2018 Yamaha F115 I-4 1.8L Mechanical 20 F115LB Outboard Motor

Yamaha's pitch for this F115 centers on weight and acceleration: a 1.8-liter four-stroke with double overhead camshafts, rated 115 hp, claimed to be nearly 25 lbs lighter than rival DOHC 115s, with a zero-to-200-foot run said to be 0.7 seconds quicker than the F115 it replaced. This build sits on a 20-inch shaft with remote mechanical steering and electric start, at a listed dry weight of 377 lbs.

Charging, trolling and upkeep

A three-phase alternator rated at 35 amps covers batteries and electronics underway, and a variable trolling switch steps idle speed from 650 to 900 rpm for anglers who need to hold a slow pace. A freshwater flush fitting lets you rinse the powerhead between outings without starting it, and bore and stroke come in at 81 x 88.9mm for anyone cross-checking parts.

Remote mechanical steering needs helm cables and a control box rather than a tiller handle, so confirm your boat is wired for that before ordering a 20-inch-shaft unit. The extra weight over a smaller portable is worth planning for when sizing a hoist.

Questions buyers ask

What's the oil capacity? 3.2 liters with the filter, 3.0 without, in a wet-sump system.

What's the warranty? 3-year limited pleasure use and 1-year limited commercial use.

Does a propeller come with it? Yes, along with tiller handle hardware, a fuel tank and a quick-connect fuel line.