Suzuki
Introduced in late 2007 Suzuki's DF25 V-Twin four stroke outboard is a unique approach to putting power to prop. The V-Twin is a 70 degree twin cylinder aluminum block, each displacing 269cc (538cc total displacement), with 2 overhead valves per cylinder produce maximum power output at 5,000rpm. Suzuki lightened the motor by using an aluminum block and aluminum connecting rods. The engine also does not have a heavy counterbalance. As Suzuki explains it "The 70 degree V-bank angle is wide enough to minimize vibration without the use of a counterbalance system, and narrow enough to produce a compact profile on the transom.
While lightening the load the V-Twin design also moves the outboard’s center of gravity further forward providing good balance on the transom and making the engine easier to tilt by hand. Which is a good thing as Suzuki does not offer a power trim and tilt model. Our test model was a long shaft electric DF25 which tips the scales at 168lbs dry. This is up to 20 pounds less than their competition.
The manual rope start model includes a 6 amp alternator while the electric start model includes a 15 amp alternator. Ignition is supplied via a Digital CDI (capacitor discharge ignition) which monitors engine temperature and RPM to set optimal ignition timing. Air and fuel are mixed in a single carburetor and fed to the cylinders through a tuned intake.
There is a distinct sound the motor makes. Some say it's similar to a 400-600cc motorbike. Power comes on strong and quick. Time to plane was nearly a second faster and only one tenth of a mph slower than it's closest rival. With the motors lower WOT rpm range and lower gear ration we were also able to turn one of the largest props with the most pitch. On our test skiff we used a Suzuki aluminum three blade 10.25 X 12 and turned 5430 rpm.
Overall impressions are good though the lack of a power trim and tilt on an outboard weighing 168 pounds is a miss in our books. However power, performance and features are positives worth looking at for the V-Twin.
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http://www.suzukimarine.com/
American Suzuki
Marine Customer Service
P.O. BOX 1100
Brea, CA 92822MSRP: NA
A special thank you to Outboard Specialities of Pompano Beach Florida for thier assistance with this test.
Honda | Mercury | 
Suzuki | Tohatsu | Yamaha | Conclusion | The Skiff | Back
