With the publication of Honda's 2015 outboard price list, very attentive skippers have noticed a new model series. We are talking about the BF-250-iST versions. These arethe premium model BF 250 in conjunction with an electronic gearstick, which is available from Honda iST(intelligent Shift and Throttle) calls.
Similar systems havethe competition in this power class for a long time. As a result, the Honda was labelled old-fashioned in the 250 hp outboard motor test in 2013 due to the Bowden cables.
These times are now over from Honda's point of view and they can now also offer their customers the extra comfort of an electronic gearstick.
The first engine in this series was delivered to Atlantic Marine Germany in Germany. The mechanics at the boat dealer in Schwerin fitted the engine to the Atlantic Marine 750 Open, which celebrated its premiere at the "Boot Düsseldorf" in January 2015.
On the outside, the iST engine is no different from the conventional model. The differences only become visible under the bonnet.
Where the Bowden cables usually end and control the gearbox and throttle valve by means of deflections, there are nowTwo servomotorswho do this work. At the driving position, every skipper realises that this is no ordinary Honda.
The control panel
In addition to the lever with integrated trim switch, the new gearstick has a control panelwith two buttons and three indicator lights. You can switch between the different modes using the two buttons. In detail, this means: If you start the engine and then pressthe WARM buttonall three lights come on and you only control the engine speed with the lever, without engaging a gear.
To be able to drive off, the lever must first be returned to neutral and the mode cancelled using the WARM button. The gearstick then works normally. What every skipper will notice straight away is theVery precise gradation between neutral, forward and reverse.
Dosing the gas over the entire control range is also very convenient with the new gearstick.
The SLOW mode
In order to better regulate the motor power/speed when docking, the technicians gave the system a practical SLOW function. Thisthe maximum speed is limited to 3000 rpm, whereby the full lever travel is retained for better dosing.
SLOW mode is activated by pressing both buttons. If the indicator lights then flash, it is active. There is also aTrolling modeby raising and lowering the engine speed at the touch of a button. This function is mainly used by anglers.
In terms of price, the iST models cost €4,000 more than the Bowden cable versions. According to Honda, after the BF 250, the BF 200 and BF 225 are now being launched with the iST system. The only question that remains is why they don't offer the 175 as well - after all, the basic engine is identical.
