Yamaha's redesigned F115 four-stroke outboard is now 24 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Yamaha used a composite lower pan and cowling, a single ram power trim-and-tilt mechanism and a lightweight mounting bracket to drop the total weight to 377 pounds. The all-new powerhead provides increased bore and stroke, now displacing a full 1.8 liters. The dual-overhead cam, four-cylinder design also has larger intake and exhaust for easier breathing, more power and better midrange torque, Yamaha says. The new F115 is mechanically controlled and compatible with Command Link gauges. Available in 20- and 25-inch shaft lengths, the F115 starts at $11,445.
Straight Path
In an upgrade to its Evolution autopilot system, Raymarine introduces Hydro‑Balance technology, which compensates for hydraulic-system elasticity in hydraulic steering. Elasticity can be caused by air bubbles, hose flex or variable valve performance, and can degrade autopilot function. Until now, Raymarine says, conventional marine pilots without rudder-angle sensors (typical on outboard boats) couldn't correct for elasticity. Hydro-Balance also adjusts for prop walk — a sideways force caused by prop torque — using algorithms to "teach" the autopilot. New Evolution autopilots ship with Hydro-Balance; existing system owners can upgrade for free at Raymarine's website or through a dealer.
Bigger Picture
Terrafin Satellite Imaging has released a redesigned mobile app with on‑the‑water use in mind. Larger controls make selecting options easy, even on moving vessels. A new Chart View improves the visibility of sea-surface-temperature readings and coordinates. The app allows users to quickly download charts from Terrafin's website for later offline viewing. A tap-and-drag cursor makes lat/lon readings easier; the app allows users to mark waypoints, and calculate distance and bearing. GPS-enabled devices can show real-time vessel location. The app is available for Apple and Android devices, and is free; a Terrafin subscription ($99 per year) is required to access charts.
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