Honda Outboard Range Blasts Off

Honda’s revolutionary Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST™) system is now featured in every model from the compact BF40 right through to the class-leading BF225.

Making its debut in the BF75/90 in 2006, BLAST was developed to improve acceleration at lower speeds. Activated by sharp throttle movement, the air/fuel ratio ignition timing control technology results in powerful hole shot performance to get boats on the plane quicker.

Honda Australia assistant marine service manager Stephen Harvey said the patented BLAST technology was the global benchmark for four-stroke outboard engine design.

“In a nutshell, BLAST makes available the greatest amount of torque at the precise moment it’s required,” Mr Harvey said.

“The engine’s Electronic Command Unit (ECU) determines throttle opening during acceleration and advances the ignition timing to develop more horsepower at low revs.

“A quick movement of the throttle control lever activates BLAST, aggressively advancing the ignition curve, while upon slow advancement of the throttle a mild ignition spark advance curve is initiated and the engine operates as normal.”

During acceleration, the air/fuel ratio goes to a richer setting. At that point, the ECU – receiving information from the throttle sensor and other engine sensors – determines the best spark advance by tracing the ignition timing for best air/fuel ratio.

“The boost in horsepower and torque at low revs contributes to very strong acceleration from 0-50m to get boats on the plane very quickly, something which was traditionally considered a weak point of four-stroke outboards,” Mr Harvey said.

“Combining incredible out-of-the-hole performance with all the benefits of Honda’s advanced four-stroke technology, BLAST has changed attitudes towards four-stroke outboards the world over.”

BLAST is available in Honda’s BF40, BF50, BF60, BF75, BF90, BF115, BF135, BF150, BF175, BF200 and BF225.