Innovative new Mercury 15/20hp EFI FourStroke outboard
This new lightweight portable Merc has the world’s first ambidextrous outboard tiller handleMercury Marine has released an innovative new 15 and 20hp EFI FourStroke outboard engine that’s 13 per cent lighter than its predecessor, while packing the world’s first portable outboard tiller for fully ambidextrous operation.
The new Multi-Function Tiller Handle is centre-mounted and adjustable horizontally – up to 18 degrees to either port or starboard — and the throttle grip rotation is reversible to provide an intuitive and comfortable boating experience, regardless of driving-hand preference.
Designed for boaters of all budgets and bents, the new two-cylinder SOHC 15/20hp FourStroke is also Mercury’s latest outboard to feature battery-free EFI. The technology is designed to give fast, reliable starting, instant throttle response, and better overall performance.
Tipping the scales at 45kg (dry) for the 15in short shaft, the new 15 and 20hp EFI FourStroke are comparable in weight to the existing two-stroke models in Mercury’s outboard line-up. Of course, the carby two-strokes will no longer be imported in Australia after July 2018, as new emissions legislation takes hold, so this is the replacment.
Mercury claims the new light 15/20 has snappy acceleration and impressive top speed at 5700-6200rpm wide-open throttle. As to be expected, it will also deliver decent fuel economy.
Ease of maintenance is also part of the design spec. There’s a clean, no-drip, no-spill oil drain system, freshwater flushing attachment, and water-separating fuel filter.
MULTI-FUNCTION TILLER
The new Multi-Function Tiller Handle is a first for the outboard industry. Traditionally, tiller handles are mounted on the port side of outboard motors for left-hand operation. However, Mercury says its research found that a significant percentage of boaters prefer right-hand control.
The new centre-mounted tiller is adjustable horizontally – up to 18 per cent to either port or starboard — and the throttle grip rotation is reversible. This provides comfortable control regardless of driving-hand preference.
The tiller handle is also adjustable vertically, from -5 degrees to +10 degrees for comfortable operation at varying heights. The tilt-lock feature allows the tiller to be positioned out of the way when fishing and trailering.
The forward-mounted gear-shift lever and stop button are integrated into the throttle grip for easy reach.
The throttle-friction knob, with its large soft-touch rubber grip, allowing boaters to easily dial-in their desired speed/throttle response.
Power Tilt on select models allows for effortless engine tilting in shallow water or when trailering.
2018 LOCAL RELEASE
Nicholas Webb, Senior Director of Engine Products (Aus, NZ & Pacific), said Mercury Marine is really excited to bring the new 15 and 20hp EFI four-stroke outboard platform to Australia.
"This is an engine that is easy-to-start, intuitive-to-operate, lightweight and fuel-efficient. Our goal is to develop an intuitive product that enhances true customer boating experience," he said.
"This all-new, proprietary tiller handle is adjustable in ways never seen before on portable outboards.
"Put simply, it’s extremely user-friendly. It can be set up for right- or left-hand operation and the vertical down stop is adjustable to accommodate different body frames and boat layouts so it will really enhance your boating experience."
The new 15 EFI FourStroke outboard is also available in ProKicker models and SeaPro commercial models.
Pricing and availability is expected in early 2018 in Australia and NZ.
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