A 3.6-litre V6 block
At Honda, the most powerful engine is a 250 hp. Since its launch, this engine has been built on a 3.6-litre V6 block. For the smaller models, also the V6, the block was only 3.4 litres. Now all Honda V6s, 175, 200, 225 and 250 hp are on the same 3.6-litre block.
By increasing the displacement, Honda increases the torque. This is an advantage for heavy boats that need this torque for lift-off. With more torque, Honda engineers were able to change the base ratio from 1.86 to 2.00. This makes it possible to mount larger propellers, always in order to increase thrust.
No Taxation
The administrative power (CV for horsepower) is calculated according to a mathematical formula that integrates the number of cylinders, bore and stroke. Engines with a result of less than 21 HP are exempt from tax. This is the case with the Honda V6s. An important point when it comes to paying your annual tax... Note that the Honda V6 is the only 4-stroke V6 to be exempt from this tax.
Simplified maintenance
Taking an existing V6 block, the new Honda outboard engines do not represent a revolution. But details have been improved to facilitate the maintenance of these engines. As a result, the filters that were previously in the bowl are now accessible under the hood. Similarly, replacing the trim cylinder no longer requires removal of the engine. With other similar details, a revision that took 2h30 on the previous generation engines now takes only 20 minutes!
This time saving will be appreciated by the dealer, but also by the private individual who should see his maintenance bill significantly reduced.
Electric controls
The new V6 range will be available with electric controls. We were able to try them out in preview - the first deliveries are scheduled from spring 2019. The orders are pleasant and respond ideally. They are coupled with new functions such as the "Troll" which limits the rpm (adjustable every 50 rpm) useful when trolling.
These new engines are also available with a Star and Stop start button and even a wireless anti-theft device (key that is kept in the pocket before starting).
In addition, the new 4-inch programmable display with a very ergonomic menu allows the user to follow the engine information. Of course, Honda are NMEA 2000 compatible to connect to all chartplotters on the market.
Sea trial
The tests took place off Mandelieu with a flat sea in the morning which quickly rose in the afternoon. Ideal conditions to test maximum speeds and judge the recovery in the waves.
For the tests we were able to test the 175 hp on a 7.30 m Eolo. The 200 hp was equipped with an Ocqueteau Ostrea 800 helmsman (8.00 m). Finally, the 250 hp was mounted on 2 semi-rigid boats: a Marsea 7.60 and a Highfield 7.60.
At top speed, we reached 43.3 knots with the Highfield and 41.2 knots with the Marsea. On the consumption side, this 250 hp consumes 85 litres/hour at full capacity. With 200 hp, the Ostrea 800 reached 33.8 knots at 5800 rpm. A top speed penalized by a poorly adapted propeller. Finally, the Eolo 7.30 took 34 knots with 175 hp but with an engine unfortunately mounted too low, which prevented it from reaching its maximum speed.
Available in cable orders
Until the motors are available in the electric drive version, the cable drive versions are already available.
- BF200 : 21 099 € TTC
- BF225 : 22 099 € TTC
- BF250 : 24 099 € TTC
