New F-15 base model introduced
Just a year after releasing the AquaTrax F-15X and F-15X GPScape, Honda has added a new boat to the stable for 2009 – the base model F-15.
The F-15 is basically the same craft as the F-15X, except the engine is not turbocharged. A liquid-cooled, 16-valve, 1,470cc, fuel-injected, four-cylinder engine powers the F-15. According to Honda, the low-emissions 4-stroke design consumes less fuel than a comparable 2-stroke engine. The engine pumps out 153-bhp, compared to 200-bhp in the F-15X.
Like the F-15X and F-15X GPScape, the F-15 features a new fiberglass hull that’s 133.8 inches long. Its curb weight is listed at 933 pounds, 22 pounds lighter than the F-15X.
Honda says the dry-sump design allows the engine to be mounted low in the hull, resulting in a very low center of gravity that aids in handling and performance. Also, a raised bond-line design should help with splash protection and docking.
According to Honda, the fiberglass reinforced plastic hull is designed to be a stable platform when remounting from deep water and easily uprighted should it become overturned. Also, foot-well areas have an anti-slip surface.
A total of 23.1 gallons of storage is divided between three sealed compartments. A large front storage box under the hood can hold 19.8 gallons, while smaller compartments in front of the rider (1.7 gallons) and under the seat (1.6 gallons) can hold smaller items.
As for ergos, in our review of the 2008 F-15X we mentioned that the handlebars were not adjustable and too low if we want to ride while standing. The same applies to the F-15.
One of our favorite features from the F-15X was the ‘time-to-empty’ display on the scrollable digital dash. It calculates in minutes how long you can ride at your present speed given your remaining fuel. We’re pleased to report that this system is also in place on the F-15
Though Honda hasn’t revealed the MSRP of the 2009 F-15, we can hazard a guess using Yamaha as an example. Yamaha’s 2009 FX Cruiser SHO retails for $13,199, while the FX Cruiser HO sells for $11,899 for a difference of $1,300. Using that model, Honda’s F-15X retailed for $13,299 in 2008 so we can expect a price in the neighborhood of $12,000 for the F-15.
While a $12,000 vehicle certainly can’t compare to Kawasaki’s 2009 Jet Ski STX ($7,899) or Yamaha’s 2009 WaveRunner VX ($7,699), the F-15 isn’t as stripped down as those models and offers more creature comforts.
As for the F-15X and the F-15X GPScape, Honda left well enough alone in 2009 and only changed the colors. The 2009 F-15X will be available in metallic black and dark red metallic, while the F-15X GPScape is now available in blue. The F-15, meanwhile, has a very nice-looking candy orange/metallic black option, as well as metallic silver/metallic black scheme.
| 2009 Honda AquaTrax F-15 Specs | |
| Engine | 1470cc liquid-cooled dry-sump inline four-cylinder |
| Bore and Stroke | 79mm x 75mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 |
| Valve Train | DOHC; four valves per cylinder |
| Induction | Self diagnostic PGM-FI system with automatic enricher circuit |
| Ignition | Computer-controlled digital with three-dimensional mapping |
| Transmission | Direct shaft-drive |
| Pump | Axial-flow single-stage 155mm jet pump with reverse |
| Hull | Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) outer hull, inner hull and deck |
| Combined Stowage Capacity | 23.1 gal. |
| Length | 133.8 in |
| Width | 49 in |
| Height | 42.4 in |
| Seat Length | 49 in |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.5 gal. with low-fuel warning |
| Curb Weight | 933 lbs |
| Colors | Candy Orange/Metallic Black, Metallic Silver/Metallic Black |
| Price | N/A |
Related Reading:
2008 Honda AquaTrax F-15X Review
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