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X5 or Terrova?
#13453216
02/27/20 02:21 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338 |
I've looked through countless reviews and even a few on this forum...
I am looking to buy a new TM and the best deals are on the Motorguide X5. I am wanting a TM with the "Spot Lock" functionality. The Terrova seems like a good deal, too.
So, let me hear your thoughts and suggestions...
Just trying to get an honest assessment from the guys/gals that know best.
The Ultrex is out of my budget... but, I run Garmin...so, if I had the $$$, I would definitely go with the Force.
Last edited by metalruch1; 02/27/20 05:23 PM.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453360
02/27/20 04:05 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537
Cmack
Extreme Angler
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Extreme Angler
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537 |
I put an Xi5 on may BassCat last year and have been pleasantly surprised. Motor is very quiet and powerful. Spot lock/Anchor mode has been flawless. I use the heading feature when fishing down a bank or grassline and find it's like having someone run the motor for me. Where I find it to be lacking is when in thick brush I like to use a foot pedal and it's miserable. The remote gives amazing, precise maneuvering but ties up one hand, which is a PITA when trying to pitch and avoid stumps, etc. I have modded the foot pedal by shortening the springs a bit and while this does help some but it is in no way comparable to a standard cable operated foot control. As long as you aren't fishing in the thickets, I see no reason to spend twice the money for an Ultrex/ghost/etc.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: Cmack]
#13453428
02/27/20 04:55 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
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OP
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I put an Xi5 on may BassCat last year and have been pleasantly surprised. Motor is very quiet and powerful. Spot lock/Anchor mode has been flawless. I use the heading feature when fishing down a bank or grassline and find it's like having someone run the motor for me. Where I find it to be lacking is when in thick brush I like to use a foot pedal and it's miserable. The remote gives amazing, precise maneuvering but ties up one hand, which is a PITA when trying to pitch and avoid stumps, etc. I have modded the foot pedal by shortening the springs a bit and while this does help some but it is in no way comparable to a standard cable operated foot control. As long as you aren't fishing in the thickets, I see no reason to spend twice the money for an Ultrex/ghost/etc. Thanks for the reply and assessment. I do fish in the thickets quite a bit and the foot pedal is what "scares" me the most... What pounds of thrust and shaft length do you run on that Cat? I have a Pantera Classic...
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453474
02/27/20 05:34 PM
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85
x19dm
Outdoorsman
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Outdoorsman
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85 |
I run an Xi5 24volt 80lb on a 19' Xpress and it is more than adequate but I know it is a lighter boat. I have spot locked and had waves crashing over the front but the boat didn't move. I love it other than the foot pedal but have become pretty proficient with the remote. I will probably upgrade to the Ghost this year because of that but the Xi5 has been great. Of the two you mentioned you will like the Xi5 better in my opinion.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: x19dm]
#13453541
02/27/20 06:11 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
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I run an Xi5 24volt 80lb on a 19' Xpress and it is more than adequate but I know it is a lighter boat. I have spot locked and had waves crashing over the front but the boat didn't move. I love it other than the foot pedal but have become pretty proficient with the remote. I will probably upgrade to the Ghost this year because of that but the Xi5 has been great. Of the two you mentioned you will like the Xi5 better in my opinion. Thanks for the reply... Why do think I will like the Xi5 better?
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453601
02/27/20 07:06 PM
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Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414
photofishin
Angler
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Angler
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414 |
I run an Xi5 24volt 80lb on a 19' Xpress and it is more than adequate but I know it is a lighter boat. I have spot locked and had waves crashing over the front but the boat didn't move. I love it other than the foot pedal but have become pretty proficient with the remote. I will probably upgrade to the Ghost this year because of that but the Xi5 has been great. Of the two you mentioned you will like the Xi5 better in my opinion. Thanks for the reply... Why do think I will like the Xi5 better? neither the Xi5 or the Ultrex will integrate with your Garmin...so that's something to consider if you want to control your trolling motor from your graph. That being said, from what I've read, ALL wireless foot pedals suck if you're used to using a cable driven trolling motor. That being said, between the two you mentioned, Minn Kota has a fancier remote but the spot lock on the Xi5 is phenomenal. I do a lot of offshore fishing and will motor to my spot, deploy the trolling motor, drive around until I find fish and structure and the Xi5 keeps me RIGHT on my spot...even with wind and heavy current. I'm running a 24 volt 60 inch shaft model on a 21ft bay boat and it lasts all day long. Very quiet too. Once you get used to using the remote...it's easier to maneuver...I don't miss a foot pedal
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453603
02/27/20 07:07 PM
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Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 1,821
dk2429
Extreme Angler
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Extreme Angler
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 1,821 |
XI5.
WIll never own another POS Minn Kota again.
Majek 22 Extreme/225 Optimax Pro XS hauled by a 2500HD Duramax
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453625
02/27/20 07:31 PM
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 12,145
tmd11111
TFF Guru
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TFF Guru
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 12,145 |
I've had my Xi5 for over 3 years now. Foot controls sucks but in no time you learn to use the hand remote by feel alone. Only reason I even keep my foot remote on the deck is if I get a fish I can hit the spot lock switch on it or control the boat from it.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: dk2429]
#13453628
02/27/20 07:32 PM
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Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 12,111
BCBassCat
TFF Guru
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TFF Guru
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 12,111 |
XI5.
WIll never own another POS Minn Kota again. Tell us how you really feel
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453633
02/27/20 07:38 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537
Cmack
Extreme Angler
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Extreme Angler
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537 |
I put an Xi5 on may BassCat last year and have been pleasantly surprised. Motor is very quiet and powerful. Spot lock/Anchor mode has been flawless. I use the heading feature when fishing down a bank or grassline and find it's like having someone run the motor for me. Where I find it to be lacking is when in thick brush I like to use a foot pedal and it's miserable. The remote gives amazing, precise maneuvering but ties up one hand, which is a PITA when trying to pitch and avoid stumps, etc. I have modded the foot pedal by shortening the springs a bit and while this does help some but it is in no way comparable to a standard cable operated foot control. As long as you aren't fishing in the thickets, I see no reason to spend twice the money for an Ultrex/ghost/etc. Thanks for the reply and assessment. I do fish in the thickets quite a bit and the foot pedal is what "scares" me the most... What pounds of thrust and shaft length do you run on that Cat? I have a Pantera Classic... I have the 54" shaft 80# thrust on an Eyra (old school Eyra)` Much like dk2429, I'm not a fan of Minkota either. I spent too many years dragging a boat all over Mexico where no parts are available and needed the most reliable trolling motor available. Motorguide has never let me down. Got wound up in a net on ElSalto years ago and had to disassemble a half melted microswitch in the foot pedal and rework it but was able to patch it up and fish for 10 more days.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: photofishin]
#13453649
02/27/20 07:50 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
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Why do think I will like the Xi5 better?[/quote] neither the Xi5 or the Ultrex will integrate with your Garmin...so that's something to consider if you want to control your trolling motor from your graph. That being said, from what I've read, ALL wireless foot pedals suck if you're used to using a cable driven trolling motor. That being said, between the two you mentioned, Minn Kota has a fancier remote but the spot lock on the Xi5 is phenomenal. I do a lot of offshore fishing and will motor to my spot, deploy the trolling motor, drive around until I find fish and structure and the Xi5 keeps me RIGHT on my spot...even with wind and heavy current. I'm running a 24 volt 60 inch shaft model on a 21ft bay boat and it lasts all day long. Very quiet too. Once you get used to using the remote...it's easier to maneuver...I don't miss a foot pedal[/quote]
Yes, the integration is something I am strongly considering.... but the $$$ is a huge factor.
That being said, I have done a lot "Google Machine" research and I cannot seem to find any reason to run them off the graph....unless it is to follow contours, or waypoints...etc.
The spot lock and sound (quieter than the other) is my biggest reason from going to one of the two I mentioned earlier. I appreciate the reply. Sounds like your experience with this has been stellar.
I am curious about going more with the remote... seems like that would be hard.to do.
BOOMER SOONER
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: BCBassCat]
#13453650
02/27/20 07:51 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
OP
Angler
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OP
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338 |
XI5.
WIll never own another POS Minn Kota again. Tell us how you really feel
BOOMER SOONER
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: Cmack]
#13453651
02/27/20 07:52 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
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I have the 54" shaft 80# thrust on an Eyra (old school Eyra)` Much like dk2429, I'm not a fan of Minkota either. I spent too many years dragging a boat all over Mexico where no parts are available and needed the most reliable trolling motor available. Motorguide has never let me down. Got wound up in a net on ElSalto years ago and had to disassemble a half melted microswitch in the foot pedal and rework it but was able to patch it up and fish for 10 more days. [/quote]
Good to know!
BOOMER SOONER
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: tmd11111]
#13453654
02/27/20 07:56 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
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Posts: 338 |
I've had my Xi5 for over 3 years now. Foot controls sucks but in no time you learn to use the hand remote by feel alone. Only reason I even keep my foot remote on the deck is if I get a fish I can hit the spot lock switch on it or control the boat from it. You are the second one to mention the hand remote... I guess I can't see switching to this. I definitely can tell the foot pedal will take some getting used to... but to not use it 100% of the time is interesting to me. How long did it take you to get used to this... what if you need to be on the TM a little heavy due to wind but not using spot lock? Do you just put it on the continuous mode and turn it here and there?
BOOMER SOONER
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: dk2429]
#13453658
02/27/20 08:00 PM
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Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,769
bronco71
TFF Team Angler
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TFF Team Angler
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 3,769 |
XI5.
WIll never own another POS Minn Kota again.
1987 Nitro MX185/Mercury Black Max 150 1999 Triton TX21/225 Mercury Optimax
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453666
02/27/20 08:07 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537
Cmack
Extreme Angler
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Extreme Angler
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537 |
I've had my Xi5 for over 3 years now. Foot controls sucks but in no time you learn to use the hand remote by feel alone. Only reason I even keep my foot remote on the deck is if I get a fish I can hit the spot lock switch on it or control the boat from it. You are the second one to mention the hand remote... I guess I can't see switching to this. I definitely can tell the foot pedal will take some getting used to... but to not use it 100% of the time is interesting to me. How long did it take you to get used to this... what if you need to be on the TM a little heavy due to wind but not using spot lock? Do you just put it on the continuous mode and turn it here and there? In heavy wind I use the heading lock and tap it as needed.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453669
02/27/20 08:10 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537
Cmack
Extreme Angler
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Extreme Angler
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,537 |
My question is, could I use the less expensive remote that doesn't have all the features as a back up or for my partner to use. They're about $60 on Amazon VS $120 for the fancy one.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: Cmack]
#13453687
02/27/20 08:21 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
OP
Angler
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OP
Angler
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338 |
I've had my Xi5 for over 3 years now. Foot controls sucks but in no time you learn to use the hand remote by feel alone. Only reason I even keep my foot remote on the deck is if I get a fish I can hit the spot lock switch on it or control the boat from it. You are the second one to mention the hand remote... I guess I can't see switching to this. I definitely can tell the foot pedal will take some getting used to... but to not use it 100% of the time is interesting to me. How long did it take you to get used to this... what if you need to be on the TM a little heavy due to wind but not using spot lock? Do you just put it on the continuous mode and turn it here and there? In heavy wind I use the heading lock and tap it as needed. aha! Thanks for the tip!
BOOMER SOONER
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453715
02/27/20 08:43 PM
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85
x19dm
Outdoorsman
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Outdoorsman
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85 |
I think you will like the Xi5 better because it is quieter motor than the Terrova from what I have seen. I haven't run a Terrova but have been in the boat when one was running and in my opinion the Xi5 is quieter. I am not die hard on brand like some and have a Foretrex before this one. I would look at a used Ultrex as I have a feeling some of those may be available with all the new ones coming out. Graph interface is not that big of a deal for most in my opinion. Rather have a remote. One thing I can say about buying an Xi5 is it made me more of a point/spot fisherman vs. beating the bank due to the foot pedal. I have heard of some that can make the foot pedal work but like many others I rarely use it.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453759
02/27/20 09:14 PM
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Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414
photofishin
Angler
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Angler
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414 |
I've had my Xi5 for over 3 years now. Foot controls sucks but in no time you learn to use the hand remote by feel alone. Only reason I even keep my foot remote on the deck is if I get a fish I can hit the spot lock switch on it or control the boat from it. You are the second one to mention the hand remote... I guess I can't see switching to this. I definitely can tell the foot pedal will take some getting used to... but to not use it 100% of the time is interesting to me. How long did it take you to get used to this... what if you need to be on the TM a little heavy due to wind but not using spot lock? Do you just put it on the continuous mode and turn it here and there? it's definitely something you have to get used to...the only thing I can say is to go out om someone else's boat and ask them to let you control it with the remote for a while. I'm rarely on high speed having to make quick adjustments...I turn it on in low, adjust as necessary right and left, bump up or down the speed when necessary and turn right or left as necessary...same action as with your foot...but with your hand...and it's hanging around your neck. It'd be more difficult to use in the midst of the buckbrush at Rayburn than fishing docks on Conroe on a windy day but that's also when I use spot lock in between to fish.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: Cmack]
#13453762
02/27/20 09:17 PM
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Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414
photofishin
Angler
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Angler
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414 |
My question is, could I use the less expensive remote that doesn't have all the features as a back up or for my partner to use. They're about $60 on Amazon VS $120 for the fancy one.
for the Xi5 with Pinpoint GPS, there IS only one remote available.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: x19dm]
#13453797
02/27/20 09:44 PM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
OP
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Posts: 338 |
I think you will like the Xi5 better because it is quieter motor than the Terrova from what I have seen. I haven't run a Terrova but have been in the boat when one was running and in my opinion the Xi5 is quieter. I am not die hard on brand like some and have a Foretrex before this one. I would look at a used Ultrex as I have a feeling some of those may be available with all the new ones coming out. Graph interface is not that big of a deal for most in my opinion. Rather have a remote. One thing I can say about buying an Xi5 is it made me more of a point/spot fisherman vs. beating the bank due to the foot pedal. I have heard of some that can make the foot pedal work but like many others I rarely use it. This is interesting... do you think if you were having to go into skinny water to sight fish or just get in the dirt, this would be an issue with the foot pedal? Is it just an adjustment deal??
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13453830
02/27/20 10:18 PM
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Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85
x19dm
Outdoorsman
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Outdoorsman
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85 |
To me it is just no tactile feedback. I can use it but have found while fishing if I don't concentrate on the foot pedal I will look down and the motor is spinning around. Like others I have learned to use the handheld and only occasionally use the foot primarily when I have a heading set and just want to adjust the heading by lightly tapping on the foot pedal. I have however read where others use the foot pedal like any trolling motor but I haven't been able to adjust mine or get used to it to replicate a wire steered motor.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13454356
02/28/20 01:42 PM
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Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 86
Rooster Cruiser
Outdoorsman
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Outdoorsman
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 86 |
I have the XI5 ...80 lb ..24 V ..60" shaft..had it for 2 years and luv it . I use the remote all of the time
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: Tanner101]
#13454403
02/28/20 02:10 PM
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Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414
photofishin
Angler
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Angler
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 414 |
Motor Guides new Tour Pro looks like the best of all worlds. True cable steer, with all the spot lock features. https://youtu.be/xk3m2bdaARYthat's awesome...and it says universally compatible with other sonar too...that's a game changer! Now they just need a saltwater version
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13454477
02/28/20 02:45 PM
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Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 296
FishTheBite
Angler
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Angler
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 296 |
I have a Terrova and use both the remote and the foot pedal. The remote is best when I am spot fishing or fishing vertically. When I am working a grass line or the bank I find it easier to control the boat with the foot pedal.
At first the foot pedal was very frustrating but then I found if I keep the motor running at a low speed and the autopilot on and make adjustments while letting the device do most of the work it is even possible to work through heavy brush effectively. I very seldom use the rocker pedal and instead make minor adjustments by tapping the directional paddles at the back of the pedal. Just pick a lane and point the motor at it, even in windy conditions you will only need to make occasional adjustments. I find myself instinctively tapping the paddles to keep the boat from colliding with the cover. And that is on my Tracker Pro Guide V175 which catches a lot of wind.
Following a bank or grassline itโs possible to fish for several minutes sometimes without touching the controls.
Iโm sure you could employ the same method with the Xi5. I fish with someone who runs one and it does the job.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: metalruch1]
#13454705
02/28/20 05:21 PM
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Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 2,015
sprigsss
Extreme Angler
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Extreme Angler
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 2,015 |
I have a terrova. I hated the foot control pedal at first, now i couldnt go back to cable steer type controls.
My feet stay flat all day, no aukward positions that used to kill my back on a windy day. I rarely use the remote as i prefer to have my hands on my rod n reel.
You will more than likely be happy with either purchase.
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Re: X5 Opinions?
[Re: sprigsss]
#13455230
02/29/20 03:02 AM
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Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 338
metalruch1
OP
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Posts: 338 |
I have a terrova. I hated the foot control pedal at first, now i couldnt go back to cable steer type controls.
My feet stay flat all day, no aukward positions that used to kill my back on a windy day. I rarely use the remote as i prefer to have my hands on my rod n reel.
You will more than likely be happy with either purchase. Thank you for the info...yeah, my back and legs get pretty soar after a full day fighting the TM.
BOOMER SOONER
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