[Ryan00TJ]

Powerboat tested the Hydro nosecone awhile back and found that a Gen 1 Alpha would blow out at around 70mph. The aspect ratio of the drive was not enough and the added ratio of the nosecone would prevent it from blowing out when added. There are many variables IMO.... Drive height, hull type, prop etc... all need to be taken into consideration.

That looks like a Hydro nosecone in the pic. Both my spare Alpha's have them.

 

[Ryan00TJ]

Powerboat Magazine also compared the Hydro nosecone to the pointed cone on the Alpha SS and deemed the rounder vs pointed shape of the cone was a better design on the Hydro and enhanced lengthening the aspect ratio of the Alpha. Though I have to admit the SS drive is much sexier looking than my standard Alpha's with hydro cones. The SS drive has taken me 80mph so the cone works.