I'm currently using a motor guide tour edition 61lb thrust 12/24 volt I bought new in 1999. Need opinions on an upgrade. Been out of the loop for a while and don't know who's having trouble and who's not.

Minn Kota has some very nice TMs.

The New X5 motors replaced the tour editions. They are a great motor.

You may want to consider the MG Xi5 with Anchor features.

It's awesome for holding on a spot, and the "Go-To" features are great!

I've been leaning toward one of the "I" motors. Just not sure how they would work as I primarily still fish shallow water. I will fish deep structure some but not nearly as much as shallow water. I see reviews on the Xi5 where guys are having trouble with the foot control not working properly. Was that just on the early models or is it a current problem? That would be major issue for me.

The electric steer motors and unique and not for everyone, and that being said, neither is the hand operated or foot operated. You need to fit the trolling motor to your type of fishing. If the anchor lock, the "follow a path" are features that you will use, the electric steer will work fine. If you're fishing timbered or rocky shallow water lakes, the electric steer is a pain to fish with. You have to allow time for the transmission to turn the motor instead of having the response of a cable steer. Stow and deploy is also "different" than cable steer as is the position to mount it (it will hang off the bow apx 6 - 8". If I can help you, answer questions, etc. give me a call
John

I had a foot steered motor and got rid of it for a MinnKota I-Pilot. I don't miss having that steering cable cluttering up the foredeck. You can also get a foot pedal for use with them. The response is a little different that the standard steering, but like anything new, you'll get used to it. I would never go back.