bank on what Skeeter says, he's owned both recently.

when you are running big waves, you aren't running 60+ MPH. the slower you are going, the less trim is doing for you. I have only been in a few 521's, but sounds like at speeds taking big waves the 521 just doesn't want to ride nose high no matter what you are doing with trim. I guess another way to look at it is a 520 with trim will ride higher than a 521 with trim.

Thanks to Skeeter, here is difference in speed of a 520 and 521.

Minute 2:06

I need to play with my setup, mine will try and get out from under you, vary narrow range on trim between not enough and too much. It scares me, but everything scares me.

Thanks guys. I guess I'm gonna have to ride in both before I make up my mind. This will probably be my last boat since I'm turning 62 tomorrow. LOL Just don't want to regret a $60000 purchase so I am trying to do my homework.

Make sure to check out the C model

Snickers I am looking at the C models only. I forgot to put that in my original post. So far I'm leaning to the Z520C. Thanks for all your thoughts folks. It has helped me ask the right questions.

I would say if it is possible for you to take a test ride in both on same day in some wind so you can see how they ride. I believe it takes a really good driver to make a Z520 ride good in wind. The Z521 is much easier to drive. just my .02

PM sent.

One thing is for sure. You can not go wrong with either one .

Bought a new Ranger Z520C today. Made a few changes and it will be ready Wednesday for pickup. Thanks for all the replies guys. It helped me do my research and feel like I made the right decision for my wife and I. Thanks again.

Congrats on the new Ranger. Great choice and I hope you enjoy it and have fun in it.

Thanks Mark. I'll try to learn how to post pictures when I get it and show off a little bit. LOL But being old and computer illiterate that may not happen. We are going to enjoy it I'm sure.