Inflatable boats are a great way to get out on the water and enjoy yourself without having to worry about the cost of gas or maintenance. But what if you desire to travel further? What if you want to go faster?
Well, that’s where electric motors come in. An electric motor can give your inflatable boat a boost of speed and power, letting it go farther and faster than ever before. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is right for your needs?
We’ve got your back! In this article, we will look at 6 Electric Boat Motor Reviews!. In these reviews, I will go in depth of each product, and we will learn about their pros and cons. This will narrow down your search further in finding the top rated trolling motors.
However, before we jump straight into the reviews, let’s look at a brief buying guide to finding the top rated trolling motors for your inflatable boat! For you guys that want to jump directly to my suggested electric motors, you can do so by clicking HERE!
Buying Guide to Best Electric Trolling Motor
When looking for a great electric motor for an inflatable boat, there are a lot of important factors to consider. Let’s discuss a few of them in greater detail below!
1. Thrust
Thrust is an important factor to consider when choosing an electric motor for your inflatable boat because it determines how much power the motor can generate. The more thrust the motor has, the more powerful it will be.
This is especially important if you plan on using your inflatable boat in rougher waters or for fishing, as you’ll need a powerful motor to get through tough conditions.
2. Shaft Length
The next important factor to consider is shaft length. The reason for this is that the wrong shaft length can cause serious damage to your boat and/or motor.
If the shaft on your motor is too long, it can put stress on the transom of your boat and potentially break it. On the other hand, if the shaft is too short, it can cause damage to the propeller or even detach from the motor completely while in use. Either way, having an incorrect shaft length can ruin your day out on the water.
To avoid any problems, make sure you measure both your boat and the motor shaft before making a purchase, so you know what size (and therefore what length) electric motor you need for safe operation!
3. Weight
Weight is another important point to note while choosing an electric motor because the weight of the motor will affect the speed and manoeuvrability of the boat.
A heavier motor will make the boat slower and more difficult to manoeuvre, while a lighter motor will make the boat faster and easier to manoeuvre. Choose a light-weight electric motor if you want your inflatable boat to be faster and agile on the water.
4. Durability
Inflatable boats are a great option for those who want to enjoy the water without having to worry about maintenance or storage. However, when choosing an electric motor for your boat, durability is an important factor to consider. Here’s why!
- Inflatable boats are also used in saltwater environments, which can be tough on motors. A durable motor will be able to withstand corrosion and rusting, ensuring that it lasts longer and performs better over time.
- Inflatable boats are also subject to bumps and scrapes as they travel across the water. A durable motor will be able to withstand these impacts without sustaining damage itself, meaning that you won’t have to replace or fix it as often (or at all).
5. Price and Warranty
When choosing an electric motor for your inflatable boat, it is important to consider both price and warranty. While a more expensive option may offer a longer or more comprehensive warranty, a less expensive option may still provide adequate coverage for your needs.
It is also worth considering what type of coverage is included in each warranty – some may cover parts only, while others will include labour as well. Inflatable boats are often used in rough waters, so it is important to have a reliable and durable motor that can withstand the elements.
A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that if something does go wrong with your motor, you are covered.
My Suggested 6 Best Electric Outboard Motors for Inflatable Boats
1. Newport Vessels Thrust Electric Trolling Motor
The Newport Vessels Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is one of the most versatile and multi-purpose trolling motors on the market. It generates 55lb thrust, making it ideal for inflatable boats like kayaks, dinghies, tenders, etc.
Furthermore, the shaft length is 30 inches and is made of fiberglass composite for added durability. The motor also has an 8 speed control system- 5 forward speeds and 3 reverse- so you can always find the perfect speed for your needs.
Plus, the Newport Vessels Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is built with high quality materials that are saltwater corrosion resistant to ensure years of use.
Pros
- It is available in different thrust configurations- 55lb, 36lb, 46lb, 62lb and 86lb
- It is built from saltwater corrosion resistant materials
- Well suited for almost all types of inflatable boats
- Comes with a 3 blade propeller for optimum performance
- Extremely durable and built to last
Cons
- The motor is a bit noisy for something tagged as “electric”!
FAQ
1. Is it possible to find out how much battery power is remaining in this unit?
Yes, there is an LED panel that displays the battery state.
2. Can the motor be powered by a more portable 12V lithium battery?
Lithium batteries are not recommended for use with these motors. They operate at a higher voltage, putting extra strain on the motor. This may result in early failures and other difficulties.
3. Does this motor require two deep cycle batteries, or can it work entirely on one?
The 86lb trolling motor is powered by a 24V battery. So, to run this motor, you’ll need two 12V Deep Cycle Marine batteries connected in series!
Newport Vessels is a trusted name when it comes to electric trolling motors. The Newport Vessels Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is no exception, offering features that make it ideal for use with inflatable boats.
The most notable feature of the Newport Vessels Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is its saltwater corrosion resistance. This makes it well suited for use in almost any environment, including salt water environments where other motors would quickly succumb to corrosion.
In addition to being built from durable materials, this electric trolling motor also comes with a 3 blade propeller for optimum performance. This combination of durability and performance makes this motor an excellent choice for anyone looking for an electric trolling motor that will last them many years into the future.
2. Finefind Thrust Electric Trolling Motor
The Finefind Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is a great choice for those looking for a durable and reliable trolling motor. It features a reinforced nylon bracket and a great ablation resistance, making it ideal for use in saltwater conditions.
Additionally, the head is all aluminium, which further increases its durability. The trolling motor also comes with 8 speeds (5-forward and 3 reverse), making it perfect for any fishing situation. It also has a 10-point LED battery indicator for accurate measurement of battery consumptions!
Finally, the shaft is of 28 inch and is built from durable composite fiberglass, ensuring that this trolling motor will last you many years to come.
Pros
- It is available in a lot of thrust options- 40lb, 36lb, 46lb, 55lb, 60lb, 86lb
- It is built from saltwater compatible hardware
- The handle is telescoping adjustable
- The shaft is highly tensile and also corrosion resistant
- It is extremely durable and built to last for years to come
Cons
- It’s a bit heavier when you compare it to other electric motors in the similar price range!
FAQ
1. What is the shaft’s O/D dimension?
The shaft length from the control unit on top to the motor on the bottom is 11/8
inch.
2. Is it possible to get appropriate props for this motor? Can any Minn Kota prop work?
No, there’s no compatible prop as of now! Furthermore, the Minn Kota props are incompatible with this motor.
3. How long will the battery last?
If you are out fishing, then this motor can go all day. So, you can calculate based on this for your needs!
The Finefind Thrust Electric Trolling Motor is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a trolling motor. It is available in a variety of thrust options, making it perfect for any boat size or fishing application.
Moreover, the hardware is saltwater compatible, and the handle is telescoping adjustable, making it easy to use in any situation. Also, the shaft is highly tensile and corrosion resistant, making it extremely durable and built to last for years to come.
3. Watersnake Venom Thrust Electric Motor
The Watersnake Venom Thrust Electric Motor is one of the most powerful and durable electric motors on the market. It features a composite shaft that is built to withstand heavy use, and a telescopic adjustable handle that makes it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
The propeller shafts are made from stainless steel for added strength and durability, and the motor has 8 speed control (5 forward and 3 reverse) so you can always find the perfect setting for your needs. The Watersnake Venom Thrust Electric Motor is ideal for almost all kinds of inflatable boats.
Furthermore, the motor is of 12v, and the head design is all new and also includes a digital voltage meter display. Overall, the motor has been designed to give you more power, speed, and torque than ever before.
Pros
- It has a sturdy yet simple design
- The electric motor is available in 2 thrust configurations- 34lb and 54lb
- It is ideal for almost all types of inflatable boats
- Comes with a digital voltage display which helps keep track of battery condition
- The shaft is built from extra-tough composite material specifically for saltwater environments
Cons
- It does not come with a battery indicator!
FAQ
1. Is it possible to use a lithium ion phosphate battery with this unit?
They do not recommend using lithium batteries because they typically produce more than 15 volts when fully charged. For all Watersnake motors, they recommend a high-quality deep-cycle AGM battery.
2. Will the Watersnake trolling motor kayak mount suit this?
No, the Watersnake Kayak Motor Mount is only compatible with trolling motors with a thrust rating of less than 24lb.
3. Is this compatible with a Gator Motorguide?
It should be fine if it is a typical clamp motor mount for a trolling motor.
The Watersnake Venom Thrust Electric Motor is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable electric motor. It has a sturdy yet simple design that makes it ideal for almost all types of inflatable boats.
The electric motor is available in 2 thrust configurations- 34lb and 54lb, making it perfect for both small and larger boats. Moreover, the shaft is built from extra-tough composite material specifically for saltwater environments, making this an ideal choice for anyone who plans on using their boat in saltwater conditions!
4. Minn Kota PowerDrive Trolling Motor
The Minn Kota PowerDrive trolling motor is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy to use and reliable trolling motor. It comes with a 54-inch shaft and 55lbs of thrust, making it perfect for most small to medium sized boats.
The motor comes with a deploy-assist lever that makes getting in and out of the water a breeze, while the waterproof foot pedal ensures that you’ll always have control over your boat.
In addition, the Minn Kota PowerDrive includes a digital maximizer that provides 5x longer runtime on a single charge, as well as a Weedless Wedge 2 prop, which is one of the most reliable props in fishing.
Pros
- It comes with an extremely versatile and easy to use deploy-assist level
- The PowerDrive foot pedal is waterproof and makes manoeuvring a lot easier
- It comes with a Digital Maximizer that is capable of providing 5x longer runtimes even on single charge
- Features the best fishing prop: “The Weedless Wedge 2”
- It generates approx. 55lbs of thrust allowing you to do some trolling from any inflatable boat.
Cons
- The wiring’s eyelet holes are small.
FAQ
1. Is this model compatible with ipilot?
As it is a V2, it should be, however double check with Minn Kota to be sure!
2. Can I purchase the ipilot connection for this motor?
Yes! However, by the time you spend the money on it, you might want to acquire one that already has it installed.
3. Does it work on a kayak?
No! It’s too large, and you’d have to create a sturdy mount for it.
The Minn Kota PowerDrive trolling motor is one of the best on the market. It’s easy to use, versatile, and generates a lot of thrust – perfect for trolling from any inflatable boat.
If you’re looking for a quality trolling motor, the Minn Kota PowerDrive should be at the top of your list.
5. MotorGuide X3 Freshwater Trolling Motor
The MotorGuide X3 Freshwater Trolling Motor is one of the most popular trolling motors on the market. It’s known for its durability, performance, and accuracy. It comes with a VRS (Variable Ratio Steering) system that ensures that you can position your boat perfectly even in rough conditions.
Furthermore, the foot-control unit comes with a heel-toe design and directional indicator, making it easy to keep both hands free while operating the motor. It has a rigid aircraft grade aluminium mount, and the bushings are crafted from stainless steel, making it extremely quiet on water. This makes it ideal for fishing or just cruising around in your boat!
Pros
- It features a patented Variable Ratio Steering (VRS) that ensures easy manoeuvring even in challenging situations
- The foot-control unit comes with a heel/toe design for easy use
- The mount is constructed from rigid aircraft grade aluminium
- Its extremely quiet while operating in water
- Ideal for small inflatable boats and mid-sized kayaks
Cons
- The foot control construction could be a tad better.
FAQ
1. Is this 12 volts or 24 volts?
This model runs on 24 volts!
2. What size battery is required to power this trolling motor?
Any 12 volt deep cycle battery will do. (Two 12volts batteries in series)
3. Can you expand the foot control cable?
The cable cannot be extended.
The MotorGuide X3 Freshwater Trolling Motor is a great choice for those looking for an easy to manoeuvre trolling motor. The VRS system ensures that even in challenging situations, the motor will be able to handle easily.
Additionally, the foot-control unit comes with heel/toe design making it easier to use than ever before. Finally, the aircraft grade aluminium mount construction means that this trolling motor is built tough and can withstand years of abuse.
6. Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Trolling Motor
The Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Trolling Motor is one of the best trolling motors on the market. It comes with a 6-inch telescopic handle, which makes it easy to manoeuvre and control.
Additionally, it has a lever lock bracket that delivers a rock-solid mount, ensuring that your motor will stay in place no matter what conditions you’re facing. Plus, with 8 speed settings (5 forwards and 3 backwards), you’ll be able to find the perfect speed for any situation.
And because the shaft is made from indestructible composite material, you can rest assured knowing that it won’t break or even corrode over time!
Pros
- It produces a maximum thrust of 30lbs that’s ideal for trolling any small to mid-sized inflatable boat
- Features a 6-inch telescopic adjustable handle
- The tilt twist tiller has a natural ergonomic grip for easy and confident steering
- The shaft is built from indestructible composite material
- It also has extra large windings and commutators that work great in dissipating the motor heat
Cons
- The reverse speed modes could be improved.
FAQ
1. What type of circuit breaker am I going to need for this product?
A 50 amp circuit breaker is required!
2. Is it possible to add a foot speed control to this trolling motor?
Hand-controlled motors will not work with foot speed controls.
3. Can this move more than 800 pounds?
I use it to push a 15 ft deep aluminium boat that weighs about 1000 lb with all of the gear and people in it, it will move at about 2 knots. (according to my experience)
The Minn Kota Endura C2 30 Freshwater Trolling Motor is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable trolling motor. It produces a maximum thrust of 30lbs that’s ideal for trolling any small to mid-sized inflatable boat.
The tilt twist tiller has a natural ergonomic grip for easy and confident steering. Moreover, it also has extra-large windings and commutators that work great in dissipating the motor heat, making it one of the most durable motors on the market today!
General FAQs
1. What kind of motor can I put on an inflatable boat?
There are a few different types of motors that can be used on an inflatable boat, but the most common type is an outboard motor. Outboard motors are designed to be mounted on the back of a boat, and they use a propeller to push the boat through the water.
Inflatable boats usually have two or three chambers that need to be inflated in order to float, so it’s important to choose an outboard motor that is powerful enough to move the boat through the water without damaging the Chambers.
There are also special considerations for mounting an outboard motor on an inflatable boat, so it’s important to consult with a professional or the dealer before making any decisions.
2. Is a trolling motor enough for an inflatable boat?
If you’re thinking about outfitting your inflatable boat with a trolling motor, you might be wondering if it’s enough to get the job done. The short answer is yes, a trolling motor can definitely power an inflatable boat! In fact, many anglers prefer using them for just that reason.
Trolling motors are designed to provide quiet and efficient operation, making them ideal for use on smaller boats like inflatables. They also tend to be more affordable than other types of outboard motors, which makes them a great option for budget-minded boaters. Plus, they’re relatively easy to install and operate – even if you’ve never used one before.
Of course, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing a trolling motor for your inflatable boat. Make sure to select the right size and type of motor based on the size and weight of your vessel – too small or weak of a motor won’t do the trick. And always remember to practice safe boating habits when operating any kind of watercraft!
PS: Always wear a lifejacket when on the Water.!
3. How big of an electric motor do I need for my boat?
How big of an electric motor do I need for my boat? This is a question that many boaters have, and it’s not always easy to answer. There are a few factors you’ll need to consider when deciding on the size of your electric motor, including the type and size of your boat, as well as how you plan to use it.
The first thing you’ll need to think about is the type of boat you have. A small fishing boat or rowboat will obviously require a much smaller motor than a larger boat. The next factor to consider is how you plan on using your boat. If you’re mostly just cruising around calm waters, then you won’t need as much power as if you’re using it on rougher waters.
Of course, it’s up to you to decide what size electric motor is right for your particular situation. The best way to find the proper size is to add 2 or 3 lbs of thrust for every 100 pounds of weight including the people and gear.
4. What is the difference between thrust and horsepower?
There are many people who think that thrust and horsepower are the same thing. However, there is a big difference between the two concepts. Here’s a look at the key differences between thrust and horsepower!
- Horsepower is a measure of how much work can be done in a given amount of time, while thrust is a measure of how much force is exerted.
- Horsepower is measured in units of time (usually seconds), while thrust is measured in units of force (usually pounds or Newtons).
- To calculate horsepower, you need to know both the speed at which an object moves, and the weight of the object being moved. For example, if you have an engine that can move 1 pound of metal up 100 feet in 10 seconds, then your engine has 2 hp. On the other hand, to calculate trust all you need to know is how much force your motor produces, and you don’t need to worry about any weights or speeds!
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs and troubleshooting about camping and enjoying the outdoors, here are some additional posts to check out:
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it! In my honest opinion, these are the 6 Best Outboard Electric Motors! that are ideal for any type of inflatable boat.
I hope this article has helped you to get a better understanding of the various electric motors for inflatable boats. Electric motors are a great option if you want to save on fuel and maintenance costs while still enjoying the freedom of being able to travel through the water at your own pace.
They are also easier to maintain than gas-powered motors, which means you’ll spend less time fussing over your motor and more time enjoying it! If you think I forgot something or if you simply want to share a story or some advice, feel free to leave your comment below, but for now… Be Safe And Happy Cruising!