I am a 2 stroke fan when it comes to outboards and dirtbikes. Light wieght, reliable, and easy to work on.
The current Merc 25hp 4 stroke weighs 157lbs (dry). and costs about $4,200.00 new (thats what I was quoted).
My 1999 Merc 25hp 2 stroke weighs 119lbs. and cost me $750.00
I have seen more than one thread on here about 25hp 4 strokes that won't get a 14ft Tracker Grizzley on plane with just a little weight in them.
My 25hp 2 smoker will get my 15ft Alumacraft on plane and run 25mph with over 750lbs of people, plus another 200lbs of plywoodflooring and front deck, gear, cooler, and gas. 30mph with just me and the dog! And thats with a bent up chipped old prop!
If thats not reason enough, I know I don't want another 50lbs hanging off the back of my transom.
The only way I would have a 4 stroke is if it was given to me, or I had a boat big enough to hang a Verado off the back.
Just my personal preference. I may change my mind one day though!