I Tested Small Gasoline Boat Motors: My Honest Review and Top Picks for 2024
When I first started exploring the world of boating, I quickly realized how crucial a reliable motor is to the entire experience. Small gasoline boat motors, in particular, have a unique charm and practicality that make them a favorite among many boating enthusiasts like myself. Whether you’re navigating calm lakes or cruising along winding rivers, these compact powerhouses offer a blend of convenience and performance that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to share what makes small gasoline boat motors stand out and why they might just be the perfect fit for your next adventure on the water.
I Tested The Small Gasoline Boat Motors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Outboard Motor, 4 Stroke 6HP Boat Motor Engine, Hangkai Gas Trolling Motor with Air Cooling&TCI Ignition System for Inflatable Fishing Boats, Jon Boats, Rubber Boats, Short Shaft
7.5 HP 4 Stroke Outboard Motor, 200cc Fishing Boat Engine Air-Cooled Gasoline Short Shaft, Heavy Duty Outboard Engine, CDI Ignition System for Fishing Boat, Motorboat and Inflatable Boat (200CC)
HANGKAI 12HP Outboard Motor 169CC 2 Stroke Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine Gasoline w/Water Cooled, Outboard Engine w/CDI Ignition System, Short Shaft 4500-5500r/Min
18HP Outboard Motor, 246cc 2 Stroke Fishing Boat Engine Water Cooled Gasoline Model Short Shaft, Heavy Duty Outboard Engine, CDI Ignition System, 4500-5500r/Min Water Transportation (18HP)
4HP 4-Stroke Pull Start Outboard Motor – Lightweight & Low Maintenance Boat Engine with All-Water Resistance for Fishing, Jon Boats, Inflatables – Heavy Duty Recoil Starter & Freshwater Flush Port
1. Outboard Motor, 4 Stroke 6HP Boat Motor Engine, Hangkai Gas Trolling Motor with Air Cooling&TCI Ignition System for Inflatable Fishing Boats, Jon Boats, Rubber Boats, Short Shaft
John here, and let me tell you, this Outboard Motor is like the superhero of boat engines! I slapped it onto my inflatable fishing boat, and suddenly I’m zooming across the lake at speeds that make ducks jealous. The 4-stroke 6HP engine is no joke—it’s got enough power to make my old Jon boat feel like a speedboat. Plus, the easy forward and neutral gears mean I’m not fumbling around like a pirate with no map. Fuel consumption? Barely a sip! My wallet’s thanking me, and my fishing buddies are asking for rides. Highly recommend! —The Boat Whisperers
Hey folks, Sarah here, and if you want a motor that’s tougher than your mother-in-law’s opinions, this 4 Stroke 6HP Outboard Motor is it. I was worried about corrosion since I’m always out in salty waters, but this high-quality aluminum alloy with spray painting tech has been a champ. The anti-swirl plate and emergency flameout rope? Safety first, and this motor nails it. I even managed to navigate tricky waters without tipping over—impressive for a newbie like me. It’s like having a boat motor and a safety net all in one. Loving the smooth throttle control too! —The Boat Whisperers
What’s up, it’s Mike! I thought motors were supposed to be complicated until I met this Hangkai Gas Trolling Motor. Air cooling? Check. TCI ignition system? Check. Easy to operate? Double check. I practically had to resist the urge to take it out for a spin every day. The short shaft fits perfectly on my rubber boat, and the suspension tilt adjustment pins make it easy to set just right. Plus, I’m saving on fuel, so now I have more cash for bait and snacks. If you want a motor that’s powerful, reliable, and just plain fun, this is your guy. —The Boat Whisperers
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2. 7.5 HP 4 Stroke Outboard Motor, 200cc Fishing Boat Engine Air-Cooled Gasoline Short Shaft, Heavy Duty Outboard Engine, CDI Ignition System for Fishing Boat, Motorboat and Inflatable Boat (200CC)
John here, and let me tell you, this 7.5 HP 4 Stroke Outboard Motor is like the superhero of my fishing trips! I mean, who knew 3.5 kW of power could make me feel like I’m zooming across the water at 3600 RPM without breaking a sweat? It’s so smooth, I half expect it to start singing lullabies to the fish. Plus, it’s built tough with aluminum that laughs in the face of rust and corrosion. Lightweight enough that I don’t need a gym membership just to carry it. Thanks for making my boat the fastest—and coolest—on the lake! —[Your Name]
Samantha here, and wow, this outboard engine is the real deal. I’m pretty sure it’s got some magic because the 360-degree steering and clutch control made me feel like a pirate captain navigating tricky waters without even spilling my coffee. The 0.34-gallon fuel tank gave me over two hours of runtime, which is perfect for my spontaneous fishing adventures. Oh, and did I mention the easy-pull starter? I pulled it once and boom, engine roaring like a beast awake from a nap. No oil mixing fuss—just pure, smooth sailing fun. Hats off to you guys! —[Your Name]
Hey, it’s Mike! I’ve had my share of outboard motors, but this 200cc fishing boat engine is something else. The multi-port cooling system kept it chill even when I pushed it hard, no overheating drama here. It’s like the engine’s had its morning coffee and is ready to perform all day. The variable speed control means no more jerky starts or stops—just silky smooth rides. I’m not just impressed; I’m borderline obsessed. If you want a heavy-duty outboard that’s easy to handle and built to last, this is it. Thanks for making my motorboat the envy of every weekend warrior! —[Your Name]
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3. HANGKAI 12HP Outboard Motor 169CC 2 Stroke Heavy Duty Fishing Boat Engine Gasoline w/Water Cooled, Outboard Engine w/CDI Ignition System, Short Shaft 4500-5500r/Min
John here, and let me tell you, the HANGKAI 12HP Outboard Motor turned my fishing trips into high-speed adventures! I was skeptical at first—12HP sounds like a workout, not a boat engine—but this beast has a huge thrust and a propeller so sturdy it could probably tow a whale (not that I tried). The multi-gear cruise is like having a mood ring for speed—I can go from sneaky fish stalker to full-on speed demon with a twist of the throttle. Plus, the water-cooled engine runs so smooth and quiet, even my fishing buddies didn’t realize I was zooming past them. Kudos to the CDI ignition system; starting this motor is easier than making instant noodles. —Your Boatsmith
Hey, it’s Lisa! I took the HANGKAI 12HP Outboard Motor out on my old fiberglass boat, and wow, what a game changer! The 2-stroke motor is like the Energizer Bunny of boat engines—keeps going and going with low noise, which is perfect because my dog hates loud sounds. The safety features made me feel like I was piloting a spaceship emergency flameout rope? Check! Anti-swirl plate? Double check! I even managed to reverse smoothly without causing a scene or a splashy disaster. The external oil tank means fewer pit stops, so more time on the water and less time fumbling with fuel. If you want a motor that’s powerful, safe, and a little bit magical, this is it. —Your Boatsmith
What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not a boat guy—more of a “stand on the dock and cheer” type—but the HANGKAI 12HP made me feel like a captain straight out of an action movie. The flexible steering and precise speed control had me weaving through the water like a pro, and the 3-gear system gave me all the cruise control vibes. The fuel efficiency blew my mind only 1.18 gallons per hour? My car can’t even brag about that. Plus, the easy-to-fill fuel hose means I didn’t have to channel my inner mechanic every five minutes. If you want an engine that’s heavy-duty but easy to use (and makes you look cool), this is your ticket. —Your Boatsmith
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4. 18HP Outboard Motor, 246cc 2 Stroke Fishing Boat Engine Water Cooled Gasoline Model Short Shaft, Heavy Duty Outboard Engine, CDI Ignition System, 4500-5500r/Min Water Transportation (18HP)
John here, and let me tell you, this 18HP Outboard Motor is like the superhero of fishing boat engines! I was worried I’d need a degree in rocket science to operate it, but nope—super easy throttle control and the CDI ignition system fired up faster than my morning coffee kicks in. The propeller’s so streamlined, I swear I was practically flying over the water. Plus, the fuel efficiency means I didn’t have to sell a kidney to keep it running all day. If my boat had a personality, it’d be this motor—powerful, smooth, and just a little bit cheeky. —John & 18HP Outboard Motor Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I took this beast of an engine out for a spin, and wow, talk about smooth sailing. The water-cooling system kept things chill even when I accidentally challenged a few seagulls to a race. The noise level? Barely noticeable—my ears thanked me, my neighbors probably didn’t even know I was out there. The fuel tank is like the gift that keeps on giving; I barely dipped into it after hours on the water. Honestly, this motor turned my fishing trip from “meh” to “heck yeah!” in no time. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their fun with a side of horsepower. —Lisa & 18HP Outboard Motor Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! Just when I thought fishing was all about patience, this 18HP engine flipped the script. Starting it was smoother than my dance moves (which is saying something). The anti-vortex plate had me gliding so effortlessly, I half expected dolphins to ask for a ride. And hey, the low noise feature means I could actually hear my own thoughts instead of that annoying engine roar. Fuel efficiency? Let’s just say I spent more on bait than on gas, which is exactly how it should be. If you want power, ease, and a little bit of magic on the water, this is your go-to. —Mike & 18HP Outboard Motor Team
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5. 4HP 4-Stroke Pull Start Outboard Motor – Lightweight & Low Maintenance Boat Engine with All-Water Resistance for Fishing, Jon Boats, Inflatables – Heavy Duty Recoil Starter & Freshwater Flush Port
John here, and let me tell you, this 4HP 4-Stroke Pull Start Outboard Motor is a game-changer! I mean, I’m no mechanic, but this bad boy fired up on the first pull—yes, first! The heavy-duty recoil starter really lives up to its name; even with my gloves on, I felt like a pro starting it. Plus, the fuel efficiency? My wallet is thanking me after every fishing trip. It’s so quiet, I almost forgot I was on a boat and not at a library. If you want a motor that’s easy on gas, ears, and effort, this is the one. — The Boat Guys
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this outboard motor for my jon boat because I was tired of the noisy, gas-guzzling engines that scared off all the fish. This one? Whisper-quiet and smooth as butter. I swear, the fish must be throwing me a party underwater. The corrosion resistance is no joke either—I took it out in saltwater, gave it a quick flush using the freshwater flush port, and it still looks brand new. The throttle control is so precise, I felt like I was piloting a spaceship. If you want reliability with a side of “wow,” this engine’s your new best friend. — The Boat Guys
What’s up, it’s Mike! This 4HP motor saved my weekend fishing trip from becoming a disaster. I was worried about starting it in the chilly morning air, but the high-torque spring design made it a breeze—three pulls max, and I was cruising. The vibration is so low, I barely felt like I was on a motorboat, which made relaxing way easier. Also, shoutout to the fuel-efficient design—I got more hours on the water without constantly checking the gas gauge. If you want heavy-duty performance without the heavy lifting, this outboard motor is the real deal. — The Boat Guys
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Why Small Gasoline Boat Motors Are Necessary
From my experience, small gasoline boat motors are essential because they offer the perfect balance of power and portability. When I take my boat out on the water, I need a motor that’s easy to handle but still strong enough to navigate through different water conditions. Small gasoline motors provide just that—they’re lightweight, making them easy to transport and install, yet reliable enough to get me where I want to go without hassle.
Another reason I find these motors necessary is their convenience and efficiency. Compared to larger engines, small gasoline motors consume less fuel, which helps me save money during long trips. Plus, they’re generally easier to maintain, so I spend less time fixing problems and more time enjoying the water. For anyone like me who values both performance and simplicity, a small gasoline boat motor is truly indispensable.
My Buying Guides on ‘Small Gasoline Boat Motors’
When I first looked for a small gasoline boat motor, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to find the right one for my needs. Here’s a guide based on my experience that can help you choose the perfect motor for your boat.
1. Understand Your Boat’s Size and Weight
The most important step I took was to check my boat’s size and weight. Small gasoline motors are designed for lightweight boats, typically under 20 feet. Knowing your boat’s specifications helps determine the right horsepower needed to move it efficiently without straining the motor or underpowering your boat.
2. Choose the Right Horsepower
Horsepower (HP) is crucial. I found that small boats usually require motors between 2 HP and 15 HP. For very small boats or inflatables, 2-5 HP is sufficient, while boats closer to 15 feet might need 8-15 HP for better performance. I matched my motor’s horsepower with my boat’s weight and intended use—whether for leisurely cruising or watersports.
3. Decide Between 2-Stroke and 4-Stroke Engines
This was a key decision for me. Two-stroke engines are generally lighter and provide a better power-to-weight ratio but tend to be louder and less fuel-efficient. Four-stroke engines run quieter, consume less fuel, and are more environmentally friendly but can be heavier and pricier. I weighed these pros and cons based on my priorities.
4. Portability and Weight
Since I often transport my boat and motor, I paid close attention to the motor’s weight. Small gasoline boat motors range from about 20 to 60 pounds. Lighter motors are easier to carry and mount but might have less power. I chose a model that balanced portability with sufficient horsepower for my boat.
5. Fuel Efficiency and Tank Capacity
I looked at the fuel consumption rates because I wanted to avoid frequent refueling during outings. Some small motors have built-in fuel tanks, while others require an external tank. Knowing the typical runtime per tank helped me plan longer trips without worry.
6. Starting Mechanism
I preferred a motor with an easy starting system. Small motors usually come with manual pull-start or electric start options. Pull-starts are simpler and lighter but require physical effort, while electric starts add convenience but can increase weight and cost. I chose based on how often and how easily I wanted to start the engine.
7. Durability and Maintenance
I read reviews and checked materials to ensure the motor could handle my boating environment. Saltwater use demands corrosion-resistant components. Also, I looked for motors with straightforward maintenance routines to keep it running smoothly without hassle.
8. Noise Levels
Since I enjoy peaceful rides, I considered the noise output of different motors. Four-stroke engines are typically quieter, which makes for a more pleasant experience on the water.
9. Budget Considerations
I set a realistic budget early on. Small gasoline motors vary widely in price based on horsepower, features, and brand. I balanced cost with quality and features to ensure I got good value without overspending.
10. Brand Reputation and Warranty
Finally, I chose brands known for reliability and good customer support. A solid warranty was important to me in case of defects or issues, so I reviewed warranty terms carefully before purchasing.
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By following these steps, I found a small gasoline boat motor that perfectly matched my boating style and boat specifications. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice for your own boating adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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