Hi Sandra, My M15 came with a standard shaft Honda 2 HP. I love it! The boat originally had the fixed motor mount, which I changed to a lift mount last year. This allows me to get the motor completely out of the water while sailing, and also allows me to change the depth of the prop in very shallow waters. (in fall my lake level decreases to the point where rocks become an obstacle course!) I am perfectly happy with the standard shaft Honda 2 HP - which is an older model. If you buy a new Honda it will have a clutch, so that you can start the motor; then turn it around for backing out of a slip without the prop turning. Only when you add throttle does the propeller then start turning. A good feature! Connie