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NEW SEASON ON THE RISE (21-2)
by William E. Taylor
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 The
Power Boating Canada office is buzzing with activity
these days as we bring you another exciting issue on
the boating lifestyle. With warmer winds prevailing,
this edition focuses on the rites of spring. From our
preview of the latest sport boats and special feature
on dock accessories to valuable spring maintenance tips,
we guarantee you’ll be more than ready for a summer
of non-stop excitement.
Part of the thrill of the boating lifestyle is the exhilaration
of skimming the waves as you bask in the summer sunshine.
To add that extra sizzle, our editorial team made the
long-distance trip south of the border to the Miami
International Boat Show to bring you the inside scoop
on the latest product for 2006.
Mercury Marine dazzled show-goers with their new 75
hp, 90 hp and 115 hp EFI four-stroke outboards. Designed
for all spectrums of the recreational family boating,
these engines are finely tuned and ready to deliver
the power when you need it. And based on the four-stroke
outboards we tested in the past, we know you won’t
be disappointed. In its high-performance division, Mercury
Racing introduced its 700 SCi engine, mated to a dry-sump
ACE drive. This integrated and revolutionary sterndrive
power package is destined to deliver smooth, powerful
acceleration and will definitely meet the demands of
those looking for an extra-ounce of power. Other new
offerings included its 300 XS OptiMax outboard, along
with a series of next generation OptiMax models, proving
once again that they can make a great product even better.
Suzuki Marine catapulted to the top of the four-stroke
outboard class again with its DF300 hp, the world’s
first 300 hp four-stroke outboard. Designed for anglers
and enthusiasts looking for serious, clean power, the
engine is expected to hit the water for the 2007 model
year, so be sure to look for a test prior to its launch.
Speaking of tests, the Miami International Boat Show
wouldn’t be complete for use without running at
least a few new models. EdgeWater’s 228 CC, Mercury
Marine’s V-620 RIB, Seaswirl Striper’s 2901
Walkaround retrofitted with a set of Volvo Penta D4
diesels, plus Evinrude’s I-Command Gauge package
were on our list to run and needless to say, they all
performed without a glitch.
With all that to say, the winter boat shows across Canada
were also exciting, reaping record sales results and
the highest attendance we have seen in quite some time.
Not only is this a clear indication that more Canadians
are getting involved in boating, but the boating industry
in Canada is on the rise, showing signs of an exciting
season for manufacturers and dealers. |
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