Hi All: I'm in the market for a Eastern 24' Cuddy Cabin boat. The
boat's dry weight is appx. 3000-3100 lbs. If you live in the New
England area this boat looks exactly like a lobster boat & is.
Although, this will be used for pleasure boating.

Here's my scenario. Eastern is a Honda outboard dealer & they are
pushing the Honda 130. Most the boats I have seen in the water are
using the Honda 130. I have my concerns & I'll give you my thoughts on
the pros & cons. Please note: I can purchase a 2003 (brand new in box)
130 for $9,900.00 but the boat will be a 2004.

Honda 130:

Pros: The Honda name & the 130 has been very, very durable. Decent
amount of service centers. The engine will be installed @ the factory
vs. sending the boat to a Suzuki dealership.

Cons: Price ($10,990.00 rigged 2004 model). Weight=508 lbs.

Suzuki: 140

Pros: Cost ($9,000.00 rigged) 10 more HP. Better gas consumption.
Light=421 lbs. A little quieter in db. Possible 6 year warranty (vs.
standard 3 year) coming January 1st, 2004.

Cons: Dealer network (not a problem were we live. Gloucester, MA.)
Suzuki endurance on the 140???

I took a 24' Eastern center console (not the Cuddy I'm looking at) on
a sea trail w/ the Honda 130 & it pushed the boat fine. Not great, but
I must understand this is not a fast boat to begin with. Do you think
the 87 lbs. & the 10 less HP on the Honda 130 makes that much of a
difference? I'm on the ropes here. Need to make a decision within 2-3
weeks.

I understand that Honda is coming out with a new 2004 135 & 150 HP
engines that weight in @ 478 lbs. Only problem? They cost (appx.)
$12,990.00 for the 150 & $11,990.00 for the 135. This is too much
money! I want to keep the cost on my outboard to around $10,000.00
(max).

My preference would be to have everything done @ Eastern @ turn the
key & go. But I'm leaning towards the Suzuki 140. I would appreciate
any & all insight if you could help me make my decision. Thanks for
your time!

Regards,

Alex Moore