YAMAHA last week unveiled its new F115B and F175A lightweight four-stroke outboards at a media and boat dealer event on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
The 115B replaces Yamaha’s long-serving F115A four-stroke, originally released in 1999, while the F175A is a new engine category for Yamaha.
Yamaha provided several boats to test the new donks including a Seajay 5.1 Striker, a CruiseCraft 530 Explorer, 625 hard top Explorer and a larger NoosaCat 2400 HT.
The new outboards continue the trend towards lightweight four-strokes, with the 115hp weighing 171kg, which according to Yamaha is the lightest 115 in its class and 14kg below the previous model. The 115 is only slightly heavier than Yamaha’s 100hp model.
With a 1832cc DOHC in-line four-cylinder engine, the new 115 has been designed from the ground up to deliver a more fuel efficient and responsive engine for mid-range size boats.
Performance data from Yamaha reveals the latest model has 20 per cent better fuel economy than the previous model in the cruise range (between 3000 and 5000 RPM). Acceleration is 10 per cent better and very responsive at mid-range.
Other features of the new F115B include its multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection and micro-computer ECM control. The 115 has a 60mm large-bore throttle body and streamlined intake manifold. Yamaha has shaved weight from the engine with the help of its new compact Power Trim and tilt unit. There’s also a Tilt Limiting Switch available as a useful option for certain boat models.
Yamaha has improved the charging output on the 115 with a 35 amp high output alternator at WOT compared to 24 amps on the previous model. The new outboard still puts out 28 amps at a low 1000 RPM.
The F175A is a brand new category for Yamaha and follows the release in 2012 of the company’s 200hp four-stroke. The 175hp shares the same design features of the 200 and weighs slightly less. The weight of the 175 is on par with another competitor as the lightest outboard in its four-stroke class. With a reduction in weight and claimed superior fuel economy, Yamaha says the 175hp completes the range and will appeal to many boaties looking for something between the 150hp and 200hp models.
The 175hp also features a higher alternator output for charging batteries, accessories etc. The new model puts out 50 amps at WOT.
Both models share several new features. Both the 115 and 175 feature Yamaha’s Shift Dampening System (SDS). Originally introduced in the company’s larger models, “SDS” reduces the “clunking” noise during gear changes thanks to a splined rubber hub and aft washer which absorbs noise and vibration. It’s a great feature, especially for fishos looking for a quiet approach.
On that note, both outboards feature Variable Trolling System (VTS), which allows the boat to slow troll speeds down between 600 and 1000 RPM in increments of 50 RPM.
The Variable Trolling System uses the optional Command Link. Command Link is Yamaha’s own digital network system with multi-function displays for RPM, tacho, trim, oil pressure, warning lamps, and more. There’s also an immobiliser security system which runs through Command Link and reduces the risk of theft.
Check out the video below of Yamaha’s Dan Power explaining some of the features of the new models.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KROBAidY4Ao&feature=youtu.be
