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To give you a better overview of the Traxxis and why we think it rates as possibly the best transom mount trolling motor we’ll first lay the groundwork for the family as a whole.
Compare Transom and Bow Mount trolling motors
This is a comparison of the transom and bow mounts to highlight the main advantages and difference of each.
Transom Mount
- Mounts to the transom (the vertical section of rear of boat)
- Motor pushes boat through the water
- Easy installation via a clamp
- Hand control
- Cheaper option
- Good choice for a kayak or small boat
- Control is less precise
Bow Mount
- Mount to the bow (front) of boat
- Pulls boat through the water
- Attached via a plate attachment to the bow
- Options of foot, hand, remote controls
- More feature options
- More precise boat control
- More expensive
- Foot control takes up more deck space
While the Traxxis 55 SC, Traxxis 70 and Traxxis 80 do have some variations, those are actually pretty minimal, and mostly about power output.
Minn Kota’s Traxxis range all mount to the transom – as such, they are better used with the hand tiller than with a foot controller. They’re easily attached to the stern (back) of the boat and ‘push’ the boat from behind. This differs to the bow mounts that ‘pull’ the boat through the water. They are generally cheaper than bow mounts and easy to install. Bow mounts are more precise in boat control
Transoms are ideal for smaller boats and kayaks.
It’s nice step up from the Endura.
If you like heading out on the water in windy or rough conditions you’ll find the bigger Traxxis, an 80, a better option for these conditions.
Transoms are a good choice for a kayak or small boat.
| Traxxis 55 | Traxxis 70 | Traxxis 80 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thrust | 55 lbs | 70 lbs | 80 lbs |
| Shaft length | 36 inch | 42 inch | 42 inch |
| Warranty | 2 years | 3 years | 2 years |
| Digital Maximizer | |||
| Quick lock depth adjuster | no | ||
| Weedless wedge 2 power prop |
Features common to all Traxxis trolling motors
The same mounting method. A highly durable C-shaped clamp with dual screws to secure them in place.
The company’s Digital Maximizer™ technology that increases battery life by up to 5 times.
You can dial the speed you’re comfortable with and the motors delivers only the power you need so you can conserve battery life.
Push to test battery meter. Press the button to instantly see how much charge remains in your battery and avoid being stranded and forced to paddle.
Power Prop. The Power Prop™ design provides improved thrust at less than full speed to power through weeds and vegetation.
Composite Shaft – A lifetime guarantee by Minn Kota on their composite shaft that is virtually indestructible.
Fast cooling – Extra-large windings to help cool the motor more quickly.
They all feature quiet performance technology to reduce the chance of spooking the fish.
Instant backtrolling functionality- lift and rotate Vantage’s directional indicator 180º
Responsive steering
Quick-cam depth adjuster – This adjuster is simple and easy to use, allowing you to lock in the position of trolling motor just where you want.
Steering Tension control
The steering tension that you like can be locked in, tighten down to keep in place or loosen for easy steering.
Minn Kota Traxxis 55 SC
The 55 is a good option for a 16′ canoe or fishing kayak
It’s differentiated from the other options within the Traxxis family primarily by power delivering 55 lbs of thrust. It features a 36 inch shaft (this is the only shaft length available), and provides a 1 hand stow mechanism like most other Minn Kota motors. The motor tilts up to 45 degrees, with a 6 inch extension, and it comes with a 2 year warranty.
Minn Kota Traxxis 70
70 lbs of thrust in the same format and layout as the 55 SC or the 80. However it does have a quick-lock cam depth adjuster that’s not mentioned in relation with the smaller motor, and it comes with a 3 year warranty rather than a 2 year warranty. This model has a 42-inch shaft.
Minn Kota Traxxis 80
Stepping up to 80 lbs of thrust but otherwise virtually identical to the 70. However, it comes with a 2 year warranty, like the 55 SC. It does have the quick-lock cam depth adjuster found on the 70, and you’ll still like the 1 hand stow and deploy capabilities. Like the 70, this model comes with a 42-inch shaft.
Compare Traxxis with Endura models
If you’re not sure whether the Endura or Traxxis is right for your boat, check out the video from Michael Lopez on this link. Michael gives a great ‘hands on’ comparison that won’t leave you guessing.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing between the various models in the Minn Kota Traxxis family is really about determining the right amount of power for your boat and fishing environment,
If you’re looking for a decent freshwater trolling motor, then chances are good that you’ll gravitate toward Minn Kota to explore some of your options. The company has been around since the 1930s, and has built a reputation for durable, powerful motors that perform very well.
