Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Alex65 · Oct 14, 2003

Hi All: I'm in the market for a Eastern 24' Cuddy Cabin boat. The boat's dry weight is appx. 3000-3100 lbs. If you live in the New England area this boat looks exactly like a lobster boat & is. Although, this will be used for pleasure boating. Here's my scenario. Eastern is a Honda outboard dealer & they are pushing the Honda 130. Most the boats I have seen in the water are using the Honda 130. I have my concerns & I'll give you my thoughts on the pros & cons. Please note: I can purchase a 2003 (brand new in box) 130 for $9,900.00 but the boat will be a 2004. Honda 130: Pros: The Honda name & the 130 has been very, very durable. Decent amount of service centers. The engine will be installed @ the factory vs. sending the boat to a Suzuki dealership. Cons: Price ($10,990.00 rigged 2004 model). Weight=508 lbs. Suzuki: 140 Pros: Cost ($9,000.00 rigged) 10 more HP. Better gas consumption. Light=421 lbs. A little quieter in db. Possible 6 year warranty (vs. standard 3 year) coming January 1st, 2004. Cons: Dealer network (not a problem were we live. Gloucester, MA.) Suzuki endurance on the 140??? I took a 24' Eastern center console (not the Cuddy I'm looking at) on a sea trail w/ the Honda 130 & it pushed the boat fine. Not great, but I must understand this is not a fast boat to begin with. Do you think the 87 lbs. & the 10 less HP on the Honda 130 makes that much of a difference? I'm on the ropes here. Need to make a decision within 2-3 weeks. I understand that Honda is coming out with a new 2004 135 & 150 HP engines that weight in @ 478 lbs. Only problem? They cost (appx.) $12,990.00 for the 150 & $11,990.00 for the 135. This is too much money! I want to keep the cost on my outboard to around $10,000.00 (max). My preference would be to have everything done @ Eastern @ turn the key & go. But I'm leaning towards the Suzuki 140. I would appreciate any & all insight if you could help me make my decision. Thanks for your time! Regards, Alex Moore PS: Here's the link to Eastern Boats: web page

Hawaiian · Oct 14, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

You might want to do some research in boat mags. I saw a comparison test where the Honda 130 outperformed the Suzuki 140on the same boat. Both had similar gas consumption and noise level though. On the other hand, the 6 year warranty on the Suzuki is hard to turn down.

lakensea · Oct 15, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

We rigged a Suzuki DF115 on that boat last year and it performs as well as that boat can. I suggest you get a ride on a cuddy version boat as they are entirely different. First of all, with the cuddy that engine will no longer be quiet - the exhaust resonance comes right up into the cabin - the engine is quieter if you stand right in front of it! Second, the cuddy version is extremely bow heavy - and on a 24' boat with only 7 1/2' beam it realy effects the ride. Also, if you're going to be putting that boat on a mooring, you will have a very diffecult time. There also is no anchor stowage - except maybe a milk crate in the stern. You can buy a lot more boat for a lot less money, but if you want a truley quality boat you have to avoid the "nice Maine lobster boat look" syndrome.

Alex65 · Oct 15, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Lake: I appreciate your reply. I would also would think the bow is heavy on the Eastern 24' but, that's why the nose is so high (right?) We have a lot of Eastern's around the Glouceter, MA. area & I haven't had a chance (or really know them) to ask how they ride on the water. As for the anchor scenario, there's a line storage in the bow & Eastern uses the "Roller/Deck Pipe" so a milk box in the bow doesn't apply here. My wife & I know we can get "more boat" for less money from different manufacturers, but then they would be production boats. I have no problem with production boats but we are sold on the construction & simplicity on the Eastern's. Were not buying an Eastern 24' because it looks like a lobster boat, we simply like many things about the boat in general. Examples would be the size of the V-Berth (it's massive) & the hugh amount of deck space from midship-stern. Also, the fact that Eastern will built your boat they way you see fit. Back to the production boat scenario. I feel it's a trade off. Production boats give you more boat because they are simply buying the parts (huge volumes & buying groups etc.) & labor for less dollars. These boats are made in New Hampshire not in the Carolinas or Florida so the labors rates are much higher. Eastern makes appx. 120 boats a year, many in the 19' range. What I think suffers is build quality (in some boats) & the attention to detail. We went up to the factory in Milton, NH & I must admit I'm very impressed. Yes, we could buy a Sea Pro 23'8" Cuddy (nice boats for the $) for around the low 40's w/ a huge Suzuki 225 four stroke engine but the Eastern will cost 45K with a Suzuki 140. I guess it's all what you're looking for. Regards, Alex

JB · Oct 15, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Those are both very good engines, Alex. I would lean toward the Suzi because of the 100# difference in weight and because I have a Suzi DF70 4 stroke that is hands down the best outboard I have ever owned, and I have owned a lot of outboards. To be fair, I have only owned two 4 stroke outboards (I have a '96 Johnson 9.9 4 stroke, too)but have used several others (Yammy, Merc and Honda) that I didn't think are as good as the Suzi. If local service is an issue, consider the Johnson version of the same engine (only difference is the paint job). Good luck.

Alex65 · Oct 15, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Lake: I forgot to mention. If you had 40-45K & wanted a 24' Cuddy Cabin which direction would you go? Any boat that stands out to you? I seems like you have a good handle on boats. I would mind a some different insight. Thanks again for your time. Alex

Alex65 · Oct 15, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Those are both very good engines, Alex. I would lean toward the Suzi because of the 100# difference in weight and because I have a Suzi DF70 4 stroke that is hands down the best outboard I have ever owned, and I have owned a lot of outboards. To be fair, I have only owned two 4 stroke outboards (I have a '96 Johnson 9.9 4 stroke, too)but have used several others (Yammy, Merc and Honda) that I didn't think are as good as the Suzi. If local service is an issue, consider the Johnson version of the same engine (only difference is the paint job). Good luck. JB: Many thanks! I'm so close now with the Eastern boat. My local Suzuki dealer will take a $500.00 deposit & make sure I get the "Gimme 6 year program" coming January 1st, 2004. It's really hard "not" to give Suzuki a chance! We live just outside of Gloucester, MA. (Home of The Perfect Storm) & there's already a TON of boats w/ Suzuki outboards in the harbor. I feel safe. Thanks so much for your insight! Regards, Alex

AUGIDAWG · Oct 16, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

I also was looking into getting a Sea Pro. I like their manufacturing techniques, materials/glass/resins, using no wood products, and lots of flotation. I also like the floorplans and accessories locations. As far as engines go, I would put on the biggest one the boat manufacturer recommends. It won't cost you much more now, but will make you a lot happier later. 130 hp on a 24' cabin boat seems a little underpowerd to me. I've never heard anyone say, "How can I get less power out of my outboard?"

Forktail · Oct 16, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

First, whoever is selling you the boat should have no problem rigging any brand outboard on it for you. Don't feel obligated to Honda. Take the lighter, less expensive, better warranty, more hp outboard. The DF140 has been a great one. But I think Honda has had some head problems (recalls) with the 130...someone please correct me if I'm wrong.

Alex65 · Oct 16, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

I also was looking into getting a Sea Pro. I like their manufacturing techniques, materials/glass/resins, using no wood products, and lots of flotation. I also like the floorplans and accessories locations. As far as engines go, I would put on the biggest one the boat manufacturer recommends. It won't cost you much more now, but will make you a lot happier later. 130 hp on a 24' cabin boat seems a little underpowerd to me. I've never heard anyone say, "How can I get less power out of my outboard?" Augidawg: The Eastern 24' is a lobster type of boat. They usually rig them with Honda 130's. This is not a fast boat! It doesn't need a 200/225 HP or 250 HP engine. I just hung up the phone with a gentlemen who owns a Eastern 22' & has the Honda 130 on back, he say's it will run @ about 35 MPH @ 5000 RPM. That's plenty fine for me, I usualy like to cruise @ 20 knots. It's considered a working boat so there is no HP rating. I must think that if people are buying these boats (& they are) & using a Honda 130 then, it's got to be fine. If I go to a Suzuki 200 oe 225 the weight increases 159 lbs! This is based on a Suzuki 140 HP (25" Shaft) vs. Suzuki 200 (25" Shaft). Too much of a weight increase. I won't consider a 2 stroke engine. I'm done with them! The cost difference is $9,000 for the 140 HP & $11,200 for the 200 HP. I have no problem with the cost difference, just the weight issue. Alex

Alex65 · Oct 16, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Oh...I forgot, here's the website for Eastern boats. Check out the 24' You'll notice everyone has a Honda 130. web page

AUGIDAWG · Oct 17, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

I guess it depends on what you like to do. My Four Winns came with either a 130, 150, 175, or the largest one recommended, the 200. I got the 200, and if I had my way, I'd have a 300 on there. Also, it is a fact, that a larger engine running at partial throttle, will get better gas mileage than a smaller engine at full throttle, and last much longer.

zzzzz · Oct 17, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Alex65- I don't know the HP capacity of the boat you're looking at but check out the new Honda 150 which is 40 pounds lighter than the Honda 130...also,it develops 160 HP at 6200 rpms(incidentally- it also likes to run in the high rpm range-even for extended periods !)It's at least worth checking into

Alex65 · Oct 17, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Alex65- I don't know the HP capacity of the boat you're looking at but check out the new Honda 150 which is 40 pounds lighter than the Honda 130...also,it develops 160 HP at 6200 rpms(incidentally- it also likes to run in the high rpm range-even for extended periods !)It's at least worth checking into zzzzz: Yes, I'm aware of the new Honda 135 & 150's. I called Honda & they faxed me a spec sheet. Only problem? The Honda 150 costs a whopping $12,990.00!!!! (rigged) That's just too much money! The spec sheets say's 150 HP @ 5500 RPM. When you say "160 HP @ 6200 RPM" are you refering to the Suzuki or the Honda? The Suzuki WOT range is from 5600-6200 RPM (so say's a review I purchased online from Powerboat.com) I may end up getting the Suzuki 200 HP four stroke. It would cost $11,200.00 (rigged) But there's a HUGE difference in weight 580 lbs. vs. 421 lbs. (159 pound difference) If you look at Easterm's website all the 24' are rigged with Honda 130's. Something must be working here. web page Thanks for the insight! Alex

JB · Oct 17, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Yes. The BF150 sounds like a good option. Problem is that it is so new you might not be able to work the price into anything near the Suzi/Johnson DF140. Good luck.

Alex65 · Oct 18, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

JB: Yeah, the Honda BF150 seems like a perfect fit but not @ a $2900.00 price increase vs. the Suzuki DF140. I called a ton of Honda dealerships to seek a better price but nobody is really playing ball. The best price was in fact from Eastern Boats @ $12,990.00 (rigged) who makes the boat. I'm really thinking Suzuki now. We have a strong Suzuki dealership in town & they'll make sure I get the 6 year warranty (coming January 1st). I guess they send in the registration card & they can play with that a little. Suzuki must be gaining market share with programs like this! I mean, price, warranty & good performance must make people turn their heads. Thanks for everyone's input! I do appreaciate it. Alex

lakensea · Oct 18, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Alex, Sorry I've taken so long to reply - been pretty busy hauling boats. I assume you'll be buying from J & W Marine - great choice. As far as your question on boat choice - I would buy the SeaPro. I sell Key West Boats, a similar design. As a matter of fact, there is a new Eastern dealer up here and I have sold number of boats to people who looked at Easterns first. That roomy cuddy is nice when you're in it. You'll hate it when trying to moor or anchor the boat. That deck space is great, but you'll want a nice tall custom made stern seat to shield you from the exhaust resonance up in the cabin. That Eastern is also at least a foot narrower than the Seapro. I've been to the factory to pick up a boat for a customer that insisted on one and yes, the factory is pretty nice. But let me tell you, we've been all through that boat rigging and prepping it and it just does not compare to good quality production boat. It is better than most boats built by similar type builders. The wiring and rigging is not too great. For instance the batteries are mounted on the deck right in front of the engine and the switch is a cheap one mounted right on the transom. Wiring and rigging just comes up from the floor through an open tube. Dash switch/fuse panel was not very water resistant. I would have them build corner aft storage compartments for batteries and fuel filter, and then build a nice stern seat ahead of that. Bt then again, that will eat up a lot of deck space. Unless you are only planning on very slow cruising, the SeaPro will ride so much better than the Eastern. These are just my humble opinions - everyone has different ideas of the right boat. Your boat has to be right for your use. Good luck with whatever you purchase.

Alex65 · Oct 19, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Alex, Sorry I've taken so long to reply - been pretty busy hauling boats. I assume you'll be buying from J & W Marine - great choice. As far as your question on boat choice - I would buy the SeaPro. I sell Key West Boats, a similar design. As a matter of fact, there is a new Eastern dealer up here and I have sold number of boats to people who looked at Easterns first. That roomy cuddy is nice when you're in it. You'll hate it when trying to moor or anchor the boat. That deck space is great, but you'll want a nice tall custom made stern seat to shield you from the exhaust resonance up in the cabin. That Eastern is also at least a foot narrower than the Seapro. I've been to the factory to pick up a boat for a customer that insisted on one and yes, the factory is pretty nice. But let me tell you, we've been all through that boat rigging and prepping it and it just does not compare to good quality production boat. It is better than most boats built by similar type builders. The wiring and rigging is not too great. For instance the batteries are mounted on the deck right in front of the engine and the switch is a cheap one mounted right on the transom. Wiring and rigging just comes up from the floor through an open tube. Dash switch/fuse panel was not very water resistant. I would have them build corner aft storage compartments for batteries and fuel filter, and then build a nice stern seat ahead of that. Bt then again, that will eat up a lot of deck space. Unless you are only planning on very slow cruising, the SeaPro will ride so much better than the Eastern. These are just my humble opinions - everyone has different ideas of the right boat. Your boat has to be right for your use. Good luck with whatever you purchase. Lake: 1st many thanks for the replies. I do value your insight! I'm purchasing the boat directly from Eastern Boat & buying the Suzuki DF140 from Cape Ann Marine in Gloucester, MA. I have looked @ a ton of boats including the 23'8" SeaPro Cuddy. Nice boat but simply not enough V-Birth space. My favorite production boat was a Polar 23' Cuddy (Massive V-Birth). I took this boat on a sea trail yesterday. It have a Yamaha 225 four stroke on back & she handled the seas very well. The Polar is loaded to the gills in terms of standard items & options. I could get into this boat for around 45K-48K w/ a Suzuki 250 HP Four. Here's what I see when I look @ SeaPro's & Polars etc. A ton of options but what comes with those options are troubles. Pumps breaking down etc. We want very, very little on our boat for a reason! We want close to maintenance free as possible. As for the Eastern's layout, it's great! You are very perceptive, because I noticed the battery box/switch placement right away & requested a quote on 2 aft jumpseat boxes. I didn't want my boxes/switch exposed like that. The breaker panel is made by Perko & is waterproof (very simple design) & the rigging is done by simply running everything under the starboard side gunnels. No problems for me there. I have spoken to 3 Eastern owners in the last 2 days & they also conveyed the noise issue inside the cabin but there's a work-around scenario here. My Eastern 24' will not have complete fiberglass hardsides (i.e. side canvas curtains & aft) so, what your refering to is worse "if" you have the complete fiberglass sides. If the nosie really bothers me we'll lower the aft curtain. Also, you're right again, the aft backseat simply would take up too much room Here's our usual boating day. We may travel 5-6 miles a day & anchor in some local coves. We live right on the water so we have some sweet spots that are less then a mile from us. I'm not a "Speed Racer" type. If the Eastern 24' can do 18-20 knots @ cruising speed then I'm happy. Other Eastern people say they get up to 30-34 MPH on a Honda 130. So, I should be fine with the Suzuki 140. We do want to take our boat from Gloucester, MA. to Portland, ME. & Boston if the weather permits. I think she would be up for a trip like that. Were not really talking huge distances here. I showed my wife your post & she agreed that you knew the layout of the Eastern's. I want her to understand the boats limitations aswell. Also, she's paying for 1/2 the boat!!!! We have trimmed back some options on the Eastern 24' & we should be in the $29,000 range for the boat & another $9,000 for the engine (installed). We sold our 1999 Robalo 20' CC for $19,000 within one day last week! So, we'll cough up another 10K & have a 10K note for 5 years. It's a small car payment the way we look @ it. I think were pulling the tigger & I hope we'll be happy with our purchase. Sometimes less means more in regards to maintenance. Thanks again for taking your time to help us out. Happy boating & good luck with your SeaPro purchase. Regards, Alex

lakensea · Oct 21, 2003

Re: Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

Alex, I'm not buying a SeaPro - I am a boat dealer selling Key West Boats and Suzuki outboards. You mentioned SeaPro and Suzuki, and you have an excelent SeaPro/Suzuki dealer near you. That is why I suggested that combination over the Eastern. If deck and cabin space is more important than ride and value for your dollar, than by all means get the Eastern - and you can't go wrong with the Suzuki. Good luck and enjoy whatever your decision is.

Suzuki DF140 or Honda BF130???

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