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MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck #13641907 07/23/20 09:33 PM
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I have a 14’ Lowe Roughneck. I originally got a Fortrex 80 for it but I am starting to wonder just based on the weight alone if it’s a little too heavy for the boat. I think the shipping label on the package said it was 81 or 88 lbs!

This boat is really very light and just a little bit tippy up on the bow. It’s not that bad, no. But it definitely does rock back and forth a little bit when I am on the bow.

That’s making me think the Edge 70 might be a better choice. Just because I think it’s a lot lighter than the Fortrex. I don’t even know how much lighter but I would guess at least 20-30 pounds? Anyone have a good idea? MK does not list weights on their TM specs. (Wonder if the Bullet crowd made them do that! Ha!)

Not interested in any other TM’s or the Maxxum so let’s keep the discussion focused on these two TM’s. Thanks!!!


Toads for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
Moritz Chevrolet - 9101 Camp Bowie W Blvd, Fort Worth, TX - Monte Coon (817) 696-2003
Re: MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck [Re: 5-20] #13641985 07/23/20 10:27 PM
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Fortex the edge is a 5 speed. Ie doesn't have near the speed adjustments as the fortrex. Edge doesn't have a break away mount or spring around the shaft. So bumping into timber you'll break the mount or the shaft
The armature shaft on the edge is tiny. Bumping into bottom, timber, rocks, it will bend the armature shaft. The prop pin is also tiny so you'll damage more prop pins and or tear up the prop all together.
.the edge is good for someone using it to get from a to b in open water.

Last edited by Used2fish; 07/23/20 10:27 PM.
Re: MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck [Re: 5-20] #13642206 07/24/20 02:31 AM
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ssmith Offline
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fortrex much more power an great mount

Re: MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck [Re: 5-20] #13642227 07/24/20 03:04 AM
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That is a heck of a TM on the front of a 14' boat! eeks

I would not want that much weight on the front of a little boat if it were me.

I had a 56 pound Motorguide remote on the front of my 16' x 48" Modified V Weldbilt and it was plenty of motor and nowhere near that heavy. fish


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Re: MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck [Re: 5-20] #13642270 07/24/20 04:30 AM
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The Fortrex has “digital maximizer” circuitry that will make more efficient than the Edge 70. The mount is stronger and the spring loaded mount will allow the Fortrex to take hit with less chance or damage. The Fortrex is also easier to deploy and lift with the gas shock assist.

Fortrex for the easy win.


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Re: MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck [Re: 5-20] #13642309 07/24/20 08:14 AM
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I also have a Lowe Roughneck-a 1760 with an 80 Fortrex

You can not be overpowered with a trolling motor in Texas wind. Keep the 80

With the Roughneck, because the live well and most of the storage are up front, I’d redistribute any batteries and chargers to the rear of the vessel if possible.

If you are like me, you have the trolling motor batteries and charger up front to minimize wiring length
This will make the boat bow heavy when standing on the front deck, operating the trolling motor.

If you are unable to move the batteries, move anchors and other heavier storage to the back.


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Re: MK Edge 70 or Fortrex 80 for 14’ Lowe Roughneck [Re: 5-20] #13642673 07/24/20 03:03 PM
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Thanks all. The Fortrex is obviously the much better TM. I am not crazy about those 5 speed TMs. Seems like about half of the time I can never find the right speed!

CCTX, The plan is for the batteries to go in the transom box. This is actually my second Roughneck. I had an older 16’ Roughneck for a few years. Fantastic boat. Much heavier and more stable than this one for sure. Roughnecks are definitely nice little tanks!

Really was only wondering if from a pure weight standpoint, the bow would be a little more stable and less tippy with a lighter TM.

This is really a very light boat and every bit of added weight will affect it quite a bit. I’ve had similar tin boats in the past but never had a really heavy TM like the Fortrex up on the bow.

I’ll think about it a little more. Appreciate all of the suggestions!!!


Toads for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
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