I would like to get an iPilot. How do i know if my Helix 7 Chirp G2 is linkable? I don't think it is but just curious. At the end of the day i don't need it to be linkable. i know its great if you have it. im on a budget. What s the cheapest Minkota i can get that i can do spot lock on it?

A Terrova.

Is the motor guide with spot lock any good?

MinnKota powerdrive I think is actually cheaper than terrrova. That has spotlock/gps.

Are they any good though?

I like my Motorguide Xi5, I have an Ultrex also and like it to. The only things in my opinion that the Ultrex has over the Xi5 is that it is hands free and easier to deploy and stow.
I use the Motorguide hand control cause the wireless foot control sucks. It is slow to respond...
The Ultrex is way to noisey and spends to much time trying to correct location when on spot lock.
I don’t think I have ever heard the Motorguide and it holds position very accurately while on spot lock.
The Xi5 also links up to my Lowrance electronics very nicely. I don’t know that Huminbird will offer as many options if it is networked with a Motorguide.
When the new TourPro is finally released I will definitely be putting one on my boat.
Anyone looking to buy a trolling motor in the near future should consider waiting until the now TourPro comes out.