Review - Honda iST (Intelligent Shift and Throttle) drive-by-wire outboard controller
Honda outboard motors has launched its own drive-by-wire outboard controller, called the Honda iST (Intelligent Shift and Throttle).
Honda iST is an electronic shift and throttle system made for smooth and easy gear shifting and throttle control. It can be fitted to multiple Honda marine engine installations.
Honda iST is initially available only for the Honda BF250 outboard motor, but the controller offers Power Trim and Tilt functions, plus a Warm-Up mode that locks the gears in neutral while allowing limited throttle operation.
Trolling Control provides slow-speed functionality, and a Docking mode is also available that restricts throttle response for controlled manoeuvering in restricted space.
The Honda iST unit is said to be easily customisable to suit the skipper’s preferences, such as adjusting speed increments on Trolling Mode.
For multi-engine setups, the Honda iST unit offers power trim /tilt synchronisation – once the outboards have been synced, they will operate at the same speed and trim position, using just the port control lever.
Should the Honda outboard malfunction, a Home-to-Port backup system is incorporated that allows limited operation to reach home safely.
There’s even a Start-In-Gear Protection mechanism which allows the engine to start safely in gear.
Installation of Honda new iST is said to be easy – a plug-and-play cable runs between the Honda iST-equipped engine and the control head.
- More information: marine.honda.com/outboards/ist