Big four strokes are back as a viable power option for bass boats.
The new Pro Finish Bravo I FS prop was developed for four stroke outboard applications.
I can’t wait for the Miami Boat Show. I’m looking forward to seeing old friends and talking props with boaters, boat builders, dealers, consumers and racers. We’re geared up to have another big show. Fred Kiekhaefer has another exciting new product to unveil and I have a couple of new things to show as well. In fact, I just couldn’t wait any longer to talk about our new outboard prop.
You may recall my post regarding the Bravo I XS. We took the proven Bravo One sterndrive prop, added big one-inch vent holes in the hub and did some other tweaks to make it a big performer on low-emissions OptiMax outboards.
Four strokes are a popular power option for center console bay boats and larger flats boats.
Mercury's Pro FourStroke outboards created a resurgnece of interest in four stroke power.
While working the BASS Masters Classic last year, I discovered a trend of large four-stroke outboards coming back to bass boats. From there, I did additional research and found this trend happening in most fresh and saltwater markets as well. Four-strokes are being used on walleye, flats and a new line of center console boats. Mercury’s new Pro FourStroke outboards had a lot to do with this trend, I’m sure. The new engines run great. All that was needed was a prop designed to enhance performance for the various applications. The logical thing to do was start with the performance assets of the Bravo I XS and transfer those over to a prop designed for four-strokes.
The Pro Finish Bravo I FS is designed for use on 150 h.p. to 350 h.p. four-stroke outboards including Mercury Verado, Mercury Pro FourStroke and non-Mercury engines. The right-hand rotation, 15.25-inch diameter Bravo I FS is available in the following pitch ranges: 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 inches.
I have some of these out in the field and initial reports are very positive. I’ll post test results as soon as I get them. In the mean time, if you are going to the show, please stop by and visit with us in the Mercury booth, M-96, in the Miami Beach Convention Center. I’ll show you the new Bravo I FS in person.