Let’s Talk About Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 isn’t just a trolling motor; it’s an investment in your fishing experience, offering a seamless blend of power, control, and advanced technology that can significantly elevate your time on the water. Manufactured by Minn-Kota, this Riptide Terrova model boasts an impressive 80 pounds of thrust, a 60-inch shaft, and the highly sought-after i-Pilot GPS system with Bluetooth connectivity. It’s designed for saltwater environments, offering rugged durability and intelligent features that cater to serious anglers who demand precision and reliability.
I was driven to the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 by a growing frustration with my old trolling motor’s lack of precision and its struggle against strong currents. I needed a motor that could hold its own in challenging conditions, offering reliable spot-lock and autopilot functions to free me from constant manual adjustments.
Unboxing the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 revealed a robust piece of equipment. The materials felt premium, the build quality appeared exceptional, and the weight hinted at the powerful motor within.
I was debating between this and the MotorGuide Xi5 and the Garmin Force. I ultimately chose the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 for its established reputation, the extensive i-Pilot feature set, and the availability of accessories and support.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of intimidation – this was a serious piece of fishing gear ready to redefine how I approached angling.
Real-World Testing: Putting Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 on a notoriously windy bay known for its strong currents and shifting tides. The motor handled the challenging conditions with ease.
The i-Pilot system made navigation and boat control remarkably simple, even in the face of gusty winds and choppy water. There was a slight learning curve to fully mastering the i-Pilot functions, but the intuitive remote and clear instructions made the process manageable.
My only initial surprise was the responsiveness of the motor – it’s significantly more powerful than my previous unit, requiring a delicate touch on the speed control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 has proven to be an incredibly reliable tool. It has weathered numerous saltwater trips, enduring sun, spray, and the occasional bump against submerged obstacles.
The motor exhibits minimal signs of wear and tear, a testament to its durable construction and corrosion-resistant materials. Regular rinsing with fresh water after each use is the only maintenance I’ve performed, and it’s been sufficient to keep the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 in top condition.
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 far outperforms my previous trolling motor in terms of power, precision, and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741
Specifications
- Control: Remote. The remote offers intuitive control over speed, direction, and i-Pilot functions.
- Volts: 24. This requires a 24-volt battery system, delivering ample power for extended use.
- Max Thrust: 80 lbs. This provides substantial power to handle strong currents and larger boats.
- Shaft Length: 60″. A 60-inch shaft is suitable for boats with higher freeboards.
- Speed Control: Variable. Variable speed control allows precise adjustment for optimal boat control and battery efficiency.
- AutoPilot: Incl. on i-Pilot. The i-Pilot system provides advanced autopilot features, including heading lock and track recording.
- Max. Amp Draw: 56. This figure is important for selecting the appropriate battery and wiring.
- Prop: Weedless Wedge 2 (MKP-33). The Weedless Wedge 2 prop is designed to efficiently navigate through weeds and vegetation without draining the battery.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the motor’s performance, efficiency, and suitability for different boating and fishing conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 excels in its primary function: providing precise and reliable boat control. Its spot-lock feature is incredibly accurate, holding the boat within a few feet of the desired location, even in windy conditions.
The motor’s strengths lie in its powerful thrust, advanced GPS features, and durable construction. A potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering all the i-Pilot functions.
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 exceeds my expectations in terms of performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with high-grade materials and robust construction that inspire confidence. The motor’s weight is substantial, but manageable, and the ergonomic design makes it relatively comfortable to operate.
The stow and deploy lever simplifies the process of raising and lowering the motor. There is a slight learning curve to fully mastering the i-Pilot functions, but the intuitive remote and clear instructions made the process manageable.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 should last for many years. The advanced corrosion protection is particularly important for saltwater environments.
Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving rinsing with fresh water after each use and periodically inspecting the prop for damage. Replacing the sacrificial anode is also recommended to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 comes with the i-Pilot remote, a lanyard, a heading sensor, the MKP-33 prop, and mounting hardware. Customization options include various prop upgrades, foot pedals for alternative control, and battery monitors.
The motor is compatible with a wide range of Minn-Kota accessories, including battery chargers, extension cables, and mounting brackets.
Pros and Cons of Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741
Pros
- Exceptional Spot-Lock Accuracy: Holds position even in strong winds and currents.
- Powerful 80 lbs Thrust: Handles larger boats and challenging conditions with ease.
- Advanced i-Pilot GPS System: Offers autopilot, track recording, and other intelligent features.
- Durable Saltwater Construction: Built to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Lift-Assist Design: Makes stowing and deploying the motor effortless.
Cons
- Higher price point than basic trolling motors.
- Initial learning curve to master all i-Pilot functions.
Who Should Buy Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741?
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 is perfect for serious anglers who fish in saltwater environments and demand precise boat control and advanced features. It’s also well-suited for boaters who need a powerful and reliable trolling motor for larger vessels.
This product might be overkill for casual anglers who primarily fish in small lakes or ponds with minimal wind and current. Those on a tight budget might also find the price prohibitive.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality 24-volt battery system to ensure optimal performance and runtime.
Conclusion on Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741
The Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 is a top-of-the-line trolling motor that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and advanced features. While the price may be a barrier for some, the investment is justified for serious anglers who demand the best.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Minn-Kota RT_TERROVA 80/IP-60″_BT ,60″ 1363741 to anyone seeking a powerful, precise, and durable trolling motor for saltwater fishing. Upgrade your fishing experience today!