Yamaha F4 2024: 4HP Four Stroke Power on the Record-Setting 139cc Platform
The 2024 Yamaha F4 is a 4 horsepower, single-cylinder OHV four stroke portable outboard built on Yamaha’s proven 139cc platform — the same engine family that set a Guinness World Record for fuel efficiency. Producing 4HP at 4,500 rpm through a carbureted induction system, the F4 weighs just 59 lbs in the 15″ short shaft version (20″ long shaft available) and features tiller-handle control with full Forward-Neutral-Reverse shifting, 180° steering, and a dynamically balanced twist-grip throttle. Its ergonomic starter handle with built-in decompression device makes pull starting genuinely effortless, and the integral 0.29-gallon (1.1L) fuel tank can switch to an external tank — connection tap included — for extended range. It’s a standout in the small horsepower outboard class for boaters who want more push than a 2.5 without giving up portability.
Key Features of the Yamaha F4 (2024 Model Year)
- 139cc OHV single-cylinder four stroke — record-setting fuel efficiency, smooth and quiet
- 59 lbs dry weight (15″ shaft) — built-in carrying handles and resting pads
- F-N-R gear shifting — large, easy-reach shift handle with 180° steering
- Dual fuel capability — integral 1.1L tank plus switchable external tank connection (tap included)
- Decompression-assisted manual start — with start-in-gear prevention for safety
- 6-amp alternator output — battery charging capability (optional charging kit required)
- Easy Storage Oil Retention System — leak-free storage on either side or front
- CDI ignition + CARB 3-Star rating — dependable starts, 50-state legal
Specifications
- Engine Type: 1-cylinder, OHV four stroke, carbureted
- Displacement: 139cc
- Horsepower: 4 HP at 4,500 rpm
- Full Throttle RPM Range: 4,000–5,000
- Bore x Stroke: 62 x 46mm
- Compression Ratio: 8.9:1
- Starting: Manual (recoil) with decompression device
- Steering: Tiller, 180°, twist-grip throttle, F-N-R shift
- Shaft Length: 15″ (S) / 20″ (L)
- Fuel: Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
- Fuel Tank: Internal 0.29 gal (1.1L) + external tank compatible
- Alternator: 6 Amp at W.O.T. (charging kit sold separately)
- Dry Weight: From 59 lbs
Benefits
The F4 hits the sweet spot between carry-anywhere weight and real-world thrust. The F-N-R gearbox gives you proper reverse (no spinning the engine around), the dual-tank fuel system means marina hops on the internal tank and full-day range on an external, and the decompression starter makes it one of the easiest-pulling small outboards on the market.
Applications
Best for larger tenders and RIBs, 10–12 ft jon boats, small aluminum fishing boats, square-stern canoes, and sailboat auxiliary duty (20″ shaft). Want the same weight with more top end? See the Yamaha F6 2024 — same 139cc block, 6HP output. Need lighter? The Yamaha F2.5 2024 drops to 37 lbs.
Compare Model Years
See the Yamaha F4 2025 and Yamaha F4 2026, or browse all Yamaha Outboards and the Yamaha brand guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Yamaha F4 have reverse?
Yes — the F4 has full Forward-Neutral-Reverse gear shifting with an easy-reach shift handle.
Can the F4 use an external fuel tank?
Yes. It has a 0.29-gallon internal tank plus a switchable external fuel tank connection, with the tap included from the factory.
How much does the 2024 Yamaha F4 weigh?
59 lbs for the 15″ shaft model; the 20″ model weighs approximately 61 lbs.
Can the F4 charge a battery?
Yes — it has a 6-amp alternator output, but requires Yamaha’s optional charging kit.
Is the F4 hard to pull start?
No — a built-in automatic decompression device significantly reduces pulling effort, and start-in-gear prevention adds safety.



