I have an xi5 and have loved it for the most part. It has issues with spotlock under bridges or power lines but overall is good. I mainly use my remote and I use it for bass fishing always! Never use my foot control only keep it for back up 👍
I purchased two XI5s 12v 55 LBS for my two Bass Trackers. I didn't want to add another battery and the Motorguides offered a good alternative with 12v. Additionally I got them at a good price on FB market place. I agree that the foot pedal could be improved but the spot lock works just fine and the motor pulls the boats very well. Let's see how long they last. Deploying is similar to a Terrova and I have no issues with it. The handheld remote works fine.
Hey buddy, excellent advice! We bought the motorguide tour.. the only bummer with it is it's thin wire pull cable. It broke not even a month after we had it. Been using a shoestring and it seems to be stronger than the cable was 🤦🏻♂️ God bless buddy!
After two full days fishing with my new Xi5 I have to agree the foot pedal was not sensitive enough steering right and over sensitive steering left ,and nearly threw me out of the boat several times. Sometimes the motor would just do a strait 180 degree turning left before stopping even with my foot off the pedal. If you get one keep the power down with the foot pedal and I highly suggest not using the constant on with the foot pedal. The hand remote works flawlessly. Anchor Lock Works amazingly good, even in stiff 20mph sustained winds. It would be nice to see Motorguide come out with a better pedal because it really is a solid motor outside the foot pedal.
I recently after a lot of investigating decided to purchase an Xi3. Your first 2 main issues are cause by what you did to modify the product. You could mount the tranducer elsewhere eliminating the wire issue. Then all ya need is literally a 5 dollar para cord tied around the shift at the top and you can press the pedal and lower the unit and pull the unit with no issues. Just like minn kota or lowarance. How is the actual function of the motor? You didn't say anything about how the motor actually performs other than a 1-2 foot difference in spot lock with your buddies boat. How is it in really windy or choppy conditions compared to other motors? How is the battery usage compare to other motors? Anything break on it? Etc.. but thanks for the content though, it is helpful information that I will mount my transducer elsewhere to avoid all those issues.
Not trying to bad mouth but coming from someone who had a ultrex and went through 3 before jumping ship from junk! I had a xi3 while waiting for my tour pro and if calibrated it smoked my buddy’s ultrex on spot lock! Everyone has likes in brands but watching my brother in law fight his force daily with issues is why I chose to not get it and the ghost sounds like a ghost train because it’s so loud. So far the tour pro has been the best with 0 problems compared to my ultrex or my brother in laws force.
Cornfield Crappie gear sells a cable saver system for the transducer cable. You are just asking for trouble the way you have it wrapped around the shaft like that.
I am in the same situation, I have theXi3 for two years, and fixed it 4 times, once under the warrantee, twice bought the replacement kits, the GPS Module failed twice, then turns out to be the control board, then the motor wires were causing magnetic interference, then the remote went bad, replaced it once. It is fair to say, I have used the motor 12--15 times and eight times It broke down. Now the GPS works, the motor works and the remote as well, however, the spot lock will not engage to keep me within 50feet or 200 feet from my proposed spot. I am sure there are satisfied guys out there with their purchase, but $1300 is still a lot of money to spend on a pinpoint motor and not have it work. Motor Guide service center is of no help.
I had the xi5 with hds units all linked and sold everything because of the foot pedal. I liked to fish tournaments and you could never count on the foot pedal working right. Like said in the video you could just have your foot on there and it would take off left or right. The pedal is so bad I threw one in the lake out of anger. On the plus side I will say it was good at going through weeds and really quiet. The spot lock works as good as the other brands.
I have been searching for days on how to fix the foot pedal. It keeps getting stuck on or won’t turn on, won’t turn off etc. It would turn left and right intermittently. It got stuck on and I had to quickly get the necklace(hand held remote) and stop the motor so we did not slam into the bank. Is there a way to “reset” the foot pedal? I also agree that the anchor mode is interesting. If I hit the button (even on a calm day) I go every where 😂. Thanks for the video. I know I am no alone.
Use an air hose to manage the wires and the won’t be hard to stow or deploy. Terrova and lower drive is just as bad. You can put lighter springs in the pedal.
I watched this video and many others about the xi3 motors before I bought one. I have had very few issues with the xi3. The remote works great. Lots of features. Anchor mode works great. While in anchor mode, I use the jog feature on remote. Heading lock, cruise control, route recording features work great. I have the cordless pedal. I do use them both. The pedal takes some getting used to. Price was a huge factor for me. Can't beat the price. My boat is a 15' fiberglass bass boat. With 1 oddessy 12v AGM group 31 battery might use 50 % power 8hrs plus of fishing. max trolling speed about 2mph. Really satisfied with it
@@SteveChenFishing Discontinue the Xi3. It has been out for some time now, and they may want to release something new and innovative for this price range.
Cool... Going with the XI3 because it's affordable. I won't be mounting a transducer, I"m used to manually deploying and stowing my Watersnake Combat (piece of crap btw) and will not be buying a foot control as it's for inshore use only (no lakes/creeks/tight spots)... Only on flats and reef.
I have a question : "Xi3" has a sport-locked feature like "Minn Kota", why we don't use the "anchor mode" when we're fishing?Anyway thanks for your advise!
I doubt I'll ever have a transducer on the base of the motor. I'm never going to need the foot pedal. I'm agile enough that deployment and stow will not be a problem. I have a 16 ft aluminum. I'm jigging for Macks from the back. I just want effect spot lock and manual control.
This was a poor excuse for a video! Were you trying to make it look difficult? I have an Xi5 on my kayak and it can be deployed and stowed without getting out the seat. All of the motorized steer trolling motors have the transducer problem, but there are work arounds that work pretty well. In addition to the Xi5, I also have MK Power Drive, Terrova, and Ulterra's. All work well, don't use a foot pedal on any of them, only carry foot pedal in case remote battery runs down. If you need a foot pedal, get an Ultrex.
I've been looking for a foot pedal for my xi3 for the past week and am still looking. I don't think I'll be buying one after seeing your video and will just continue to use the supplied remote. Thanks
I have stuck with this one because they are expensive. I have plans to buy a new boat with an ultrex. I have used a Lowrance ghost and I liked it as well. I recommend getting one that is compatible with your units. Minn Kota for Humminbird, Ghost for Lowrance, and Garmin Force for Garming units.
Appreciate your input. I was considering saving a few bucks and going with an Xi5 but I see that would be a mistake for me. Absolutely need a good foot pedal on your boat for bass fishing.
The way you lower the trolling motor is hilarious ..you do the worst way possible haha.....and you use chart plot for when youre fishing and moving you don’t have to touch the steering or throttle and fish hands free lol I use this in a kayak and don’t have to leave my seat to deploy or retract the motor ...very strange you wouldn’t have a pull on your motor to let it down gently and lift up like you are supposed to on any trolling motor
You comment is pretty hard to read. I don’t let my trolling motor slam. I also recommend this for a kayak so you are using it in the most useful way possible. On a boat, this thing is junk.
When I press anchor mode everything looks normal but after a few seconds the outboard starts to turn left and right uncontrollably and then accelerates at one time full speed and begins to turn to the left 5 times until it is fully wound with its cable .. I calibrated it but same problem. This is a real shit product
Watch the crapie masters. They all use them. Mine is old and never a single problem. Mine is the energy series. Well maybe mine is better made than the newer ones. Maybe mine is better . its 12 volt 54lbs thrust energy.
I’m going to be buying a kayak and I think this motor is almost perfect for it. I have an Ultrex on my bass boat. I would not buy anything like this for my passport these are cheaper motors. You get what you pay for a bike for a kayak I think it’s perfect. Yeah it could be better but it’s cheap
Is this a troll video? Only argument of the 3 that might have some weight is the pedal. Wiring could be done better to prevent cutting. Stowing and deploying, you’re just doing it all wrong. That unlock lever is not a hand button, it is a foot pedal. Put a strap or string on the motor, step on the release button and ease it into the water with the strap…
Wouldn't get it for my Kayak either. The Xi3 Kayak version is freshwater only which ruins it for me. You know if they made this freshwater only then they cut corners.
@@clearwaterfishing Saltwater causes massive corrosion if you don't have proper components (stainless steel bearings, etc.). That could severely shorten the life of a trolling motor.
El motor en si va muy bien pero el pedal dejó de funcionar y nadie puede hacer que ande me he gastado 400 euros en un pedal que dejó de funcionar y nadie se hace cargo, el mando si va bien pero el pedal he perdido mi dinero
hahaha if you think that's hard to deploy try the PowerDrive by Minn Kota. you can also use your foot instead of bending over to use your hand to deploy it
Ok. Where to start. I have owned a 36volt Xi5 105 60 inch shaft for 4 years now and its an absolute dream of a trolling motor. My 73 year old dad can stow and deploy without a problem. Learn to lift the shaft up before the pivot and it is way easier, then use your foot not your hand on lever. Also, out of the 40 people I know that use these motors only 3 or 4 use the foot-pedal, nearly everybody uses FOB. Reason being is that motorguides steering movement response is so fast that its hard to articulate your foot with that degree of sensitivity. However this articulation speed makes it the best spotlock in the market bar none. You want awesome foot control get an Ultrex but your in it for almost 3K and are tied to a cable drive not wireless. Your other problems with the buttons on footpedal not sure, cant speak to that. Also confused. Is this critique for kayak fishing or boat fishing? Demo is on a boat not a kayak. By sheer nature any large motor would be tougher for a Kayak, but don't own one so cant say for sure. As far as transducer cable. Run from motor-head thru a tether loop 8 inches to the side of your motor then into the bow. Wrapping transducer cable around shaft is not good. You will cut cables like you say. For everyone reading this do not be afraid of Xi5 motors. They are good quality and many people will agree. Don't own an Xi3 so cant provide hard factual data on it but know folks who do and they like it. Lastly, you state do not to buy an Xi3 but buy an Ultrex which is a cable drive GPS motor that is almost 3K dollars. Not an apples to apples comparison. Neither is the Ghost (cantilever stow) or Force (also cantilever stow) an apples to apples comparison. Very inconclusive test for you to make a wholesale statement that this motor is not worth buying.
The “where to start” completely discredits your comment, but I will entertain it. I am glad your trolling motor is a dream. I am glad your dad can stow and deploy it no problem. I use the foot pedal a lot. If people are buying it to use the foot pedal I would ask them to look at other trolling motors. It is also not the best spot lock. Many test have been done and you can check them out on RUclips. It is an overall evaluation of the trolling motor for either a boat or kayak. It would be much better on a kayak. If you are reading this be afraid of the Xi5 and Xi3. There are much better options out there. A trolling motor is a trolling motor and they all can be compared to one another. Why spend $2500 on a Xi5 when you can get a much better Force, Ghost, or Ultrex for $3000. Also this video is my opinion and everyone is welcome to view and have their own opinions.
Have the Xi5 over 5 years, pinpoint is exact, built in sonar & no issues. I like the remote it's easy and better control. You can walk anywhere in the boat with operation. I am a bass fisherman and use in my flats boat. Your a idiot with your clumsy deploy and stow. The built in sonar is very good. Foot pedal, yes I don't like. But works well. Your review is very bias!
Literally every trolling motor does the same things. 1st, you don't use your hand to deploy it, use your foot, the way you mounted you Trans wires is your fault v
I completely disagree with your video you need to read instructions on how to deploy your trolling motor I haven't had any problems whatsoever with mine
Motorguide does not stand behind their products. Complete waste of $$. So bummed I don’t have the $ to dump in and get another brand. And good luck with the foot pedal. It’s a joke. Even the warranty replacement broke after 15’mins of use and they wouldn’t help me. The tech said it’s a known issue that can’t be fixed but I waited too long so buy a new one.
This video is hilarious. First, If you wire your transducer correctly you wont cut your wire. Second, you're out of shape and you don't have to hunch over to deploy it! its called a "FOOT PEDAL" for a reason. you push it with your food. So why are you hunching over?? I have one on my Kayak and can deploy it from my seat. LOL.
So help me out. How are you supposed to wire the transducer? How are you supposed to retract it without hunching over? (also it slams if you just use your foot on deployment) and I also said if was good for kayaks.
@@clearwaterfishing how do you pick up your poles from the deck of the boat if you can't bend over? You cannot condemn a motor or design because YOU are unable to bend over or reach it normally due to your stomach getting in the way. That's not meant as an insult, but the motor works as designed and all motors seem to work the same way.
@@TDArcher It doesn’t have a lift assist like other trolling motors is really all I was trying to get to. I am fully capable of doing it. I don’t recommend if you are older or have back issues. Many people want something easy to use and the Xi3 and Xi5 are not.
Ultrex is a grand more ! Wtf u expect! Starts to talk shit how it won’t turn left without force and he literally touches the pedal and it moves the direction it should! Answer ! …… 💯 user error!
This was a weak video , I'm still getting a xi3
Let me know how it goes. I hope it works well for you. What do you plan on using it on?
Me too buddy
Seems well done to me
“If you need the foot pedal I’d go to a ultras or ghost or force”. Okay pal. 3000 dollar plus motors compared to 1200
It’s been a year. Happy? Or do you regret it?
My xi3 comes with a transducer built in. Just a suggestion, try pressing the release pedal with your foot and attach and aftermarket pull rope.
Never thought about a rope. That would work nice! Thanks!
I have a xi3 and i love it . It works great i had cable motorguides for 30 years and never had a problem with any of them . Still have a couple.
I am glad you haven’t had any trouble from yours. Tight lines!
I have an xi5 and have loved it for the most part. It has issues with spotlock under bridges or power lines but overall is good. I mainly use my remote and I use it for bass fishing always! Never use my foot control only keep it for back up 👍
My remote works good as well. I like using the foot pedal so a I fish with both hands.
Consider yourself lucky
I purchased two XI5s 12v 55 LBS for my two Bass Trackers. I didn't want to add another battery and the Motorguides offered a good alternative with 12v. Additionally I got them at a good price on FB market place. I agree that the foot pedal could be improved but the spot lock works just fine and the motor pulls the boats very well. Let's see how long they last. Deploying is similar to a Terrova and I have no issues with it. The handheld remote works fine.
I have an Xi5 and it's a dream of a trolling motor.. have absolutely nothing I'd change on it.
I am glad you like yours. What kind of boat do you have?
Fiberglass Runabout 16ft
Only complaint I have is the pedal
Can’t believe this dude! That is a great little trolling motor.
Awesome video. The points were super helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Hey buddy, excellent advice! We bought the motorguide tour.. the only bummer with it is it's thin wire pull cable. It broke not even a month after we had it. Been using a shoestring and it seems to be stronger than the cable was 🤦🏻♂️ God bless buddy!
A shoestring! That’s innovative! Sorry about the cable. Motorguide is losing their touch, if they ever had it.
@@clearwaterfishing Sadly..Yes! Thanks buddy.. Caleb's idea 🙂
After two full days fishing with my new Xi5 I have to agree the foot pedal was not sensitive enough steering right and over sensitive steering left ,and nearly threw me out of the boat several times. Sometimes the motor would just do a strait 180 degree turning left before stopping even with my foot off the pedal. If you get one keep the power down with the foot pedal and I highly suggest not using the constant on with the foot pedal. The hand remote works flawlessly. Anchor Lock Works amazingly good, even in stiff 20mph sustained winds. It would be nice to see Motorguide come out with a better pedal because it really is a solid motor outside the foot pedal.
I hope you don't get thrown out. I have had it do that to me several times.
I recently after a lot of investigating decided to purchase an Xi3. Your first 2 main issues are cause by what you did to modify the product. You could mount the tranducer elsewhere eliminating the wire issue. Then all ya need is literally a 5 dollar para cord tied around the shift at the top and you can press the pedal and lower the unit and pull the unit with no issues. Just like minn kota or lowarance. How is the actual function of the motor? You didn't say anything about how the motor actually performs other than a 1-2 foot difference in spot lock with your buddies boat. How is it in really windy or choppy conditions compared to other motors? How is the battery usage compare to other motors? Anything break on it? Etc.. but thanks for the content though, it is helpful information that I will mount my transducer elsewhere to avoid all those issues.
I cover more stuff in my review video.
Not trying to bad mouth but coming from someone who had a ultrex and went through 3 before jumping ship from junk! I had a xi3 while waiting for my tour pro and if calibrated it smoked my buddy’s ultrex on spot lock! Everyone has likes in brands but watching my brother in law fight his force daily with issues is why I chose to not get it and the ghost sounds like a ghost train because it’s so loud. So far the tour pro has been the best with 0 problems compared to my ultrex or my brother in laws force.
Does the tour pro have a “spot lock” feature?
Cornfield Crappie gear sells a cable saver system for the transducer cable. You are just asking for trouble the way you have it wrapped around the shaft like that.
Thanks
I am in the same situation, I have theXi3 for two years, and fixed it 4 times, once under the warrantee, twice bought the replacement kits, the GPS Module failed twice, then turns out to be the control board, then the motor wires were causing magnetic interference, then the remote went bad, replaced it once. It is fair to say, I have used the motor 12--15 times and eight times It broke down.
Now the GPS works, the motor works and the remote as well, however, the spot lock will not engage to keep me within 50feet or 200 feet from my proposed spot.
I am sure there are satisfied guys out there with their purchase, but $1300 is still a lot of money to spend on a pinpoint motor and not have it work. Motor Guide service center is of no help.
I had the xi5 with hds units all linked and sold everything because of the foot pedal. I liked to fish tournaments and you could never count on the foot pedal working right. Like said in the video you could just have your foot on there and it would take off left or right. The pedal is so bad I threw one in the lake out of anger. On the plus side I will say it was good at going through weeds and really quiet. The spot lock works as good as the other brands.
Thanks man!!
I have been searching for days on how to fix the foot pedal. It keeps getting stuck on or won’t turn on, won’t turn off etc. It would turn left and right intermittently. It got stuck on and I had to quickly get the necklace(hand held remote) and stop the motor so we did not slam into the bank. Is there a way to “reset” the foot pedal? I also agree that the anchor mode is interesting. If I hit the button (even on a calm day) I go every where 😂. Thanks for the video. I know I am no alone.
Yeah I appreciate this video, was gonna try MG for the first time to be able to talk to my HDS units. Honestly now it’s obviously not worth it
Good decision!
i have the xi3. it shuts off automatically if i put it on full power. could it be the wires are too hot . what trips it off? HELP!
Could be too small of wires, too small of breaker or fuse, or not a good or large enough battery. Might measure voltage and amps.
Use an air hose to manage the wires and the won’t be hard to stow or deploy.
Terrova and lower drive is just as bad. You can put lighter springs in the pedal.
You are probably right. I just don't want more stuff on the front of my boat.
Duh
I watched this video and many others about the xi3 motors before I bought one.
I have had very few issues with the xi3. The remote works great. Lots of features. Anchor mode works great. While in anchor mode, I use the jog feature on remote. Heading lock, cruise control, route recording features work great. I have the cordless pedal. I do use them both. The pedal takes some getting used to.
Price was a huge factor for me. Can't beat the price. My boat is a 15' fiberglass bass boat. With 1 oddessy 12v AGM group 31 battery might use 50 % power 8hrs plus of fishing. max trolling speed about 2mph. Really satisfied with it
The foot pedal works just like the hand held remote. You need to push the M (manual) button to stop the Anchor mode before you can move forward again.
Appreciate it. Hope motorguide can improve their foot pedal according to your advice.
Hope so, but I think they are going to move away from the Xi3 at some point.
@@clearwaterfishing Oh what do you mean move away from Xi3? discontinue Xi3 or the pedal for Xi3?
@@SteveChenFishing Discontinue the Xi3. It has been out for some time now, and they may want to release something new and innovative for this price range.
I don’t have one but isn’t the “latch “ for you to use ur foot?
If you just use your foot it slams down. I just don’t want it to slam.
Cool... Going with the XI3 because it's affordable. I won't be mounting a transducer, I"m used to manually deploying and stowing my Watersnake Combat (piece of crap btw) and will not be buying a foot control as it's for inshore use only (no lakes/creeks/tight spots)... Only on flats and reef.
Then this guy should work well for you!
I have a question : "Xi3" has a sport-locked feature like "Minn Kota", why we don't use the "anchor mode" when we're fishing?Anyway thanks for your advise!
You can use it while fishing, but you do need to change spots from time to time. That is where the foot pedal become annoying.
@@clearwaterfishing I see; thanks!
@@edwinchan19590125 You're welcome! 😁
I doubt I'll ever have a transducer on the base of the motor. I'm never going to need the foot pedal. I'm agile enough that deployment and stow will not be a problem. I have a 16 ft aluminum. I'm jigging for Macks from the back. I just want effect spot lock and manual control.
Then this trolling motor is for you. I hope it gives you many years of use, and helps you catch more fish! You will love the spot lock.
This was a poor excuse for a video! Were you trying to make it look difficult? I have an Xi5 on my kayak and it can be deployed and stowed without getting out the seat. All of the motorized steer trolling motors have the transducer problem, but there are work arounds that work pretty well. In addition to the Xi5, I also have MK Power Drive, Terrova, and Ulterra's. All work well, don't use a foot pedal on any of them, only carry foot pedal in case remote battery runs down. If you need a foot pedal, get an Ultrex.
Guess you didn’t watch the whole video.
Can you have the foot pedal and remote at connected at the same time?
You can. I find the remote works way better than the foot pedal.
@@clearwaterfishing Yeh, no way I'm switching from my terrova! Just asking for someone
@@jeisonhansson Good deal man! Stick to minn kota stay away from motorguide.
Is the Xi3 easy to get in and out of the water?
It wasn’t too bad, but you will have to lean over to pull it out.
I've been looking for a foot pedal for my xi3 for the past week and am still looking. I don't think I'll be buying one after seeing your video and will just continue to use the supplied remote. Thanks
Yeah. It is frustrating to use, but if you need one there aren't many options.
I have it on my kayak and I never get out of my seat to deploy mine.
What other trolling motor have you bought and recommend instead?
I have stuck with this one because they are expensive. I have plans to buy a new boat with an ultrex. I have used a Lowrance ghost and I liked it as well. I recommend getting one that is compatible with your units. Minn Kota for Humminbird, Ghost for Lowrance, and Garmin Force for Garming units.
@@clearwaterfishing I might put $4k in Garmin electronics on a 13' jon boat but I'm not putting a $4k trolling motor on it!
Appreciate your input. I was considering saving a few bucks and going with an Xi5 but I see that would be a mistake for me. Absolutely need a good foot pedal on your boat for bass fishing.
I really do regret my purchase
Do you think an Old Town setup would be much better?
I don't think you can compare the Xi3 to an ultrex. Two totally different trolling motors with different price points to reflect that.
It overall wasn’t a comparison. But I really think you should save your money and not buy an Xi3.
Great video. Thumbs up from small creator 😅
Thanks for the visit! We will get bigger :)
The way you lower the trolling motor is hilarious ..you do the worst way possible haha.....and you use chart plot for when youre fishing and moving you don’t have to touch the steering or throttle and fish hands free lol I use this in a kayak and don’t have to leave my seat to deploy or retract the motor ...very strange you wouldn’t have a pull on your motor to let it down gently and lift up like you are supposed to on any trolling motor
You comment is pretty hard to read. I don’t let my trolling motor slam. I also recommend this for a kayak so you are using it in the most useful way possible. On a boat, this thing is junk.
When I press anchor mode everything looks normal but after a few seconds the outboard starts to turn left and right uncontrollably and then accelerates at one time full speed and begins to turn to the left 5 times until it is fully wound with its cable ..
I calibrated it but same problem.
This is a real shit product
I agree. This trolling motor is garbage.
Seems like it works fine, seemed more like you just don't like the steps of functionality.
The deployment is no different that the minn kota I have.
The footpedal delay/not functioning was the worst. Almost crashed or threw me out of the boat many times.
Yes! I have spent days trying to fix my pedal.. seems to be a constant issue.
Still sounds like a good option for the kayak 👍
Yes sir. My main problem is the foot-pedal.
I have never seen anyone put a transducer on the trolling motor only off the back
It’s pretty common. Most guys now days run a transducer on the trolling motor. If you buy an upper model, they are built into the motor.
Damn, I just got one because it was recommend by the salesman to get a xi5.
Sorry man. It still can work pretty good. You just need to get over some annoying things about it.
@@clearwaterfishing yeah, just got to use it and it’s damn annoying at first. The delay sucks and for a while it keep doing like a 180 turn on me.
Did you watch crapie masters last week. All of them used motor guide.
. And i think most pro do use them. Their awsome
@@tomterry2662 I hate mine, it just broke too.
Watch the crapie masters. They all use them. Mine is old and never a single problem. Mine is the energy series. Well maybe mine is better made than the newer ones. Maybe mine is better . its 12 volt 54lbs thrust energy.
I’m going to be buying a kayak and I think this motor is almost perfect for it. I have an Ultrex on my bass boat. I would not buy anything like this for my passport these are cheaper motors. You get what you pay for a bike for a kayak I think it’s perfect. Yeah it could be better but it’s cheap
Right on
Is this a troll video? Only argument of the 3 that might have some weight is the pedal. Wiring could be done better to prevent cutting. Stowing and deploying, you’re just doing it all wrong. That unlock lever is not a hand button, it is a foot pedal. Put a strap or string on the motor, step on the release button and ease it into the water with the strap…
Not a troll video. This thing is not a good trolling motor PERIOD!
I am sorry but I don't see how this is any different than the similar Minn Kota as for mounting the transducer or deploying the motor.
Most of minn kota trolling motors are folding style not the slide through. I would recommend an ultrex, force, or ghost over the Xi3.
Use your foot to deploy the motor not bending over by hand
I just don’t like how it slams.
I love my xi5
Maybe its not really the foot pedal but maybe a bad wire.
I tried multiple footpedals and this was the best one. I don't believe I have a bad wire.
Wouldn't get it for my Kayak either. The Xi3 Kayak version is freshwater only which ruins it for me. You know if they made this freshwater only then they cut corners.
I don't fish saltwater, so I really don't know the difference. What would be different about a saltwater version?
@@clearwaterfishing Saltwater causes massive corrosion if you don't have proper components (stainless steel bearings, etc.). That could severely shorten the life of a trolling motor.
You can add an anode that is on the salt water and rinse good after use and be fine for periodic salt water use I was told
I’m here because my MotorGuide xi3 is spazzing out. It takes off full speed on my kayak while I’m standing in anchor mode.
That’s not good! Does it do it often.
@@clearwaterfishing yep every trip out.
@@BradHix 😥
Yes agree totally ---- They are junk----and yes I own one. Called Motor Guide and short answer was SORRY but you bought it!!
I'm sorry. I am in the same boat as you. Wish I would have saved up for an ultrex.
If you have it connected to a lowrance you really have problems.
What problems did you have?
tbh it couldn't be any easier to deploy and retract, if you cant do that then you probably cant launch the boat anyway.
The best trolling motor I ever owned was a 24-volt motorguide. I replaced a mini.kota that was broke all the time. Save your breath
El motor en si va muy bien pero el pedal dejó de funcionar y nadie puede hacer que ande me he gastado 400 euros en un pedal que dejó de funcionar y nadie se hace cargo, el mando si va bien pero el pedal he perdido mi dinero
hahaha if you think that's hard to deploy try the PowerDrive by Minn Kota. you can also use your foot instead of bending over to use your hand to deploy it
What makes the power drive hard to deploy?
Why don't you just go to corn field crappie and get there transducer kits so your wires aren't all bunched up like that .
I guess I'm cheap.
So I guess you recommend minnkota over Motorguide then
That or lowrance ghost is awesome too.
@@clearwaterfishing welp cant compair an 3k stuff to 1k lol...spend more money u will get better stuff...
@@bonbont6912 You can and I did. Just trying to save y’all some headache.
Ok. Where to start. I have owned a 36volt Xi5 105 60 inch shaft for 4 years now and its an absolute dream of a trolling motor. My 73 year old dad can stow and deploy without a problem. Learn to lift the shaft up before the pivot and it is way easier, then use your foot not your hand on lever. Also, out of the 40 people I know that use these motors only 3 or 4 use the foot-pedal, nearly everybody uses FOB. Reason being is that motorguides steering movement response is so fast that its hard to articulate your foot with that degree of sensitivity. However this articulation speed makes it the best spotlock in the market bar none. You want awesome foot control get an Ultrex but your in it for almost 3K and are tied to a cable drive not wireless. Your other problems with the buttons on footpedal not sure, cant speak to that. Also confused. Is this critique for kayak fishing or boat fishing? Demo is on a boat not a kayak. By sheer nature any large motor would be tougher for a Kayak, but don't own one so cant say for sure. As far as transducer cable. Run from motor-head thru a tether loop 8 inches to the side of your motor then into the bow. Wrapping transducer cable around shaft is not good. You will cut cables like you say. For everyone reading this do not be afraid of Xi5 motors. They are good quality and many people will agree. Don't own an Xi3 so cant provide hard factual data on it but know folks who do and they like it.
Lastly, you state do not to buy an Xi3 but buy an Ultrex which is a cable drive GPS motor that is almost 3K dollars. Not an apples to apples comparison. Neither is the Ghost (cantilever stow) or Force (also cantilever stow) an apples to apples comparison. Very inconclusive test for you to make a wholesale statement that this motor is not worth buying.
The “where to start” completely discredits your comment, but I will entertain it. I am glad your trolling motor is a dream. I am glad your dad can stow and deploy it no problem. I use the foot pedal a lot. If people are buying it to use the foot pedal I would ask them to look at other trolling motors. It is also not the best spot lock. Many test have been done and you can check them out on RUclips. It is an overall evaluation of the trolling motor for either a boat or kayak. It would be much better on a kayak. If you are reading this be afraid of the Xi5 and Xi3. There are much better options out there.
A trolling motor is a trolling motor and they all can be compared to one another. Why spend $2500 on a Xi5 when you can get a much better Force, Ghost, or Ultrex for $3000. Also this video is my opinion and everyone is welcome to view and have their own opinions.
@@clearwaterfishing Then get an Xi5 and do a video on that not an Xi3. Not all motors are the same when one is 2000 dollars more than the other.
Nah. I would rather get something useful.
Hi I like to be negative about everything derrrrppppp
That’s me
Mr complains
The truth about this trolling motor does hurt.
You don’t like the motor because you have poor cable management with the transducer you didn’t have to add.
Yup
Have the Xi5 over 5 years, pinpoint is exact, built in sonar & no issues. I like the remote it's easy and better control. You can walk anywhere in the boat with operation. I am a bass fisherman and use in my flats boat. Your a idiot with your clumsy deploy and stow. The built in sonar is very good. Foot pedal, yes I don't like. But works well. Your review is very bias!
Review is from my experience. It is junk and will always be junk in my eyes.
First reason= could happen with a minnkota too. SMH
Literally every trolling motor does the same things. 1st, you don't use your hand to deploy it, use your foot, the way you mounted you Trans wires is your fault v
Not every trolling motor does the same things. These are pretty specific to the Xi3.
@@clearwaterfishing No there not. But it's okay
What a first world problem!! lol
Yup!
This dude should be embarrassed. Saying how nobody should ever buy this trolling motor yet he still has one mounted to his boat! Typical hypocrite!
I don't any more.
Been fishing for 45 years. Motorguide is the easiest deploying motor so far.
I completely disagree with your video you need to read instructions on how to deploy your trolling motor I haven't had any problems whatsoever with mine
Agree to disagree
Mine is a p.o.s
I’m with you there man.
Motorguide does not stand behind their products. Complete waste of $$. So bummed I don’t have the $ to dump in and get another brand. And good luck with the foot pedal. It’s a joke. Even the warranty replacement broke after 15’mins of use and they wouldn’t help me. The tech said it’s a known issue that can’t be fixed but I waited too long so buy a new one.
This video is hilarious. First, If you wire your transducer correctly you wont cut your wire.
Second, you're out of shape and you don't have to hunch over to deploy it! its called a "FOOT PEDAL" for a reason. you push it with your food. So why are you hunching over??
I have one on my Kayak and can deploy it from my seat. LOL.
So help me out. How are you supposed to wire the transducer? How are you supposed to retract it without hunching over? (also it slams if you just use your foot on deployment) and I also said if was good for kayaks.
@@clearwaterfishing how do you pick up your poles from the deck of the boat if you can't bend over? You cannot condemn a motor or design because YOU are unable to bend over or reach it normally due to your stomach getting in the way. That's not meant as an insult, but the motor works as designed and all motors seem to work the same way.
@@TDArcher It doesn’t have a lift assist like other trolling motors is really all I was trying to get to. I am fully capable of doing it. I don’t recommend if you are older or have back issues. Many people want something easy to use and the Xi3 and Xi5 are not.
I’ve never seen anyone just leave their transducer wires like that. It’s like putting in no effort and then complaining about the problem you created
@@SlyFox_Camaro That's cool. Glad you helped solve a problem.
I have a problem when some nobody RUclipsr is saying no one on this planet should buy this company’s product .
Get a job !
I wish I didn't have to have a job. I only say not to buy the product because it isn't a good product.
Ultrex is a grand more ! Wtf u expect! Starts to talk shit how it won’t turn left without force and he literally touches the pedal and it moves the direction it should! Answer ! …… 💯 user error!
Go buy one then and leave me a review here.
Buddy don't blame them for your poor physical fitness the fact that you are wheezing just talking explains alot
These are not reasons not to buy the MotorGuide. There isn’t a single perfect product out there.
I believe they are.
@@clearwaterfishing I respect that. It’s a matter of opinion.
why spend more money on a footpedal if you hate the motor Ha Ha your funny
Have to use the foot pedal to bass fish. Otherwise it takes a lot of cast out of your day.
His review is a joke! The motorguide twice as easy to deploy as minn kota, his biggest problem is he needs to lose some weight!
So you just let it slam? Do you actually like this piece of junk? No need to make things personal because I will win.
Truth! This trolling motor is the biggest piece of crap. Don’t buy it
I'll never buy another motorguide period let alone Another xi5.
That makes 2 of us. Straight trash!
Not impressed