The Mercury Racing Apex Series  competition outboards represent cutting-edge engineering designed for peak closed-course racing performance. These models are crafted to deliver high torque, exceptional speed, and reliable durability. Here's a closer look at the specifications (Specs) and features for each model in the lineup: 360 APX Specs The Mercury Racing 360 APX is a powerhouse designed specifically to drive Formula One tunnel boats in the UIM F1H2O World Championship. This competition outboard features a 4.6-liter V8 powerhead with 32-valve Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) architecture. With an output of 360 horsepower (268 kW) and a maximum wide-open throttle (WOT) RPM of 7000, the 360 APX delivers unparalleled torque and acceleration for top-tier racing performance. It is engineered for use with 89-octane unleaded fuel and features the IV SSM gearcase with a 1.13 gear ratio. The dry weight of the engine is 430 lbs (195 kg), making it a durable yet lightweight solution for high-speed competition. 250 APX Specs The 250 APX model brings formidable power and precision to APBA Formula 1 powerboat racing. Sharing many features with the 360 APX, the 250 APX also boasts a 4.6-liter V8 engine with 32-valve DOHC design, but it is tuned to produce 250-260 horsepower (184 kW). The maximum WOT RPM reaches 6800, ensuring responsive acceleration and excellent midrange power delivery. This outboard is also optimized for unleaded 89-octane fuel and includes an evolved version of the IV SSM gearcase with a 1.13 gear ratio. Weighing in at 436 lbs (198 kg) dry, the 250 APX offers a powerful yet manageable engine solution for competitive racing applications. 200 APX Specs For UIM F2 and APBA OPC tunnel boat racing, the Mercury Racing 200 APX provides a potent combination of power and efficiency. This model is equipped with a 3.4-liter V6 powerhead, featuring a 24-valve Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) design. Delivering 200-240 horsepower (149 kW) and capable of reaching a maximum WOT RPM of 6800, the 200 APX delivers race-winning torque and durability while significantly reducing emissions. The engine uses unleaded 89-octane fuel and incorporates the IV SSM gearcase with a 1.13 gear ratio. Weighing 395 lbs (179 kg) dry, the 200 APX strikes an ideal balance between power and lightweight design. 60 APX Specs The Mercury Racing 60 APX is designed to introduce up-and-coming racers to the competitive scene in UIM Formula 4 class racing. This compact yet powerful outboard features a 1.0-liter Inline-4 engine with a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) and eight valves. Delivering 60 horsepower (45 kW) and a maximum WOT RPM range of 6000-6400, the 60 APX is built for consistent performance and low-maintenance reliability. Optimized for unleaded regular 87-octane fuel, it features a 3.4" gearcase and weighs just 247 lbs (112 kg) dry, offering a lightweight and dynamic option for emerging racers.

While the Buckshot Racing #77 Speed Store remains fully committed to maintaining high-performing 2-stroke outboards, it's noteworthy that most 2-stroke models are no longer in production. For the 2025 model year, Mercury Racing introduces a robust lineup of eleven 4-stroke high-performance outboard engines, specifically engineered for recreational boating and competitive racing enthusiasts. Below is a comprehensive list of the 2025 Mercury Racing outboard models, comprising seven in the R-Series and four in the Competition Series: R-Series Outboards: Designed for high-performance recreational boating, the R-Series engines deliver exceptional power and acceleration. Mercury Racing 500R Horsepower:  500 HP Engine Type:  4.6L V8 Supercharged Dry Weight:  726 lbs Features:  The 500R offers elevated power and technology, featuring a new 4.6L V8 powerhead with upgraded components, increased supercharger boost pressure, and an Advanced Racing Core (ARC) midsection for enhanced durability and performance. Mercury Racing 400R Horsepower:  400 HP Engine Type:  5.7L V10 Dry Weight:  695 lbs Features:  The 400R sets a new standard of performance with advanced features, custom graphics, and a wide range of parts compatibility, making it suitable for various high-performance boating applications. Mercury Racing 300R Horsepower:  300 HP Engine Type:  4.6L V8 Dry Weight:  512 lbs Features:  The 300R is tuned with Mercury Racing components to deliver crisp throttle response and thrilling top-end power. It offers multiple midsection and gearcase options to tailor performance to specific applications. Mercury Racing 250R Horsepower:  250 HP Engine Type:  4.6L V8 Dry Weight:  520 lbs Features:  The 250R provides class-leading performance with a 10% increase in fuel efficiency, offering a lower cost of ownership without compromising on power. Mercury Racing 200R Horsepower:  200 HP Engine Type:  2.6L V6 Dry Weight:  469 lbs (torq master) 489 lbs (sportmaster) Features:  The 200R delivers robust performance in a compact package, ideal for smaller high-performance boats requiring a balance of power and agility. Mercury Racing 150R Horsepower:  150 HP Engine Type:  3.4L V6 Dry Weight:  475 lbs Features:  The 150R is the perfect entry point for sophisticated boaters seeking the performance and luxury refinement of Mercury Racing R-Series power. It features a smooth and efficient V6 powerhead coupled with advanced Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) control capability. Mercury 60R Horsepower:  60 HP Engine Type:  1.0L L4 Dry Weight:  268 lbs Features:  The 60R is built with speed in mind, designed specifically for technical flats skiffs to deliver performance with outstanding fuel economy, rugged reliability, and quiet operation. Mercury Racing R-Series Competition Series Outboards: Engineered for professional racing, the Competition Series outboards are designed to meet the rigorous demands of competitive tunnel boat powerboat racing. Mercury Racing 360 APX Horsepower:  360 HP Engine Type:  4.6L V8 Dry Weight:  430 lbs Features:  The 360 APX is a potent competition outboard designed specifically to power Formula One tunnel boats in the premier class of the UIM F1H2O World Championship. It delivers impressive torque from a durable, low-emissions four-stroke V8 powerhead that sets a new benchmark for circuit-racing performance. Mercury Racing 250 APX Horsepower:  250+ HP Engine Type:  4.6L V8 Dry Weight:  436 lbs Features:  The 250 APX joins the competition portfolio to open a new competitive era in APBA Formula 1 and UIM F2 powerboat racing. It is tuned to deliver race-winning torque and acceleration combined with outstanding durability and a cost-effective, race-winning advantage over legacy two-strokes. Mercury Racing 200 APX Horsepower:  200+ HP Engine Type:  3.4L V6 Dry Weight:  395 lbs Features:  The 200 APX is a powerful V6 four-stroke outboard designed for UIM F2 and APBA OPC tunnel boat racing. It offers racers a very durable powerhead and the latest in four-stroke engine technology, while reducing exhaust emissions by 90 percent compared to legacy two-stroke competition outboards. Mercury Racing 60 APX Horsepower:  60 HP Engine Type:  1.0L L4 Dry Weight:  247 lbs Features:  The 60 APX is designed specifically for up-and-coming racers competing in UIM Formula 4 class competition. It has been expertly tuned to run at a wide-open throttle limit of 6000-6400 rpm, delivering all the adrenaline of the legendary Apex competition series in a lightweight, compact package. Mercury Racing APX Series Mercury Racing's dedication to innovation and performance is evident in both their R-Series and Competition Series outboards, catering to the needs of high-performance boating enthusiasts and professional racers alike. Let us know your thoughts!

For high-performance boating enthusiasts, finding the perfect destination means looking for the best water conditions, scenic beauty, and convenient boat launches, paired with excellent accommodations. Here’s a guide to ten of the top high-performance boating destinations in the USA, with everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience on and off the water. 1. Lake Havasu, Arizona Why It's Great:  Known as the "Hot Boat Capital of the World," Lake Havasu features warm waters, breathtaking desert landscapes, and hosts events like the Desert Storm Poker Run, drawing high-performance boaters from across the country. Boat Launches:  The Nautical Beachfront Resort offers a private boat launch ramp for hotel guests, providing easy and exclusive access to the lake. Accommodations:  The Nautical Beachfront Resort is a top choice, offering beachfront rooms, complimentary boat docks, and direct lake access, perfect for boaters looking for luxury and convenience. 2. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri Why It's Great:  This large reservoir boasts winding waterways and hosts major boating events like the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout, one of the largest high-speed boat races in the country. Boat Launches:  Many resorts offer private boat ramps, such as Rippling Waters Resort, which features a concrete launch and covered docks. Accommodations:  Margaritaville Lake Resort offers a full-service marina, multiple dining options, and numerous recreational activities for a comprehensive getaway experience. 3. Key West, Florida Why It's Great:  Boating in Key West offers stunning ocean views, tropical weather, and numerous high-speed boating events, including the famous Key West Offshore World Championship. Boat Launches:  Garrison Bight Marina offers public boat ramps with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean. Accommodations:  The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West offers luxury accommodations and a full-service marina, ideal for boating enthusiasts. 4. Miami, Florida Why It's Great:  Miami offers a vibrant boating culture, turquoise waters, and direct ocean access, making it a prime spot for high-speed boating. The Miami Boat Show is a popular event drawing boaters from around the globe. Boat Launches:  The Matheson Hammock Park Marina features ramps providing convenient access to Biscayne Bay. Accommodations:  The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne offers luxurious lodging with easy access to the local boating scene. 5. Clear Lake, Texas Why It's Great:  This destination near Houston offers high-performance boaters access to both Clear Lake and nearby Galveston Bay, known for its smooth waters and ample space for speed enthusiasts. Boat Launches:  Clear Lake Park offers multiple ramps for boaters to easily access both Clear Lake and Galveston Bay. Accommodations:  South Shore Harbour Resort provides waterfront accommodations and convenient marina access for high-performance boating fans. 6. Chesapeake Bay, Maryland/Virginia Why It's Great:  The Chesapeake Bay offers expansive waters, charming coastal towns, and a strong boating community, perfect for fast-paced boating and leisurely cruising alike. Boat Launches:  Sandy Point State Park features public ramps with direct access to the bay. Accommodations:  The Inn at Perry Cabin offers upscale lodging and marina services, ensuring comfort after a day on the water. 7. Lake Cumberland, Kentucky Why It's Great:  Lake Cumberland is known for its deep water and scenic surroundings, hosting events like the Thunder Run, which draw high-speed boating enthusiasts every year. Boat Launches:  Lake Cumberland State Resort Park offers several boat ramps for easy access to the lake. Accommodations:  The Lake Cumberland State Resort Park offers lodge rooms, cabins, and spectacular views of the water. 8. Lake Michigan (Chicago, Illinois) Why It's Great:  Boating along Chicago’s Lake Michigan shoreline provides a thrilling urban backdrop with wide-open waters ideal for high-speed adventures, coupled with views of the iconic Chicago skyline. Boat Launches:  The 31st Street Harbor features ramps that provide access to Lake Michigan. Accommodations:  The Langham, Chicago offers luxury lodging near the lakefront, combining urban luxury with proximity to Lake Michigan’s boating opportunities. 9. Lake Erie Islands, Ohio Why It's Great:  With islands like Put-In-Bay, this destination offers clear waters, great beaches, and a vibrant boating atmosphere, perfect for high-speed boating enthusiasts. Boat Launches:  Catawba Island State Park has public ramps for easy access to Lake Erie and its islands. Accommodations:  The Put-in-Bay Resort & Conference Center is a prime spot, offering comfortable lodging and close proximity to marinas. 10. Mississippi River (Various Locations) Why It's Great:  Popular for poker runs and speed events, the Mississippi River offers long stretches of navigable waters, winding through diverse scenery ideal for boating adventures. Boat Launches:  The Port of Dubuque Marina in Iowa features ramps with access to the Mississippi River. Accommodations:  Hotel Julien Dubuque provides comfortable and stylish accommodations near the riverfront, perfect for winding down after a day on the water. Each of these destinations offers high-performance boating enthusiasts the ideal mix of thrilling waters, convenient boat launches, and excellent accommodations to make for a memorable trip. Whether cruising across the wide waters of Lake Michigan or exploring the tropical beauty of Key West, these spots guarantee a fantastic boating experience. Let us know what we missed in the comments.