The pitch you surf at 8/9/10/11 degrees and the propeller you use, makes a huge difference on whether your boat can pull the weight. As well, if you have novice surfers, that are above 200 lbs, or if you enjoy surfing way back on the wave, you will need to add weight (lead/water) and re-prop from the stock offering. I would spend the money on that rather than upgrading the engine.