On Tue, 06 Nov 07 10:38am CST, "JoeSpareBedroom"
my motor's a tiller model. So, I'm in the stern along with the battery.
That raises the bow (affecting visibility) under certain conditions

Which certain conditions? Conditions other than planning?

On Tue, 06 Nov 07, 4:41pm CST, Wayne.B wrote:
You can probably fix that issue by installing a Doel-fin (whale tail)
on the cavitation plate. I just put one on my 20 hp Honda and it made
a huge difference.

What type boat do you have it on? I have a 20hp Honda that I've been
using on a 16' planning dory. Not sure about the boat weight but I'm
thinking 400-450 lbs. Even at top end, the bow is too high so I've
considered Doel Fins. Problem is, I'll also want to use it on a 14',
225lb skiff. I haven't tried the Honda on the skiff yet but I'm
thinking I shouldn't have a bow trim problem with that one. Soooo....I
wouldn't want Doel Fins for that. Not sure what I'll do (or not do) at
this point.

As for the original question, I agree with Wayne. I can't think of an
outboard at 14hp or 13, 12, or 11 for that matter. I think 9.9 hp is
the most you'll find without exceeding the hp recomendation. You'll
have lots of choices at 9.9 and, with the right prop, that should push
a 12 footer along smartly. On the other hand, it depends on what you
want to do with it. A 5 or 6hp will shove it along well too, but just
not as fast. Maybe you can borrow a motor from someone just to get an
idea what you want.

Rick