We ask, in turn, three of the world’s leading outboard engine companies, Yamaha, Suzuki and Mercury, to tell us in their own words about their engineering heritage and their take on propulsion, and to explain how we can get the best from our multi-bladed indispensable friend, the propeller. 

YAMAHA 

A ‘Kando’ heritage

Established in 1955 by Genichi Kawakami, the Yamaha Motor Company have continuously strived to create and improve exceptional products that have both surprised and excited their consumers. Indeed, Yamaha’s whole ethos is embodied in the philosophy of ‘Kando’, a Japanese term used to express the deep satisfaction and excitement one feels when encountering something of exceptional value, quality and performance.

We first turned our attention to manufacturing marine engines in the 1960s, adding a new product category to our already successful motorcycle business, after Kawakami was inspired by the number of sophisticated outboard motors being produced on a fact-finding tour in the United States. During this trip, it wasn’t long before Yamaha’s founder became convinced that marine recreation would soon be commonplace across the globe. So, after much trial and error, and extensive research into designing a unique and original product, Yamaha put the first P-7 outboard on the market. Throughout the next two decades, our marine engines garnered recognition and acceptance on the global marine market, with praise aplenty for our engine durability, corrosion and abrasion resistance – thanks to the exclusively developed aluminium alloy with silicon base.

Yamaha outboard engine

The late 70s saw the release of the 85A outboard, one of the oldest models in our marine line-up, which continues to sell in its original form without being replaced by a new-generation model. It is acclaimed as a tough, durable power unit. At the time of its release, it had the largest horsepower of all our outboards and was soon selling across the globe. Throughout the 80s, we built upon our reputation as an outboard manufacturer with a variety of high-quality 2-stroke engines, but we had already begun research and development into creating a 4-stroke outboard in the mid-70s, culminating in the launch of our first 4-stroke outboard, the F9.9A, in 1984. Over the next couple of decades, once our 4-strokes were able to surpass all horsepower ranges and the inherent advantages of 2-strokes (such as acceleration, compactness and lightness), we shifted gear to an all-4-stroke line-up for our recreational-use outboards. 

The stainless steel, three-blade propeller can be teamed with a range of pitches designed to deliver smooth acceleration, stable handling and fuel-efficiency.

The stainless steel, three-blade propeller can be teamed with a range of pitches designed to deliver smooth acceleration, stable handling and fuel-efficiency.

 

The stainless steel, three-blade propeller can be teamed with a range of pitches designed to deliver smooth acceleration, stable handling and fuel-efficiency.

The stainless steel, three-blade propeller can be teamed with a range of pitches designed to deliver smooth acceleration, stable handling and fuel-efficiency.

Exclusive Yamaha technologies, including highly durable paint finishes and anti-corrosion measures, along with the rugged durability honed in the world’s most demanding commercial-use markets, have since helped win the Yamaha brand a reputation for durability and reliability in the leisure use sectors of the US and other mature marine markets. With our rich history in outboard manufacture through countless evolutions, Yamaha have been at the forefront of marine propulsion technology, and a pioneering force in propeller innovation.

In 2008, the assets of the renowned company Precision Propeller, Inc. (PPI) were purchased by Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA and became incorporated into Yamaha’s world-leading Marine Group, combining PPI’s manufacturing expertise on propellers with the distribution and product strength of Yamaha to form a formidable partnership. After shedding all other product lines except for Yamaha propellers, the company was renamed Yamaha Marine Precision Propellers, Inc. (YPPI). Today, YPPI design and build stainless steel propellers for distribution around the globe for Yamaha outboards. The foundational process of investment casting has not changed, however financing from Yamaha corporate has allowed YPPI to add equipment and space to build more propellers for a growing marine market. YPPI and Yamaha partner together to design propellers to fit the thousands of different boat applications in the market.

Yamaha outboard engine

From Talon to Saltwater

Yamaha have much experience when it comes to optimising the design of propellers, and we have worked hard to ensure they work harmoniously with each engine to produce the ultimate performance and optimum fuel economy. Today, the company offers a diverse range of over 300 different propeller models in aluminium or stainless steel with a variety of pitches designed to cater to the unique needs and preferences of boaters across various applications. From large offshore boats to high-performance racing and leisure cruising, our extensive line-up ensures that every enthusiast can find the perfect propeller to suit their vessel and driving style.

In the 70hp to 130hp outboard engine range, our Talon series offers a three-blade propeller that provides smooth, quiet shifting and trolling. These can come in either aluminium or stainless steel and are specially designed for 4-stroke engines. In this series, our Talon GP performs as a great all-round propeller, with the Talon Aluminium specifically designed for heavier boats, while the stainless steel version is perfect for higher-performance applications. Meanwhile, our range of recreational propellers in our Reliance series – tailored to our 150hp to 200hp High Power outboards – prioritise comfort, efficiency and versatility, making them perfect for leisure cruising, water sports and everyday boating adventures. 

Manufactured in stainless steel, the three-blade propeller series can be teamed with a range of pitches designed to deliver smooth acceleration, stable handling and fuel-efficient operation, allowing boaters to enjoy extended hours on the water without sacrificing performance or reliability.

Fuel consumption is also a huge factor dependant on engine set-up and propeller choice.

Fuel consumption is also a huge factor dependant on engine set-up and propeller choice.

For our 225hp to 350hp outboards, the performance-oriented propellers in our Saltwater series feature optimised blade designs with precision engineering to maximise thrust and minimise cavitation. These propellers are ideal for adrenaline-seeking enthusiasts who demand uncompromising performance and responsiveness from their watercraft. These propellers are also highly suited to larger, modern offshore boats, offering a longer cruising range, superior mid-range fuel efficiency and better handling in rough seas. Boasting a range of pitches from 13 to 23, there is a propeller to match every customer’s boating needs. Our XTO series are the biggest propellers we make, tailor-made for our largest Premium outboard engines between 400hp and 450hp. These propellers can be optimised using a huge range of pitches matched with the size and weight of the boat to give the customer the optimum performance, and they feature a blade edge with an extra trailing cup for better grip and minimised ventilation. Most of our 150hp to 450hp propellers are fitted with our patented Shift Dampener System (SDS), which absorbs the forces, sounds and vibrations from shifting gears, creating a smoother, quieter ride – perfect for cruising and docking, as well as fishing and positioning your boat over bait.

Yamaha also offer specialised propellers for specific applications, such as shallow-water boating and trolling. These propellers feature unique blade designs and pitch configurations tailored to the unique demands of each application, ensuring optimal performance and manoeuvrability in any environment.

Expert thinking

The propeller is one of the least understood parts of an outboard engine but plays an incredibly important role. In layman’s terms, the propeller is a rotating fan-like structure that ‘propels’ a vessel using the power generated and transmitted by the engine. Propellers work by converting that power from the engine into thrust, by moving the water downward and behind the blades, propelling the boat forward. However, that is just the beginning. Selecting the right propeller is essential for optimising performance, efficiency, fuel consumption and overall driving experience. With a wealth of options available, understanding key factors such as pitch, blade design and cupping is crucial for making an informed decision.

Pitch refers to the theoretical distance a propeller would travel in one complete revolution through the water, measured in inches. Each inch of a Yamaha propeller’s pitch is equal to approximately 150–200 rpm. Our higher-pitch propellers are designed for faster boats and deliver greater top-end speed but may sacrifice low-end acceleration and manoeuvrability. Yamaha’s higher-pitch propellers are the perfect match with our High Power engines for applications such as racing, water sports and fast RIBs. Conversely, choosing one of our lower-pitch propellers will offer improved low-end torque (thrust) and acceleration but may limit top-speed potential. These types of pitches are ideal for larger cruisers and fishing boats fitted with one of our Mid Power outboards, such as our 60hp or 80hp models.

At full throttle, the selected pitch should still fall within our outboard engine’s optimal range, otherwise the engine is not working within its desired parameters. The length and weight of a boat factor greatly into this engine and pitch size decision. A real-world example is the Ribeye (RIB), fitted with twin Yamaha 300hp V6 outboard engines that are the same size as the ones fitted on Jeanneau’s Merry Fisher 1095 model. Although both boats are 10 metres, the Ribeye’s engines have a 21 pitch, making the boat much faster and lighter across the water. Meanwhile, the heavier Merry Fisher’s twin engines have 15-pitch propellers – perfect for a cruising range of between 22 and 24 knots, yet still topping out at an impressive 38 knots.

Consulting with one of the Yamaha propeller specialists at your local authorised dealership can help ensure that you choose the right propeller for your specific needs and requirements.

Blade design, meanwhile, plays a critical role in propeller performance, influencing factors such as thrust, efficiency and cavitation resistance. Yamaha’s propellers are specially designed to minimise cavitation and prop slip, caused by extreme pressure at the back of the blade that produces unwanted vibrations and noise while underway, as well as causing long-term damage to the blade surface, reducing the propeller’s overall effectiveness over time.

Yamaha have designed the blade geometry across their range of propellers to fulfil that crucial role to optimise performance for the customer. This includes factors such as blade area, rake and cupping, which determine how efficiently the propeller transfers engine power into forward motion while minimising drag and turbulence. The number of blades is another consideration. Our stainless steel three-bladed propellers are the most common, offering good overall performance, top speed and efficiency for most applications. Meanwhile, cupping, or the curvature of the trailing edge of the propeller blade, enhances grip and bite in the water, like the tread on a tyre, providing lift for maximum hull efficiency. Our cupped propellers are particularly effective in high-speed applications where maximum thrust and efficiency are paramount, such as a safety rescue boat.

Fuel consumption is also a huge factor when purchasing a boat and deciding on the engine. Choosing a Yamaha propeller that brings a boat onto the plane at a lower RPM can provide better cruising economy provided it performs with the recommended characteristics of the engine. Yamaha would test with the boatbuilder in advance, so that the optimal propeller is already identified to go with the boat and engine package. Alternatively, our dealer network would be able to advise for a repower of an existing boat.

When selecting one of our propellers, it’s essential to consider factors such as boat size, engine specifications, intended use and operating conditions. Consulting with one of our Yamaha propeller specialists at your local authorised dealership can help ensure that you choose the right propeller for your specific needs and requirements. In addition to selecting the appropriate propeller, proper maintenance and care are essential for optimising performance and longevity. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the propeller, as well as ensuring proper alignment and balance, can help prevent premature wear and damage, ensuring reliable performance and efficiency season after season.

By understanding the principles of propeller design and selection, boaters can unlock the full potential of their watercraft, enjoying enhanced performance, efficiency and overall driving experience on the water.

SUZUKI

Propelling since the 60s

Suzuki outboard engine

Suzuki are manufacturers of motorcycles, automobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and outboard marine engines for the global market. Our trademark is recognised by people throughout the world as a brand whose products offer quality, innovation, reliability and originality. We stand behind this global symbol with a determination to maintain this confidence in the future, and our colleagues at the factory are relentless in their efforts to develop ‘value-packed products’ with a focus on the customer. But in terms of Suzuki’s maritime experience, the company has been manufacturing outboard motors and all the associated components and accessories since 1965.

Uniquely, the engines used in our range of award-winning outboard motors have always been designed specifically for the rigours of marine use, which means that all Suzuki 4-stroke outboards are able to provide quiet, fuel-efficient technology without sacrificing power or performance. From the lightweight, portable DF2.5 to the awesome power of the award-winning DF350A, we have got an outboard for every application.

In basic terms, the propeller is the piece of equipment that transfers the engine power into usable thrust. Propeller selection is the key to unleashing the optimum performance and economy of your boat package. It is essential to use a propeller on your outboard motor that is properly matched to your boat. Lighter-load boats generally require larger-pitch propellers, while heavier-load boats generally need smaller-pitch ones.

Suzuki’s watergrip dual prop.

Suzuki’s watergrip dual prop.

The ‘deliverables’

Suzuki offer both aluminium and stainless steel propellers. In the main, our small- and medium-horsepower outboards, up to 140hp, are supplied with aluminium propellers. For our larger-horsepower units, we offer a selection of stainless steel propellers in our Watergrip range. These deliver accurate responses to end-user operation, with efficient conversion of engine power into propulsion. The Watergrip propeller series features a new interchangeable and square-shaped propeller bush that minimises power loss in delivery.

Within the range, there are the standard Watergrip propellers, as well as Watergrip Sport and Watergrip Dual props for our flagship GEKI series of outboards that includes the DF300B, DF325A and DF350A. The Suzuki Dual Prop System spins two propellers rotating in opposite directions on a single outboard.

This delivers:

  • Superior stability when navigating in a straight line
  • Powerful reverse thrust and braking force
  • Excellent grip, particularly in turns and quick start-up acceleration
Cup = is used to reduce slip and ventilation

Cup = is used to reduce slip and ventilation

Rake = the angle that the blades are mounted

Rake = the angle that the blades are mounted

Pitch = is the distance a propeller ‘corkscrews’

Pitch = is the distance a propeller ‘corkscrews’

Suzuki’s top 10

Propeller selection is very important in the overall performance of your boat. Acceleration, speed, fuel efficiency, stability and engine RPM are all affected by the type of propeller selected. So, listed below are 10 helpful pointers from Suzuki to help you when making your next propeller selection:

Outboard specifications: Firstly, always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for your outboard motor regarding the appropriate propeller size, pitch and type. The motor’s horsepower, gear ratio and mounting height can all impact propeller performance.

Boat type and size: The size and type of boat will influence the propeller selection. Larger boats typically require larger-diameter and -pitch propellers to effectively move through the water as well as provide ample stopping power.

Intended use: Consider how you’ll use the boat. Different propellers are designed for various purposes, such as cruising, water sports or fishing. For example, a propeller optimised for water sports will have better acceleration and pulling power, while a propeller designed for cruising will prioritise fuel efficiency and smooth operation at lower speeds. Our expert dealers can assist you with the process to determine the correct propeller for your application.

Prop sizing: When referring to propeller size, such as 3 x 13 x 18, the first number details the diameter of the propeller and the second number is its pitch (in inches). The pitch is the most significant number in the description. The diameter is usually predetermined by the propeller engineers and is based on the size and series of the engine itself.

Pitch and diameter: Pitch is used to describe the theoretical distance that a propeller ‘corkscrews’ through the water in inches of forward travel. In theory, an 18”-pitch propeller would move ahead 18” with each complete revolution of the propeller. There is always some percentage of inefficiency as water conditions, boat weight and propeller style are introduced into the performance equation.

Lower pitches accelerate faster but have a lower top-end speed. Higher pitches have a slower acceleration but may attain higher top speeds. An inch of pitch is generally equal to 150–200 engine RPM at full throttle. If pitch is increased by an inch, RPM will decrease by 150–200 rpm at full throttle. If pitch is decreased by an inch, RPM will increase by 150–200 rpm at full throttle.

Always operate your boat/engine package within the recommended RPM range guidelines as stated in your operator’s manual. Operating outside the recommended range can cause severe damage to your engine and may void the engine warranty.

Diameter is considered to be the distance across an imaginary circle that is made when a propeller is rotated. It is determined during the engineering process of designing a propeller and is usually based on requirements to meet the needs of engine size, gear case design, horsepower and speed.

Diameter affects the propeller’s grip on the water and torque. Larger-diameter propellers generally provide more thrust and better handling but may sacrifice top speed.

suzuki

Cup: Cup is used to reduce the slip and ventilation of the propeller. This will allow you to operate your engine at a higher transom mounting and use more trim for bow lift. The cup refers to the area along the trailing edge of the propeller blade that has an increased pitch in the last ½» of the blade surface and extends to the blade tip.

Rake: Rake is described as the angle, in degrees, that the propeller blades are mounted to the ‘barrel’ of the propeller. The blades of a zero-degree-rake propeller are mounted perpendicular to the ‘barrel’ of the propeller.

The blades of a higher-rake propeller angle more to the rear of the propeller. A propeller with a high-rake design will hold the water on the blades longer during operation and will ventilate less at higher engine heights. High-rake propellers will produce higher thrust, which will help lift the bow of the boat more effectively.

Material: Propellers are commonly made from aluminium, stainless steel or composite materials. Aluminium propellers are more affordable and can handle shallow water better, but stainless steel propellers offer better performance and durability, albeit at a higher cost.

Cavitation and ventilation: Cavitation occurs when the propeller spins faster than the water can flow around it, leading to loss of efficiency and potential damage. Ventilation happens when air is drawn into the propeller, causing it to slip and lose traction. Choosing the right propeller design can minimise these issues.

Trim and tilt: Proper trim and tilt adjustment can significantly affect propeller performance. Adjusting the trim angle can optimise how the boat runs, reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.

Once you’ve selected a propeller, it’s essential to test it out on the water and make any necessary adjustments. Pay attention to factors like RPM, speed and handling to ensure the propeller is performing as expected.

Propeller maintenance is also key for maintaining optimum performance, so regular checks are imperative. If you keep using a propeller that has been worn small and thin, it leads to excessive engine speed and can cause serious damage to the motor. Furthermore, if you keep using a propeller that has been damaged and unbalanced, it can cause serious vibrations that are transmitted through the motor and the boat. You can get optimum acceleration, improved middle and top speed, and smooth and economic cruising by replacing worn or damaged propellers with new ones.

MERCURY

3 million and counting

Mercury outboard engine

At the heart of Mercury Marine’s global headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, you will find the stainless steel investment casting and propeller finishing facility. With a relatively humble beginning in 1974, the operation has since expanded many times to include the most advanced technologies in the industry for both casting and finishing propellers. Mercury Marine have delivered more than three million stainless steel propellers worldwide.

The world of stainless steel propellers is very dynamic as engine technology and hull designs evolve. Long-tenured, passionate engineers and thousands of hours of research and development have always been the backbone of Mercury’s propeller division. Being able to leverage the in-house propulsion systems for testing, and developing propellers alongside new engine and drive components, has led to more than 100 unique and industry-leading propeller designs since 1974. Likewise, Mercury have always valued working directly with their network of boatbuilder and dealer partners over the years, and the input of fishermen, offshore racers, water sports enthusiasts, boating families, military personnel and many more segments has driven propeller innovations. 

In the mid-1970s, the highest-horsepower outboard available from Mercury Marine was 150hp, and anything larger would have been inboard automotive-based engines or the relatively new I/O segment. Mercury quickly recognised the growing demand for stainless steel propellers as an alternative to brass-based compositions, which had been the most popular option up until this time period for their ease of production machining and inherent resistance to corrosion. With outboards breaking the 200hp barrier by the early 1980s, and inboards well over 250hp, the need for stronger stainless steel propellers persisted. Mercury pioneered the use of large, segmented, liquid-cooled wax dies as a means of producing extremely accurate wax propeller moulds for the investment casting operation, which in turn allows for very precise propellers that can be built in rapid succession. Early dies such as the Mirage and Chopper propellers were extremely labour-intensive operations, milling unique dies for every pitch and rotation in each propeller family, mostly by hand. Today, building new dies is still a large undertaking, but modern advancements in computer programming and CNC machining have greatly improved the process.

Mercury have also made large investments in advancing how propellers are finished. Grinding propellers is one of the most difficult jobs within the company, as it is both physically taxing and requires high levels of craftsmanship. The training, safety protocols and precision measurement systems have been the key to Mercury’s success in this area. Along with industry-leading propeller grinders, Mercury also developed proprietary drag finishing operations that represent the polishing stage of manufacturing, which utilise composite-based media for applying the mirror image that Mercury Propellers are known for. In recent years, Mercury have adapted advanced robotics into grinding propellers, incorporating thousands of hours of detailed programming work to further advance how propellers are crafted.

Mercury Marine continue to operate their propeller division seven days a week, building a multitude of different stainless steel propeller lines for engines ranging from 25hp to 600hp outboards, and up to 1550hp sterndrives offered by Mercury’s Racing division.

Mercury Spitfire X7.

Canon 5D Mark III

Super models

With thousands of different engine models available from Mercury Marine finding their way to a plethora of unique hull designs worldwide, Mercury have expanded their portfolio of stainless steel propellers to ensure optimal performance on as many applications as possible. More than 30 unique propeller lines are available between Mercury Propellers, Quicksilver and the smaller outfit located at Mercury Racing.

Propellers are mainly grouped by their intended engine application, and different subsets of propellers exist within each of these groups for achieving different performance requirements. Most of Mercury’s stainless steel propellers feature the patented Flo-Torq hub design, which is a revolutionary modular hub system developed in the mid-1990s. There are two main sizes of hubs within these propellers; both are based on a square-bore design – one is generally used for 60hp and below outboards, and the other is used for 75hp and above outboards and sterndrives. Propellers intended for use on any given gear case will also utilise an outer barrel diameter that conforms with the diameter of the gear case. Because the Flo-Torq system is modular, Mercury have also introduced several different hub kits over the years to adapt their propellers to a wide variety of outboards and sterndrives manufactured by competitors.

With the hub geometry and barrel diameter dictated by the propeller’s intended gear case design, most of the remaining factors, such as overall diameter, blade count, barrel length, rake and blade area, are up to the team of engineers to develop. There are many modern computer programs that aid the design process, but rigorous real-world testing is still needed and performed every week at Mercury Marine to trial new designs and collect performance data.

Propeller fitting and Mercury Racing props.

Propeller fitting and Mercury Racing props.

Over years of trial and error, Mercury have developed key propeller lines that not only pair well with their engines but provide certain lift and handling characteristics to suit the majority of hull designs on the market. Smaller-diameter three-blade propellers that incorporate high rake angles, such as the Tempest Plus and Fury, are often used on freshwater fishing and pleasure boats to provide ample amounts of bow lift. Larger-diameter five-blade propellers such as the Maximus provide stern lift for heavier sterndrive boats that have high drive heights.

The advent of larger, more powerful outboards has also spurred the development of many new propellers over the last five years from Mercury. The Revolution X and Verado 12 are the two latest propeller lines that pair with the V10 and V12 Verado outboards specifically; they are both designed for industry-leading smooth operation and ample amounts of lift for larger vessels. Mercury Racing continue to introduce propeller models specifically designed for high-performance outboard and sterndrive applications. The new Ventera line of propellers is designed to offer improved top-end speed and mid-range efficiency for 400R- and 500R-powered boats.

Whether you are looking for enhanced mid-range fuel economy for your charter boat, a quicker hole shot for shallow-water conditions, improved ride quality in rough conditions or any other performance attribute, Mercury Marine are dedicated to ensuring that they are able to offer a stainless steel propeller that will help any powerboater reach their chosen performance goals.

Twin Revolution X’s.

Twin Revolution X’s.

The science & the art

Propellers are such an interesting subject because they are truly a blend of science and art. There are many aspects of propellers that are black and white: Is the final product perfectly balanced? Is pitch consistent from blade to blade? Does it provide the intended performance characteristics? But building stainless steel propellers requires a great amount of craftsmanship and finesse. Mercury Marine pride themselves on having an industry-leading foundry, where extremely accurate, high-quality castings are made, but it is also up to an operator with years of experience to craft a propeller into a fine-tuned finished product.

At Mercury Marine’s global headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, you will find the stainless steel investment casting and propeller finishing facility.

At Mercury Marine’s global headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, you will find the stainless steel investment casting and propeller finishing facility.

Propellers are also exciting because the possibilities are virtually limitless, both in terms of design and the finishing work. Mercury Racing’s existence as a stand-alone propeller department is a great example of this. They offer 16 additional propeller families that provide new takes on many standard Mercury propeller families, and also the far reaches of what is possible with propeller customisation through fully CNC machining Cleaver propellers, of which there are more than 5,000 unique variations. Finding a propeller that performs well on a given boat can be just as much about the design as how well the prop is finished and how true all of the parameters are.

Mercury Marine have developed a Prop Selector tool that is a great resource for figuring out what specific lines of propellers will be geared towards any given application. It is located on Mercury’s website and can be navigated in five or six simple steps. For diving deeper into prop selection, Mercury Racing also have an available Propeller Slip Calculator. This is an important tool for not only calculating how well a propeller is currently performing but also for estimating how increasing pitch, changing gear ratio, etc. can impact performance. There are also videos available from Mercury Marine and Mercury Racing that give brief overviews of the features of each propeller line and its intended purposes.

‘Yamaha boffin’

Ed Stevens is one of the most respected names in this sector of the marine industry and now works as the Commercial and Boat Partner Sales Manager at Yamaha Marine UK, and also as part of the European OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) team. With over 20 years of experience in the marine trade, Ed is passionate about helping boaters maximise their enjoyment on the water through innovative propulsion solutions and expert guidance. As a seasoned industry professional, Ed brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role at Yamaha, where he provides expert service and support to customers right across the UK and beyond.

‘Mr Suzuki’

Mark Beeley is the Head of ATV and Marine for Suzuki GB. A former member of the Royal Air Force Regiment, Mark joined Suzuki in 2006. He has a wealth of experience gained from studying marine engineering and over 30 years working in the marine industry with several brands in outboard, inboard petrol and diesel engines. Mark has also undertaken several notable offshore challenges, circumnavigations and expeditions in his time, including the ‘GORE-TEX Arctic Challenge’, which involved a voyage from John O’Groats in Scotland across the North Sea to Norway and on up to the Lofoten Isles beyond the Arctic Circle in two 6m Suzuki-powered Humber RIBs. This first-hand knowledge and offshore experience continue to prove invaluable to Mark’s ongoing work with Suzuki.

‘Mercury man’

Nick Petersen, Category Manager for Racing Propellers, Controls and Rigging, has been a long-time drag racing enthusiast and also loves to restore old outboards. He has a business degree from Northwestern University and tells us everything engineering and propeller related he’s learned as a result of his hands-on experience and real-time work with his customers. Currently the Category Manager of Mercury Racing Propellers, Nick began working at Mercury Racing in 2017 under the highly regarded former Propeller Manager Scott Reichow, who took Nick under his wing for two invaluable years before Scott then retired. Nick has the pleasure of working with boatbuilders, race teams, Mercury dealers and end consumers on everything from boat set-ups to developing new products and performance consultation.