R 21 top speed

[Wiley]

Hi, I love the 21’s but have thought maybe a bit underpowered and slow. However I honestly don’t know so am asking what is top speed with factory power, could larger motor be used. Thanks for any responses

 

[Captain Nice]

Our 21 with 30hp Volvo will do 10-11mph at wide open throttle, although with much noise and stern-squatting. The "hull speed", important to displacement hull boats, is about 7mph (this can be calculated). This is the best speed vs efficiency scenario (about 1/2gal/hr). I recall Jeff Messmer (Ranger VP) telling me they had experimented with more powerful engines in the 21, but didn't result in appreciable performance improvement. With the little 21 it's Smiles Per Hour 🙂

CN

 

[Craig4900]

I agree, these boats are smiles per hour, and fuel efficiency!!
Having said that, does anyone know what the OEM propeller size and pitch for something like a 1998 21 Calssic, 18HP Yanmar?? And the transmission reduction ratio??
Also, I think of this boat as a small big boat, has the characteristics of a bigger trawler but small!!! The boat is the destination.
Thanks