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The Ultimate Guide to the 50 HP Honda Boat Motor: Price, Performance & Reliability
You’re standing at the helm, the sun warming your face and a light breeze blowing across the water. Your boat is your sanctuary, your fishing platform, your family’s weekend escape. But that perfect day on the water hinges on one critical piece of equipment: your outboard motor. Choosing the right one is a balance of power, reliability, and budget. If you’ve set your sights on a workhorse known for its legendary dependability, you’ve likely asked the question: what does a 50 hp honda boat motor really cost, and is it worth it?
The price of a new 50 HP Honda outboard motor typically ranges from $9,000 to $11,500 USD, depending on the shaft length (20″ or 25″), optional features like electric start and power trim, and your local dealer’s pricing. This guide will break down the cost factors, key features, and help you determine if this motor is the right investment for your vessel.
Why the Honda 50 HP Outboard Is a Top Contender
In a sea of outboard brands, Honda Marine has carved out a reputation that is almost mythical. It’s built not on flashy marketing alone, but on decades of proven engineering and real-world user testimonials.
Unmatched Reliability & Engineering
Honda’s core philosophy is rooted in its automotive heritage. The same principles that make a Honda Civic one of the most reliable cars on the road are baked into every outboard they produce. The BF50 is a four-stroke engine, which offers significant advantages over older two-stroke technology:
- Smoother & Quieter Operation: Four-stroke engines run with a refined purr, drastically reducing noise and vibration. This means you can actually have a conversation while cruising and won’t scare away the fish.
- Superior Fuel Efficiency: They don’t burn oil mixed with fuel, leading to cleaner, more efficient combustion. You’ll go farther on a gallon of gas, saving you money at the pump trip after trip.
- Environmental Friendliness: With significantly lower emissions and no oily discharge into the water, a 4-stroke Honda is a responsible choice for the eco-conscious boater.
Real-World Performance: What to Expect
The 50 hp class is the sweet spot for a huge range of boats. This isn’t a motor for breaking speed records; it’s a motor for dependable, efficient performance. You can expect robust power for planing mid-size fishing boats, ample thrust for pushing pontoon boats loaded with people and gear, and trustworthy power for small cabin cruisers and tenders. Its fuel efficiency is where it truly shines, allowing for longer days on the water without constant anxiety about your fuel gauge.
The BF50 Series: A Legacy of Innovation
The Honda BF50 is part of the long-running BFT series, a line that has been refined over the years to near perfection. This continuous improvement cycle demonstrates Honda’s commitment to the product. When you buy a BF50, you’re not buying a prototype; you’re investing in a platform with a proven track record of success and incremental innovation.
Detailed Price Breakdown: What You’re Really Paying For
Seeing a single MSRP can be misleading. The final price tag is a combination of the base motor and the specific configuration your boat requires.
Base MSRP vs. Real-World Dealer Pricing
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is a starting point. Authorized dealers will have their own pricing based on factors like shipping, inventory, and local market demand. It’s always best to get a final, “out-the-door” quote from your local dealer that includes all fees.
Key Cost Factors
- Shaft Length: This is critical for matching your boat’s transom height. A 20-inch (L) shaft is standard for many boats, while a 25-inch (XL) is needed for higher transoms, like those often found on pontoon boats or offshore fishing vessels. The longer shaft typically comes at a slight premium.
- Control Options: The most basic (and least expensive) setup is a tiller handle. For more control and convenience, especially on larger boats with a console, you’ll need a remote control system, which includes the binnacle and cables, adding to the cost.
- Power Trim & Tilt: This feature is standard on most modern BF50 models and is essential for optimizing your boat’s performance and for easily trailering. Confirm it’s included in the base price.
- Propeller Selection: The motor often comes with a standard aluminum prop. However, upgrading to a stainless steel prop or selecting a specific pitch for your boat’s performance needs is an additional, worthwhile investment for many boaters.
Don’t Forget These Additional Costs
The motor’s price is just one part of the equation. To get on the water, budget for:
- Installation & Rigging: A professional dealer will charge for the labor to mount the motor, connect controls, and set up the wiring. This ensures everything is done safely and correctly.
- Sales Tax: Don’t forget to factor in your local and state sales taxes.
- Initial Maintenance Kit: It’s wise to purchase the initial set of engine oil, filters, and grease so you’re prepared for the first service interval.
In-Depth Feature & Specification Analysis
Let’s look under the cowling. The specifications tell the story of a meticulously engineered machine.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 808 cc |
| Full Throttle RPM Range | 5,300 – 6,300 rpm |
| Weight | 214 lbs (97 kg) – 20″ Shaft |
| Alternator Output | 16 Amp |
| Fuel Induction | Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) |
| Bore x Stroke | 75 mm x 73 mm |
BLAST™ for Enhanced Acceleration
Honda’s BLAST (Boosted Low Speed Torque) technology is a game-changer. When you need a quick burst of power to get on plane or to navigate a strong current, BLAST advances the ignition timing, providing extra torque right when you need it most. It makes the boat feel more responsive and powerful than its 50 hp rating might suggest.
Lean Burn Control™ for Optimal Fuel Economy
This is Honda’s signature fuel-saving technology. The engine’s computer constantly monitors operating conditions and adjusts the fuel mixture. When you’re cruising at a steady, mid-range speed—which is most of the time for many boaters—it leans out the mixture for maximum efficiency without sacrificing performance. This is the secret behind the BF50’s legendary fuel economy.
Expert Tips: Is the Honda BF50 the Right Motor For You?
With over a decade of experience in the marine industry, I’ve seen how the right motor can transform a boating experience. Here’s my take on where the Honda BF50 truly excels.
Ideal Boat Matches
This motor is perfectly suited for a wide array of vessels. It’s an exceptional choice for:
- 16-20 Foot Center Console Boats: Provides ample power for fishing, getting on plane quickly with a load of gear, and efficient cruising to and from the grounds.
- 18-22 Foot Pontoon Boats: The 25″ shaft model is ideal for pontoon boats. It delivers smooth, quiet power for leisurely cruises and has enough torque to push a loaded pontoon effectively.
- Small Cabin Cruisers & Cuddy Cabins: A reliable and efficient power source for overnighters and weekend adventures.
- Large Dinghies & Tenders: Its reliability makes it the perfect “get-home-safe” motor for a tender on a larger yacht.
Honda vs. The Competition: A Balanced View
It’s only fair to look at the Honda BF50 in the context of its main rivals: the Yamaha F50, Mercury 50hp FourStroke, and Suzuki DF50A.
- Yamaha F50: A very close competitor in terms of reliability and reputation. The choice often comes down to local dealer support, specific feature preferences, and sometimes, price.
- Mercury FourStroke: Mercury has a vast dealer network and strong brand loyalty. Their motors are also excellent. Honda often holds a slight edge in perceived refinement and quietness.
- Suzuki DF50A: Suzuki is a leader in innovation, especially with their lean-burn systems. They are often very competitively priced. Honda competes with its unparalleled brand reputation for bulletproof reliability.
The Verdict: If your top priority is long-term, worry-free ownership and you value a quiet, smooth ride, the Honda is an outstanding choice. You are paying for a premium product with a proven history.
Long-Term Ownership & Resale Value
This is where the Honda truly justifies its initial investment. Honda outboards are known for their incredibly strong resale value. A well-maintained, 5-year-old BF50 will often command a significantly higher price than a comparable competitor. Couple that with a best-in-class 3-year limited warranty, and you have a package that offers tremendous peace of mind. The lower cost of ownership over time, through fuel savings and retained value, often makes the Honda the more economical choice in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much does a 50 HP Honda outboard weigh?
A: The Honda BF50 weighs approximately 214 lbs (97 kg) for the 20″ shaft model, making it a competitive weight in its class.
Q: What is the fuel consumption of the Honda 50 HP 4-stroke?
A: At wide-open throttle, it consumes roughly 5.1 gallons per hour. However, its Lean Burn Control technology makes it exceptionally efficient at cruising speeds, where consumption can be half of that.
Q: Is the Honda 50 HP a reliable motor?
A: Yes, Honda outboards are renowned for their exceptional reliability and low maintenance requirements, a direct result of their automotive-grade engineering and proven design.
Q: What size boat can a 50 HP Honda motor push?
A: It can efficiently power boats up to approximately 2,200 lbs, making it ideal for pontoons, fishing boats, and small cabin cruisers in the 16-22 foot range.
Q: Where can I buy a 50 HP Honda outboard?
A: Honda outboards are sold through a network of authorized marine dealers. Use the “dealer locator” on Honda’s official Marine website to find one near you. For high-quality marine accessories and parts, you can also explore our collection at https://hidea-outboardmotor.com/accessories.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The 50 hp honda boat motor represents a premium choice in the marine engine market. Its price reflects a commitment to quality engineering, legendary reliability, and innovative features like BLAST and Lean Burn Control that enhance your time on the water. While the initial investment may be higher than some alternatives, the long-term value proposition—through outstanding fuel economy, minimal maintenance, and superior resale value—is undeniable.
This motor isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what matters most: making memories on the water.
Ready to get a precise quote for your boat? Contact your local authorized Honda Marine dealer today for expert advice and final pricing. For more information on maintaining and optimizing your outboard, visit our guide at https://hidea-outboardmotor.com/maintenance-tips.