Thursday, December 16, 2010

Minn Kota Riptide ST Trolling Motors

The Riptide ST series combines powerful motors with advanced wireless control for saltwater fishermen with medium to large boats.  Thrust options of 55, 80 and 101 lbs are available across the line of motors, as well as 48, 54 and 60 inch shaft lengths.

Riptide ST is controlled using the included CoPilot Remote, which offers wireless motor control from anywhere onboard.  The remote floats, is 100% waterproof, and can control motor speed and direction.

An optional electric foot pedal is also available for Riptide ST, which can be used in conjunction with the CoPilot remote.  Select models come with AutoPilot, which is useful for maintaining a straight course over open water or following a shoreline or underwater shelf.

i-Pilot is the ultimate accessory for ST and includes wireless boat control and AutoPilot But it's most impressive features utilize GPS technology to control the motor.  Spot lock acts like an electronic anchor to maintain a boat's location regardless of wind or waves and record-a-track lets you record exact boat movement and re-trace your previous path automatically. 

The built-in battey indicator will keep you informed of the remaining charge, and the convenient stow / deploy handle makes it simple to deploy the motor one-handed. A weedless prop makes it possible to nagivate and fish through vegetation filled waters. 

Designed to stand up to the corrosive effects of saltwater,  the motor is buit using a premium marine alloy which is finished with a corrosion-resistant zinc plating.  Aditionally, all motor electronics are sealed water-tight to prevent damage from moisture or salt. 

Riptide ST's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

Riptide ST is a great choice for saltwater fishermen who want a powerful trolling motor with advanced control options.  For more information on the motor line please visit http://www.trollingmotors.net/trolling-motors/by-manufacturer/minn-kota/riptide/riptide-st.html. 

 



Saturday, December 11, 2010

Minn Kota Riptide SP Saltwater Motors

Riptide SP motors from Minn Kota offer a number of advanced control options, and are designed for medium sized saltwater boats.  Both 55 and 70lbs motors are available, as well as 48 and 54 inch shaft options. 

SP is controlled using the included CoPilot Remote, which offers wireless motor control from anywhere onboard.  The remote floats, is 100% waterproof, and can control motor speed and direction.

Select models come with AutoPilot, which is useful for maintaining a straight course over open water or following a shoreline or underwater shelf.

i-Pilot is the ultimate accessory for SP and includes wireless boat control and AutoPilot But it's most impressive features utilize GPS technology to control the motor.  Spot lock acts like an electronic anchor to maintain a boat's location regardless of wind or waves and Record-a-track lets you record exact boat movement and re-trace your previous path automatically. 

A weedless prop makes it possible to nagivate and fish through vegetation filled waters. 

Designed to stand up to the corrosive effects of saltwater,  the motor is buit using a premium marine alloy which is finished with a corrosion-resistant zinc plating.  Aditionally, all motor electronics are sealed water-tight to prevent damage from moisture or salt. 

Minn Kota SP's composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

If you need wireless control but require more power, you'll want to consider Riptide ST.  The motors also feature the same CoPilot wirelss remote and AP and i-Pilot compatibility, but offers thrust up to 101 lbs.

The Wireless series from MotorGuide is another alternative to Riptide SP.  These motors feature an included wireless foot pedal, as well as optional hand held remotes.  They also have a generous three year warranty but don't have the optional AutoPilot or GPS technology available on Minn Kota motors. 

Riptide SP is an ideal, well-built trolling motor for medium sized boat owners wanting advanced control options.  For more information on the line of motors, please visit http://www.trollingmotors.net/trolling-motors/by-manufacturer/minn-kota/riptide/riptide-sp.html. 



Monday, December 6, 2010

Minn Kota Riptide SM Trolling Motors

Minn Kota Riptide SM is a saltwater trolling motor designed for medium to large boats.  With available thrust options of 55, 70, 80 and 101 lbs, Riptide SM is well-suited for almost all boat sizes.  Shaft lengths of 42, 52 and 62 inches are available across the link of motors.

Two mounts are available on SM motors.  The Latch and Door mount allows for easy motor removal while the The Bowguard 360 spring-based mount offers additional impact protection for the motors, shaft and boat. 

A telescoping handle pivots 45 degrees and extends up to 6 inches for improved reach and sterring convenience.  A weedless prop makes it possible to nagivate and fish through vegetation filled waters. 

Designed to stand up to the corrosive effects of saltwater,  the motor is buit using a premium marine alloy which is finished with a corrosion-resistant zinc plating.  Aditionally, all motor electronics are sealed water-tight to prevent damage from moisture or salt. 

Riptide SM's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

If you need more advanced control options, you'll want to consider Riptide ST.  The motors includes a wireless CoPilot remote control and are compatible with AutoPilot and GPS i-Pilot accessories.  Similar to SM, up to 101 lbs of thrust are available. 

Riptide SF from Minn Kota is another alternative.  Designed around a beefy anodized aluminum arm, SF is built like a tank and designed to last.   The motor includes lift assist for incredibley easy stowing and a removable bowguard, similar to the one found on SM motors.   If a rock-solid trolling motor is what you're after, SF is an excellent choice. 

For more information on the Riptide SM line please see http://www.trollingmotors.net/trolling-motors/by-manufacturer/minn-kota/riptide/riptide-sm.html, or visit us online at TrollingMotors.net. 

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Minn Kota Ripide SE Trolling Motors

Riptide SE is Minn Kota's entry level saltwater bow mount motor.  It is a well built motor that offers reliable performance in a very affordable package for fishermen with medium sized boats.  The Riptide SE line offers motors with both 55 and 70 lbs of thrust.  Both motors have a 52 inch shaft.

The motor's mount is built from marine-grade aluminum, providing a light and strong mounting surface.  The latch and door design offers convenient stowing and motor removal.  The handle tilts up to 45 degrees and telescopes up to 6 inches, providing additional reach and sterring convenience.  An included weedless prop makes it easy to navigate and fish in vegetation filled waters. 

Designed to stand up to the corrosive effects of saltwater,  the motor is buit using a premium marine alloy which is finished with a corrosion-resistant zinc plating.  Aditionally, all motor electronics are sealed water-tight to prevent damage from moisture or salt. 

Riptide SE's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

If you want additional features or more power, you'll want to consider stepping up to Riptide SM.  The motor boast thrust options up to 101 lbs, and has an optional coil based BowGuard which protects shaft, motor and boat.  

Riptide SE is the perfect choice for fishermen needing an affordable yet reliable bow mount saltwater trolling motor.  For more information on this and other trolling motors, please visit us online at TrollingMotors.net or call 800-472-3509. 



Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Minn Kota Riptide Transom Saltwater Motors

Riptide transom mount motors are the most affordable option in Minn Kota's line of well-built and reliable saltwater motors.  45, 50, 55, 80 and 101 lbs thrust options are available, making Riptide Transom a great choice for nearly all boat sizes, both small and large.  36, 42 and 52 inch shaft options are available, as well as both fixed and variable speed motors. 

The telescoping handle tilts up to 45 degrees and extends up to 6", providing additional reach and sterring convenience.  Riptide Transom stows easily with one hand, and without messing with dials or levers.  Just lift up on the motor and pull forward to securely store it.   Most models include a weedless prop, making it easy to navigate and fish in vegetation filled waters. 

Designed to stand up to the corrosive effects of saltwater,  the motor is buit using a premium marine alloy which is finished with a corrosion-resistant zinc plating.  Aditionally, all motor electronics are sealed water-tight to prevent damage from moisture or salt. 

Minn Kota's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

The VariMax line from MotorGuide is an alternative to Riptide Transom and features variable speed saltwater motors at very competitive pricing.  However, the VariMax line has a one year warranty and stainless steel  shaft vs. the two year warranty and composite shaft found with Riptide Transom. 

Riptide transom offers reliable Minn Kota performance at a more affordable price than similar saltwater bow mount models. 

For more information on this and other trolling motors, please visit us online TrollingMotors.net or call 800-472-3509.



Friday, November 26, 2010

Minn Kota Riptide SF Trolling Motors

Minn Kota Riptide SF is a saltwater bow mount trolling motor designed for large fishing boats.  It's heavy-duty industrial construction make it perfect for fishermen wanting a , rock-solid, reliable motor.  80 and 101 lbs versions of the motor are available with shaft lengths of 52 and 62 inches.

The motor is built around a beefy, anodized aluminum mono-arm.  The arm operates with no metal-to-metal contact and a single hinge point to achieve less wear and longer life. 

The detachable, coil-based Bowguard system allows the shaft to break-away on impact and then return to it's original position, offering protection to both both boat and motor.

Heavy-duty construction isn't light, which is why lift-assist is such a welcome feature.  The nitrogen gas charged spring assembly cuts the effective stow and deploy weight in half. 

A telescoping handle extends up to 6" and pivots vertically 45 degrees for steering comfort and convenience.  A weedless prop makes it possible to navigate and fish through vegetation filled waters. 

Designed to stand up to the corrosive effects of saltwater,  the motor is built using a premium marine alloy which is finished with a corrosion-resistant zinc plating.  Additionally, all motor electronics are sealed water-tight to prevent damage from moisture or salt. 

Minn Kota's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

If you need a heavy-duty and powerful trolling motors for your saltwater boat, Riptide SF is an excellent choice.  

 



Saturday, November 20, 2010

Minn Kota Riptide

 

Minn Kota line's of Riptide saltwater trolling motors are designed to perform in hash, demanding salt water environments. The Riptide series includes six individual models,  making it easy to find a motor perfectly suited to your particular boat and fishing style.

Riptide Transom is the most affordbable Riptide motor, and the only Riptide transom motor available.  It's ideally suited for fishermen needing an affordable saltwater trolling motor, or who want a transom mount over a bow mount motor.  Numerous thrust options between 45 and 101 lbs are available, with the largest capable of moving boats weighing up to 5,000 lbs.  

Riptide SE is the entry-level bow mount model.  It offers no-frills reliable saltwater operation at a resonable price.  Available in 55 and 70 lbs models, Riptide SE is well suited for medium sized boats up to 3,500 lbs and up to 22' long.   

Riptide SM is a step-up from the SE series.  It offers the unique coil-based BowGuard, which protects shaft and motor, as well as offering more power than Riptide SE.  With up to 101lbs of available thurst, Riptide SM can power large boats as long as 25' weighing up to 5,000 lbs.  

The SP series introduces a number of technology-rich features to the Riptide line.  All SP motors are controlled with an included CoPilot wireless remote and are compatible with AutoPilot and GPS i-Pilot technology, offering automatic boat control.  With available thrust options of 55 or 70 lbs, Riptide SP is best suited for medium sized boats weighing up to 3,500 and up to 22' long.  

Riptide ST combines the high-tech features of SP with the powerful thrust options available on Transom and SM motors.  The motor comes with the wirless CoPilot remote, is compatible with AP and i-Pilot technologies, and can also be used with an optional foot pedal. Riptide ST combines the high-tech features of SP with the powerful thrust options available on Transom and SM motors.  The motor comes with the wirless CoPilot remote, is compatible with AP and i-Pilot technologies, and can also be used with an optional foot pedal.

The final motor is the seris - Riptide SF - is also the toughest.  SF models are built to hold up to any measure of abuse - and are the trolling motor equivilant of a tank. If a no-nonsense, well built motor is what you need, Riptide SF is the ideal choice.  Riptide SF models come with either 80 or 101 lbs of thrust, with the 101 lbs model able to move large boats weighing up to 5,000 lbs and as long as 25 feet.  

 



Friday, October 15, 2010

Minn Kota Terrova Review

 

Minn Kota Terrova is a freshwater bow mount electric trolling motor that is designed for medium to large boats.  It's numerous accessories and features makes if perfect for serious fishermen who want the best technology available in order to maximize their time on the water.  

Available thrust options include 55, 80 and 101 lbs, with the 101 lbs model able to provide adequate power in calm waters for boats in the 20 to 25 foot range weighing up to 5,000 lbs fully loaded.    If the motor will be used in swift currents or heavy wind, a stronger motor will be required to provide adequate power.  

Shaft lengths of 45, 48, 54 and 60 inches are available across the Terrova line.  Bow mount motors should have between 25 and 30 inches of the shaft submerged, which makes Terrova models suitable for boats with bows approximately 15 to 35 inches from the water.

Minn Kota AutoPilot is available on select models and as an after-market accessory for Terrova models.  AutoPilot uses a compass to lock onto and maintain a fixed heading, allowing you to set a course and return to fishing.  It's very convenient for following a shoreline, underwater shelf or maintaining a straight course over the water toward a distant landmark.  

The optional Minn Kota CoPilot Remote offers wireless control of Terrova from anywhere on the boat!  The remote floats, is 100% waterproof, and can control motor speed and direction wirelessly. 

i-Pilot is the ultimate accessory for Minn Kota Terrova and includes wireless boat control and AutoPilot.  But it's most impressive features use GPS technology to control the motor.  "Spot Lock" acts like an electronic anchor to automatically maintain a boat's location regardless of wind or waves and "Record-a-Track" lets you record exact boat movement and automatically re-trace your previous path.  i-Pilot features a waterproof, wireless remote with a built-in LCD display which serves to control all motor functions.  

Optional US2 sonar reduces cable clutter, decreases the likelihood of transducer damage and uses dual beam technology to provide an improved view below the surface.  As the transducer is counter-sunk into the motor's head, it is significantly less likely to be snapped off by a fixed object under the water compared to traditional transducers.  

The included electric foot pedal includes an 18' long cord and is completely waterproof. The foot pedal can be used alongside the optional CoPilot and i-Pilot remotes, offering both foot and wireless remote control simultaneously.  The motor's built-in battery indicator indicates the current battery status, and reduces the likelihood of unexpectedly running out of power.  All Terrova models include a weedless prop, making it easy to follow fish into thick vegetation.  

Terrova's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed not to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.    

The Wireless series from MotorGuide is an alternative to Terrova.  Wireless control comes standard with the motor in the forum or a wireless foot pedal, handheld remotes are available and it includes a generous three year warranty.   But the Wireless series has no AutoPilot or GPS technology similar to the ones found on Minn Kota Terrova motors, and 75 lbs of thrust is the most power available.  

For more information on the Minn Kota Terrova line, as well as related trolling motor information, videos and articles, please visit us online at TrollingMotors.net.  

 

 



Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Minn Kota Traxxis Detailed Review

Minn Kota Traxxis is a full featured freshwater transom mount trolling motor designed for fishermen with medium to large sized boats.  

The line has both fixed and variable speed motors with available thrust options of 45, 55 70 and 80 lbs.  The 80 lbs model can provide adequate thrust for boats up to 4,000 lbs and 25' long in normal water conditions.   If the motor will be used in swift currents or heavy wind, a stronger motor will be required to provide adequate power.   The 45 and 55 lbs thrust motors are 12 volt motors and require a single marine battery for operation.  The 70 and 80 lb. thrust motors are 24v volt motors, and require two marine batteries for operation.

Shaft lengths of 36 and 42 inches are available across the Traxxis line.  Transom mount motors should have between 20 and 25 inches of the shaft submerged to ensure proper performance and thrust.  With this in mind, the Traxxis series is a good choice for boats with transoms approximately 11 to 22 inches from the waterline.  If trying to decide between the two shaft lengths, it's a good idea to err on the side of a longer shaft  as the motor head can always be raised/shortened using Traxxis' depth adjustment collar.  

Traxxis' stows easily with one hand, and without messing with dials or levers.  Just lift up on the motor and pull forward to securely store the motor.   This is incredibly convenient when you need to stow the motor quickly, or while holding a fishing rod in the other hand.   The 55, 70 and 80 lbs thrust models include a Weedless Prop, making it possible to navigate and fish vegetation filled waters.    

For steering convenience and comfort, the telescoping handle extends up to six inches and tilts vertically up to 45 degrees.  The extended reach and tilting lever allow the motor to be comfortably controlled from many positions in the rear of the boat.  

Traxxis includes a built-in battery indicator, which is an incredibly valuable tool.  Nothing is worse than unexpectedly running out of trolling power, and the head mounted built-in indicator will always keep you informed how much power is left.  This allows you to make the best use of your battery's life, and ensures you'll have power when you need it.  

Traxxis' flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime guarantee.    The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.  

If you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider Minn Kota Endura.  While it lacks many of the features found on Traxxis, it offers up to 55 lbs of thrust and the same warranty and shaft found on Traxxis at a more affordable price.  The VariMax line from MotorGuide is another alternative to Traxxis and features variable speed motors at very competitive pricing.  However, the VariMax line has a one year warranty and aluminum built shaft vs. the two year warranty and composite shaft found with Traxxis.  

For more information on the Minn Kota Traxxis line, as well as related trolling motor information, videos and articles, please visit us online at TrollingMotors.net.  

 

 

 

 



Friday, October 8, 2010

Minn Kota Engine Mount Trolling Motors

Minn Kota Engine Mount motors offer the functionality and convenience of a traditional trolling motor without having to mount one to the boat's deck.  While standard trolling motors are installed on the bow or transom of the boat, engine mount trolling motors are mounted directly to the boat's outboard engine.  When the outboard is off, they are submerged beneath the surface and can provide quiet, stealthy propulsion for fishing.  When the outboard is in use and on-plane, the engine mount trolling motor rises out of the water to prevent increased drag on the motor.  Engine mount motors are the perfect choice for dual-use (recreation and fishing) boats, or just for situations where mounting a traditional trolling motor isn't convenient. 

Engine mount motors include a number of available thrust options including 55, 80, 101 and 160 lbs, with the 160 lbs thrust motor able to provide enough power in calm waters for boats up to 24' long weighing up to  8,000 lbs.  The 55 lbs motor is a 12 volt motor, the 55 and 160 lbs models are 24 volt motors and the 101 lbs model is a 36 volt motor. 

It's crucial that Minn Kota engine mount motors are properly submerged to ensure adequate thrust and performance.  A minimum distance of 13" from waterline to the cavitation plate mounting platform is required to avoid any operational problems.  If the engine mount trolling motor doesn't have at least 13" of submersion, power and thrust will be decreased, causing sluggish and underpowered operation.

The motor is controlled with an 18' corded remote control that allows for variable speed control in both forward and reverse.  The remote and can be handheld, or permanently mounted to the boat.  As the motors are mounted to the engine, boat steering is controlled via the standard motor steering method, usually a steering wheel or hand control connected to the outboard motor.  All motor electronics are stored in a sealed, waterproof control module which can be mounted below the deck and out of the way. 

All Minn Kota Engine Mount motors are backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.   

For more information on the Minn Kota Engine Mount line, as well as related trolling motor information, videos and articles, please visit us online at TrollingMotors.net. 
 



Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Minn Kota PowerDrive V2 - Detailed Review

 

 

Minn Kota PowerDrive V2 is a freshwater bow mount motor designed for fishermen with medium to large boats.  Numerous features and available accessories makes it ideal for fishermen who want to get the most out of their time on the water.  

Thrust options of 45, 50, 55, 65 and 70 lbs are available across the PowerDrive V2 line with the 70 lbs model able to provide adequate power in calm waters for boats in the 20 to 23 foot range weighing up to 3,500 lbs fully loaded.  If the motor will be used in swift currents or heavy wind, a stronger motor will be required to provide adequate power.  

Shaft lengths of 48, 54 and 60 inches are available across the PowerDrive V2 line.  Bow mount motors should have between 25 and 30 inches of the shaft submerged, which makes PowerDrive V2 models suitable for boats with bows approximately 18 to 35 inches from the water.

Minn Kota AutoPilot is available on select PowerDrive V2 models, and can serve as an indispensable tool.  AutoPilot uses a compass to lock onto and maintain a fixed heading, allowing you to set a course and return to fishing.  It's very convenient for following a shoreline, underwater shelf or maintaining a straight course over the water toward a distant landmark.  

The optional Minn Kota CoPilot Remote offers wireless motor control from anywhere on the boat!  The remote floats, is 100% waterproof, and can control motor speed and direction. 

i-Pilot is the ultimate accessory for PowerDrive and includes wireless boat control and AutoPilot.  But it's most impressive features utilize GPS technology to control the motor.  The "Spot Lock" feature acts like an electronic anchor to automatically maintain a boat's location regardless of wind or waves and "Record-a-Track" lets you record exact boat movement and re-trace your previous path automatically.  i-Pilot also features a waterproof, wireless remote with a built-in LCD display that can control all motor functions.  

Optional US2 sonar reduces cable clutter, decreases the likelihood of transducer damage and uses dual beam technology to provide an improved view below the surface.  As the transducer is counter-sunk into the motor's head, it is significantly less likely to be snapped off by a fixed object under the water compared to traditional transducers.  

The included electric foot pedal includes an 18' long cord and is completely waterproof.  When used with CoPilot or i-Pilot, the handheld remote replace the foot pedal as the method of motor control.  The motor's built-in battery indicator provides the current battery status, and reduces the likelihood of unexpectedly running out of power.  Almost all PowerDrive V2 models include a weedless prop, making it easy to follow fish into thick vegetation.  

PowerDrive's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.    

If you need more power or additional control options, you may want to consider Minn Kota Terrova.  The line offers significantly more power than PowerDrive V2 with motors with 80 and 101 lbs of thrust.  Terrova's foot pedal features AutoPilot integration and can be used to control the motor alongside the wireless CoPilot and i-Pilot accessories whereas the remotes REPLACE the pedal on PowerDrive V2 models.  

The Wireless series from MotorGuide is another alternative to PowerDrive V2.  Wireless control comes standard with the motors in the form or a wireless foot pedal. Handheld remotes are available as well, and work in conjunction with the pedal.  The motors also come with a generous three year warranty.   But the Wireless series has no AutoPilot or GPS i-Pilot technology similar to the ones found on Minn Kota motors.  

You can find more information about Minn Kota PowerDrive V2 series of motors online at http://www.trollingmotors.net/trolling-motors/by-manufacturer/minn-kota/powerdrive-v2.html.  

 

 



Friday, September 24, 2010

Minn Kota Fortrex Video Review

 

Minn Kota Fortrex is a freshwater bow mount motor designed for large fishing boats.  It's heavy-duty industrial construction make it perfect for fishermen wanting a rock-solid, reliable motor.

The motor has available thrust options of 80 and 101 lbs, with the 101 lbs model able to provide adequate power in calm waters for boats in the 21 to 25 foot range weighing up to 5,000 lbs.    If the motor will be used in swift currents or heavy wind, a stronger motor will be required to provide adequate power.  Fortrex 80 is a 24 volt motor, draws 56 amps at top speed and required two batteries for operation.  Foretrex 101 is a 36 volt motor, draws 46 amps at top speed and requires three marine batteries for operation.  

Shaft lengths of 45, 52 and 62 inches are available across the Minn Kota Fortrex line.  Bow mount motors should have between 25 and 30 inches of the shaft submerged, which makes  Fortrex models suitable for boats with bows approximately 15 to 37 inches from the water.

The motor is built around a beefy, anodized aluminum mono-arm.  The arm operates with no metal-to-metal contact and a single hinge point to achieve less wear and longer life.  The coil-based Bowguard 360 allows the shaft to break-away on impact and then return to it's original position, offering protection to both both boat and motor.  Fortrex's Bowguard and motor can also be easily detached from the mount.  Heavy-duty construction isn't light, which is why lift-assist is such a welcome feature.  The nitrogen gas charged spring assembly cuts the effective stow and deploy weight in half.  The 5' long cable foot pedal provides ultra-responsive steering and is built from a high-impact and durable composite.   Both Fortrex motors come with a Weedless Wedge prop, making it possible to venture into thick vegetation in search of fish.  

Optional US2 sonar reduces cable clutter, decreases the likelihood of transducer damage and uses dual beam technology to provide an improved view below the surface.  As the transducer is counter-sunk into the motor's head, it is significantly less likely to be snapped off by a fixed object under the water compared to traditional transducers.  You can also easily see which way the motor is pointed with  Fortrex's head mounted illuminated directional indicator, backlit for convenience when used during early morning or late evening.    

Minn Kota Fortrex's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.    

Minn Kota Maxxum is an affordable alternative to Fortrex.  While it doesn't have the same bombproof construction, it features a similar Bowguard 360 and thrust options at a more affordable price.  The MotorGuide Tour trolling motor is an another alternative to Fortrex.  The Tour series is built almost entirely from metal and most models feature a three year warranty.  However, the motor doesn't have the composite shaft and features such as Lift-Assist and Bowguard found on Fortrex.  

For more information on Minn Kota Fortrex and other trolling motors, as well as educational guides and videos, please visit us online at TrollingMotors.net.  

 



Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Minn Kota Maxxum Video Review

 

Minn Kota Maxxum is a freshwater bow mount trolling motor designed for medium to large boats.  It is a mid-range trolling motor with numerous features designed to make fishing more productive, and is a step up from the Edge series from Minn Kota.

The Maxxum line has thrust options of 55, 70 and 80 and 101 lbs, with the 101 lbs model able to provide adequate power in calm water for boats in the 21 to 25 foot range weighing up to 5,000 lbs fully loaded.  If the boat is going to be used in rough waters, strong current, or in windy conditions, a stronger motor may be needed to provide enough power.  

The Maxxum line includes shaft length options of 42" and 52" in order to accommodate different sized boats.  Bow mount motors should have approximately 25 to 30 inches of the shaft submerged to ensure adequate performance and thrust, so the Maxxum line shaft options will accommodate boats with bows approximately 12" to 27" from the waterline.   

Minn Kota Maxxum motors come with both fixed and variable speed motor options.  The fixed speed motors are the most affordable choice while the variable speed models provide better battery life and complete control over motor speed.  Maxxum also is compatible with quick release mounting brackets.  The brackets (MKA-52/62 and MKA-23) mount directly to the boat's deck and the Maxxum motor is secured to it.  When not in use, Maxxum can be easily removed by removing the locking handle.  When locked into place, the locking handle accommodates a padlock to ensure the motor is secure.  

The 5' long cable foot pedal provides ultra-responsive steering and is built from a high-impact and durable composite that is built to last.  Foot steering is extremely convenient, as it offers complete hands-free boat control allowing for continued fishing with both hands.  

One of the motor's unique features is Bowguard 360.  A coil based system, Bowguard 360 is built into the shaft / bracket mount and breaks away on impact. offering protection for both the motor and boat.  

With a quick glance, you can tell which way the motor is pointed with the built-in illuminated directional indicator on the motor's head.  This can be very useful when the motor hasn't be recently used, and when it's unclear which way the submerged propeller is pointed.  With one look, you'll know which way you're pointed before accelerating, and can make any needed corrections.  The illuminated indicator makes it easy to tell motor direction even in the dark.    

Maxxum motors draw between 42 and 50 amps of power at top speed, depending on the specific model.  With a 100 amp hour rated battery,  this will result in run times of approximately 2 hours at top speeds, approximately 4 hours a medium speeds and between 14 and 20 hours at slow speeds.  Variable speed Maxxum models utilize Minn Kota Digital Maximizer technology, and will achieve longer run times than similar fixed speed models.  The 55 lbs model is a 12 volt model, and requires a single battery for operation.  The 70 and 80 lbs models are 24 volt motors and use two batteries, while the 101 lbs model is a 36v motor and needs 3 batteries to run.

All Maxxum models include a weedless prop making it possible to navigate and fish in vegetation filled waters.   The weedless prop makes it easy to search for fish wherever they may be hiding, in clear waters or those thick with vegetation.  

Maxxum's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  If the Maxxum shaft ever breaks during the life of the motor, Minn Kota will replace or repair it at no charge.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.    

If you need advanced features such as wireless boat control, AutoPilot or GPS navigation, you'll want to step up to the PowerDrive V2 and Terrova lines from Minn Kota.  Both lines are compatible with the CoPilot, AutoPilot and i-Pilot accessories, which provide wireless control, automatically course heading and GPS technology, respectively.  If a bombproof motor with fewer bells and whistles is more important, you'll want to look into Fortrex.  It doesn't have any wireless or GPS accessories, but it's built to industrial standards and designed to withstand the most brutal environments and use.  

Minn Kota Maxxum is a quality trolling motor with ample features and conveniences at an affordable price.  

 

 



Saturday, September 18, 2010

Minn Kota Edge - The Right Motor for You?

Minn Kota Edge is a entry level freshwater bow mount trolling motor.  It a well built motor that offers reliable performance in a very affordable package for fishermen with medium to large sized boats.  While Edge doesn't have many bells and whistles, it serves it's basic purpose well - reliably getting your boat to and from fishing locations.

The Edge line has thrust options of 45, 55 and 70 lbs, with the 70 lbs model able to provide adequate power in calm water for boats in the 20 to 23 foot range weighing up to 3,500 lbs fully loaded.  If the boat is going to be used in rough waters, strong current, or in windy conditions, a stronger motor may be needed to provide enough power.  

The Edge line includes shaft length options of 36", 45", 50" and 52" in order to accommodate different sized boats.  Bow mount motors should have approximately 25 to 30 inches of the shaft submerged to ensure adequate performance and thrust.  

All Edge models have a fixed speed motor, and both foot and hand controlled models are available.  The motor's mount is built from marine-grade aluminum, providing a light and strong mounting surface.  The latch and door design offers convenient stowing and motor removal.  Edge also has an optional quick release bracket.   The composite bracket, MKA-23, mounts directly to the boat's deck and the Edge motor is secured to it.  When not in use, the Edge motor can be easily removed by removing the locking handle.  When locked into place, the locking handle accommodates a padlock to ensure the motor is secure.  

The 5' long cable foot pedal provides ultra-responsive steering and is built from a high-impact and durable composite that is built to last.  Foot steering is extremely convenient, as it offers complete hands-free boat control allowing for continued fishing with both hands.  

With a quick glance, you can tell which way the motor is pointed with the built-in directional indicator on the motor's head.  This can be very useful when the motor hasn't be recently used, and when it's unclear which way the submerged propeller is pointed.  With one look, you'll know which way you're pointed before accelerating, and can make any needed corrections.  

The Edge 45, 55 and 70 lbs motors draw 42, 50 and 42 amps at maximum speed, respectively.  With a 100 amp hour rated marine battery, the Edge series will run for approximately 2.0-2.5 hours at top speed, 4-5 hours at medium speeds and approximately 14 hours at slow speeds.  Edge 45 and 55 are both 12 volt motors, and use a single 12 volt marine battery.  The Edge 70 model is a 24 volt motor, which requires two marine batteries for operation.  

The 55 and 70 lbs thrust models include a weedless prop making it possible to navigate and fish in vegetation filled waters.   The weedless prop makes it easy to search for fish wherever they may be hiding, in clear waters or those thick with vegetation.  

Edge's flexible composite shaft is guaranteed never to break and carries a lifetime warranty.  If the shaft ever breaks during the life of the motor, Minn Kota will repair or replace it at no charge.  The rest of the motor is backed by a two year warranty, and Minn Kota's nationwide network of authorized service centers.    

If you want more power or more features, you'll want to consider Minn Kota Maxxum.  Stepping up to Maxxum offers power up to 101 lbs, variable speed motor models and BowGuard 360, a coil breakaway system that protects the motor and bow from damage.  The variable speed motors available on Maxxum offer exact speed control as well as improved battery life when trolling at slower speeds.  Minn Kota's Digital Maximizer, found on variable speed motors, improves battery life and produces longer run times from a single charge.  

Minn Kota Edge is the perfect motor for fishermen looking for a no-frills, well-built reliable bow mount motor at a very affordable price.