Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 Review

Let’s Talk About Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 isn’t just another foot pedal; it’s a gateway to unlocking the full potential of your Ulterra or Riptide Ulterra trolling motor. Manufactured by Minn-Kota, a trusted name in marine technology, this pedal promises enhanced control and convenience for anglers who demand the best. The ability to control Auto Stow/Deploy, Power Trim, steering, speed, prop, Spot-Lock, and AutoPilot all from one location makes this a compelling upgrade for serious fishermen.

As someone who spends countless hours on the water, wrestling with a trolling motor while trying to manage a rod and reel, I needed a solution that would free up my hands and allow me to focus on what really matters: catching fish. I was specifically looking for precise boat control, hands-free operation, and the ability to quickly and accurately deploy or stow my trolling motor. I’ve tested other foot pedals before, but always found them lacking in features or durability.

My initial reaction upon unboxing the Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 was positive. The build quality feels robust, with a solid, stable base and responsive buttons. The 18-foot cord seems more than adequate for most boat setups, and the waterproof connector inspires confidence that it can withstand the harsh marine environment.

Compared to the standard wireless remote that came with my trolling motor, this foot pedal offers a more tactile and immediate connection to the motor. While the remote is convenient, I often found myself fumbling with it, especially in choppy conditions. Compared to a universal aftermarket foot pedal, the Minn-Kota specific model promised seamless integration and full feature control.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a touch of apprehension. The feature set is impressive, but I was slightly concerned about the learning curve associated with mastering all the controls. I was hopeful that the Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 would live up to its promise of making boat control more intuitive and efficient, allowing me to spend more time fishing and less time fiddling with equipment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 was on a saltwater flats fishing trip targeting redfish. The conditions were typical for the area: shallow water, strong currents, and occasional gusts of wind. This meant I needed precise boat control to stay on the fish.

The pedal performed admirably in these challenging conditions. The steering felt responsive and accurate, allowing me to make small adjustments to my position with ease. The ability to quickly engage Spot-Lock to hold my position against the current was a game-changer, allowing me to focus on casting without constantly fighting the elements. The dual mode operation allows to trim the motor up and down from the foot pedal.

There was a slight learning curve involved in getting used to the placement of all the controls. But after about an hour, I was able to navigate the flats with confidence and precision. The 18-foot cord proved to be the perfect length for my 20-foot boat, allowing me to position the pedal wherever I needed it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my fishing arsenal. The pedal shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to harsh saltwater conditions and regular exposure to the elements. The waterproof connector has held up perfectly, even after being splashed with saltwater on numerous occasions.

Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all it takes to keep the pedal in good working order. Compared to previous experiences with other foot pedals that quickly developed corrosion and electrical issues, the Minn-Kota has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability. It has become an indispensable tool that allows me to fish more efficiently and effectively.

Breaking Down the Features of Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080

Specifications

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 is designed specifically for use with Minn-Kota’s Ulterra and Riptide Ulterra trolling motors. It features dual-mode operation, allowing for control of Auto Stow/Deploy and Power Trim, as well as steering, speed, prop on/off, Spot-Lock, and AutoPilot functions. The pedal connects to the trolling motor via an 18-foot cord with a waterproof connector, ensuring a reliable connection in wet conditions.

These specifications translate to enhanced control and convenience for the angler. The dual-mode operation eliminates the need to reach for the motor to stow or deploy it, saving time and effort. The ability to control Spot-Lock and AutoPilot from the foot pedal allows for hands-free navigation and precise boat positioning, increasing fishing efficiency. The 18-foot cord provides ample reach for most boat setups, and the waterproof connector ensures reliable performance in harsh marine environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The steering is responsive and accurate, allowing for precise boat control in a variety of conditions. The Spot-Lock feature works flawlessly, holding the boat in place even against strong currents and wind. The Auto Stow/Deploy function is a significant time-saver, especially when moving between fishing spots.

One minor weakness is the placement of some of the buttons. It took some time to become accustomed to their location, and I occasionally found myself accidentally pressing the wrong button, especially in rough water. However, with practice, this becomes less of an issue. Overall, the pedal meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a significant improvement in boat control and fishing efficiency.

Design & Ergonomics

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 features a robust and durable design. The materials used feel high-quality, and the pedal has a solid, stable feel. The pedal is comfortable to use for extended periods, with a slightly textured surface that provides good grip.

The user-friendliness is generally good, although, as mentioned earlier, there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering all the controls. However, the intuitive layout of the pedal and the clear labeling of the buttons make it relatively easy to learn.

Durability & Maintenance

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 is built to last. The materials used are resistant to corrosion and wear, and the waterproof connector ensures reliable performance in harsh marine environments. With proper care, this pedal should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use. There are no user-serviceable parts, but the robust design minimizes the need for repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 comes as a complete unit and does not offer many customization options. However, it is designed to seamlessly integrate with Minn-Kota’s Ulterra and Riptide Ulterra trolling motors, providing full control of all motor functions.

It is compatible with Minn-Kota’s i-Pilot Link system, which allows for advanced GPS-based boat control and integration with Humminbird fish finders. This expands the functionality of the foot pedal and provides even greater control over your fishing experience.

Pros and Cons of Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080

Who Should Buy Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080?

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 is perfect for serious anglers who demand the best in boat control and convenience. It is ideal for those who fish in challenging conditions, such as strong currents, wind, or shallow water, where precise boat positioning is essential. This foot pedal significantly enhances the fishing experience for pro anglers, saltwater fishermen, and anyone who values hands-free operation and efficient boat control.

Those who prioritize a completely clutter-free deck and prefer a wireless remote for its simplicity might skip this product. Someone who only occasionally uses their trolling motor, or someone on a very tight budget, might find the cost difficult to justify.

A must-have accessory is a good quality cable management system to keep the 18-foot cord tidy and out of the way. Also, consider a non-slip pad to place under the foot pedal to prevent it from sliding around on the deck.

Conclusion on Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080

The Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 is a worthwhile investment for any serious angler looking to maximize their fishing efficiency and enjoyment. The enhanced control, hands-free operation, and durable design make it a valuable addition to any boat.

The price is justified by the significant improvement in boat control and the time savings it provides. I have no hesitation in recommending the Minn-Kota Riptide Ulterra Foot Pedal (corded) 1866080 to anyone who wants to unlock the full potential of their Minn-Kota trolling motor.

Upgrade your fishing experience today! Don’t just fish; command the water with precision and ease!