine brand to choose will not be the same as for a semi-rigid inflatable boat. You will also find in this article information on the best boat engine brands according to the type of engine: gasoline outboard engines, inboard engines , marine electric motors, diesel boat engines, or even two-stroke or four-stroke boat engines.

Which type of engine is best suited for your boat?

Before choosing the brand of your boat engine, you need to know what type of engine is most suitable for your boat.

The gasoline outboard motor is the most common on boats up to 7m. This motor is favored over inboard motors or pod drives which are often reserved for larger boats.

 In addition, the gasoline outboard motor adapts to any What kind of boat : whether it is an open hull, a speedboat, a semi-rigid inflatable boat, a sailboat tender or a fishing boat.

Finally, its versatility makes it the ideal choice for all types of navigation. It will be suitable for outings at sea as well as on freshwater areas such as lakes or rivers. It will only be enough to adapt the power of the engine to the currents of your navigation area.

Be aware, however, that there are two exceptions. Indeed, some boat owners prefer to install a stern drive or an electric boat motor. (we explain everything to you in the next chapter)

Finally, if your boat is over 7m long, then we recommend installing an inboard diesel engine. As the boat is no longer transportable beyond 7m, the advantages of the outboard motor disappear. Suddenly, inboard diesel engines become the most economical, the safest and above all they have better seakeeping.

Under what circumstances is a sterndrive engine recommended for a boat?

Boats under 7m in length that do not choose an outboard motor install almost all a semi-outboard engine. We do not recommend this choice because the advantages of the outboard are always greater than the gains generated by the stern drive. The main strength of sterndrives comes from their propeller which is perfectly aligned with the boat. This is due to the combination of an inboard motor and a gear case like on an outboard.

Why choose an electric motor on a boat?

Before buying a gasoline outboard motor for your boat, find out about the legislation in force in your boating area. Indeed, some areas such as natural parks are protected and it is forbidden to use gasoline or diesel boat engines. Other reserves prohibit heat engines for more or less long periods that coincide with the breeding cycles of the animals so as not to disturb the fauna.

In these circumstances, the choosing an electric boat motor is to be considered. However, you should know that electric outboard motors are not recommended for boats over 4m. They are even generally used for boats of less than 3 meters...

Indeed, despite all their advantages (silent, vibration-free, environmentally friendly, light, etc.), electric outboard motors today are still not powerful enough to meet the needs of a boat over 4m long. .

In addition, electric boat motors are much more expensive and have very limited battery life, which limits boating time.

It should therefore be noted that a electric motor on a boat should not be used if:

• your boat is over 3-4m long
• you are looking for speed,
• you navigate in areas with strong currents,
• you have to travel long distance.

In summary, if your navigation area does not prohibit internal combustion engines, choose a gasoline outboard motor for your boat instead!

What is the best engine brand for a boat?

There is no classification of best boat motor brands. Quite simply because all the big brands are equal. They all offer excellent engines and warranties of at least 3 years.

NB: if the budget is your first criterion, you should know that all brands of nautical engine are equal in terms of fuel consumption (for an identical type of engine).

• For two-stroke outboard motors, the brands Evinrude, Mercury, Selva, Tohatsu, Nissan and Yamaha. 
• For four-stroke outboards, you can trust Johnson, Honda, and Suzuki brands.
• For inboard engines, you will find the brands Nanni, Volvo and Yanmar.
• For electric boat motors, there is the leader Torqeedo but also the brands Minn Kota and Motorguide.
• For semi-outboard motors, the brands Ilmor, Mercruiser and Volvo Penta are references.

However, for a boat of 7m or less, we recommend Mercury two-stroke gasoline outboards. They have a 5-year warranty and are the most common. Their popularity is a strength because they not only have a very wide range but above all an after-sales service accessible almost anywhere in the world.

• See a selection of outboard motors

Conclusion: What are the best boat motor brands?

Alors what are the best boat motor brands?

As all established brands are the same, the number one criterion for choosing a boat engine is the ease of engine maintenance and quick access to spare parts.

This is all the more important as the marine engines must pass a technical inspection every year to maintain the manufacturer's warranty. Plus, you don't want to wait months for your mechanic to receive a part if your outboard motor fails...

So if you sail close to a workshop that does not service Mercury boat engines (it is very rare but possible), then favor the favorite brand of this marine mechanic (Evinrude, Selva, Tohatsu, Nissan or Yamaha for two-stroke gasoline outboard engines).

Depending on the country, some brands are more present than others. It is therefore necessary to inquire in your port to find out which brands of marine engines have a maintenance network nearby.

Finally, if you are looking for cheap boat motors , you can look for used boat engines on sites like ebay . There are some real good deals from time to time! But it will absolutely be necessary to ask for the report of an independent marine mechanic to be sure that it is in good condition.

Learn more about boat motors:

Which boat engine consumes the least?

GUIDE: Choosing a gasoline or diesel boat engine?

What gasoline to use for a boat engine?

You will also like :

GUIDE – Cavitating outboard motor: causes and solutions

GUIDE Outboard motor that vents: causes and solutions

These 25 Motorcycle Brands Are the Best in the World

Whether you’re a veteran motorcycle enthusiast or new to the world of motorcycles, you’ve probably heard of or come across different brands of motorcycles. Each brand is unique in reliability, level of comfort, and overall bike quality.

Knowing which brand delivers the best quality bikes is thus an important consideration when shopping for either a used or new motorcycle.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best motorbike brands in the world today that you can count on. Some are obvious brands you’ve likely come across, while others are less-known brands with impressive specs that’ll draw your attention.

But first, let’s discuss things you should consider before deciding on a motorcycle brand.

What to Consider Before Deciding on a Motorcycle Brand

Brand plays a significant role when shopping for a motorcycle or any product. It offers comfort and satisfaction and gives you peace of mind, especially if the product consistently delivers a positive experience.

Below are essential points to remember before settling on a motorcycle brand.

Engine Performance

Engine performance varies by design and capacity. For instance, inline-6 engines are larger, more powerful, and have less vibration than inline-4 engines. Plus, bikes with larger engines—350 to 500cc are generally more stable than their low-capacity counterparts.

Motorcycle brands like Honda are generally famous for their outstanding engine performance regardless of size. Research engine performances, including durability from different brands, before buying.

Parts and Accessories

Spending an entire week or month looking for a motorcycle part or service station can be stressful. It can be worse if you depend on the bike as the primary means of transport. Unfortunately, that’s the case for some motorcycle brands.

Some may be due to a global shortage of manufacturing materials, like the recent shortage of microchips . Others are due to a limited number of bikes of a particular motorcycle brand on the market.

On the other hand, some people want a motorcycle brand they can customize to match their personality, style, and riding needs. Such accessories may include a custom exhaust, a windscreen, a backrest, or a saddlebag.

Most motorcycles, especially top brands, have easily accessible parts and are easy to customize. Choose your ideal brand depending on how you intend to use the bike, including personal style.

Also, consider the long-term budget, like the bike mileage and how frequently you may need to replace specific parts. Some motorcycle brands have more durable parts than others.

Some motorcycle brands are famous for their raised designs, while others are more laid back. For instance, Suzuki is the most popular brand that produces dirt bikes. These bikes are famous for their raised seats.

On the other hand, Harley-Davidson is known more for manufacturing low-seat motorcycles.  

However, that should not be a minor determinant since Honda has both the high-seat design and the Grom, which tends to be lower. Go for a brand that’s well-known for a specific design.

Of course, you should also consider how you intend to use the bike. Dirt bikes are more raised, making them specifically suitable for off-road riding. Cruisers from Harley are more comfortable, making them an ideal choice for touring.

Remember, you can always find different bike sizes within the same brand. What matters is your body size and a bike that feels comfortable when you hit the road.

Top 10 Motorcycle Brands in the World

Motorcycles come in many different brands. Each differs in the level of workmanship and, in some instances, construction materials. Here we look at the top ten reliable motorcycle brands available today. (I haven’t listed these motorcycle brands ranked in any specific order.)

Honda is one of the most inspiring motorcycle brands ever in the world of motorcycles. Founded around 1949 as the sole manufacturer of piston rings, Honda has evolved to become a major manufacturer of luxury motorcycle brands around the globe.

Today, the Japanese company produces all motorcycle varieties, automobiles, and power tools sold worldwide.

Honda boasts more than 400,000,000 million motorcycle productions since 1949. The company has outsold all other major motorcycle brands ever to exist. Honda has its headquarters in Minato, Tokyo, Japan, with different wings distributed globally.

Honda Activa 5G and Honda Shine are the most popular models from Honda that you may want to check out. 

Triumph may not be as famous on a global scale as other brands on this list, yet it remains one of the most cherished bikes by motorcycle enthusiasts. Founded in 1983 in the UK by John Bloor, Triumph made its first motorized motorcycle in 1902.

Many motorcycle enthusiasts love Triumphs’ modern-day styling that features a long wheelbase, muscular fuel tank, and beefy suspension. The bikes are comfortable and with a rich heritage from their country of origin.

The company previously underwent rough financial struggles and receiverships before its breakthrough into the motorcycle industry.

Triumph Motorcycle Ltd has its headquarters in Hinckley, Leicestershire, England, where it has produced its motorcycles and clothing, and motorcycle parts.   

The company has maintained its legacy as the most dominant and trusted bike manufacturer in the UK for decades. Triumph is 100% UK-owned and produces more than 130,000 motorcycles each year.

Rocket III and Street Triple are some of the best Triumph motorcycle model lines today.

Yamaha comes top among the most trusted brands in the world of motorcycling. The brand was established in 1954 by Genichi Kawakami.

Their famous motto, “If you are going to make it, make it the very best there is”, stamps the brand’s determination to produce the most reliable motorcycles possible.

Yamaha’s first model—the YA-1, debuted in 1955. The bike participated in a Japanese motorcycle road race the same year and won positions one, two, and three.

The bike drew international attention, and by 1960, Yamaha had become an international motorcycle sensation exporting its bikes to the US and other parts of the world.

The brand is famous for on and off-road sporting cyclists. Yamaha bikes are more aligned to fun and off-road adventures than long-distance applications.

Yamaha is active in all major riding sectors, including electric, motocross, enduro, and trail. The company boasts more motorcycle sales since its inauguration in 1955, only second after the giant Honda.

Yamaha YZF-R1M and Yamaha 2022 YZF-R6 GYTR  are today’s most famous Yamaha bike brands.

4. Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle brand founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1903. William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, and Walter Davidson built the first engine they tried on a regular bike.

Unfortunately, the invention was not so successful at the first attempt forcing the three brothers to retreat to the drawing board.

The brothers didn’t give up and embarked on a further modification of the now popular vintage appeal of the modern Harleys we see today.

The American motorcycle brand is famous for its revolutionary engine and durable, easy-to-find parts.

Initially, Harley marketed their heavyweight cruiser motorcycles with more than 700cc before expanding their offerings to contemporary and idle-weight motorcycle brands.

The company headquarters remain in the founding Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but with other manufacturing operations in York, Pennsylvania, Bawal, India, Pluak Daeng, Thailand, and Manaus, Brazil.

The cruiser model, famously associated with the traveling American rider, is the most common Harley bike. The company manufactures other bike varieties, including sports bikes and dirt bikes.  

Maisto Harley Motorcycle and Fat Boy are the most popular cruisers from Harley. 

Suzuki is no new name in the motorcycle industry. The Japanese company is one of the leading motorbike manufacturing companies founded in 1909 in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, by Michio Suzuki. 

Suzuki is famous for manufacturing both Suzuki cars and dirt Suzuki motorcycles. However, it’s noteworthy that the company produced motorcycles first.

Suzuki’s first motorcycle was in 1952, while its first vehicle came in 1955. Today, Suzuki is famous for its road racers and off-road bikes that have acclaimed many accolades over the years.

The company also produces some of the most renowned street bikes, including the cruiser Boulevard series and the legendary GSX-R series sports bikes.

Hayabusa is one of the fastest Suzuki bike models with a staggering speed of up to 310 km/h, thanks to its 1340cc engine. Clymer Suzuki DR250-350 is yet another high-performance off-road bike from Suzuki manufacturers that you may want to check out.

Bavarian Motor Group (BMW) is a well-known brand producing premium cars. Although their bikes are not so popular, BMW manufactures top-of-the-range motorcycles on the market today.

Founded in 1916 in Munich, Germany, BMW initially specialized in manufacturing airplane engines used in World War I.

BMW produced the first M2B15 flat-twin petrol engine in 1920. This was the genesis of the BMW motorcycles, solely focused on releasing high-performance motorcycles for use during wars. Their first flat-engine motorcycle debuted in 1923.

A series of premium BMW motorcycles, including Roadster, Heritage, Touring, sports, and Adventure motorcycles, followed until the end of World War II when their operations slowed down.

Although the company has struggled with its comeback, it has lately recorded a significant increase in its total annual motorbike sales . 

Many people love BMW bikes due to the quality materials used in constructing all their automobiles. Their motorcycles still feature the flat-twin boxer engine design used in their first motorcycles more than 100 years ago.    

BMW R 1250 R and BMW S1000 RR (2021) are some of the most popular brands from BMW bike manufacturers.

7. Kawasaki

Kawasaki is among the most respected high-performance motorcycle brands to ever exist in Japan. Their bikes are now spread all over the world. Founded a little earlier in the late 80s by one Kawasaki Shozo, the first mass production of Kawasaki bikes was in 1953.

Kawasaki produces all the major motorcycles, including Dual sports, off-road, street bikes, adventure, and Motocross motorcycles. The company also manufactures recreation vehicles, aircraft, and water boats.

Kawasaki bikes stand out for their high performance, dependability, and attractive green color in all their models.

The giant Japanese motorcycle manufacturer uses pure silver in their popular Ninja brands, making them more elegant and durable. The bikes are also fun to ride on long road trips with friends, thus their famous slogan, “let the good times roll. ”

Despite being a famous brand in Japan during the early days, Kawasaki quickly gained international recognition, leading to the establishment of a major production wing in Chicago, USA.

Some of the most popular Kawasaki motorcycle brands you’ll find on the market today include Kawasaki Ninja H2 R and Kawasaki Z900 .

Ducati is a popular brand among motorcycle racing enthusiasts. The company manufactures bikes for non-racers too. 

The iconic Italian motorcycle brand was founded by Antonio Cavalieri Ducati in 1926 with his sons—Bruno, Marcello, and Adriano, in Bologna.

The company initially sold vacuum tubes before venturing into the manufacture of engines in 1944. Fast-forward, Ducati started manufacturing different types of bikes, including:

• Hypermotard
• Multistrada

The Cucciolo was Ducati’s first motorcycle. The bike propelled Ducati to fame after featuring in many racing competitions around 1951.

Although Ducati manufactures some of Italy’s most elegant and high-performance motorcycles today, some users complain about their high price tag.

The company is a subsidiary of the Ducati firm and is owned by Volkswagen Group through its affiliates—Audi and Lamborghini. Ducati’s headquarters lie in Bologna Panigale, Italy, to date.

Ducati Panigale 4V and Diavel 1260 are Ducati’s two most popular motorcycle brands.

KTM is the least-known motorcycle brand on this list and has one of the most humble beginnings.

KTM started as an auto repair shop in Mattighofen, Austria , in the 1930s. The official launch of KTM was in 1957 by the founder, Hans Trunkenpolz, who was also an engineer.

The company previously operated under the name KTM Sportmotorcycle AG before going bankrupt in 1991 and rebranding in 1992 to KTM under the new acquisition.

KTM has maintained back-to-back production of off-road motorcycles ranging from Enduro, Cross-country, and Motocross.

The Street bike segment from KTM includes Adventure, Sports, Supersports, Superbikes, and Super motors.  KTM motorcycles are particularly famous for their high-performance engine and ready-to-race build.

KTM currently has its headquarters in Mattighofen, Austria, under Stefan Pierer as the CEO.

Today’s most popular KTM motorcycle brands include KTM RC 390 and KTM 1290 Super Duke .

10. Aprilia

Like KTM, Aprillia is not as popular among cyclists as other motorcycles in this list. However, the brand remains one of the most trusted in the motorcycle industry across the globe and particularly in Italy.      

The company produced bicycles in its early years before moving to motorcycle manufacturing. The brand started by manufacturing scooters before entering the standard motorcycle market.

Although Aprilia produces a wide variety of motorcycles, the brand enjoys wide followership from sports and racing enthusiasts. Aprilia manufactures some of the most renowned road-racing motorcycles with more than 1000cc power output.

Aprilia caters to motorcycle enthusiasts who love speed. The bike may not be your ideal choice for a whole day of riding, but you can count on it to get you to your destination within the shortest time possible.

You may want to check out the Aprilia Tuono 660 and Aprilia RS 660 —the two most popular brands from Aprilia bike manufacturers.

The Best Motorcycle Brands for Beginners and Pros

Motorcycles come in different brands and designs. They differ in performance, ergonomics, and application. Some bikes are more comfortable for long-distance riding and easy to control than others.

Depending on the experience level, knowing what suits you is crucial for your safety and a better riding experience. Here is a detailed look (not in any specific order) at the best bikes for beginners and pros.

11. Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield offers more of an adventurous and relaxed feel. The Indian motorcycle brand was founded in 1955 and, to date, has its major manufacturing plant in Chennai—the company’s headquarters.

Royal Enfield is famous as one of the oldest Indian and global motorcycle brands that have maintained their heritage and continuous production.

Royal Enfield bikes were first produced in the UK before their partnership with India’s Madras Motors later in 1955.   The Interceptor 750 was the fastest Royal Enfield bike ever to exist. The motorcycle was produced while the company was still in the UK.

The brand has gained international recognition over the years. At some point, Royal Enfield outpaced industry veterans like the Harley in sales with their models like the Bullet 500.

The Interceptor and Scram 411 are the most popular brands you can buy today from Royal Enfield manufacturers.

12. Mahindra

Mahindra is a new name in the motorcycle manufacturing industry. Founded in 2008, the brand is barely a decade old but has made a name for itself as one of the most trusted brands among many beginner riders.

Before venturing into motorcycle production, the company was initially known for manufacturing farm implements and heavy-duty lawnmowers.

The Indian motorcycle brand is owned by Mahindra & Mahindra Limited and manufactures scooters and motorcycles. The company now distributes its bikes worldwide.

Mahindra Centuro and Mahindra Mojo are the two most popular motorcycles from Mahindra. 

Vespa is an Italian term that means wasp .  Enrico Piaggio, the founder of the motorized scooter, named it after he saw the first bike with a closely-related design in 1944.

Enrico was the son of the original Vespa founder—Rinaldo Piaggio. Vespa has undergone multiple modifications since its debut in the 1940s’.

However, the scooter maintained its wasp shape to what it looked like when it first introduced the first Vespa, MP5 Paperino, in 1945.

The Piaggio Group of Companies manufactures more than Vespa scooters. Other motorized designs include Gilera, Moto Guzzi, Aprilia, and Scarabeo.

Today Vespa is available in different designs and options, including electric, manual, and CVT. The modern Vespa electric scooters are more powerful and can cruise a whooping 100km on a single charge.

Vespa scooters are famous for the pressed steel unibody that combines the unified structural unit with an enclosed engine to protect it from dirt. The scooter has a flat floorboard for the footrest and a prominent fore fairing to shield you from the wind.

The company has its headquarters in Pontedera, Tuscany, Italy, where major manufacturing occurs.

Beta is an Italian brand that majors in off-road motorcycle manufacturing. Like many motorcycle manufacturers, the brand has a humble beginning as a producer of bicycles before upgrading to motorbikes.

The company manufactured push bicycles between 1904 and 1948 when it produced the first motorized bike. Since then, the company has experimented and succeeded with various on and off-road bikes and engines.

Beta bikes have also featured engines from industry giants like KTM and Suzuki DR. Beta Trial bikes such as the Evo 80 Senior are among the world’s most competitive mountain-climbing bikes, with all engines built in-house.

Although most Beta Enduro motorbikes manufactured between 2004 and 2009 feature KTM engines, Beta is now making most of its Enduro bikes with Beta engines.

You can never go wrong with a Beta if you love dirt bikes. These bikes have all the features that make a great mountain and off-road dirt bike, including:

• Electric starting
• Hydraulic clutch
• Oil injection

Most Beta bikes are also relatively easy to maintain compared to other motorcycles in the same category.

RR RACING 2T 125 and XTRAINER 250 are some of the best and most popular offerings from Beta.

Hero is arguably the largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturer in India and the second largest worldwide. Hero makes about 46% of all motorcycles and scooters in India.   

The company focuses on making affordable motorcycles and scooters for every Indian household. The bike is easy to maintain, reliable, and with an impressive fuel consumption rate.

Founded in 1984 by Brijmohan Lall Munja, today Hero has its headquarters in New Delhi, where most manufacturing takes place. 

Hero initially partnered with Honda and worked under the name Hero Honda before parting ways in 2011 to adopt its name Hero Motocorp.  

The company recently announced its plans to venture into adventure touring bike productions, where it plans to make 300cc and 400cc motorcycles.

Until then, Xpulse 200 and Hunter 150 remain the most popular Hero motorcycles available today.

16. SYM Motors

SYM Motors is an Asian motorcycle brand not so popular among many riders globally. The brand was founded in Taipei, Taiwan, in 1954.

SYM Motors specializes in the manufacture of motorcycles and scooters. Although the primary production of SYM motorized bikes occurs in Taiwan, the company also has plants in China and Vietnam.  

Since its inception, the company has sold more than 16 million motorcycles and scooters and earns more than $1 billion in revenue yearly.

SYM Motors may not be your high-performance machine, but they are reliable and are also loved for their beauty. It’s one of the best beginner motorcycles with a comfortable seat, spacious under-seat storage, and an effective digital dash.

SYM NH and Joyride 300 and some of the most popular bikes from SYM Motors.

Bajaj is among the leaders of motorcycle sales in India after Hero. It’s also the world’s biggest maker of motorized three-wheelers. It’s an economical motorcycle brand with a great focus on mileage performance and styling.

Bajaj produced its first motorcycle in 1986. Since then, the company has produced almost all types of bikes in the motorcycle touring segment.

Bajaj motorcycles are attractive, economical, and low maintenance, making them the best choice for beginner motorcycle riders.

The bike became more popular in Asian countries after launching an air-cooled 150cc/180cc Pulsar that mainly targeted the youth. The Pulsar had an outstanding performance only comparable to the then-dominant Hero Honda CBZ.

To date, Pulsar NS 125 and Pulsar NS200 remain the most popular bikes from Bajaj.

TVS is a familiar name in the motorcycle industry. It’s the third largest Indian motorcycle company after Hero and Bajaj. The name TVS is coined from the founder’s name Thirukkurungudi Vengaram Sundram Iyengar.

Founded in 1978, the now multi-million company has produced high-quality motorized bikes for more than five decades now.

TVS produces various motorized bikes, including scooters, motorcycles, mopeds, and three-wheelers.

In 2002, TVS won the Deming Application Prize —one of the major TQM awards given to key players and contributors in Total Quality Management.

Apart from the DAP award, TVS recently won the Outstanding Design Excellence Award (ODEA) from the National Institute of Design in India and Business World Magazine.

TVS’ star HLS 100cc was also recognized during the Feed the World grand tour for its outstanding performance and durability.

TVS is especially famous for its affordability and fuel economy.

Apache RR 310 and TVS Radeon are currently the most popular bikes from TVS.

Bimota is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1973. The name Bimota is derived from the founders’ first two surname initials—Bianchi, Morri, and Tamburini.

Tamburini was a chief-designed who played an essential role in developing the high-quality Bimota motorcycle chassis. He also contributed to other design works for Italian bikes, such as Ducati 916 and Ducati Passo.

Bimotas’ major international recognition was in 1980 in a moto racing competition. John Ekerold won the world championship using a Yamaha-powered Bimota.

The company thrived but unfortunately suffered major financial setbacks from the late 1990s until the early 2000s. However, the rebirth under new owners was even stronger. 

Bimota now produces some of Italy’s most exclusive and high-quality motorcycles today.

Tesi H2 and KB4 are the two most renowned motorcycle models from Bimota.

20. MV Agusta

MV Agusta is another iconic Italian motorcycle brand produced in Milan in Cascina Costa in 1945. The motorcycle brand is a branch of the Agusta aircraft company.

The MV in the brands’ names denotes Meccanica Verghera, the hamlet where the first MVs were produced.

MV Agusta pays close attention to its motorcycle-manufacturing process to ensure they give the best riding experience to the brand loyalists. Their bikes feature a mixed combination of hand and advanced technology construction. 

The final product guarantees quality, care, and a personal human touch, making it see the light of day as one of the top 20 motorcycle brands in the world.

Brutale and Dragster are the most popular motorcycles from MV Agusta. 

Norton is an older company founded in 1898 as a parts and accessories store. The company was founded in Birmingham, England, by James Lansdowne Norton. The first motorcycle by Norton manufacturers was in 1902.

Some of the most acclaimed motorcycles from Norton over its years of operations include Dominator, Commander, Interpol 2, Commando 961 Sport MKII, and Classic.

Norton bikes combine a unique mix of craftsmanship, innovation, and leading industry technology to offer reliable bikes that give the rider the best experience possible.

V4SV and V4CR are the most popular Norton motorcycles today. 

22. Moto Guzzi

Moto Guzzi is an Italian motorcycle company founded in 1921 in Mandello del Lario town, Lecco province. It’s one of the oldest manufacturers of magnificent and stunning European motorcycles to date.

Moto Guzzi boasts a 90° V engine—the brand’s best-selling of all time. The company has used the same framework until now to design its V7 range motorcycles.

The production shot up tremendously in 2004 after partnering with the Piaggio group. The following year—in 2005, Moto Guzzi launched a series of high-end motorcycles, including the 1200 Sports, Griso 1100, and Breva.

Moto Guzzi has affordable, genuine, and easily accessible parts all over Italy and in most online shops. Many users are satisfied with Moto Guzzi’s tough construction that won’t total easily during a crash.

Moto Guzzi bike models have incredible sounds and plenty of torque. You won’t fail to notice if one is around.

V85 TT MY21 and  V9 MY21 are popular motorcycles from Moto Guzzi.

23. Benelli

Benelli is an Italian motorcycle brand and one of the oldest in the world’s history of motorcycle manufacturing. The history of Benelli dates back to 1911, in Pesaro, Italy, the founding city. Benelli was founded by Teresa Boni Benelli and her children.

Teresa had lost her husband and invested the family capital in motorcycle manufacturing to support her six sons. She even sent two of her sons to Switzerland to study engineering.

The company was already operating as a motorcycle and bicycle repair shop in Italy. During that time, they also made and sold spare parts. The first complete Benelli engine was built in 1920. The first motorcycle by Benelli came out in 1921.

In 2005, the company was acquired by a Chinese company, Geely Holding Group, operating under Qianjiang Motorcycles. All Benelli marketing activities now occur in Italy, while production occurs in China.

Benelli motorbikes are famous for producing commendable, high-quality engines for maximum pleasure and riding experience. Many people who buy Benelli motorcycles admit their fuel efficiency, outstanding engine performance, and excellent gearbox.  

With the synergy between China and Italy, Benelli lovers can look forward to more sophisticated motorcycle variants across different riding segments.

The brand currently offers a wide range of motorcycle models from 135cc to 300cc, 500cc, 600cc four-cylinder, and 750cc twin-cylinder.

Leoncino 500 and TRK 502 are the most popular Benelli motorcycle models. 

24. Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle is the closest ’rival’ of Harley-Davidson . Although the bike has undergone many modifications over the years, you can trust an Indian for the best cruiser motorcycle on the market today. It’s a little heavier than the Harley, yet so comfortable.

Indian is an American motorcycle brand founded in 1901 in Springfield, Massachusetts, by George M. Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom. Some of the company’s bikes were once named the fastest and most comfortable American motorcycle brand.

At some point, the bike became so popular among Americans that many people were fascinated by the simple stamp of the brand’s iconic logo.

Indian Motorcycle has a wide offering, including cruisers, baggers, elite, standard, electric, and touring motorcycles. Many people are taken aback by the Indian signature style, innovative engineering, and performance-packed technology.

Many Indian lovers still prefer the original version of the bike to the newly rebranded version. The brand has undergone multiple receiverships after experiencing financial difficulties but still retains its heritage.

Today, the company’s headquarters are in Medina, Minnesota, the US, where most manufacturing takes place, but it distributes its bikes worldwide.

The Roadmaster and Chieftain are the two most popular motorcycles among Indian lovers. 

25. Victory

Victory is an iconic American motorcycle brand that was founded in 1997. Victory almost toppled the then-dominant Harley-Davidson from the American market but unfortunately closed its doors in 2017 after struggles with market share and limited profitability.

The success of Harleys informed the introduction of Victory bikes by Polaris. Victory’s first motorcycle—the V92C, was in 1997 but began selling officially in 1998.

The brand focused more on performance in all its bikes, with major competitors being sport-touring and cruiser motorcycle versions. Many people who love speed would agree Victory offered nothing less than that.

Although the company no longer produces Victory bikes, you’ll still spot Victory motorcycles on the US streets.

All the motorcycles on this list have a different story. Each is also unique in how they offer customer experience.

However, choosing the right motorcycle is more of a personal choice than the brand itself. Consider how you intend to use the bike, your experience level, and the aesthetics you want in a bike.

For instance, Suzuki, Aprilia, or KTM would be the best choice for motorcycle racing enthusiasts than most brands in this list. Think Ducati or BMW for a luxurious experience.

Otherwise, Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycle, among other bikes on the list, are your go-to types of motorcycle if you’re into standard, classic motorcycles.

People Also Ask

Choosing the right motorcycle from hundreds of available types and designs takes work. I’ll answer the top three questions many people ask about motorcycles.

What Is the Most Reliable Brand of Motorcycle?

Each motorcycle brand on the market claims to have the most reliable bikes. However, according to many surveys carried out among riders, Honda is the most reliable and trusted motorcycle brand, followed closely by Yamaha and Suzuki.

Is Kawasaki Better Than Yamaha?

You can never go wrong with either Kawasaki or Yamaha. Both are popular motorcycle brands and big players in the industry. However, what makes you choose one over the other may depend on what you want on a bike.

While Kawasaki bikes are known for their performance-approach designs, Yamaha emphasizes value for the money more.

How Long Do Motorcycles Last? 

An adequately maintained motorcycle can last up to 100,000 miles or even a lifetime if you keep it as a classic. A motorcycle’s longevity depends more on how you maintain it. Most motorcycle brands are known for their durable and reliable construction materials.

Hi Friends! Welcome to Motorcycle Exploits. I'm Alex! If you ever had any personal hindrances or doubts about your abilities to ride a motorcycle, then you are in the right place, Mate! My desire is to help you overcome any fears and other personal struggles you have so that you, too, can celebrate your EXPLOITS!

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8 Of The Best Motor Oil Brands For Turbo Engines

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Turbocharged engines are nothing new — the systems have been around since the late 1800s, first applied to airplane engines and eventually to passenger vehicles in the '60s and '70s. The idea is pretty simple: the unit is connected to the engine at the exhaust manifold. Exhaust gasses spin a turbine, pulling air through the intake and then moving it into the engine's combustion chambers. More air in the chamber requires more fuel to be injected to maintain the proper ratio, and that increase results in more power being produced. The result is an improvement in both fuel efficiency (during normal driving conditions) and horsepower.

A side effect of this added power is a massive amount of added heat. The average vehicle hits redline at about 6000 rpm; by comparison, a turbo can spin closer to 300,000 rpm. The exhaust gasses spinning the turbo can get over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and this combination of obscene speed and excessive temperatures can result in damage to the turbo if it's not properly lubricated. While intercoolers and oil coolers help, it's ultimately the job of engine oil to keep everything running smoothly.

Fortunately, several oil manufacturers make a point to test their full synthetic lubricant options specifically to combat turbo coking and overheating. Here are some of the best.

Read more: How To Clean Your Car's Engine Bay: A Step-By-Step Guide

AMSOIL is notable in that it makes a point to educate its customers. The independent American company's blog is informative and focuses on several issues common to newer vehicles, including low-speed pre-ignition, a kind of engine knock that occurs in turbocharged GDI engines. LSPI is a premature explosion that is believed to be a result of ultra-hot droplets of oil or fuel getting into combustion chambers, and the force of that explosion on a piston moving in the opposite direction can result in damage or destruction of the pistons or rods. Those droplets get in there because of little deposits that can be prevented using quality oils — AMSOIL acknowledges this science and shares test results of its products on its website as well.

LSPI is an industry-wide concern, and General Motors led the charge in manufacturers demanding better performance from its oils, requiring lubricants to pass its own LSPI testing to attain GM Dexos branding. Turbo engines benefit from AMSOIL's Signature Series synthetic oils . Tests show that AMSOIL's products protect 72% better than the requirements set forth by GM Dexos 1 and 2. As recently as 2022, GM introduced Dexos R specs specifically for engines in its Camaros and Corvettes — AMSOIL's Signature Series already surpassed those performance requirements as well.

A large brand that's been around since 1899, Castrol has long been a player in the oil game. However, it's the company's newer additions to its lineup, like Castrol Edge, that lean into solving the issues that turbocharged engines can present. Smaller engines that output more power, like a turbocharged four-cylinder, require lubricants that can withstand incredibly high temperatures. Castrol's tests on its full synthetic Edge oils show six times better wear protection and 10 times better high-temperature performance when measured against API standards.

The list of industry standards that Castrol Edge meets or exceeds is impressive, as well. API SP/SN PLUS/SN, ILSAC GF-6, GM Dexos 1 Gen 3, Ford, and Chrysler standards are among the 11 benchmarks the Castrol synthetic 5w30 surpasses. With such a wide variety of automakers' specifications met it's no wonder that many enthusiasts suggest Castrol for turbocharged engines, as it hits a balance between high performance and reasonable prices , even on its best synthetic oils.

Germany's most popular brand of motor oil is Liqui Moly, a company that got its start in 1957 making oil additives. It has since gone on to produce a wide range of motor oils, additives, and car care products. Its synthetic motor oils are highly rated on Amazon , and while the products are a little pricey, the performance is backed up by years of development, testing, reviews, and awards. Even the packaging is often praised by buyers due to the creative addition of a pour spout in the unique bottle design of most of its motor oils.

While most of Liqui Moly's oils have been tested to perform well in the extreme temperatures that turbocharged engines generate, the company does have a Low Friction Turbo option that it tested for use with catalytic converters as well as turbochargers. BMW forum users also have a high opinion of Liqui Moly, as the company has a great reputation among European motorists. Liqui Moly also produces an additive specifically  for new or repaired turbochargers , designed to stick to the surfaces of the turbo while engine oil hasn't yet had time to lubricate its bearings. While that's not a maintenance product like engine oil, it does highlight the focus Liqui Moly puts on turbochargers in its development labs.

The standard for high-quality motor oil, and at the top of many ranked lists, including SlashGear's synthetic oil ranking , is Mobil 1. Turbocharged engines also benefit from this over-engineered full synthetic oil, as evidenced by forum posts and the company's own research.

Mobil uses two tests to verify the performance of its lubricants in high-temperature turbocharged engines. One is their proprietary test, the Mobil Thin Film Oxidation test, which verifies the thermal stability of an oil. Those lubricants with lousy thermal stability will leave a residue that will build up in a turbocharger, blocking oil passages and eventually resulting in turbo failure.

The second test Mobil uses is the Honda Hot Tube test, a test made by the automaker and used industry-wide. That test measures an oil's resistance to deposit formation within a turbocharger, an important feature of turbo lubricants, as deposits can quickly lead to damage in that extremely hot environment. Mobil boasts that its Mobil 1 advanced full synthetic oils provide superior protection in both tests, making for a great option in turbocharged engines.

Mobil also is the first fill for many automakers who use turbocharged engines. Models that ship with Mobil 1 in their engines include the Nissan GT-R, Chevy Corvette, Porsche Boxster, and Aston Martin Vanquish, along with several McLarens, Mercedes, and Bentleys.

Born in 1979, Red Line got its start making lubricants for the racing industry. It's been expanding ever since, now boasting a line of more than 100 motor oils, additives, and lubricants. In that time, Red Line has never lost focus on its racing history, using what it learns on the track to aid in the development of many of its popular fluids.

Red Line is well known among racing enthusiasts for its high-performance products. That focus bleeds into the company's line of fully synthetic motor oils, with several of its motor oils specifically mentioning their popularity in turbocharged applications, as well as their ability to reduce low-speed pre-ignition. Red Line also notes that the Professional Series is designed to protect against turbocharger deposits.

Not all of Red Line's oils are for track days and drag strips, either. The company's line of Professional Series motor oils meet or exceed GM, Chrysler, and Ford recommendations while also resisting high-temp thermal breakdown. Amazon reviews are consistently high, and pricing falls into the middle range of the products offered on our list.

Royal Purple

Royal Purple is a fully synthetic motor oil brand that's been in business since 1986. It's generally regarded as a great motor oil, with a history of quality and a unique formulation of additives (and some purple dye) meant to increase the film strength of the product. While the company reports that its motor oil can improve fuel efficiency, extend oil change intervals, and increase power, readers of this list will find one stat particularly impressive — Royal Purple's film strength is up to 400% than others, important in protection against the high temperatures produced by turbochargers.

Royal Purple is a brand that brings strong opinions out of seasoned gearheads. That's mostly due to its premium pricing , but RP is a premium product with a 4.9-star average among over four thousand reviews on Amazon. Only available as a full synthetic, Royal Purple sports API/ILSAC oil license and GM Dexos 1 Gen 3 approval, meaning warranties won't be affected by its installation. More importantly, Royal Purple claims that the additives in its High Performance oils were designed to specifically address low-speed pre-ignition issues and maintain turbocharged engines.

As one of the largest oil companies in the world, Shell should be expected to show up on our list. Its motor oils are available practically everywhere, and the quality of the product is as well-regarded as its reasonable prices. But it is the company's focus on exceeding manufacturer requirements for turbocharged engines, as well as the versatility of its motor oil lineup, that earns Shell a recommendation from us.

Shell's Full Synthetic 5w30 meets manufacturer warranty requirements, and the company makes a point to mention that it's great for turbocharged engines, protecting against low-speed pre-ignition and thermal breakdown. Turbo-diesels benefit from T6's soot protection and acid control, as well. Forum-dwellers also frequently mention Shell's Rotella T6 for turbocharged diesel engines, citing great results in older Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. It's extremely well-rated on Amazon with over 10,000 reviews, and at under $24 a gallon, it's practically a steal.

Valvoline markets itself as the first motor oil, as it was the industry's first trademarked oil brand way back in 1866. It's the number three motor oil brand in the DIY market, and it also claims to be the only motor oil brand with a dedicated, certified engine lab. Needless to say, Valvoline has been in the game long enough to have learned a thing or two about adapting to the ever-changing needs of motorists across the country and around the world.

Valvoline's Extended Protection Full Synthetic is one of the newest additions to the company's lineup, replacing its Modern Engine line of oils. This new formula addresses several of the issues prevalent in turbocharged engines. Valvoline claims it's 10 times stronger against breakdown than industry standards and offers 50% better wear protection. The company's proprietary cocktail of additives provides additional protections against deposits and heat, and the 5w30 version meets or exceeds ILSAC GF-6A, GM Dexos 1 Gen 3, and API SP, SN with SN PLUS, and SN standards, as well as Ford and Chrysler's standards.

Thousands of positive ratings and reviews on Amazon, including nearly 2,000 on the Extended Protection oil, which averages 4.8 stars, show that customers have had a lot of great experiences with the nearly two-centuries-old company. And for those users looking for protection for their turbo diesels, forum users often suggest Valvoline's Premium Blue line.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

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The 5 best cordless vacuum cleaners for 2024

Ditch the heavy machines and get a lightweight, cordless stick vacuum instead..

The vacuum world has gone cordless, untethering us from outlets and saving us fights with pesky wires. Cordless vacuums can be great alternatives to traditional corded models since they’re lightweight and easier to maneuver around your home. They’ve also gotten much more powerful in recent years. Some even come with extra features like app connectivity, self-emptying bases and more. But just like the robot vacuum space, there are dozens of cordless vacuums to choose from now (no, Dyson isn’t your only option). Before you upgrade to a cordless vacuum it’s important to do your research. We at Engadget can help make your decision a bit easier. After testing a bunch of the most popular cordless vacuum cleaners available today, we’ve come up with our top picks, plus loads of buying advice to help you figure out which cordless stick vacuum is right for you.

Dyson V15 Detect

Best cordless vacuum overall, tineco pure one s15, runner up - best cordless vacuum overall, tineco pure one s11, best cordless vacuum on a budget, dyson v15 detect submarine, best cordless vacuum and mop, tineco pure one station furfree, honorable mention, factors to consider before buying a cordless vacuum, design and bin volume.

Most of the cordless vacuums you’ll find today have stick designs, with a handle at the top attached to a debris bin, which has a space to connect different attachments at one end. These designs are more versatile than old school vacuums of yesteryear because, while you may use the long stick attachment most of the time to clean your floors, many cordless vacuums come with other attachments as well. Some allow you to clean hard to reach spaces like the interior of your car, while others make it easier to vacuum furniture and clean inside crevices.

Bin volume is worth keeping in mind when you’re choosing a cordless vacuum. The larger the bin, the more debris it can hold, but it might also mean a heavier machine. All of the cordless vacuums we tested had a bin size between 0.1 and 0.8 gallons and all were able to handle cleaning an entire one-pet home (roughly 2,000 square feet) in a single run without needing to be emptied.

Some cordless vacuums also have removable, replaceable battery packs, which is super handy. That means you can buy a replacement battery and install it easily, without needing to seek out professional assistance. Also, these extra batteries cost around $150-$200 a pop — expensive, yes, but nowhere near as costly as buying a whole new cordless vacuum.

Suction and power modes

Cordless vacuum suction power is typically measured in air wattage (AW), but you’ll see some that list the power of the motor in wattage (W) instead. Typically the higher the air or motor wattage the stronger the suction power, and often strength is proportional to price — more expensive cordless vacuums tend to have stronger suction power. A general rule of thumb is that those with precocious pets or mess-making children would benefit from a cordless vacuum cleaner with stronger-than-average suction power.

Most cordless stick vacuums will have two different power modes: a “normal” or default power mode that balances suction power with battery life, as well as a “max” or stronger mode that kicks suction strength up a notch. Some vacuums, like those from Dyson, also have an “eco” mode, or one that prioritizes run time over strength.

Separate from power modes you can select yourself, some cordless vacuums will automatically adjust motor strength depending on the detected floor type or the amount of mess in its wake. Not only is this convenient, but it also ensures that the machine is working its hardest only when you need it.

Battery life

Obviously, battery life is important since you’ll probably want to clean more than one room in a shot. All of the cordless vacuums we tested had a battery life of at least 40 minutes in standard cleaning mode. I tested each by cleaning all three floors of my home (upstairs, downstairs and basement) on a single charge with the machine running in its standard (“auto”) mode and none of them ran out of juice before I could finish the third floor. That said, extra battery life can come in handy if you’re switching between power modes since “max” or high-power programs use more energy.

Most cordless stick vacuums come with some sort of base or mount where the machine lives when you’re not using it. Wall mounts are the most common, but some have free-standing bases where you dock and charge the vacuum. Consider the space in your home where you want the cordless vacuum to live, since it will have to have an outlet or another power source nearby.

Some high-end cordless vacuums come with self-emptying bases that act much like those included with expensive robot vacuums. After cleaning and returning the vacuum to the base, it will automatically empty the dustbin into a larger dustbin that you can then detach from the base when you need to empty it. This kind of base adds an extra layer of convenience into the mix, since you typically will only have to empty the larger dustbin every month or two.

“Smart” features

Yes, some cordless vacuums have “smart” features like Wi-Fi and app connectivity. But before we get into those, let’s talk about the extra perks scattered among these devices. Some models, like the latest from Dyson, include particle sensors that show you how many different sized pieces of debris it’s sucking up in real time. Dyson’s, for example, is a piezo acoustic sensor that detects particle size and frequency and displays that information on the vac’s LCD screen. Tineco’s iLoop sensor is similar, controlling its vacuums’ automatic suction power adjustment and changing a circle on the display from red to blue as you fully clean an area.

Higher-end cordless vacuums may also have companion apps that show things like battery level, filter status and cleaning logs. It’s an added level of convenience, but by no means necessary. Unlike robot vacuums, which rely on their apps to set cleaning schedules, manually control the machines and more, cordless vacuums that you operate yourself really don’t need Wi-Fi or an app connectivity.

Cordless stick vacuums range in price from $150 all the way up to over $1,000. The best ones for most people lie in the middle, in the $400 to $700 range. You’ll notice most of our picks land in the higher end of that range, but for good reason: More expensive machines tend to have more sucking power, which means less time wasted going over the same spots over and over. But does that mean everyone needs the most premium cordless vacuum? Definitely not. We’ve come up with top picks at various price points that should work well for people with different budgets, lifestyles, home sizes and more.

How we test cordless vacuums

Engadget doesn’t have a dedicated lab in which we can test cordless vacuums, but I used each model in my home for weeks. I ran them over hardwood and tile flooring, as well as low-pile carpet. And my first runthrough consisted of cleaning all three floors of my home on a single battery charge. I performed the same cleaning job as many times as possible, but also intermittently cleaned a single floor as needed, or sucked up isolated messes like crumbs, cat litter spills and tufts of pet fur. Over the course of many cleanings with each model, I made note of how loud the machine was, how easy it was to maneuver around my home, how easily it sucked up pieces of large debris (or if it pushed it around my floor instead) and if they got warm or hot.

Suction power: 240AW | Bin volume: 0.2 gallon | Battery life: 60 min | Weight: 6.83 pounds

The Dyson V15 Detect is just as impressive now as it was when it first came out in 2021 . It’s our top pick because it provides the best mix of features and its suction power is remarkable.

One thing that was immediately apparent during my testing was that Dyson machines just have superior suction, period. That’s not to say a cordless vacuum from another brand can’t get the job done, because they absolutely can. But even in auto mode, all of Dyson’s vacuums did a better job trapping even the smallest dust and debris.

The “Detect” in this model’s name refers in part to the laser “blade” on the Fluffy Optic cleaner head. It does a great job of illuminating floors to clearly show you where the mess really is, and that goes for large debris like food and granules of cat litter, as well as much smaller stuff like layers of dust on an untouched part of the floor. But it’s worth noting that this light is only present on the Fluffy Optic head, which is designed to work best on hard floors. The V15 Detect comes with a few other head attachments, including a Digital Motorbar head that automatically detangles hair from the brush bar as you clean. That’ll be better for all floor types, including carpet, but you won’t get the same illumination effect.

The V15 Detect also has a piezo acoustic sensor that recognizes the size and frequency of the particles it’s sucking up. It’ll show that information on the machine’s LCD display in a neat little bar graph. Is this information useful? Not particularly, but it’s satisfying to clock this while cleaning and see the bars increase and decrease as you move throughout your home. However, this is more of a neat perk than a killer feature; it’s not going to change the way you vacuum your home. But the piezo sensor is also involved in automatically adjusting the V15 Detect’s cyclone engine to better clean particularly dirty floors.

That automatic adjustment is separate from the machine’s three cleaning modes: Auto, Eco and Boost. I spent most of my time in Auto mode, every so often switching to Boost in rooms where I knew I needed a more thorough cleaning. Eco mode is convenient to have if you need to conserve battery life.

But the V15 Detect, like all of the other Dyson machines I tested, really stands out for its suction power. I rarely, if ever, had to go over the same spot twice because the V15 Detect captured all of the dust and debris the first time. In my one-cat household, it’s easy to see tufts of fur on our hardwood floors and tile, but they’re basically invisible on our upstairs carpet. But it didn’t matter if I could see fur or not — the V15 Detect collected all of it. After every cleaning the bin was full and I was consistently shocked by how much cat hair was hiding in my carpet.

As with most cordless vacuums, you get a number of attachments with the V15 Detect. In addition to the Fluffy Optic and Digital Motorbar cleaner heads, hair screw, combination and crevice tools are included in the box. I particularly like the hair screw tool, which is great for vacuuming chairs and couches, and the crevice tool is handy for cleaning car interiors and other tight spaces. The docking station must be mounted to a wall, but it’s separate from the vacuum’s charger, which means you can power up and use the V15 Detect before picking a permanent place for it in your home.

My biggest gripe with the V15 Detect is that it doesn’t have a single-button start like the newer and more advanced Dyson Gen 5 Detect and Dyson V15 Detect Submarine do. You must press and hold down the trigger to vacuum, which requires constant effort. However, that’s a small price to pay considering the complete package you’re getting. At $750, the V15 Detect is a machine on the higher-end of the price spectrum that’s well worth the money if you want an easy to use cordless vacuum that will provide a truly thorough clean every time.

• Fantastic suction power
• Includes Fluffy Optic cleaner head with illuminating blade light
• Relatively lightweight
• Good battery life
• No single-button start
• Headlight laser only on the Fluffy Optic cleaner head

Suction power: 500W | Bin volume: 0.12 gallon | Battery life: 40 min | Weight: 6.8 pounds

I reached for the Tineco Pure One S15 almost as much as I did for the Dyson V15 Detect. It’s slightly less powerful than our top pick, but it’s otherwise very similar and it even has Wi-Fi and app connectivity as well. It handled all kinds of dry messes well and didn’t choke at the first sign of pet hair. It includes Tineco’s iLoop smart sensor, which detects the amount of dirt and auto-adjusts suction power. I also appreciate that its LED display has a big ring that changes from red to blue as it sucks up all the debris in its way, and it has a battery indicator on it as well.

The Pure One S15 Pet has an unfussy design and comes with attachments that are easy to pop on and off. The main cleaning head has a headlight which does a great job of showing you exactly where the worst pockets of dirt are. And, despite its bin being a bit smaller than that on the Dyson, I never had to pause mid-cleaning to empty it.

Unlike the Dyson, though, the Pure One S15 Pet has Wi-Fi connectivity and a companion app, which is about as “smart” as any cordless vacuum gets. It’s a totally unnecessary feature, but Wi-Fi setup is pretty painless, and Tineco’s mobile app will show you things like battery level, filter status and a cleaning log. Filter status is arguably the most useful of them all, since it takes the guesswork out of figuring out when to replace it.

The $500 Tineco machine beat out the $450 Shark Detect Pro for our runner-up spot by only a hair. The Shark is a solid vacuum with a self-emptying base,in the same price range. But the Pure One S15 Pet has stronger suction and did a better job cleaning up big messes. It’s also worth noting that, while Tineco’s vacuum typically costs $500, you can often find it on sale for as low as $350 — a killer bargain.

• Great suction power
• Single-button start
• iLoop smart sensor auto-adjusts suction power as you clean
• Great value for the money
• Wi-Fi and app connectivity
• Shorter battery life

Suction power: 450W | Bin volume: 0.15 gallon | Battery life: 40 min | Weight: 5.7 pounds

Tineco makes a number of cordless vacuums at various price points, but the Pure One S11 provides a lot for $300 and it’s often on sale for less. While it was the clunkiest of the Tineco vacuums I tested, it’s still relatively lightweight. It also includes Tineco’s iLoop smart sensor, although it doesn’t have the single-button start that the Pure One S15 Pet does.

The Pure One S11 did a decent job of collecting all kinds of messes, including pet hair, but I did have to go over some spots more than once for the most thorough clean. In addition to the main cleaner head that has built-in headlights, it comes with three extra attachments that make it easy to get into small spaces.

Tineco estimates a run time of 40 minutes for this machine, and I found that to be accurate. That was just about enough time for me to clean all three floors of my house, but if you have a particularly large home, you may need to recharge at some point. Its bin size is also on the smaller side like the Pure One S15 Pet, so there’s a chance you may have to pause to empty it if you’re cleaning up big messes or you have a lot of ground to cover.

But for $300, the Pure One S11 offers a lot of value. It’s arguably best for those who live in apartments or small- to medium-sized homes, or those who just want a no-frills, easy-to-use cordless vacuum without dropping an excessive amount of money. It holds its own against pet hair as well, but that’s coming from a person who only has one cat; you’d be better off getting a stronger vacuum with a larger bin if you have a small menagerie in your home.

• Good suction for the price

Suction power: 240AW | Bin volume: 0.2 gallon | Battery life: 60 min | Weight: 8.3 pounds

Overkill for most, the Dyson V15 Detect Submarine will be exactly what some are looking for: a vacuum with all of Dyson’s signatures along with the ability to wash hard floors. It’s similar to the V15 Detect in power and design, but it comes with Dyson’s “submarine” wet cleaner head that has two water reservoirs (one for clean water and one for dirty) and a brush bar that does all the scrubbing. To wash tile and other hard floors, you fill the clean reservoir with water, reattach it to the head and turn on the machine as if you were just vacuuming. The built-in motor ever so slightly propels the machine in this mop mode, and as you move it around, it sucks up spills and other wet messes into the dirty reservoir while also washing the floor.

In my testing, the V15 Detect Submarine did a great job sucking up spills and a pretty good job cleaning my hardwood and tile, even in spots where there were more persistent stains (although it did take a few passes to fully suss them out). I typically use a corded steamer to wash the hard floors in my home, and while the V15 Detect Submarine doesn’t use heat and can’t quite match up to a device that does, it’s impressive nonetheless for its abilities and convenience.

After my first go-around with the machine, I was excited to use it again primarily because the process is so easy. Instead of getting my steamer out, plugging it in and fighting with its cord as I moved around, I popped the Submarine cleaning head on the Dyson, filled the tank and off I went. It’s worth mentioning, though, that I did have to fill the clean-water reservoir twice to wash the main floor of my home (roughly 800 square feet), which added a few minutes to the process. After each session, you’ll want to empty both reservoirs, clean the brush head and let the whole attachment dry. After that, I found it was ready to go again the next day.

The V15 Detect is a solid vacuum and an above-average mop, but more than anything, it’s convenient. It’s one relatively thin and lightweight device that can clean all of the floors in your home without a ton of extra effort needed on your part and with few, if any, frustrations. But as with anything, convenience comes at a cost: you’ll pay $950 for this model, and no, you can’t just buy the Submarine head separately and use it with a standard Dyson stick vac. If you only have a little bit of tile or hard flooring in your home, it’ll be difficult to justify the cost of the Submarine — but if convenience is of utmost importance and you want one cordless vac-and-mop to rule them all, Dyson’s machine is a great option.

• Includes Submarine cleaning head for mopping and cleaning up wet messes
• Water tank is a little small

Suction power: 230W | Bin volume: 0.8 gallon | Battery life: 60 min | Weight: 5.29 pounds

Tineco’s high-end Pure One Station FurFree deserves a nod here because it was one of the cordless vacuums I tested that I wanted to use the most, and it’s arguably the most convenient option on the list. Not only does it have strong suction power and the company’s iLoop smart sensor, but it docks and charges in a self-emptying base that cleans all parts of the machine — brush, tube and dustbin — after each use.

The freestanding base is a little intimidating when you unbox it, purely because it has more parts than that of any vacuum cleaner I tested (including the Shark Detect Pro). The whole thing, vacuum included, remains relatively svelte; it was easy for me to tuck it into a corner of a room near an outlet. The vacuum itself has a single-button start and, while not quite as strong as the Dyson V15 Detect, did a good job cleaning up all kinds of messes, pet hair included. Run time comes in at 60 minutes, more than enough to clean my whole home, and it supports Auto and Max modes along with the auto-adjusting feature provided by the iLoop sensor.

The Pure One Station FurFree also supports Wi-Fi connectivity, with its mobile app showing you battery life, dustbin capacity and self-cleaning settings. But since the small screen on the docking station gives you most of that data as well, the app is just a bonus.

The biggest selling point of this cordless vacuum is its self-emptying base, which has its own large dustbin that can hold up to 60 days worth of dirt. It’s a plastic canister that takes no garbage bags, so there’s nothing to add to the cost of ownership — simply remove the base’s dustbin to empty into your own garbage can every couple of weeks and then snap it back into place. You can customize self-cleaning settings to do a quick clean (30 seconds long) or a deep clean (60 seconds), or keep it to the auto mode (45 seconds). The machine will clean itself whenever you return the vacuum to its dock, unless you manually disable this feature. I appreciate that the base automatically empties the vacuum’s dustbin during self-cleaning, but it’s also great that it uses gusts of air to clean the vacuum’s brush and tube. Lots of little particles and hair can get stuck in those parts, and with other vacuums, you’re left to clear those out yourself.

The “FurFree” in the Pure One Station’s name refers to the extra attachments that come with the machine that basically turn it into a pet-grooming tool. This will likely be more useful for dog owners, or maybe folks with more amenable cats than mine (she hates all vacuums — cordless, robot, you name it). If you’re not a pet owner, there’s a standard Tineco Pure One Station that’s otherwise an identical machine with the same self-cleaning base, but only comes with regular vacuum attachments, and costs $200 less. FurFree or regular, though, the Pure One Station is a great cordless vacuum that’s made better by its clever and convenient self-emptying base.

• Includes self-emptying base
• Base empties bin and also cleans the vacuum’s brush and tube simultaneously
• FurFree model is expensive

Other cordless stick vacuums we tested

Dyson gen 5 detect.

The Dyson Gen 5 Detect has a single-button start and stronger suction power than our top pick, but it’s otherwise quite similar. However, since the Gen 5 Detect is more expensive at $950 (although it does receive discounts at Dyson online), the V15 Detect still provides greater value for your money. The Gen 5 Detect is arguably best for those who want the latest Dyson, or care about getting a more future-proof machine, since it came out just last year.

Shark Detect Pro

The Shark Detect Pro provides a lot of value for the money, but it was ultimately beat by the Tineco Pure One S15 Pet for our runner-up slot thanks to the Tineco’s stronger suction power. The kicker for the Detect Pro is that it includes a self-emptying base in its $450 price, which is super handy. It’ll automatically dump the contents of the vacuum into the larger bin in the base after every cleaning, and you only need to empty the base’s container every month or so. The Detect Pro did a good job cleaning up messes across different types of flooring, and it’ll auto-adjust suction power depending on the amount of debris and whether you’re cleaning hard or carpeted floors. However, it’s not as smooth to use as any of our top picks and its main cleaner head is a bit tall, making it difficult to use to clean under low furniture.

How long does the battery last on a cordless vacuum?

Most cordless vacuums will run for at least 30-40 minutes on a single charge, but you can find cordless vacuums with battery lives of up to 60 or 70 minutes. Manufacturers will outline an estimated battery life for each model, and they’re usually based on using the vacuum’s standard power mode for the entire runtime; if you switch between modes or prefer to use a higher-powered program for improved suction, you’ll drain the battery faster.

Can cordless vacuums be as powerful as corded ones?

Cordless vacuums do sacrifice a bit in overall power when compared to corded models, but that doesn’t mean they can’t handle everyday messes just as well. If suction power is your biggest concern, we recommend springing for a high-powered, high-end cordless vacuum since, typically, the more expensive a cordless vacuum is, the stronger the suction. Also, cordless vacuums have the edge over corded models when it comes to weight and convenience: cordless vacuums are much lighter than their corded counterparts, and you’ll never have to worry about placement or picking a fight with a cord while cleaning your living room.

Are cordless vacuums effective on pet hair?

Yes, cordless vacuums can handle pet hair well, but we recommend getting a model with strong suction power to get the best results. It’s also wise to get one with a larger bin, since pet hair can quickly fill up smaller bins, which may force you to stop cleaning to empty the vacuum before finishing.

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Meta is allowing users to limit political and social content from accounts they don't follow on Instagram and Threads.

The best Android tablets for 2024

Whereas you only have a few iPad options, there are dozens of Android tablets to choose from. We tested a number of them and these are our favorites.

Amazon Big Spring Sale: All of the best tech deals still available today

The Amazon Big Spring Sale 2024 ended on March 25. Here are the best tech deals that are still live.

The Morning After: The EU is already investigating Apple, Meta and Google over fees and defensive policies

The biggest news stories this morning: Florida will require parental consent for kids to join social media, SAG-AFTRA ratifies TV animation contracts with AI protections for voice actors It’s almost time for T-Mobile customers to claim their free year of MLB.TV

Microsoft merges its Windows and Surface teams under one leader

Microsoft is bringing together its Windows experiences and its Windows devices teams to form one division, and it has appointed company veteran Pavan Davuluri with the task of leading it.

The Oversight Board weighs in on Meta’s most-moderated word

The Oversight Board is urging Meta to change the way it moderates the word “shaheed,” an Arabic term that has led to more takedowns than any other word or phrase on the company’s platforms.

The best projector for 2024

Here's a list of the best projectors you can buy at all price points, as well as tips and tricks for shopping for a projector.

Tesla will reportedly take customers on a test drive to show off its Full Self-Driving tech

If you're in North America, a Tesla staff member will show you how the automaker's Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology works before you can take your car home, according to Bloomberg.

It’s almost time for T-Mobile customers to claim their free year of MLB.TV

T-Mobile’s annual deal for baseball fans is back. From Tuesday through Sunday, the carrier’s customers can claim a free yearlong subscription to MLB.TV for live and on-demand streaming access to the entire Major League Baseball season.

Ron DeSantis signs bill requiring parental consent for kids to join social media platforms in Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida just signed into law a bill that requires parental consent for kids under 16 to hold social media accounts. It also completely prevents children under 14 from joining these platforms.

Cyberpunk 2077 will have a free trial on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S this weekend

CD Projekt Red is offering PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S players the chance to check out Cyberpunk 2077 for free over the Easter weekend. You’ll be able to play up to five hours of the sprawling first-person RPG at no extra cost.

Judge dismisses X's lawsuit against anti-hate group

A judge has dismissed a lawsuit from X against the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), a nonprofit that researches hate speech on the Elon Musk-owned platform.

Final Fantasy XIV Online's Dawntrail expansion arrives on July 2

Square Enix has revealed that the fifth expansion for Final Fantasy XIV Online, Dawntrail, will arrive on July 2. There are a bunch of pre-order bonuses if you pre-order, including an early access period.

Pick up the 2023 Echo Show 8 with a free smart bulb for $100 in the Amazon Spring Sale

A bundle combining an Echo Show 8 smart display and a smart bulb is now just $100.