Honda BF 20 Outboard

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Honda BF 20 Honda BF 20
It's all about power and at 21.4 cubic inches, the Honda BF20 is the power king, with the largest displacement of any twenty-horsepower outboard in the industry-and it's also the lightest engine in its class.

The Honda BF BF is available in two different types: S and L. The information on this page represents the S type unless specified.

Key Features

  • Power Thrust 4-blade propeller creates 60% more thrust in reverse and 15% more in forward.
  • Additional exhaust relief about the cavitation plate allows the prop to run in clean, exhaust-free water, producing more thrust.
  • Easy one hand starting with the built-in decompression release and Digital CDI system set the ignition timing during start-up.
  • Power tilt conveniently allows user to tilt the unit out of the water.
  • A convenient, foldaway carry handle is situated at the exact top/bottom balance point of the engine, so that the engine carries more easily in a level
  • The engine alert system protects the engine from severe damage due to low oil, over-revving and overheating.
  • 3 year limited warranty


Honda BF 20 (Outboard) Specifications
Fuel Type Gasoline
Horsepower 20-hp
Warranty 3 Years
Type of Engine 4-Stroke
Number of Cylinders 2 Cylinders
Configuration In-line
Weight (lbs/kg) 104.00 lbs / 47.17 kg
Fuel Delivery Carbureted
Displacement (cu/cc) 21.00 cu / 344.13 cc
Shaft Length Options 15 in for S / 20 in for L
Shift/Throttle Control Electronic
Steering Control Tiller
Alternator Output 12 A Electric / 6 A Manual

Honda BF 20 Captain's Report



Honda Outboards: Rated #1 in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power & Associates


Honda Marine once again raises the performance bar with the BF20 and BF15 outboard 4-stroke engines, perfect portable power choices for inflatable yacht tenders, small fishing boats, pontoon boats, or as backup power on larger fishing boats or sail boats. Weighing only 101 pounds, the BF20 and BF15 are the first 4-stroke outboards of their kind to weigh less than most of the other 9.9 horsepower (hp) motors on the market today. Also available in Power Thrust designs, the BFP20 and BFP15 models offer enhanced maneuverability and performance in either fresh or salt water.

The best boating depends on the right start, ease of maintenance, and maximum time on the water,” said Robin Senger, Honda Marine Marketing. “With the BF20 and the BF15 engines, the integration of easy starting, power and portability make these models popular choices for today’s sport angler.”

In addition to being incredibly lightweight, all BF20 and BF15 models deliver both ease of maintenance and transport. With a long-stroke design and class-leading 350 cc (21.4 cu. in.) displacement, both engines are top performers, providing optimum torque throughout the rpm range. Additionally, an integrated carrying handle, easy one-hand starting and programmed ignition are offered as standard features.

The BF20 and BF15 engines share a number of features and benefits that make the products the most technologically advanced in their class. The 4-Stroke Engine Design combines proven reliability and superior fuel efficiency, with no oil mixing. A PGM Ignition accurately controls ignition timing during start-up, providing optimum overall operation across the entire rpm range, while the Auto Start Enrichment feature automatically adjusts the air-fuel mixture for quick, easy starting and warm-up. In addition, the Engine Alert System is an integrated warning system that protects the engine from severe damage due to low oil, over-revving and overheating.

A Foldaway Carrying Handle positioned at the exact top/bottom balance point of the BF20/BF15 engines enhances portability, and makes it easy to carry the engine in a level position. As with other Honda Marine engines, a Fresh Water Flushport works to flush debris and saltwater out of the engine and the patented 4-Front Corrosion Protection System features a double sealed multi-layered paint process.

For increased control and reduced steering effort, the BF20/BF15 engine models are designed with Longer Tiller Handles made of a new lightweight composite for increased durability and weight reduction. Another unique lever design – the EZ Steer Friction Control – allows the operator to precisely adjust steering tension for improved control and comfort.

Finally, a Shallow Water Drive (on manual trim models) allows boaters to run in shallow water while greatly reducing the risk of engine damage, while Positive Lubrication ensures critical engine component long-term durability.

A Closer Look at Power Thrust

The BF20/BF15 engine models are equipped with the Honda exclusive Power Thrust Design for enhanced performance and maneuverability. Both engines also feature Reverse Exhaust Relief, an additional exhaust outlet above the cavitation plate allowing the prop to run in clean, exhaust-free water. The ultimate result is more thrust.

Honda Exclusive Design Elements

Both the BF20 and BF15 engines feature a number of Honda design exclusives, including:

 Large Displacement, which provides optimum torque throughout the rpm range; both the BF20 and BF15 models, at 21.4 cubic inches, have the largest displacement in their class;

 Lightweight Design allowing for easy transport and convenient mounting to the hull; the BF15 model, in fact, is the lightest 4-stroke model in its class;

 High Output Charging (both models have the largest alternators in their class) maintains the bo

Photo Gallery

Engine Image

Honda BF 20

Engine Image

Honda BF 20

Engine Image

Honda BF 20