The Outboard Expert, 2010 Model Previews in Miami
Mid-Range and Kicker Motors Coming from Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha
March 4, 2009
Compact and lightweight, the new Suzuki DF9.9 is aimed at the inflatable and light skiff markets. Its new tiller combines throttle and shift controls in the twist-grip.
The big Miami International Boat Show, which closed on Feb. 16, is the traditional venue for outboard builders to preview future models, and despite the tough economy, the sheet was pulled off a few 2010 motors. Here's what we learned:
Suzuki: A new DF9.9 has a 208cc, twin-cylinder four-stroke powerhead and will replace the 302cc DF9.9 in the current Suzuki model line. At just 87 pounds in its lightest version, the new DF9.9 weighs 10 pounds less than the motor it replaces and is also physically smaller. Suzuki claims the new motor will also offer significantly better fuel economy at low- to mid-range speeds. A new tiller handle incorporates the throttle and shift control in the twist grip. Intended primarily for small skiffs and inflatables (and the European market), the new DF9.9 shares its specifications with a DF8, a new horsepower classification for Suzuki. Suzuki models using the 302cc powerhead will remain in the line as a DF15 and as the High Thrust DF9.9T/15T, models designed for use as trolling kickers, with power trim and a high-thrust prop better suited to moving a heavy boat. No pricing is available at this time. The new DF9.9/8 will reach dealers in late summer as a 2010 model.
Available late in 2009, the new triple-cylinder Suzuki DF60 will feature EFI and fuel-saving Lean Burn Control.
Suzuki offers fewer details on a new DF60 model that will appear late this year as a 2010 model, except to say that it's a triple-cylinder design with EFI that will be lighter and more compact than the current DF60. The motor will feature Lean Burn Technology, a system that uses a knock sensor and other computer controls to allow the engine to operate at a very lean, and very fuel-efficient, fuel-air ratio at steady, mid-range speeds.
Mercury Marine: There is scant news from Mercury, which did not announce any new outboard models at Miami but did debut MercMonitor, a digital engine monitoring system designed for price-point boats. Its 42 functions can be programmed to appear in groups of three in as many as five configurations. Features include GPS course heading and speed, fuel range, engine and trim synchronizing, depth and trim, and Troll Control speed control. The color of the LCD display can also be customized by the owner. The 3 3/8-inch-diameter round gauge will work with Mercury models dating back to 2002, though not all functions may be available with all motors. In addition to the basic MercMonitor, there will be versions with SmartTow and with SmartTow Pro, speed control system designed for tow-sports.
Honda Marine: Honda unveiled a prototype of a new BF60 model that will be on sale late this summer as a 2010 model. No specs or details about the motor were released. The prototype does have styling cues similar to those on the BF75/90, and a similar-shaped gearcase. Presumably the new BF60 will slot between the present BF50 and the BF75 EFI models.
- Honda displayed this prototype of a new BF60 model at the Miami boat show, but offered few details. It should reach dealers in late 2009.
