Honda BF5 HP Outboard Engine

Honda BF5 HP Outboard Engine

Honda BF5 HP Outboard Engine are widely regarded as the best in its class.

As a dedicated Honda dealer, we know that reliability and ease of use are your top priorities. The BF5 delivers exactly that—packing advanced 4-stroke technology into a lightweight frame that you can transport without breaking your back.

The Honda BF5 has been re-engineered to provide more than just a way to get from A to B. It’s built for those who value a quiet, smooth ride without the "clatter" and vibration often found in smaller outboards.

With a 127cc engine, it provides excellent torque for efficient acceleration, while the ergonomic carry handle and foldable tiller make it a breeze to move from the car to the transom. Plus, with Honda’s legendary 4Front Corrosion Protection, this isn't just an engine for this season—it’s an investment for years to come.

Honda BF5 HP Outboard Engine Key Features

• Effortless Starting: Equipped with Honda’s decompression mechanism, the recoil starter requires minimal physical effort. It’s a "one-pull" engine that won't leave you frustrated at the slipway.
• Ultra-Low Vibration: Innovative rubber mounts developed by Honda keep vibration levels extremely low, ensuring your hand doesn't go numb after an hour on the tiller.
• Smart Protection: An integrated Oil Alert System monitors pressure and automatically reduces revs if it detects a drop, protecting your engine from accidental damage.
• Easy Handling: Featuring a full Forward-Neutral-Reverse (F-N-R) gear shift and 360° steering for exceptional manoeuvrability in tight marinas.
• Built to Last: The 4-layer coating process (including an epoxy primer and clear resin topcoat) ensures the shimmering silver finish stands up to harsh UV rays and salt water.
• Shallow Water Drive: The engine is light and easy to tilt, allowing you to protect the propeller blades when navigating shallows or coming into the beach.

Technical Specifications

• • Engine Type: 4-Stroke OHV, Single Cylinder
  • Displacement: 127 cc
  • Rated Power: 3.7 kW (5 HP) @ 5,500 RPM
  • Fuel Tank: 1.5 Litre (Internal)
  • Starting System: Recoil Starter
  • Dry Weight: From 27 kg
  • Shaft Lengths: Short (SHNU) / Long (LHNU) /Charging (SHU/LHU)
  • Warranty: 6-Year Domestic / 2-Year Commercial

Morgan Marine Pro Tip: For those running electronics or charging a leisure battery, ask us about the SHU/LHU models, which come fitted with a 6-amp charging coil to power your gear while you cruise.

Honda BF5 HP Outboard Engine FAQs

Is the Honda BF5 easy to start?

Absolutely. One of the standout features of this engine is Honda’s unique decompression mechanism. This system reduces the amount of effort needed on the recoil pull, meaning almost anyone can start the engine with a smooth, light pull rather than a heavy yank.

How heavy is the engine? Is it easy to carry?

The BF5 is designed for portability. It weighs in at approximately 27kg to 27.5kg (depending on the shaft length). We’ve found customers love the large, ergonomically designed carry handle and the foldable tiller, which makes it much easier to move from your car to the transom or store in a locker.

What is the difference between the Short Shaft (S) and Long Shaft (L) models?

This refers to the length of the engine's leg, which needs to match your boat's transom height:

• • Short Shaft (381mm / 15"): Typically used for smaller inflatables (like Honwaves) and small tenders.
  • Long Shaft (508mm / 20"): Best for larger boats with higher transoms or as an auxiliary engine for sailing yachts.

Tip: If you aren't sure which one you need, measure from the top of your boat's transom to the bottom of the hull. Give us a call at Morgan Marine if you need help measuring!

Does the BF5 have an integrated fuel tank?

Yes, it comes with a 1.5-litre internal fuel tank built right into the top of the engine. This is perfect for short trips or harbour work. If you’re planning longer adventures, the BF5 also features a dedicated connector for an external fuel tank, allowing you to switch over for extended range.

Can I charge my boat battery with this engine?

Yes, if you choose the SHU (Short) or LHU (Long) variants. These models come fitted with a 6-Amp charging coil (alternator). This provides enough power to keep a battery topped up for running electronics like a fishfinder, GPS, or even just charging your phone while you're on the water.

How noisy is it? I want a peaceful trip!

Honda is famous for quiet operation. The BF5 uses a large 127cc single-cylinder engine that runs at lower revs for higher torque, which keeps the noise down. Additionally, Honda has developed innovative rubber mounts that absorb the majority of the engine's vibration before it reaches the tiller or your boat.

What kind of warranty do I get?

When you buy from Morgan Marine, you benefit from Honda’s industry-leading 6-year domestic warranty (or 2 years for commercial use). This is a "watertight" factory warranty, meaning it provides the same level of protection on the last day as it does on the first—as long as you keep up with the service schedule.

How does the engine protect itself from damage?

The BF5 is built to last. It features an Oil Alert system that monitors oil pressure; if it drops, the engine will automatically reduce RPMs to protect the internal components. It also features Honda’s 4Front Corrosion Protection, a four-layer coating process designed specifically for the harsh salt-water environments we see here in the UK.

Is the engine environmentally friendly?

Very much so. Being a 4-stroke engine, it’s significantly cleaner and more fuel-efficient than older 2-stroke models. It meets all major emission standards, so you can enjoy the water knowing you aren’t leaving an oil slick behind you.

What's included in the box?

When you purchase a Honda BF5 from us, it comes ready to go with a standard 3-blade propeller and the tiller handle (with F-N-R gears). As your local dealer, we also provide a full Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) to ensure the engine is set up perfectly for your first launch.

Still have questions?

The team here at Morgan Marine is always happy to help. Whether you want to check compatibility with your boat or discuss delivery options, give us a call or visit us at the boatyard!