Re: NEW HONDA BF 225 TOO HEAVY?
Here is some additional info, as Rock fishing gets into prime time, and I have put serious time on my two new Hondas. I almost always use both motors an equal amount of time on my fishing trips. The kicker is ideal for trolling, it will allow me to troll as slow as I want. Trolling this slow gives me an advantage over trolling with larger motors, since many of the bigger boats just can't slow down enough. Lazy square tailed rockfish are slow are typically not ging after something moving at 5-6knots. If I use the 225hp to get me around, and the 15hp to troll, my fuel consumption is nearly half what it would be without using the kicker. This set up is awesome, I have both engines on my transom, so its a breeze to flip the kicker up/down when I need it. <br /><br />The 15hp locks in the up position and so far is not a problem when in heavier seas, I thought it might fall, but has not. I have the kicker mounted on the extreme starboard side of my transom, so access to the tilt lock lever is a minor problem; you just have to reach over the kicker motor. I would mount it on the port side if possible; on my boat this is where the swim step is located so I chose the starboard side. I also have both motors with separate fuel lines and fuel filters. The kicker is not as easy to start on the really cold nights, but it is still only about three pulls. The kicker is locked in position and I steer with the big motor, this works well, except when its very windy or very crowded and maneuverability is a must. Still may convert Ez-steer system, Ill let you know if I do<br /><br />The 225hp is also holding up well. I had one minor problem with the motor, I had water in my fuel, but the warning buzzer sounded and I emptied my filters (these were easy to get to); I have had no problems since. The engine cover snaps down and is a tight fit; I wish it were a little easier to line up when rocking around on the water, this can be a pain. This motor starts every time and does not seem to mind the cold weather like my old Yammy or the kicker does. The trim/tilt mechanism is louder than my old Yammy and makes some terrible noises but works fine I guess its just not as smooth as the Yammy system. <br /><br />In reply to those considering these motors I say go for it, since I got both motors for the same price as a 2004 Yamaha 225 four stroke. The most important thing to not is these are much heavier than equal 2 stroke and you will have to rebalance the boat. In my case I eliminated much of the typical junk on board, rearranged my batteries, and added a fresh water tank to the bow to add more weight up front. Just remember that as Walleyehed stated, The 225HP on a 230HP rated boat isn't a problem...The concern would be the 600lbs on the transom, and the total max weight allowable, persons, motor and gear. I now have extra weight; so I limit my crew to four guys, hate fishing with more than that anyway. This is critical since I could really notice the weight before I made the modifications. Hope this helps.
