The Honda BF4AH is part of Honda’s newest generation of portable 4-stroke engines, designed to be lightweight, quiet, and user-friendly. With 4 HP of output and a displacement of 127 cc, this single-cylinder engine provides ample thrust for small fishing boats, dinghies, and auxiliary craft, while remaining extremely convenient to transport. Weighing about 27 kg, the BF4AH can be hand-carried and mounted on a transom by a single person with ease.
The engine starts effortlessly thanks to an automatic decompression mechanism that reduces the pull force needed on the recoil starter. It also features a safety mechanism that prevents starting in gear – the engine won’t fire up if a gear is engaged, enhancing safety. A gear lever offers three clear positions: Forward (F), Neutral (N), and Reverse (R), simplifying maneuvering in marinas and tight spots. Throttle is smoothly controlled via the tiller handle, giving precise RPM adjustment for trolling or approaching docks.
The Honda BF4AH operates extremely quietly and with minimal vibration – its innovative OHV design and special rubber engine mounts cut down noise and shaking to the lowest level. This means a more comfortable experience during extended use, with less fatigue for the operator. The water cooling system with thermostat maintains optimal engine temperature and contributes to its quiet operation. The built-in 1.5-liter fuel tank provides over 40 minutes of wide-open throttle runtime (and much longer at cruising speeds) – the longest in its class – eliminating the need for an external tank on short outings.
If needed, the BF4AH can be fitted with an optional 6A, 12V alternator kit to charge a small battery – a handy feature for longer trips or camping, when you want to power lights, a fishfinder, or other devices. Servicing the engine is made simple: oil check, spark plug, and filter access points are convenient, and the engine includes a freshwater flush port to easily rinse out salt and debris after use in the ocean.
Overall, the Honda BF4AH packs Honda’s latest innovations into a small package – easy starts, convenient shut-off (a separate “Stop” button allows quick engine kill), and economical operation. It’s recommended for inflatables up to around 10–12 ft (3–3.5 m), small tenders and fishing boats on lakes/rivers, or as an auxiliary kicker on larger vessels (for docking or emergency use). With this engine you get Honda’s renowned reliability and the peace of mind that you’ll enjoy years of trouble-free boating.
Recommended Applications:
- Recommended boat length: up to ~10 – 12 ft (3 – 3.5 m)
- Ideal for: small fishing boats, inflatable dinghies and tenders, canoes with transom mounts
- Great as an auxiliary motor for sailboats and yachts, or for throwing in the car trunk and using on various waters as needed
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Engine hp:4 hp
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Engine type:1 Cylinder
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Displacement:127 cc (L)
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Max. RPM:4500 - 5500 RPM RPM
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Engine protection system:Oil pressure, RPM, Temperature
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Reduction gear ratio:2.08:1
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Ignition type:CDI Microcomputer
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Fuel system:Carburetor
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Cooling system:Water cooling + thermostat
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Gears:F-N-R
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Exhaust system:Through the propeller
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Propeller:Yes
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Fuel tank:1.5 L.




