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Best Outboard Motor for an Inflatable Boat: 2026 Buying Guide
Best Outboard Motor for an Inflatable Boat: 2026 Buying Guide
Pairing the right outboard motor with an inflatable boat is more nuanced than it might seem. Too small an engine and you’ll struggle to plane; too large and you’ll exceed the boat’s rated HP capacity — risking safety and stability. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
How to Read Your Inflatable Boat’s HP Rating
Every inflatable boat has a maximum HP rating stamped or listed in its specifications. This is an absolute limit — not a suggestion. Running an engine above the rated HP compromises stability and is often illegal on regulated waterways. Run at 75–80% of maximum HP for the best combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity.
Choosing the Right Engine Size
| Boat Length | HP Range | Recommended Models |
|---|---|---|
| 8–9 ft tender | 2.3–6 HP | Honda BF2.3, Tohatsu MFS6, Mercury 6M |
| 10–11 ft inflatable | 6–15 HP | Honda BF10, Tohatsu MFS9.8, Suzuki DF9.9 |
| 12–13 ft inflatable | 15–25 HP | Honda BF20, Yamaha F20, Mercury 25 |
| 14–15 ft RIB | 25–60 HP | Yamaha F40, Honda BF40, Mercury 40 |
Weight Matters: Choosing a Portable Motor
For small inflatable tenders under 11 feet, aim for motors under 60 lbs. Our lightest options: Honda BF2.3 (29.5 lbs), Tohatsu MFS6 (52 lbs — best power-to-weight for 6 HP), Suzuki DF6A (52 lbs).
Short Shaft vs Long Shaft
Most inflatable boats use a short shaft (15-inch) outboard. If your transom measures 20 inches from the top to the waterline, you need a long shaft motor. Measure carefully before ordering — shaft length mistakes are the most common ordering error with outboard motors.
Our Top Picks
- Best overall for 10–12 ft: Honda BF10 — quiet, fuel-efficient, ideal balance of size and power
- Best value: Tohatsu MFS9.8 — lightweight, reliable, priced significantly below Honda and Yamaha equivalents
- Best for large RIBs: Honda BF150 Twin — currently on sale at OMJ from $30,099
Shop at OMJ Auto Solutions
We stock over 682 outboard motors from Honda, Yamaha, Mercury, Suzuki, Tohatsu, and Evinrude — all compatible with our Achilles inflatable boat inventory. Browse all outboard motors or call +1(224)475-1213. Free shipping on orders over $5,000.