Yamaha Updates F250 and F300 Outboards
For more information, click here.
For 2021, Yamaha has upgraded its F250 and F300 V6 Offshore Digital Electronic Control four-stroke outboards. They feature built-in Digital Electric Steering (DES), Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust (TERE) and other features derived from the company’s 425-hp flagship outboard, the XTO Offshore.
Enhanced Precision
DES was introduced on the XTO Offshore and is now built into the F250 and F300. Yamaha says the system is smoother and faster-responding to helm input and it only draws battery amperage when actively in use. DES also requires no pumps or hydraulic lines, which means a cleaner bilge and splash well.
The new TERE system keeps exhaust bubbles above the anti-ventilation plate and away from the propeller when the engine runs at less than 2500 rpm in reverse. This gives the prop a better bite in clean water, improving the driver’s control when in reverse. When combined with DES and Yamaha’s Helm Master EX Full Maneuverability feature, it should put the captain in complete control around the docks and in confined spaces.
Yamaha’s TotalTilt function lets the operator tilt the motor all the way out of the water with a double tap on the “Up” trim button or full trim down with a double tap of the “Down” button. It automatically adjusts when the trim rams are contacted by the lower unit. There’s a built-in tilt limiter. Additionally, Yamaha says the DES models tilt higher out of the water than on previous models.
Carrying the style lines of the XTO Offshore, the new 4.2-liter V6 Offshore series engines are available in traditional Yamaha gray or pearlescent white. A color-matched lower unit is new for 2021 and the new one-piece top cowling has water-draining air-duct molding, a new bottom cowling and raised chrome graphics. The new engines will be available in February.
Updated Controls
Also new for 2021 is flush, side-mount DEC for the Helm Master EX, which is designed to bring the benefits of the system to a broader array of boats, including pontoons, dual-consoles and other single-engine craft. The flush, side-mount DEC for Helm Master EX will be available in March.
The “HP” version of Yamaha’s Saltwater Series II propeller is designed for V6 applications that are not surface-piercing. It’s targeted for lighter weight boats using the 4.2-liter V6 Offshore and V Max SHO 25” X-shaft platforms and Yamaha says it should provide a higher top speed than current available wheels. All Saltwater Series II HP props have Yamaha’s shift dampener system and will be available in 18”, 19”, 20” and 21” pitches in left- and right-hand rotation in March.