Imagine smoothly gliding through clear waters whilst your Further Customs inflatable boat effortlessly slices through mild waves. An incredible day on the water versus a frustrating struggle often comes down to one crucial decision: your choice of the outboard motor. At Further Customs, we have helped countless boaters get their perfect matches, and we are sharing our expertise to help you make the best choice.
The Art of Matching Power to Purpose
When it comes to outboard selection, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some considerations to assist you in narrowing down your selection.
Your Boat’s Maximum Rating: Every Further Customs inflatable has a maximum horsepower rating based on size, construction, and buoyancy. It's not merely a suggestion—it's your safety ceiling.
Passenger weight: More passengers mean more weight, which means more power is needed to maintain performance. Focus on your most common scenarios rather than worst-case loads.
Purpose: Power needed for coastal exploration or fishing expeditions is different compared to weekend lake cruising. Think about your typical outings and priorities.
The Sweet Spot: Balancing Power and Practicality
This is where our Further Customs knowledge truly shines. Most boaters make use of 5-20hp motors for our inflatables:
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5-9.9hp: Best suited for solo trips, smaller vessels, or highly portable travel
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10-15hp: The sweet spot for most recreational users — enough power for fun without overwhelming smaller boats
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16-20hp: Ideal for larger inflatables, multiple passengers, or when you need extra boost
Weight Matters More Than You Think
One aspect that surprises many first-time buyers is how much the motor's weight impacts your entire boating experience. A motor that's too heavy can:
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Make your boat difficult to handle on land
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Affect stability and performance on water
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Create storage and transport challenges
Our rule of thumb? If you can't comfortably lift and maneuver your motor solo, you might want to consider a lighter option. Many modern motors in the 10-15hp range offer excellent power-to-weight ratios that work beautifully with Further Customs inflatables.
2-Stroke vs. 4-Stroke: The Eternal Debate
Both engine types have their merits, and availability varies by region due to emissions regulations:
4-Stroke Advantages:
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Superior fuel efficiency
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Quieter operation
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Lower emissions
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Better for longer trips
2-Stroke Benefits:
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Lighter weight
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Simpler mechanics
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Often more affordable
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Great power-to-weight ratio
The Electric Revolution
Electric outboards are becoming increasingly popular, especially for Further Customs customers who prioritize quiet operation and environmental responsibility. While current electric motors work wonderfully for short trips, they're still catching up to petrol engines for longer-range adventures. However, battery technology is evolving rapidly.
Pro Tips from the Further Customs Team
Start with Your Boat's Length: Longer boats generally perform better with the same motor compared to shorter ones. Sometimes upgrading to a longer Further Customs model gives you better performance than simply adding more horsepower.
Consider Electric Start: If you are looking at motors 20hp and above, electric start can be a game-changer, especially for those with shoulder issues or who simply want convenience.
Think Storage: 4-stroke engines require proper storage positioning to prevent oil leaks—something to consider if you frequently transport your motor.
Making Your Decision
At Further Customs, we believe the perfect outboard matches not just your boat's capabilities, but your boating lifestyle. Whether you are seeking quiet morning fishing sessions or exciting family adventures, we are here to help you find the ideal combination of power, efficiency, and reliability.
Remember, the best motor isn't necessarily the most powerful one—it's the one that perfectly complements your Further Customs inflatable and your unique adventures on the water. Ready to find your perfect match?
Visit furthercustoms.com and let's chat about your specific needs and get you out on the water with confidence.
