9.9 HP Outboard Motors: The Most Useful Size on the Water
Light enough to lift, strong enough to plane a jon boat, and legal on many horsepower-limited lakes. Every 9.9 HP class motor we sell is here.
9.9 HP outboard motors are two-cylinder four-strokes of roughly 85 to 100 lb, sized just under 10 HP. They plane light 12 to 14 ft boats and fit waters that cap motors at 10 HP.
Marcus and the 10 HP sign
Marcus found the perfect bass lake twenty minutes from home. Then he saw the sign at the ramp: motors 10 HP maximum. His buddy’s 25 HP was out. His own trolling motor took half an hour to cross the lake, and the fish did not wait.
So he did what half the ramp had already done and bought a 9.9 HP four-stroke for his 14-foot jon boat. It planed with him and a cooler aboard, crossed the lake in under five minutes, and sat just under the limit. Now Marcus gets to the good point first, and his buddy has started asking to ride along.
Every 9.9 HP outboard motor we sell
Tohatsu rates its model at 9.8 HP and Honda at 10 HP, but all five compete in the same class. Always check the rating against your local limit. Prices are starting prices in USD.
How do the 9.9 HP models compare?
All are two-cylinder four-strokes. The practical differences are rated power, fuel system and price.
| Model | Rated HP | Fuel system | Standout | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tohatsu MFS9.8 | 9.8 | Carburetor | Lowest price in class | $2,450 |
| Mercury 9.9 EFI | 9.9 | Fuel injection | Easy starts, strong dealer network | $2,850 |
| Suzuki DF9.9B | 9.9 | Carburetor | Compact and light | $2,950 |
| Yamaha F9.9 | 9.9 | Carburetor | Proven kicker and sailboat motor | $3,100 |
| Honda BF10 | 10 | Carburetor | Smooth; check 10 HP limits carefully | $3,150 |
Weights run roughly 85 to 100 lb depending on shaft length and electric start. Exact specs are on each product page.
Who is a 9.9 HP outboard for?
- Jon boat and 12 to 14 ft aluminum boat owners who want to plane.
- Anglers on lakes and reservoirs with a 10 HP cap.
- Sailboats up to about 28 ft needing a strong auxiliary (long shaft).
- Trolling kickers on larger fishing boats.
- Owners who still want to remove the motor for storage.
Need more speed or a heavier load? Step up to 15 HP. Want lighter? See 8 HP.
9.9 HP outboard motors: FAQ
Why are outboards rated at 9.9 HP instead of 10?
Many lakes, and some registration or licensing rules, draw the line at 10 HP. A 9.9 rating keeps the motor just under that threshold.
How fast is a 9.9 HP on a jon boat?
A 14 ft jon boat with one person typically reaches roughly 13 to 18 mph. Extra passengers, gear and the prop choice change the result.
Can one person lift a 9.9 HP outboard?
Many adults can, briefly, at roughly 85 to 100 lb. It is easier with two people or a motor cart, especially onto a high transom.
Should I get electric start on a 9.9?
Electric start is great for kickers and older owners, but it adds weight and needs a marine battery. Pull start keeps the setup simple and lighter.
Be first to the good spot.
Choose your 9.9 HP now, or ask us which one fits your boat and your lake rules.