Honda BF8D 8HP 4-Stroke Outboard – Smooth Twin-Cylinder Power for Versatile Use

The Honda BF8D stands out as one of the smoothest-running engines in the small outboard class thanks to its two-cylinder design. While many 8HP motors on the market are single-cylinder and can vibrate noticeably, Honda opted for an inline-twin configuration – the result is significantly reduced tiller vibration and quieter operation, something you’ll appreciate during long runs or hours of trolling. This engine is extremely versatile: light enough to be portable, yet powerful enough to push a variety of boats in different scenarios.

Weighing in around 42 kg, the BF8D still qualifies as portable, albeit on the heftier side of that category. Honda has paid attention to convenience – the tiller handle can fold, stowing compactly for transport or when space at the transom is at a premium. There are integrated carry handles on the engine housing to help two people lift and move the motor. The short shaft (15") version of the BF8D suits most small boats and inflatables, while the long shaft (20") is ideal for boats with taller transoms or for sailboats.

In terms of features, the BF8D shares many of the creature comforts of Honda’s smaller models: easy manual starting with a programmed ignition PGM-IG that precisely controls spark timing for optimal running at all RPMs. It’s equipped with the same 3-position gear system (forward, neutral, reverse) and has a built-in safety that prevents starting in gear – standard Honda safety practice. Shifting between gears is smooth and positive, with no clunks or grinding, which helps preserve the transmission over the long term.

For anglers and adventurers, the Honda BF8D offers a huge convenience: a 6-amp alternator (lighting coil) that allows you to run small electrical gadgets. With it, you can keep a battery charged or power a fishfinder, GPS unit, campsite lights on your boat at night, a VHF radio, etc., while the engine is running. This effectively turns the BF8D into not just propulsion, but also a portable power source for your on-water camp.

Special Power Thrust version (BFP): Honda provides an optional version of the 8/9.9HP with a modified lower unit and a larger diameter propeller. This BFP variant (often marketed at 9.9HP, sharing parts with the 8HP) significantly increases thrust, especially in reverse (up to 60% more), and improves handling on heavy boats, particularly when used as an auxiliary engine on bigger craft. With that, a BF8/BF10 in Power Thrust configuration can confidently serve as a kicker motor on a 7–8m (24–26ft) boat, keeping it steady while trolling or providing precise maneuvering in tight quarters.

In operation, the Honda BF8D is commendably quiet – at idle it purrs softly, and at mid-range the sound won’t drown out conversation. The exhaust is routed underwater through the prop hub, which further muffles noise and prevents exhaust fumes from accumulating around the boat (important when trolling so as not to spook fish). Fuel consumption is characteristically low: at cruising throttle on a small skiff, usage is just a few liters per hour, making the BF8D very economical for all-day outings.

Honda reliability is built-in – the timing chain (instead of a belt) with automatic tensioner means there are no timing belts to replace and the valve timing remains in tune without frequent adjustment. The Oil Alert system monitors oil pressure and will limit RPM if it drops too low, safeguarding the engine. A multi-layer corrosion resistant finish on all aluminum components shields the motor from saltwater damage and extends its life, which is critical in harsh marine environments.

The applications for the Honda BF8D are numerous. As a primary engine, it capably powers aluminum or fiberglass fishing boats in the 3.5–4.5m range (12–15ft), providing them solid speed and handling on lakes and rivers. For inflatable boats (RIBs or hard-floor dinghies) around 3–4m, 8HP is enough to plane with 2-3 people aboard, delivering zippy performance. Many sailors with sailboats ~5–6m (16–20ft) choose the BF8D as their outboard instead of an inboard – it’s easy to remove for maintenance or storage and provides the thrust needed to get back to port or navigate in calms. As a secondary/kicker on larger boats, the BF8D (especially in Power Thrust trim) controls the boat during trolling with impressive precision and frugality, allowing the big main engine to stay off for hours.

In summary, the Honda BF8D is a small engine with big capabilities – quiet, smooth, and efficient, it’s an investment that pays off with years of trouble-free operation and all-around usefulness in a wide range of conditions.