MELBOURNE BOAT SHOW: MotorGuide’s latest releases

The Xi5’s new composite shaft can take on any obstruction which gets in its way, we're told. It’ll bend, but it won’t break, and MotorGuide has backed it with a lifetime warranty.

The Xi5 also has MotorGuide’s Pinpoint GPS technology as standard. Pinpoint uses an ultra-precise GPS receiver and precision control algorithms for accurate performance through a compact, easy-to-use remote control.

The motor’s electronics are fully encapsulated in a high-tech coating, which makes them impervious to water and dust. There’s also a protection circuit that prevents lower unit damage if the prop is stalled.

The Xi5’s steering transmission is built for long-life with ball bearings to reduce friction and wear, custom seals against water and dust, and an extra-rigid shaft support tube.

The new Xi5 includes wireless capability "right out of the box", allowing anglers to command precise motor and steering control from anywhere on the boat. Its wireless pedal has an intuitive, "heel-toe" operation which controls steering that’s extremely quiet, precise and fast.

Digital variable speed control enables low-speed trolling capability and longer run time and the Xi5 has cooler-running electronics. By capturing and storing energy that is typically lost as heat, MotorGuide says that the Xi5’s batteries have longer run times and require fewer recharges.

And the Xi5 uses LED lights in the controller so anglers can quickly check the status of four key functions in any light conditions.

A versatile motor with durable components, premium features and top performance, the X3 is also priced right for regular fishers. With eight cable-steer foot-operated models and two hand-operated models to choose from, there’s an option for everyone’s ?shing style and budget.

The X3’s mount is constructed using rigid aircraft-grade aluminium. The outer shaft is stainless steel with a large diameter for added strength while the shaft itself is a premium composite material with a lifetime guarantee against breaking.

Tight-fitting components and fewer metal-to-metal interfaces make the X3 a quiet performer on the water and while stowing and deploying. A key advancement is new composite locking pins that maintain a tight (and quiet) fit with the mount.

Components like precision bearings and locking collar also eliminate shaft clicking, making the X3 a quiet performer over the long haul.

The X3’s Variable Ratio Steering gives anglers higher-response steering and precise boat control in the primary fishing zone. Torque steering feedback is also reduced, making for smoother operation. Plus, premium dual-cable, pull-pull steering is standard.

To check out MotorGuide’s new Xi5 and X3 trolling motors, head to the Mercury Stand at the Melbourne Boat Show.