Dave & David -
I am glad to see that you enjoyed the pictures of my 650. After having it a month, I am still impressed with it. David, here are my best answers to your questions:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">How does it handle large, thick steaks? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Great! The biggest challenge to me is the incredible amount of heat the 650 puts out. My old Broilmaster only kicked out 48000 BTU. The 650 kicks out 60000...and I feel it. For larger cuts, I sear both sides and then move them off to a cooler part of the grill. The results have been great.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">How much does the temperature drop when the lid is opened when it is sub zero outside?
</div></BLOCKQUOTE>
I am not really sure. Although I had some chilly nights, it was never below twenty...let alone subzero. In moderate temperatures, heat retention is excellent.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Can he keep a 230 degree temp for a long period of time? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Yes, although only if it is not too windy. I would walk away and find burners out. Now at that time, the grill was not in its final resting place. Now, it is in a slightly more protected area, so I will have to experiment more. Typically, I will use the kettles for slow cooking, but the 650 is so versatile, I imagine I will be using it more.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">How much smoke does it generate? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
The smoker works great. The dedicated burner does a nice job of producing a good amount of smoke.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Does he use the rotis burner to help heat the grill up? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
No, I have not.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Will my LP hose that I hook up to my house work? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
I am using the NG model. Although I do not plan on moving my grill, if I needed to, the ten foot hose is a great feature. The wheels allow the grill to move like it is on ice and the length of the hose gives you a lot of flexibility. Especially the quick disconnect coupling.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Can I fit it in the wife's station wagon? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
"In"...probably not. "On"...with enough webbing, yes!
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">How will I get it up to the rear deck or should I drop it off in the orchard and drag it down hill? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Mine was delivered and until it was unpacked, there was no way I was going to be able to move it.
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Infrared books say 2 minutes on each side plus 2 minutes for an inch thick steak cooked to medium. How does this compare? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
I have been really happy with th 650. Not only is it functional, it looks great. I would definitely recommend it.
Happy grilling!
Mike