THE NEW BIG BOY FROM HONDA

Honda Marine has recently launched tits first V8 outboard engine. We were invited to the launch and came away more than impressed.

Through a range of outstanding technological features, the new BF350 will redefine high-performance premium outboard marine engines, offering the most formidable power yet from a Honda outboard.

The BF350 is powered by an impressive 60-degree 5 Litre V8 engine with VTEC™ (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology. The new BF350 offers impressively low noise and vibration while delivering a new distinctive, rich sound and exhilarating performance, with every feature designed to enhance the boating experience.

The Honda Marine BF350 is offered with a new distinctive design; a slim, one-motion silhouette harmonious with the water. Encased in Aquamarine Silver or Grand Prix White, both designs are embossed with three-dimensional chrome plated logos and trims befitting a strong, premium appearance.

The BF350 5-litre V8 engine offers the most formidable power amongst Honda’s outboard engines. The BF350 offers Honda’s revolutionary BLAST™ (Boosted Low Speed Torque) mode, ECOmo economy mode for optimised fuel efficiency. When extra power is required, VTEC™ will boost peak power, providing a positive surge of acceleration.

Honda’s VTEC™ technology provides a unique blend of power, torque, and efficiency optimising performance throughout the higher RPM range. VTEC™ is already proven on the BF250, 225, 150, and 100 HP outboards.

NMEA 2000 protocols allow engine data to be interfaced with on-board systems and displays, integrating information with systems such as SONAR or GPS.

Stunning speed and rapid acceleration provide exciting high propulsion operation, with smooth response and exceptionally robust torque. Honda’s Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system provides power where and when you need it. VTEC is the “replacement for displacement.”

Honda’s exclusive BLAST system improves acceleration at low speeds. The result? Instant acceleration and improved hole shot. This system uses Honda’s patented spark advance system to propel the boat to plane in just seconds.

When you move the throttle quickly, BLAST is activated. The TPS detects wide open throttle, the air-fuel ratio adjusts to a richer setting, and the ignition timing advances aggressively. This allows the engine to make more torque, more power and faster acceleration.

The BF350 crankshaft is manufactured using the same materials and tested to the same strength specifications as Acura’s famed NSX high-performance sports supercar. Various technologies have been applied to the crankshaft to achieve higher output/ higher torque, quieter operation and increased strength, contributing to a comfortable and smooth onboard experience.

The fully balanced, 60° offset crankshaft eliminates the need for counter balancing; it seamlessly integrates with 60° engine design and non-linear engine mount to provide exceptional performance with minimal vibration. Crankpin offset angle reduces vibration and noise generated by the crankshaft.

The BF350 has reintroduced the use of an O2 oxygen sensor, which contributes to Honda’s superior fuel economy. The integrated O2 sensor monitors air/fuel ratios, measuring residual oxygen content of the exhaust gases and optimising combustion efficiency. The o2 sensor is mounted in the right-hand exhaust passage of the right-hand cylinder head in a purposely designed chamber. This ensures that air fuel mixtures are calculated precisely while protecting the sensor from possible contamination.

The V8-cylinder engine block has a bore pitch of +2mm and a bank offset of +2mm, enabling it to accommodate higher output. The new BF350 employs an advanced plateau honing process. This process creates a smooth finish on the cylinder surface and a groove to allow an appropriate amount of oil to accumulate, thereby reducing piston sliding friction and contributing to improved fuel efficiency.

The all-new BF350 is a premium performer that runs on regular unleaded fuel (86 Octane) and has an optimised fuel efficiency that extends range and reduces operating costs. Honda’s exclusive Lean Burn Control technology optimises fuel efficiency by supporting effective combustion on a leaner air-to-fuel mixture. With the re-introduction of the O2 sensor, the air/fuel ratio is closely monitored and automatically adjusts A/F ratio as needed. At cruising speed, Honda engines run on up to 20% less fuel than other comparably sized outboards.

Multi-port Programmed Fuel Injection adds both easy starts and improved fuel efficiencywithout sacrificing performance.

Honda Marine’s BF350 boasts several smart features intended to enhance the customer experience and improve ease of use, including Cruise Control, electric Tilt Limit and Trim Support. The Cruise Control feature delivers smooth operation by expanding the adaptive speed range of the conventional trolling control function. Select Cruise Control on the display and adjust cruising speed on the control head when desired.

The Honda BF350 features an adjustable Tilt Limit sensor to avoid over tilting when docking. Push the button and the engine automatically tilts itself to a preset angle to avoid scratches or damage to the boat or engine. Automatic Tilt provides owners with an automatic full tilt at a double push of the button.

The BF350’s all new Trim support has three customisable pre-sets to automatically trim the engine getting you on the plane faster whilst improving fuel economy. Both the Trim Support and O2 sensor are designed to optimise fuel consumption without compromising engine performance.

Accompanying the V8 outboard is the all-new BF350 controller. The controller comes in an ergonomic form to support various grips and operations, has an intuitive 5-button multifunction panel, and a high visibility neutral position indicator, all enhanced in a leather grain for exceptional comfort.

Incorporating DBW (Drive By Wire), owners have precise electronic engine response to control multiple engines with a single lever, providing simple operation for smooth, stress-free boating.

The BF350 combines comfort and performance in a technologically advanced outboard engine intended for optimal customer experience through precision engineering. High performance in every possible way, the BF350 is Honda Marine’s greatest achievement yet.