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.  

 

 

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.  

 

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.  

 

 

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.