Yamaha Sheds New Light on Midrange Outboards
Midrange outboards—motors from 50 to 70 hp—represent the power of choice for flats skiffs and microskiffs. Now there are fresh options thanks to updated cowling designs and a new color choice on select Yamaha midrange outboards.
Yamaha now offers the F50, F60 and F70 outboard family in the matte brown color, which is less likely to spook fish in shallows thanks to a less-reflective, earth-toned finish. Matte brown also makes for an excellent base layer for tailored camouflaging.
Yamaha has also refreshed the cowling design of the traditional gray F50, F60 and F70 outboards, as well as the High Thrust T50 and T60 models, thus aligning with the look of Yamaha’s larger inline-4 and V-6 outboards.
The newly styled cowlings promote efficient airflow over the top and around the sides of the powerhead. Cowling accents are streamlined with fewer decals for a more uniform look, while the added, raised Yamaha tuning-fork emblem on the back brings a new level of sophistication.
In addition, Yamaha’s glossy pearl white color option is now available in more outboard product lines, including the F90 and F115 models. For more, visit yamahaoutboards.com.
Steering-Assist Tiller Models
Anglers who fish shallow waters with tiller-steer outboards will love Yamaha’s new Steering Assist Tiller Handle F200 and F150 models. These incorporate the 2.8L electro-hydraulic steering system introduced in 2023. The new mechanical Steering Assist Tiller Handle engages an electric steering sensor that triggers the outboard’s integrated electro-hydraulic steering system at or above 2,000 rpm.
Your preferred steering sensitivity can be set to relieve tiller arm tension for lighter, effortless steering to reduce arm strain during long runs. Steering sensitivity can also be set for increased tension, creating tighter, traditional tiller arm feedback for more precision control during lower rpm when you need to slow down to navigate chop.
To further enhance ease and comfort, the new Steering Assist Tiller Handle can be adjusted up to 15 degrees to port or starboard from center in 5-degree increments. In addition, a tiller height adjustment screw allows the arm to be raised or lowered parallel to the boat deck or captain’s seat, whichever is most comfortable. The tiller arm can also be folded and locked vertically 90 degrees at its mounting base, allowing upright tiller arm steering during loading and docking. To learn more, visit yamahaoutboards.com.
Yamaha’s HARMO Outboard: A New Choice for Nearshore
Small outboards are often the motors of choice for powering skiffs plying the shallows on lakes, rivers and coastal bays. Today, Yamaha is merging the effectiveness of a small outboard with advanced, zero-emissions technology in the form of Yamaha’s HARMO electric outboard propulsion system.
This lithium-ion-powered, electric 3.7 kW low-profile outboard produces the equivalent of 9.9 hp, and can be used in single and twin applications. Reflecting the first use of rim drive on an outboard motor, HARMO provides quiet thrust for sneaking up on fish in the shallows, plus responsive torque coupled with sustainable outboard power.
“HARMO allows boaters to enjoy quiet yet palpable thrust in single or twin, fully electric applications with industry upgrades in boater convenience and confidence,” says Ben Speciale, president, Yamaha US Marine Business Unit. “HARMO also represents a portion of the multitechnology approach to carbon neutrality in our product line.”
The HARMO electric outboard system is fully integrated with Yamaha’s Helm Master EX, and is offered in 20- and 25-inch shaft lengths to fit a wide range of boat transoms. It also features a State of Charge battery status on the special HARMO gauge, allowing skinny-water anglers to plan their time on the water with confidence. The rim-drive technology and midsection Digital Electric Steering generate immediate acceleration in response to throttle input—perfect for fishing shallow nearshore waters.
A standard, conventional outboard mounting bracket and low-profile rigging tube are engineered to ease of installation of the HARMO system on a variety of boats, from skiffs to pontoons and more. To learn more about the Yamaha HARMO electric outboard propulsion system, visit yamahaoutboards.com.
