MXA TEAM TESTED: HONDA EU2000I GENERATOR

On Dec 3, 2014 Last updated Dec 9, 2014

WHAT IS IT? The Honda EU2000i generator can power a television, refrigerator, drill, compressor or any electrical appliance. And, it can do it anywhere—even in a zombie apocalypse.

WHAT’S IT COST? $1149.95.

CONTACT? Your local Honda dealer or www.powerequipment.honda.com.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Honda EU2000i generator.

(1) Power. A generator is considered a luxury item for the weekend warrior, but it’s a staple tool for serious racers and RV owners. Honda’s EU2000i model is a treasure. It can power anything—and is perfect in box vans, RVs, trailers or the pits.

(2) Transport. At under 55 pounds fully loaded (oil and gas), it’s light enough for most people to carry.

(3) Output. With two AC plugs and one DC outlet, the EU2000i can produce up to 120 volts, 2000 watts maximum (AC output) and 12 volts, 96 watts (DC output). It will not power a massive 220-volt item, but that’s not its intent. The EU2000i is the grocery-getter of generators, not a Ferrari. Thanks to Honda’s inverter technology, the electrical current has a consistent and stable sine wave. This is imperative for powering computers and sensitive electronic equipment.

(4) Features. The EU2000i is chock-full of features. It has an Eco-Throttle switch that automatically reduces engine speed to minimize fuel consumption. It has AC and DC circuit protectors to avoid surge overload. The built-in output indicator has an hour meter. It also has overload and oil-alert indicators, as well as a fuel-tank cap vent lock.

(5) Performance. Very impressive. The 98.5cc engine in our EU2000i ran for nine hours on less than a gallon of gas. Furthermore, the unit ran very quietly, which wasn’t a big deal during the day, but made a big difference at night while sleeping. Starting the EU2000i was simple; we rarely had to use the choke. Best yet, it provided our significant others the comforts of home, which reduced nagging on race days. Job well done.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? The Honda EU2000i is a valuable tool, not just at the racetrack, but also at home in case of a storm, earthquake or tornado. This isn’t a luxury item; it’s a must-have.

5-STARS — If you don’t camp at the track, have a Sprinter or box van, and don’t need power, this might seem like a three- or four-star product, but the MXA wrecking crew sees the bigger picture and gives the Honda EU2000i five stars.