Either you areimmediately enthusiastic ormostly never. We are talking about aluminium boats. They have a dedicated fan base who appreciate advantages such as robustness combined with low weight. Of course, their appearance should not be underestimated, as many people can't get enough of the shiny aluminium sides.
In the cockpitthey usually offer the same equipment and similar comfort as their plastic counterparts. This begins on our test boat, theSilver Eagle BR 640The boat is equipped with an open cockpit, a bench at the stern that can be converted into a cosy sun lounger, a driving position with driver and passenger seats and a centre passageway, and an open bow with benches. The boat is ideal for fishing, swimming and exploring.
With the installedWater ski bracket (550 Euro surcharge), wakeboarders, tube riders and of course water skiers can easily be hooked up.
The necessaryPower gives theSuzuki DF 200. It brings the boat from displacement to planing speed at lightning speed, the bow lifts only moderately and the foresight is well maintained. The lowest planing speed is around 16 knots and the boat runs economically at 3500 rpm at a good 21 knots.
With a petrol consumption of 0.78 l/sm, the 140-litre tank is sufficient for a respectable 152 nm plus 15% reserve. At full throttle at a rapid 45 knots, you can get about half as far, the maximum power trim is then about ¼ on the display. Raising the outboard too far will cause the BR 640 to luff. Our test boat has additional trim tabs, which cost a good 900 euros extra and are mainly used to compensate for leaning.
The fast manoeuvres are a lot of fun, as the Silver is extremely sporty at high speed. In fast bends, the trim should be all the way down so that the propeller draws in air as late as possible and then turns "into the void". Now it's time to ease off the throttle and start again.
On slalom courses, the test boat swings noticeably over its longitudinal axis; this becomes particularly clear when the steering wheel is wrenched and the hull rocks. It skips over steamboat waves of the White Fleet on Lake Constance at around 34 knots smoothly and dryly. The noises during the landing make the landing seem harder than it feels.
Back in the harbour, the tight turning circles (one to one and a half boat lengths) and direct reversing behaviour in reverse are impressive. On slow journeys, the hull swings back and forth a little from time to time, but weight shifts only have a minor effect on course stability.
A hydraulic steering system is used as standard, which is smooth and precise to operate. The only drawback is that when the throttle is in the displacement position, the distance to the steering rim is so small that you can easily bump your hand. The firm, sportily upholstered driver's seat offers excellent lateral support. The adjustment options in all directions plus backrest angle make it easy to find a relaxed seating position.
The front passenger seat has a practical folding backrest, so it can also be used as a cockpit seat.
The car pool is protected by a windscreen that is pulled far back and held in place by a solid system frame with exemplary rounded corners.
There is a suitably sized windscreen wiper on the driver's side, although this costs an extra 347 euros. You also pay extra for the chart plotter; the engine instruments, including installation, are included in the outboard motor price and the new boat flat rate. The standard scope of delivery includes cushions for the stern bench, bathing ladder, stern/driving tarpaulin and the door between the consoles. However, you pay extra for the table in the cockpit, the fridge drawer, the music system and cushions in the bow.
The safety equipment includes a 2 kg portable fire extinguisher and an electric bilge pump, but we searched in vain for the important manual bilge pump. Non-slip structures on the split bathing platform, the cockpit floor, the steps and the benches in the open bow ensure safe movement. The railing, windscreen frame and handles provide the necessary support; all the holding options also impress with their solid design and fastening.
The overall workmanship makes a professional impression, which is further emphasised by the lining of the storage boxes with shells and the lids fitted with gas pressure dampers or retaining springs. Most of the cables and hoses run in protective conduits or are professionally secured with cable ties. The main switch and control unit are located together on a conveniently positioned panel.
The boat is moored to four sturdy cleats, and there are three eyelets for towing and lashing to the trailer. The road captain requires a 1.7 tonne trailer and a mid-range towing vehicle.
Conclusion
The Silver Eagle BR 640 is a robust bowrider that is lively and agile when travelling. Its Suzuki DF200 has plenty of power to comfortably tow water skiers and the like behind it. The boat has a first-class finish and clean installations.
