2010 Sylvan Signature 8522 RE

As revolutionary, by definition, means something involving a complete or dramatic change, it may be deemed overstating when applied to a new concept in boat design – regardless of how innovative the change may be. This is not the case with Sylvan’s Revolutionary Planing Technology (RPT), which truly creates a class of high-performance pontoons quite unlike any other.

RPT replaces the traditional circular tube on a pontoon boat with a shape that mocks that of a Vhull. This helps the pontoon plane quicker, serve up amazing hole shots and run more efficiently. We had the opportunity to put this new technology to the test with the Sylvan Signature 8522 RE.

Sure, this looks like a run-of-the-mill pontoon while tied to the dock with all the room, comfort and amenities you’d expect from a day cruising boat built for entertaining. Boarding easily through the portside gate, you enter the spacious forward area that features two couches with lounge arm and a floor base for the removable table, as well as plenty of cup holders and storage under the seats – including a soft collapsible cooler.

Aft, there is more seating at the L-shaped bench with armrest and another position for the table. This would make a great spot to enjoy lunch under the Bimini while the sun is high in the sky. If soaking in those rays is more your style, go ahead and stretch out on the sun deck.

But once the 8522 RE is underway you may want to hold on to the nearest railing because this boat can really move. You’ll hardly believe your eyes as the speedometer jumps from idle to 20 mph in 3.77 seconds. For any boat that’s impressive, but for a pontoon it is just outrageous! We reached a comfortable cruise at 19.4 mph, but why stay here when putting down the throttles brings the 8522 up to its top speed of 44.1 mph at 5900 rpm.

Sylvan doesn’t rest on mere speed, though, as the boat handled responsively through various manoeuvres. It carved rather than banked into turns and zipped around nice and tight. The RPT design sliced through the waves, keeping the ride smooth and solid for all those on board.

With a high quality fit-and-finish and a high performance package, Sylvan definitely makes its mark on the pontoon category with its Signature 8522 RE.

TEST BOAT ENGINE
Evinrude E-TEC 225-HO, 225 hp, V6 outboard, with stainless Viper prop

ACCELERATION (mph/sec)
0-20 / 3.77 ; 0-30 / 6.27

TOP SPEED (rpm/mph)
5900 / 44.1

CRUISING SPEED (rpm/mph)
3000 / 16.3 ; 3500 / 19.4 ; 4000 / 23.1 ; 4500 / 31.3