Selecting a Wireless Bow Mount Motor

     

  Custom Search 

While the majority of trolling motors on the market are controlled by hand or a corded foot pedal, there are a few models that offer wireless motor control.

Since these models are fairly unique, we've dedicated an article exclusively to them.

If you're interested in a non-wireless bow mount motor, please see our article on Standard Bow Mount Trolling Motors.

This article discusses the three popular freshwater wireless models on the market today: The PowerDrive V2 and Terrova models from Minn Kota and the Wireless Series from MotorGuide.

Minn Kota PowerDrive V2 is Minn Kota's basic wireless compatible line, and starts around $500.

Almost all of Minn Kota's wireless compatible trolling motors are just that - wireless compatible - as they don't come with wireless installed.

Minn Kota's wireless accessory is called CoPilot, uses a remote to wirelessly control the motor, and is available as a $175 accessory. Making the wireless control optional is convenient in that is allows for the flexibility of upgrading to wireless in the future if needed without having to commit to paying for the feature at the time of purchase.

Minn Kota's wireless lines (both PowerDrive V2 and Terrova) also are compatible with AutoPilot and i-Pilot.

AutoPilot is only available on select Minn Kota PowerDrive V2 models, and cannot be added as an accessory after purchase.

i-Pilot is Minn Kota's new technology that allows for GPS guided boat control, along with wireless remote control and integrated AutoPilot. Costing around $400, the i-Pilot accessory has a number of impressive capabilities such as route re-tracing and electronic anchor, which controls motor speed and direction to keep the boat in the same place regardless of wind and waves.

One disadvantage of PowerDrive is that the wireless remote can't be used in conjunction with the included corded foot pedal. After upgrading, the pedal is useless and the remote is the only method available to control the motor.

PowerDrive V2 includes variable speed motors with 45, 50, 55, 65 and 70 lbs thrust options.

Like all Minn Kota motors, the shaft is made from a composite materials and carries a lifetime guarantee. The overall motor has a two year warranty.

Minn Kota Terrova is similar to PowerDrive V2 with a few distinct upgrades.

Most notably, Terrova offers up to 101 lbs of thrust whereas PowerDrive and MotorGuide Wireless max out at 70 and 75.

Terrova's foot pedal is also unique in that it can be used in conjunction with the wireless CoPilot accessory, offering the flexibility of having two methods of control.

Additionally, both the foot pedal and wireless remote for Terrova have the ability to activate AutoPilot, making it easy to lock in a course.

Just like PowerDrive V2, Minn Kota Terrova motors are compatible with AutoPilot and i-Pilot, features a variable speed motor and has a composite shaft and two year warranty.

The MotorGuide Wireless series differs from Minn Kota models in two noticeable ways: all models come pre-installed with wireless control, and the control is a wireless foot pedal.

Wireless remotes are included as an aftermarket accessory, and up to 4 remotes / wireless foot pedals can be used with the same motor!

MotorGuide Wireless is the most affordable wireless option, and costs around $50 to $100 less than a similar PowerDrive V2 when purchasing the wireless CoPilot accessory for PowerDrive is factored in.

While it only offers thrust options of 55 and 75 lbs, the Wireless Series includes a built-in release plate (usually sold separately), one hand stowing similar to Terrova and an impressive three year warranty.

MotorGuide wireless isn't compatible with AutoPilot or GPS technology available on the Minn Kota motors.

However, if these two features aren't important MotorGuide Wireless represents the best value for medium to semi-large boat owners looking for a quality wireless motor.

Final Verdict

So which standard motor is best for you? We examine the pros and cons, as well as identify who each motor is best suited for below:

Minn Kota PowerDrive V2

IDEAL FIT: PowerDrive V2 is a great choice for medium sized boat owners who need AutoPilot/GPS technology.

Minn Kota Terrova

IDEAL FIT: Large boat owners who want AutoPilot/GPS technology, and want the ability to use both a foot pedal AND a wireless remote for motor control.

MotorGuide Wireless Series

IDEAL FIT: Medium sized boat owners who want the most wireless motor for their dollar and don't need AutoPilot or GPS technology.