BRAND A 90PS
BRAND B 90PS
12: 25 (2.08)
100-HP MODEL
Suzuki’s new DF100 outboard is available in both 20 and 25-inch shaft versions making it the ideal choice for a
wide-variety of craft. Its innovations
begin with a 118.9 cu. in. inline 4-cylin-
der Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) powerhead with four-valves-per-cylinder.
Suzuki’s proven digital multi-point electronic fuel injection – controlled by a
powerful computer receiving input from
a network of sensors throughout the
engine – optimizes performance under
any engine load, temperature or altitude.
Performance-oriented features include
the DF100’s tuned and water-cooled
intake system and water-cooled fuel rail,
to squeeze the most power and the most
miles from every litre of fuel. Suzuki’s
race-proven 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust
system is tuned for superior performance and Suzuki has used a 2.59:1
final drive ratio to accommodate larger,
higher pitched propellers for a superior
combination of low-end power and top-end speed.
Similar to its 70, 80 & 90-hp
cousins, the DF100 incorporates an offset driveshaft and two-stage cam drive
to reduce exterior dimensions and
offers better balance on the transom,
translating into reduced engine vibration and improved performance.
Also, like its cousins, the DF100
incorporates an oil-bathed, self-adjusting timing belt to help provide rock-solid reliability. Further enhancing reliability over the long run are features like
Suzuki’s one-piece, forged crankshaft
and durable stainless steel water pump.
An air-cooled, high-output 40-amp
alternator keeps its cool as it keeps plenty of juice flowing to power the sophisticated marine electronics, pumps, lights
and accessories found on today’s fishing
and family boats.
PERFORMANCE TESTING
As test day dawned, and buoyed by a
light breakfast (so as not to exceed maximum load limits on each craft), the
media arrived at the dock, chose our
craft and headed out onto the bay. While
the two, three and later 4-foot waves
made it progressively more dangerous to
venture out in all but the largest of the
test boats, I offer the following observations of the outboards’ performance
from the testing I was able to perform.
I was immediately taken by the whisper quiet engines which, at idle, measured a mere 74-76 db at the transom. I
had to be reminded that these boats had
been fitted with new generation ignitions that need only be turned and
released. (No need to hold the key until
the engine springs to life.)
Suzuki’s claim to vibration reduction
was certainly evident as none could be
seen nor felt. Shift and throttle response
were immediate both in forward and
reverse. Overall, in testing 3 of the
engines, I was suitably impressed.
As activity on test day began to wane,
my curiosity peeked as to why Suzuki
would introduce four new outboard
engines each separated by a mere 10
ponies. Not having seen boats in Canada
with stated maximum horsepower ratings of either 80 or 100 also caused me
to wonder as to Suzuki’s marketing strategy. These questions were suitably
answered: Suzuki not only wishes to
provide maximum consumer choice
within North America, but also wishes
to gain a competitive advantage in
Europe and Russia, geographic locations
where maximum ratings of 80 and 100-
hp are more commonplace.
One can’t help but be impressed by a
company that, despite rising gasoline
prices and other economic uncertainties
of our time, surges ahead committing to
introduce new outboards each year.
Their hope, I’m sure, is that these economic impediments are causing their
competitors pause and that the time is
ripe for Suzuki Marine to vault even
higher in the top five rankings. As these
new generation outboards hit dealer
shelves this October and November,
they may just experience a late season
surge by those wishing to hit the water
for the ’09 season with Suzuki’s mid-range best and brightest. We at Boating
Industry Canada wish Suzuki every
success with their new line-up.
