Online Field Report: Honda BF50 EFI Outboard

Honda Marine, who introduced the marine 4-stroke outboard 44 years ago, has just introduced their new 40 and 50 horsepower 4-stroke electronic fuel injection outboard motors. With these two motors, Honda now offers 17 models from 2 to 225 horsepower.

Honda is the world's largest engine manufacturer and the new BF40 and BF50 take advantage of proven Honda-exclusive technology. The engines are almost 28 pounds lighter than their competition, more fuel efficient, smaller in size, provide superior battery charging capacity and come with a full 5-year warranty.

We tested the engines on inshore and flats boats, pontoon boats, bass boats and an inflatable, all of which performed quietly while providing good holeshot and top end. Twin application on a small catamaran should be impressive as well.

Even though compact in size, the engines are powerful enough for commercial and workboat use. In addition to the attractive list price of $7,136 for the BF40 and $7,999 for the BF50, longevity and fuel efficiency make the motors a good buy for a new boat or repower. For specifications and technical information, see your local Honda dealer or visit their website at www.honda-marine.com.

Specifications:


Engine Type: 4-Stroke SOHC


Number of Cylinders: Inline 3


Fuel Delivery: Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection


Displacement: 49.4 cubic inches


Shaft Length: 20, 25 inches


Dry Weight: 216 pounds


Alternator: 22 amps


Gear Ratio: 2.08:1

The BF40/50 features Honda's all-new high-performance gear case. A longer ventilation plate traps water flowing to the propeller to minimize porpoising. The front splash plate reduces spray from the hull bottom, minimizing water on the deck above. The streamlined shaft and enlarged bullet reduce drag for enhanced fuel economy and acceleration.

Tiller models feature a new 4-lamp warning system built into the tiller handle, while remote control models deliver alerts via messaging through multi-function gauges.

Color-coded, automotive-type oil filter and dipstick simplify oil checks and changes.

Tiller models adjust to three angles—7, 13, and 21 degrees—for added comfort.

Transom looks a little low, guys. Probably not the ultralight, 216-pound outboard's fault in this case.

Lightweight outboard that features outstanding holeshot is ideal for economical pangas, which are famous for low-horsepower requirements.

The less weight hanging on the transom, the skinnier the water you can pole. The best-in-class BF40/50 will optimize the abilities of modern technical poling skiffs.

Obviously plenty of acceleration to power inflatables.

Deck boats are gaining in popularity with fishing families. Lightweight, quiet and economical 4-strokes fit in nicely with family finances. And the 5-year, non-declining factor warranty will cut down on owner-financed repairs.