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Yamaha Outboard Motors: Every Portable Four-Stroke from F2.5 to F25

Yamaha has a reputation for motors that just keep going. Here is every small Yamaha four-stroke we stock, with honest prices and plain advice.

8 models, 2.5 to 25 HPFrom $1,160Strong resale value
Simple definition

Yamaha outboard motors are gas four-stroke engines made by Yamaha Motor. Their portable range covers the F2.5 tender motor up to the lightweight F25, known for durability and simple maintenance.

Coach Hiro’s chase-boat fleet

Hiro runs a youth sailing program with four aluminum chase boats. Every summer those motors get treated the way teenagers treat everything: dropped into gear too fast, run aground on sandbars, left out in the rain. His rule for buying replacements is short: whatever survives the kids.

For years that has meant Yamaha. His oldest F9.9 is on its umpteenth season of towing capsized dinghies and chasing wayward Optimists. When the budget allowed a fifth boat this spring, nobody on the committee even asked which brand. They asked if the new F15 would be ready before the first regatta.

How does the Yamaha range break down?

Yamaha’s line splits into single-cylinder portables and two-cylinder mid-size motors. There is no 3.5, 5 or 30 HP in our Yamaha range.

ModelCylindersBest forNotesFrom
F2.51Tenders, canoesForward-neutral, very portable$1,160
F4 / F61Inflatables, small sailboatsBuilt-in tank, external option$1,720
F8 / F9.92Sailboats, kickers, jon boatsSmooth twin, long-shaft options$2,820
F15 / F20214 to 16 ft fishing boatsShared block, similar weight$3,650
F252Skiffs, RIBsLighter than most three-cylinder 25s$5,200
Analyst tip: The F25’s two-cylinder design makes it one of the lighter 25 HP outboards. On a small RIB or a boat sensitive to stern weight, that difference is easy to feel.

Who should choose a Yamaha outboard?

  • Owners who value long service life and strong resale value.
  • Sailors wanting a proven long-shaft auxiliary (F6, F8, F9.9).
  • Clubs, schools and rental fleets that need hard-wearing motors.
  • Anglers who want a trusted kicker for trolling.

Yamaha outboard motors: FAQ

Are Yamaha outboards good?

Yes. Yamaha four-strokes are widely regarded as durable and easy to maintain, and they tend to hold their value well on the used market.

What is the smallest Yamaha outboard?

The F2.5, a single-cylinder four-stroke of about 37 lb with an integrated tank. It suits tenders, canoes and small dinghies.

Which Yamaha is best for a sailboat?

For sailboats up to about 22 ft, a long-shaft F6. From about 22 to 28 ft, a long-shaft F8 or F9.9 gives more thrust into wind and chop.

Does Yamaha make a 30 HP portable?

Our Yamaha range tops out at the F25. If you need 30 HP, see the Mercury, Suzuki and Honda options on our 30 HP page.

Buy the motor that outlasts the boat.

Choose your Yamaha, or ask us which model suits your hull.

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