Yamaha FourStroke Portable 2.5–25HP Outboards

If you’re looking for a small outboard that’s easy to carry, simple to use, and tough enough to handle everyday boating, Yamaha’s 2.5–25 horsepower Portable FourStroke lineup has you covered. These motors are designed for dinghies, inflatables, sailboats, jon boats, and small skiffs—basically any craft that needs reliable power without a lot of weight on the transom.

What sets them apart is the way Yamaha blends convenience with proven FourStroke technology. They’re quiet, fuel-efficient, and built with the same attention to detail as Yamaha’s larger offshore engines. Whether it’s the feather-light F2.5 for quick trips or the feature-rich F25 with fuel injection, this lineup delivers dependable performance for boaters who want to spend less time worrying about their engine and more time on the water.

Shop Small Yamaha Outboard Motors (Quick Finder)

• F2.5–F6 (Ultra-Portable): Tenders, dinghies, canoes—carry-on convenience with manual start.
• F8–F9.9 (Versatile): Sailboat auxiliary, kicker/trolling—available high-thrust options.
• F20–F25 (Feature-Rich): EFI starts, optional electric start and Power Tilt for skiffs, jons, and light pontoons.

Shaft Length Guide (Fit Check)

• Short Shaft (S ~15"): Most dinghies/inflatables with ~15" transom.
• Long Shaft (L ~20"): Deeper small skiffs, many sailboats.
• Extra-Long (XL ~25"): Select sailboats/unique transoms.
  Measure from keel to top of transom and match to shaft. When in doubt, choose the next length up for clean water pickup.

High-Thrust vs. Standard (F9.9 & F25)

• High-Thrust (T-models): Lower-pitch, larger-diameter props for heavier boats and displacement hulls (sailboats).
• Standard: Better top-end on light planing hulls.
  Pick based on hull type and typical load (crew, gear, fuel).

Starting, Controls & Power Features

• Manual start: F2.5–F9.9 (select variants).
• Electric start: Common on F20/F25 variants.
• Tiller vs. Remote: Most are tiller; select higher-HP portables can be remote-rigged (check product page).
• EFI (F20/F25): Cleaner idle, easy hot/cold starts, consistent fuel economy.

Fuel Economy (What to Expect)

These small Yamaha outboard motors are engineered for low fuel burn at trolling and cruising speeds. EFI models (F20/F25) further stabilize consumption across temperatures and altitude. Actual results vary by load, hull, prop, and sea state.

Maintenance Snapshot (Portable FourStroke)

• Break-in: Follow owner’s manual procedure.
• 100-hour/annual: Engine oil & filter, gear lube, fuel system checks, anodes, water pump inspection.
• Saltwater care: Fresh-water flush and corrosion-guard after each trip.

See our Yamaha Outboard Maintenance Schedule for model-specific intervals.

We’ve put together some helpful resources, including:

Yamaha Outboard Engine Selection Guide

Yamaha Outboard Maintenance Schedule

Yamaha Outboard Motor Specs & Capacities

Yamaha Outboard Motors Maintenance Parts Portal

Model Range Details

Yamaha F2.5 – Small but Mighty

The F2.5 is Yamaha’s smallest outboard and one of the easiest to transport. At under 40 pounds, you can pick it up, mount it, and be underway in minutes. It’s a great fit for small dinghies or as a backup motor, offering 360-degree steering and smooth water-cooled performance that punches above its size.

Key Features:

• Ultra-lightweight, under 40 lbs
• 360° steering for easy maneuvering
• Reliable manual starting
• Quiet and fuel-efficient

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Yamaha F6 – A Go-To for Small Boats

The F6 gives you a bit more muscle while staying portable enough to carry without trouble. It’s a favorite for jon boats and skiffs where steady, no-fuss power is all you need. Rugged and easy to maintain, it’s built to deliver season after season.

Key Features:

• Compact and easy to handle
• Smooth manual start
• Extended tiller for better control
• Fuel-efficient FourStroke system

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Yamaha F9.9 – A Trusted Sailboat and Kicker Motor

The F9.9 has a reputation for being one of Yamaha’s most versatile small outboards. Many sailors rely on it as an auxiliary, and anglers often choose it as a kicker motor. Available in high-thrust versions, it provides extra torque for heavier loads and displacement hulls.

Key Features:

• Standard and high-thrust models
• Smooth, quiet performance
• Reliable for sailboats and trolling
• Built for long-term durability

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Yamaha F20 & F25 – Big Features in a Portable Package

At the top of Yamaha’s portable range, the F20 and F25 bring features usually found on larger outboards. Both have EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) for instant starts and better fuel economy, plus optional Power Tilt to make trailering and shallow-water use easier. They’re strong, dependable engines for small pontoons, skiffs, and lightweight fishing setups.

Key Features:

• EFI for easy starts and smooth throttle
• Optional Power Tilt for convenience
• Shaft length options to fit more boats
• Compact yet powerful design

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Why Choose Yamaha 2.5–25HP Outboards?

This range is all about making boating simple. You get portable size, excellent fuel economy, and Yamaha’s reputation for long-lasting reliability. Whether you need a motor you can carry in one hand or a more advanced option with EFI and Power Tilt, these outboards give you the freedom to go wherever the water takes you.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Yamaha Portable 2.5–25HP

Q: What’s Yamaha’s lightest outboard in this range?
A: The F2.5, weighing under 40 pounds, is the lightest and easiest to carry.

Q: Do any of these engines have electric start?
A: Yes—while the smaller models are manual only, the F20 and F25 can be ordered with electric start.

Q: How do I know if I need a short or long shaft?
A: It depends on your boat’s transom height. Dinghies and inflatables usually take short shafts, while sailboats and deeper hulls often require long shafts.

Q: Are high-thrust options available?
A: Yes, especially in the F9.9 and F25 models. They’re great for pushing heavier boats.

Q: Can I use these motors in saltwater?
A: Definitely. Just flush with fresh water after each trip and keep up with corrosion protection.

Q: What kind of fuel do these engines need?
A: Fresh, clean gasoline. Yamaha recommends adding a marine fuel stabilizer if you’ll be storing fuel for longer periods.

Q: Are these all tiller models?
A: Most come tiller-steer, but select models in the higher horsepower range can be rigged with remote controls.

Q: How often do I need maintenance?
A: Follow Yamaha’s schedule for oil, spark plugs, gear lube, and filters. With proper care, these motors will last for years.

Q: Where can I buy small Yamaha outboard motors (2.5–25HP)?
A: Right here at PartsVu — browse models, see live pricing/ETA, and ship nationwide.

Q: How much does a Yamaha F20 cost?
A: Price varies by shaft, start option, and accessories. Check the F20 product card for current pricing and availability.

Q: What shaft length do I need (short vs. long)?
A: Match shaft to transom height: ~15" = Short (S), ~20" = Long (L), ~25" = XL. Measure keel-to-transom and choose accordingly.

Q: Do these small Yamaha outboard motors have electric start?
A: F20 and F25 are commonly offered with electric start; smaller models are typically manual.

Q: What’s the difference between standard and high-thrust F9.9/F25?
A: High-thrust versions swing propellers optimized for push/torque on heavier or displacement hulls (sailboats). Standard favors top-end on light planing hulls.

Q: What is the warranty on Yamaha portable outboards?
A: Yamaha provides a factory limited warranty (term depends on model/program). See each product page for details.

Q: Are these suitable for saltwater?
A: Yes — rinse/flush after use and maintain corrosion protection per the manual.

Q: EFI vs. carbureted on small outboards — pros/cons?
EFI (F20/F25): easier starts (hot/cold), consistent idle, predictable fuel economy; slightly more complex electronics than simple carbs on ultra-portables.

The Yamaha Portable 2.5–25HP FourStroke lineup is built for boaters who want a motor they can trust—without the extra weight or hassle. Whether it’s the super-light F2.5, the versatile F9.9, or the feature-rich F25, Yamaha makes sure every trip is smooth, quiet, and reliable. These outboards prove that portable power can be both simple and serious.