Whats in a Reed? (a Boyesen reed)

[Franki]

Hi people, <br /><br />I just noticed an add for boyesen reeds for outboards and I was wondering what sort of performance increase the give?<br /><br />would 5% higher outboard be a good guess?<br /><br />I know how they work and why, just not how well..<br /><br />we used to use them in motocross applications and they were excellent, so I wondered how good for outboards..<br /><br />also, I like the idea of getting the metal reeds out of my intake manifold.. if one dies, I don't want it in my block causing damage.<br /><br />Anyone have experiance with aftermarket reeds? I know they are available for my outboard (found a pdf on their site about it.)<br /><br /><br />rgds<br /><br />Frank

 

[Forktail]

Re: Whats in a Reed? (a Boyesen reed)

I've used the Boyesen Reeds. You may notice a slight increase in holeshot (accelleration) if that's what you're into. Not much different on top end. No need to rejet in most applications. I think 5% is over-stated. Probably more like 1-2 hp if any. They are better in non-outboard applications where on/off throttle punching happens a lot. You very seldom do that with outboards, even in rough seas.<br /><br />It's very rare these days for an outboard to "suck" a reed. The stock reeds are very good. Unless you were racing or something, I can't see justifying the cost. Stock reeds are usually metal and the Boyesen's are some type of composite. The composite will crack and wear over time.<br /><br />Most of the Boyesen Reeds are dual reeds. Softer petal on bottom for low end and stiffer on top for high end.<br /><br />I do run them in my Rotax snowmobiles and dirtbikes, but not in my outboards.