Welcome to my neck of the woods! This is a great opportunity to thank you. My wife and I just took our first paddle in our brand new 380 Explorer! It’s our first kayak. It was solid as a rock in choppy St. Andrew Bay waters! We still managed to average 2mph for our 3 mile maiden voyage! Not bad for a couple of rookies. I learned about the Sea Eagle from your videos. I am a 65 year old bicycle rider and now a kayaker!
Kayak Cliff, The Bixpy skeg motor would be an excellent assist for paddling upstream . Eliminating the need to use shuttle service. Definitely would help out with paddlers that don’t have a strong paddle stroke. Can’t wait to see you connect it to the Razorlite! God’s Blessings to you!
Hi Bigloaded! Thanks for watching and commenting! I can’t wait to get the Bixpy on the RazorLite. I will shoot a video on it soon with the single and the tandem RazorLite’s. God Bless and Safe Adventuring out there!
Cliff thanks for sharing your adventures with us. I absolutely love the Bixpy. I had the original J1, J2, and and awaiting the K1. I fish a lot of tournaments in rotomolded kayaks, but I am slowly moving into the inflatable arena. I have been so impressed with the Sea Eagle products. The Bixpy just enhances my time out on the water with all that Sea Eagle has to offer. Awesome work!!!
Hey Cliff! Super video! I never realized just how fast the Explorer could travel with the Bixby motor! Thanks for showing us that! So glad you missed the storm. The weather here has been windy and cold for the last two weeks after we thought we were finally into spring. It was in the high 80s for nearly a week and then the weather flipped back into winter again. They're forecasting rain and cold for the next two weeks and possibly some snow this weekend. Can't wait to get out on the water. Hope to have the new channel up and running in early June! I'll be watching for your Bixby review! Keep up the great work!🛶
Thanks Eric! I hope you get warmer weather soon, so you can get out and adventure! Nature has a weird way of getting warm and us excited, then back to snow!!!
Hi Steve, thank you so much for watching and commenting! It’s amazing how far along waterproof connections have come. I remember back in the 80s and 90s, they would leak all the time on watches, camera housings, etc. Now nothing ever seems to leak. It must be the silicone gaskets we use nowadays.
Pretty impressive motor and battery. The biggest problem I can see is hitting rocks and breaking it in shallower streams. The view of the sky behind you with storm clouds was great. Thanks Cliff
Hi 👋 Terry - You are correct. If you are going to be in shallow water, I would definitely remove the Bixpy as it would get hung up, or even battered on rocks etc…. Basically, if your paddling is going to take you somewhere shallow enough that you would remove the skeg, I would remove the bixpy as well. Hope all is well, get out there, Summer is about to begin!!!
@certifiedfishingcycling9208 Hi 👋 there - my weed guard came with my Bixpy, I think they normally ship with them. It’s a small little piece you mount around the propeller housing, very easy!
Thanks for watching and commenting Tri Tip! Here are links to my other adventure videos and reviews! 393RL Razorlite Kayak - Slow rivers & flat / open water, high performance: Sea Eagle website RazorLite page - bit.ly/3Enpq1z RazorLite Tandem - bit.ly/3CqBUGT My review of the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/wCpz9gl_8Nc/v-deo.html Adventure videos in the RazorLite: Florida Kayaking Withlacoochee River Dunnellon Florida in the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393RL ua-cam.com/video/A7urz2yIQmQ/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html Earth Day Caddo Lake - ua-cam.com/video/ceOGrVkOyzU/v-deo.html Weedon Island Mangrove Trails - ua-cam.com/video/9lNst39pZsk/v-deo.html Ft Worth Nature Center - ua-cam.com/video/30iakMQHkaI/v-deo.html Trinity River Elm Fork - ua-cam.com/video/o6LbEkF7Vrc/v-deo.html Silver Springs Florida - ua-cam.com/video/T8MZjjmxM9Y/v-deo.html How to fold the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/Dfbp_lm3jGY/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e FastTrack Kayak Rivers & Flatwater: Sea Eagle website FastTrack page - bit.ly/3ecBQ1V FastTrack Tandem 465FT - bit.ly/3CkL8EC My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html Adventure videos in the FastTrack: Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater: bit.ly/3phWOTp Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W Adventure videos in the Explorer: Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html E-Kayaking with the Bixpy Skeg Motor ua-cam.com/video/nBaSjGPYoGY/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e PaddleSki Boat / Kayak / SUP - The “Do Everything” boat! Sea Eagle website PaddleSki page - bit.ly/33PbnFH My review of the PaddleSki - ua-cam.com/video/9h0BoJi8XjI/v-deo.html Adventure videos in the PaddleSki: Chassahowitzka Springs / River - ua-cam.com/video/zpyIiSv8V3U/v-deo.html Anclote Key Florida - ua-cam.com/video/LBEROBSGbA8/v-deo.html Weeki Wachee River - ua-cam.com/video/KWqfnMJwB1U/v-deo.html
Hey, you are welcome Keith! Congrats on your new Explorer. It is literally a do everything boat and indestructible! Here are some of my other videos in the Explorer: Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater. This is my affiliate link, purchasing through this link supports my channel and these videos, ThankYou! It doesn’t cost you any more money at all, Thank You! Website page -bit.ly/3phWOTp Explorer Amazon Store Page - amzn.to/3PQEEpr Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W Adventure videos in the Explorer: Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html E-Kayaking with the Bixpy Skeg Motor ua-cam.com/video/nBaSjGPYoGY/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e
Thats not far from me. Im in Jacksonville. Where you are is close to the Central/Eastern time line. Looks like it performs well and could sure come in handy.👍
Hey 👋 Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Go check the place out it is really cool. I’m definitely going back when the weather is better to hopefully do some snorkeling and extended exploring!
Hi Cliff, first time viewer and now a subscriber! Great production values. I’ve only kayaked a few times, done more canoeing. Definitely hoping to get a kayak this summer. RE the requirement to get a license for a powered boat, maybe WE should start agitating for a Class One e-canoe, like a class one e-bike? Also, I think Canada, or at least Ontario allows trolling motors without any licensing
Great idea, I don’t think they’ll fall for it down here in Texas though. If it’s so much, has a propeller with a wind up, rubber band, you have to put a registration on it. I’m just getting away with it for now, because you can’t even tell there’s one underneath it. Thank you for watching, and commenting!
I hate to break this to you, but I just discovered that Bixpy has an Indiegogo campaign until May 4th for the updated J-2 motor and battery, now called K-1. I just ordered. New anodized aluminum case which is stronger and dissipates heat better, 2 inches smaller, more powerful and quieter. I paid a little less than the current model. The new K-1 will ship after campaign.
Ends May 4, will starting shipping thereafter. This is the first version of the newly designed model. It truly is a J-3, but they did “140 various improvements”, changed the color and called it K-1.
You are correct. The J-2 motor is still an awesome motor and it is well constructed. I have been using my Bixpy J-2 for 2 years now and it is flawless. The K-1 is going to be a great addition to my 350fx and fs126.
I assume I'd need an adaptor kit, but can i change out skeg motor for rudder motor? J2 motor. Damaging scares me. What is a rough idea draw on the boats...385fta. Can't find it. Thanks. You are so clear!
Thank you so much for watching and commenting, Mikal! I am not aware of a rudder mounted motor mount for inflatables. I’m sure it’s possible to MacGyver some thing though….. have you checked Bixpy‘s website, they have all types of mounts. On the fast track, the draft is very shallow. Probably only 3 inches without the skeg, and 6 inches with the skeg? I am totally guesstimating here. Where the motor mounts are in the skeg adapter on the fast track, it begins to slope upward, which minimizes the exposure of the motor a little. Just make sure that you don’t paddle through super shallow areas. If necessary, get out and remove. I know, sometimes that is easier said than done. Hope this helps.
Cliff, love your videos! I'm curious about the tracking performance-how does the Bixpy motor affect tracking when it's not in use, especially compared to having a Skeg? I also have a 385FT.
Hey there, thank you so much for watching and commenting! I have noticed on all boats that I've put it on (RazorLite / FastTrack / Explorer, the Bixby does not diminish tracking capability when the motor is off. It even feels like the boat is about the same speed, although I'm sure it is a little less, just because the motor is a little bit bigger than the skeg. It performs surprisingly well, better than I thought!
Great videos. Thank you for the content. Which do you recommend for 2 mid 50 novice kayakers, mostly lake and quiet rivers. Looking at the Auquaglide chelan and cirrus for 2 people. What about sea eagle models? Thanks Steve
Hello 👋 Steve - Thanks for watching and commenting! The Aquaglide Chelan model you reference is a great boat! I’m assuming you do want a tandem boat, not two individual kayaks? I cannot speak specifically to the Aquaglides, because I have never used one, but I can say it would be similar to the Sea Eagle FastTrack. Sea Eagle would have two FastTracks for tandem paddlers, the longest one would actually hold 3 paddlers if needed. If you don’t need to store much the 385FT would be perfect, if you do want to transport a lot of gear too or a large pet, the largest FastTrack would be the one you want. These FastTracks paddle beautifully and are EXTREMELY stable: FastTrack 385FT bit.ly/3ecBQ1V FastTrack Fishing Kayak 385FTA - bit.ly/4bAtqxM My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html If you want something a little more high performance, very efficient paddling, very stiff with a hard shell kayak feel - I highly recommend the Sea Eagle RazorLite line of kayaks. This is a narrower kayak than the Aquaglide Chelan at 30’’ wide. The whole boat is made with high pressure drop stitch material, so the whole boat has a stiffer feel and performs beautifully. They make the RazorLite in Tandem or Solo. I’ll attach the RazorLite links below, Plus a video of my 83 year old Dad and I paddling the RazorLite Tandem on a adventure. RazorLite 393RL website page - alnk.to/gKPBreg RazorLite 473RL Tandem website page - bit.ly/3CqBUGT My review of the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/wCpz9gl_8Nc/v-deo.html Adventure videos in the RazorLite: Suwannee River Paddling Three Days With My Dad ua-cam.com/video/m3eifjl1NZ8/v-deo.html Florida Kayaking Withlacoochee River Dunnellon Florida in the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393RL ua-cam.com/video/A7urz2yIQmQ/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html Earth Day Caddo Lake - ua-cam.com/video/ceOGrVkOyzU/v-deo.html Weedon Island Mangrove Trails - ua-cam.com/video/9lNst39pZsk/v-deo.html Ft Worth Nature Center - ua-cam.com/video/30iakMQHkaI/v-deo.html Trinity River Elm Fork - ua-cam.com/video/o6LbEkF7Vrc/v-deo.html Silver Springs Florida - ua-cam.com/video/T8MZjjmxM9Y/v-deo.html E Kayaking Sea Eagle RazorLite & Bixpy Skeg Motor ua-cam.com/video/GErOj-C4yGk/v-deo.html How to fold the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/Dfbp_lm3jGY/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e Bottom line, you can not beat Sea Eagle’s quality and customer service! They have a very long warranty on their boats too! I think 3 years! Let me know if you have any other questions!
@kayakcliff, how would you say your inflatable kayaks perform with the Bixby motor off? Does it provide enough skeg-like performance when not powered on to help tracking and do you notice much drag?
Hey 👋 there! Great question! I’ve used the Bixpy on my RazorLite, FastTrack and Explorers. When I turn off the Bixpy and just paddle, all three boats tend to still track well. I notice a little bit of extra drag, but it’s not overly so and still enjoyable. Hope this helps! Safe adventuring out there! Best Inflatable Kayaks & Boats kayakcliff.com/favorite-inflatables
Hey Cliff, love the Bixspy, however, your link goes to an updated page from Sea Eagle and the one you have is no longer available, and perhaps been replaced with the K-1. We have the FastTrac 385, and not sure the K1 would fit ours, as I don’t see it listed or see any skeg adapter to make it fit. Do you have any more info on the newer versions?
Hi there, gypsyrider! If you buy the Bixpy K1 through Sea Eagle. It will fit no problem. Even if you buy from the manufacturer, you just wanna make sure it is outfitted for an inflatable skeg assembly, which is pretty universal, I think.
Will the Bixby fit on sea eagle 385fta skeg? I cant find any info. All skegs arnt made equally. Thanks very much. Bixby can be attached to back of the boat and kick up in case of obstruction.
Hi Michael! Yes, the Bixpy will absolutely fit the FastTrack angler 385FTA. All the skeg mounts / receivers are the same on all Sea Eagle boats and paddle boards, even though the skegs may change in design, they all will slide into the Skeg receiver underneath the boat. I'm not aware of a way to attach to the back of the boat so it will kick up if you hit an obstruction. Bixpy's site has a bunch of mounting options, maybe they will have something you can use to do that. I have found that the torpedo shaped pointed nose of the bixpy does a great job deflecting off stumps when I bump them. If you hit one just right and got stuck, you could reverse your way out of it. I love the simplicity of the skeg mounting with the bixpy. Let me know if you have any other questions! FastTrack Kayak Rivers & Flatwater: Sea Eagle website FastTrack page, this is my affiliate link, purchasing through this link supports my channel and these videos, ThankYou! It doesn’t cost you any more money at all, Thank You! - FastTrack 385FT bit.ly/3ecBQ1V FastTrack 465FT Website page - bit.ly/3CkL8EC FastTrack Amazon store page - amzn.to/3JXFJbn My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html Adventure videos in the FastTrack: Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e
I wanted to install a 12 volts Trolling motor in my kayak but have not done that because I understand that once you install a motor in your kayak in Florida you have to register and get an FL number.
Hi Mindful kayaker - Yes, to remain legal, in most states that I’m aware of, you will definitely need to register your kayak if any type of motor is mounted to it. Some I have talked to have made the observation that’s it is difficult to tell that a motor is mounted when you are using the Bixpy, unless you are going abnormally fast, then you will stick out. Not sure I would follow that philosophy, but they do have a point.
I don’t have mine registered as I switch it between 3-4 different kayaks all the time. No way in you know what, that I’m registering 4 boats that use the motor. Honestly, with this motor mounted below the boat, it is invisible and you are very unlikely of ever having it discovered.
Hey Cliff, when you add one of these motors to your kayak, do you then have to register it when you’re in public waters in Texas or any other states? I know that unnoted kayaks and canoes and paddle boards do not need to be registered. But according to the regulations once you add a motor, they need to be registered. So I was just curious what your take on that is. Thanks for your excellent content
Yes, by law when you add any form of propulsion, that is not human to a kayak, you need to register it with your local state officials. That being said, I have about 10 inflatables that this motor operates on. I am NOT registering 10 separate inflatables. When you are operating this motor, it is virtually invisible.......🫥 you should do what you feel comfortable with.
Enjoyed your video as always! Been trying to decide between the Bixpy versus an electric trolling motor for my Sea Eagle 385 Fast Track for which I have the motor mount. The Bixpy is small and light, but expensive at $1200. You can pick up a trolling motor for around $150 and spend as little as $125 or so for a deep cycle battery and another $100 for a battery box. With the trolling motor you can pivot it up easily out of the water in shallow or weedy situations. What are your thoughts on these two different solutions? I love the Bixpy concept but my wallet says I can accomplish the same results with the trolling motor for far less! Anxious to hear your reply!
Hi 👋 Gil - You make some great points! To me the big advantage with the Bixby is it is mounted smack dab in the center of the kayak and is is oriented perfectly straight forwards. You can literally paddle as you normally paddle your kayak without any different feel to the paddling experience, you are just going faster. With a trolling motor mounted off to the side, the kayak leans a little to the side and with the back stroke of your paddle, can you get full extension with the paddle with the motor potentially in the way? Have you noticed your paddling having to be different, while your trolling motor is in operation? As always, thanks so much for watching and commenting with thought provoking ideas. . . . 👍
Hi Cliff! Thanks for your response! As of yet I do not have a motor for my FastTrack, thus the quandry. You make an excellent point on the center mounted position of the Bixpy in making it easier to keep the kayak going straight. Of course with the trolling motor you can easily turn the tiller handle a little bit one way or the other to keep the kayak heading in the right direction without the need for using a kayak paddle at all. At least that is what I am imagining, but having never had either motor I do not know for sure.
Hi Gil - I think it just boils down to . . . . Do you want to be able to paddle as you normally paddle, just with faster speed? Or, do you want to tiller operate the FastTrack as you would a typical mounted motor? With the Bixby, you’ll be able to paddle just like you always do, I don’t believe it will work well paddling normally with a tiller mounted trolling motor, if paddling is what you want to do. Also the weight of a lead acid trolling motor batter is around 65 lbs., which is awkward, compared to the Bixpy motor and battery coming in at under 10lbs. total.
@@KayakCliff You can solve the battery weight by getting a lithium battery instead. We use our PS more often than our explorer and found that a great set up for us is to put two 100AH lithium batteries with a trolling motor and that give us the ability to paddle as we choose or switch to motor when we just want to cover the distance. My husband loves to paddle and I love to take nature photos so we generally use both the paddles and trolling motor each trip. Since we got this set up we generally cover 20 miles a day. We have gone further and believe that if we wanted to we could cover 33 to 34 miles just on the motor in addition to whatever amount we have paddled that day. All together I have around 750 in the batteries, boxes, and motor. It works well on the explorer as well but there is only room to take one battery which cuts our range down but still is pretty good.
Hi 👋 Kathy - Two 100Ah lithium batteries, that’s awesome. I LOVE the lithium batteries, they are so light at 27lbs. compared to 65 lbs. Great story, thanks for sharing. Safe adventuring out there for you and your husband!
Theoretically, you could buy a plastic skeg base from Sea Eagle and adhere it to the bottom of a hard shell kayak with 3M VHB tape assuming there is not a hard chine down the center of the kayak. You would want to mount it to a flat section of the kayak, then you could slide the Bixby in. I might try it out in the future as a test!
@@KayakCliff WOW💡 Brilliant idea Cliff.... BIXBY should be thanking you big time ❗ HOPE you do it... Would think if you got in touch with Bixby they might also throw some additional tech advice behind that great idea too... Bixby are missing a huge market of people who already have kayaks of all stripes that NEED a fix like the one you came up with 💪🌟
Hey LJ - Check out Bixpy’s website as well, I believe they have rudder mounts, which would work well too. They may also have a tested solution for mounting to the bottom of a hard shell hull as well.
I can't find clear answer. If i paddle while running skeg j2, will i increase the thrust and speed, or reduce at least draw less on battery? Just seems logical that paddle and motor combined provide more thrust.
Hi there, Michael! Great question! If you paddle, while the Bixpy is running, you increase thrust, and therefore your speed. I actually recommend that you paddle and use the Bixpy as you get a good workout, you just cover more ground. You will not reduce the draw on the battery as the draw is constant based on whatever speed you are running at - one through 12 speeds. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Wow, what a nice addition to the Sea Eagle Explorer. One thing that did come to mind is whether the Sea Eagle would need a state registration since it would technically be a “powered” boat?
I have a bixpy on a Razorlight in Maryland. Technically it's a must register combo. I never bothered with registering, it's very well hidden and you paddle with it looking like any other kayak on the water.
Hey, thanks for watching and commenting! Yes, absolutely, in most states, once you power a boat in any way, you will need registration numbers on your hull. Even if it is a rubber band and propeller all wound up! Just make sure you are not paddling noticeably too fast, when there is a warden or water cop around. . . . 😏
Yes, the remote does float, so does the battery. They really though this one out! Sea Eagle - best inflatable kayaks & the Bixpy motor Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e 393RL Razorlite Kayak - Slow rivers & flat / open water, high performance: Sea Eagle website RazorLite page - bit.ly/3Enpq1z RazorLite Tandem - bit.ly/3CqBUGT My review of the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/wCpz9gl_8Nc/v-deo.html Adventure videos in the RazorLite: Florida Kayaking Withlacoochee River Dunnellon Florida in the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393RL ua-cam.com/video/A7urz2yIQmQ/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html Earth Day Caddo Lake - ua-cam.com/video/ceOGrVkOyzU/v-deo.html Weedon Island Mangrove Trails - ua-cam.com/video/9lNst39pZsk/v-deo.html Ft Worth Nature Center - ua-cam.com/video/30iakMQHkaI/v-deo.html Trinity River Elm Fork - ua-cam.com/video/o6LbEkF7Vrc/v-deo.html Silver Springs Florida - ua-cam.com/video/T8MZjjmxM9Y/v-deo.html How to fold the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/Dfbp_lm3jGY/v-deo.html FastTrack Kayak Rivers & Flatwater: Sea Eagle website FastTrack page - bit.ly/3ecBQ1V FastTrack Tandem 465FT - bit.ly/3CkL8EC My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater: bit.ly/3phWOTp Adventure videos in the Explorer: Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W
Hey Cliff, have you tested this on the Fasttrack? I noticed that the skeg assembly on the Fasttrack is a lot further back and I am worried about whether the motor will be fully submersed when mounted and the boat is in the water.
Hi Dino, I think the skeg position is in the same place as it is on the Explorer 380X. I found it performed wonderfully on the Explorer and I think it will be the same on the FastTrack. I will be doing some videos this Summer in the RazorLite and the FastTracks, so stay tuned . . .
@@KayakCliff That's great to hear. You're right it looks like both boats have a similar skeg assembly position. Interestingly enough Bixpy has a video on their youtube channel with the J2 motor mounted on a FastTrack but they installed an additional skeg assembly for it. Maybe for the ability to run it with the skeg in place too? I know the FastTrack is near impossible to paddle forward without the skeg in place. I run it backwards any time I need to run it without the skeg and that works much better. Looking forward to your video of the Bixpy on the FastTrack and your comments!
Hey 👋 T Sarge - Thanks for watching and commenting! Here are the Keen water shoes that I have worn for years. This particular pair is going on it’s 3rd season now. I really like the ergonomic footbed that Keen integrates into their saddles. Backcountry is a great place to outfit your adventures! Keen Uneek Cord Sandles www.backcountry.com/keen-uneek-sandal-mens
@Kayak Cliff your tips have really been helpful. Our FastTrack 465 just arrived. Very impressive. Now all I need is some decent weather to get it wet. Mothernature is confused again here in Michigan.
These look great unfortunately in the UK we gave to have a licence to paddle on most rivers its only £50 a year, but the moment you add any motor the licence fee becomes much more expensive.
Hi Mike, thank you for watching, and asking! On the PaddleSki, I did not really mess with the angle, much other than down or up when in shallow water. I just think straight down vertical is probably the best. Maybe one notch up……
Hi 👋 Nick! I really do like the 380X as an all around boat. I do paddle the RazorLite the most, because I like the speed and ground I can cover with it. The Explorer is great for white water, exploring shallow rivers with current, or just lazy paddling around your favorite body of water. I really like how you can stand up in the Explorer and also use a paddle board paddle with it. What are you looking for in a kayak? What do you want to use it for? Perhaps with your feedback, I can direct you to the right kayak for your needs. I have 7 Sea Eagle kayaks. All are wonderfull boats and all do different things really well. The key thing is to make sure you get the boat that most closely fits your needs and wants.
Hi cliff. It’s looking like I’m going to order the sea eagle explorer within the week partly due to UA-cam videos such as yours. What do you think of the carbon paddle upgrade? Would you recommend the ab50 over ab40 paddles? That’s my last thing to worry about before I order. Thank you!
Hi 👋 Kdogg788 - thanks for asking and watching! I guess it comes down to whether you want to break it down into four pieces or not. For travel, breaking down into four pieces is great! You save half a pound going down to the AB50. It is a great paddle, and if you are going to be paddling long distances over a long time, the carbonfiber, half pound lighter upgrade is worthwhile. I do have both paddles, and I do use both paddles. They both are great! For this kayak, you have to have an 8 foot paddle due to the width of the boat. Bottom line, if you plan on paddling longer distances, the lighter panel is easier on the body. If you don’t mind, click on my affiliate link below when you do order. This gets me a little bit back to support this UA-cam channel and future videos and adventures :-) it doesn’t cost you anything extra. Safe adventuring out there, and God bless! Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater: bit.ly/3phWOTp Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W Adventure videos in the Explorer: Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html E-Kayaking with the Bixpy Skeg Motor ua-cam.com/video/nBaSjGPYoGY/v-deo.html Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter bit.ly/3RKGd7e
@@KayakCliff Thank you for helping me out. I think I’ll end up going for the carbon. It’s not that much more and I’ll probably regret not upgrading later. I’ll remember the links when I go to buy it.
@@KayakCliff At least at the start, no, but the explorer just has the most going for it and is more versatile, so if I ever feel more comfortable about doing it, I will have that option.
Have you registered your Sea Eagles Cliff? In most states (if not all), they require the boat to be registered to use any kind of motor. Even a trolling motor. In some states you all have to take a boater's course to use any kind of motor. Typically once your registered in your home state, you can use it in most other states but always check online as each state has their own requirements. I made a clip on set of plate I laminate with the numbers & registration stickers on them, and use a shoe string to tie them to the pontoons of the boat.
Hi 👋 there, Ray - The Explorer tracks nicely with the Bixpy motor on! 👍 Explorer Kayak - Website page -bit.ly/3phWOTp Explorer fishing kayak - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W My review of the Explorer - ua-cam.com/video/YmOezRl8Dis/v-deo.htmlsi=9eLQqiGKMSGgl0Ny
@raygibson9719 I have never been in the 465 fast track, but I have never heard anything back from anybody that has one, that the tracking is not good. I think it will track just fine! I assume you have not been out in it before? Great boat for multiple people!
Absolutely. I would not launch from a beach where large waves (surf) is coming in and breaking over the bow of my kayak, but out in open water with 1-2’ rolling seas, I am very comfortable in the RazorLite.
If you are a good paddler and if you are comfortable in a 28’’ wide kayak that has less stability compared to wide kayaks, you will be fine in 1-2’ open water seas.
With a Bixby? Not sure yet, I’m getting ready to do a video on that real soon. Just paddling, you can cruise at about 3 to 3.5 mph and the maximum speed about 5 1/2 mph. I would imagine with a Bixpy and paddling, you cruise at about 5 to 5 1/2 mph and maximum of probably about 8 to 8 1/2 mph. Stay tuned, I will let you know once I do the video.
Remote control is not the Killswitch. There is a separate cord that you can attach to your pfd and it runs via a cord back to the battery, where a magnet attaches to the battery and comes off if the cord is yanked in an emergency. Nifty and effective set up!
It's not really a trolling motor in the classic sense like the tiller operated / transom mounted ones that have been out for decades. The Bixby mounts underwater in line with the center of hull of the boat. It's really a paddling assist motor. It allows you to paddle like you would normally paddle a kayak, but at higher speeds without the hassle of having to operate a tiller. You just steer with your paddling stroke like you would steer when you're paddling anyway.
Welcome to my neck of the woods! This is a great opportunity to thank you. My wife and I just took our first paddle in our brand new 380 Explorer! It’s our first kayak. It was solid as a rock in choppy St. Andrew Bay waters! We still managed to average 2mph for our 3 mile maiden voyage! Not bad for a couple of rookies. I learned about the Sea Eagle from your videos. I am a 65 year old bicycle rider and now a kayaker!
Hey Bob - Glad to hear you are liking your new Explorer, they are great boats!!! Safe adventuring out there!
Same here. I just bought the 380X and got it a couple weeks ago. I do like 95% of the paddling but at least my wife likes to come too.
He finally gets past the extraneous codswallop and down to business at 3:38.
Glad I finally got down to the content you wanted
Kayak Cliff, The Bixpy skeg motor would be an excellent assist for paddling upstream .
Eliminating the need to use shuttle service.
Definitely would help out with paddlers that don’t have a strong paddle stroke.
Can’t wait to see you connect it to the Razorlite!
God’s Blessings to you!
Hi Bigloaded! Thanks for watching and commenting! I can’t wait to get the Bixpy on the RazorLite. I will shoot a video on it soon with the single
and the tandem RazorLite’s. God Bless and Safe Adventuring out there!
Cliff thanks for sharing your adventures with us. I absolutely love the Bixpy. I had the original J1, J2, and and awaiting the K1. I fish a lot of tournaments in rotomolded kayaks, but I am slowly moving into the inflatable arena. I have been so impressed with the Sea Eagle products. The Bixpy just enhances my time out on the water with all that Sea Eagle has to offer. Awesome work!!!
Thank you for watching and your kind comments, Jonathan! That K1 sounds interesting!
Hey Cliff! Super video! I never realized just how fast the Explorer could travel with the Bixby motor! Thanks for showing us that! So glad you missed the storm. The weather here has been windy and cold for the last two weeks after we thought we were finally into spring. It was in the high 80s for nearly a week and then the weather flipped back into winter again. They're forecasting rain and cold for the next two weeks and possibly some snow this weekend. Can't wait to get out on the water.
Hope to have the new channel up and running in early June! I'll be watching for your Bixby review! Keep up the great work!🛶
Thanks Eric! I hope you get warmer weather soon, so you can get out and adventure! Nature has a weird way of getting warm and us excited, then back
to snow!!!
Great video Cliff. You were "movin" with that motor! Glad you missed the storm!
Lol, thanks a lot Arnold!
Thanks again. Your video gave me the confidence that the Bixpy and Sea Eagle kayak would be a great combo. Really looking forward to trying it.
Thanks T Sarge! You will definitely enjoy!!!
Another informative and totally enjoyable video. Thanks for all the hard work that goes into making these!
Thank you so much for watching and commenting, Dwain! Have a great week!
Great video. Really appreciate you experience with this motor. Yep, looks like it's going to put those Waterproof connections to the test.
Hi Steve, thank you so much for watching and commenting! It’s amazing how far along waterproof connections have come. I remember back in the 80s and 90s, they would leak all the time on watches, camera housings, etc. Now nothing ever seems to leak. It must be the silicone gaskets we use nowadays.
Goodness... This motor on the RazorLite...full speed... would be incredible. Looking forward to more reviews!
You are right! Can’t wait to put this on the RazorLite, I think it is going to be a blast!!!
Alligators are attracted to the motor hum😆
Lol! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Pretty impressive motor and battery. The biggest problem I can see is hitting rocks and breaking it in shallower streams. The view of the sky behind you with storm clouds was great. Thanks Cliff
Hi 👋 Terry - You are correct. If you are going to be in shallow water, I would definitely remove the Bixpy as it would get hung up, or even battered on rocks
etc…. Basically, if your paddling is going to take you somewhere shallow enough that you would remove the skeg, I would remove the bixpy as well. Hope all
is well, get out there, Summer is about to begin!!!
@KayakCliff you said something about a weed guard, what does it look like and where would i get it thanks for a great video
@certifiedfishingcycling9208 Hi 👋 there - my weed guard came with my Bixpy, I think they normally ship with them. It’s a small little piece you
mount around the propeller housing, very easy!
Great review and subscribed as a result. I’m eager to pick one of these up!
Thanks for watching and commenting Tri Tip! Here are links to my other adventure videos and reviews!
393RL Razorlite Kayak - Slow rivers & flat / open water, high performance:
Sea Eagle website RazorLite page - bit.ly/3Enpq1z
RazorLite Tandem - bit.ly/3CqBUGT
My review of the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/wCpz9gl_8Nc/v-deo.html
Adventure videos in the RazorLite:
Florida Kayaking Withlacoochee River Dunnellon Florida in the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393RL
ua-cam.com/video/A7urz2yIQmQ/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html
Earth Day Caddo Lake - ua-cam.com/video/ceOGrVkOyzU/v-deo.html
Weedon Island Mangrove Trails - ua-cam.com/video/9lNst39pZsk/v-deo.html
Ft Worth Nature Center - ua-cam.com/video/30iakMQHkaI/v-deo.html
Trinity River Elm Fork - ua-cam.com/video/o6LbEkF7Vrc/v-deo.html
Silver Springs Florida - ua-cam.com/video/T8MZjjmxM9Y/v-deo.html
How to fold the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/Dfbp_lm3jGY/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
FastTrack Kayak Rivers & Flatwater:
Sea Eagle website FastTrack page - bit.ly/3ecBQ1V
FastTrack Tandem 465FT - bit.ly/3CkL8EC
My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html
Adventure videos in the FastTrack:
Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater:
bit.ly/3phWOTp
Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W
Adventure videos in the Explorer:
Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html
Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
E-Kayaking with the Bixpy Skeg Motor
ua-cam.com/video/nBaSjGPYoGY/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
PaddleSki Boat / Kayak / SUP - The “Do Everything” boat!
Sea Eagle website PaddleSki page - bit.ly/33PbnFH
My review of the PaddleSki - ua-cam.com/video/9h0BoJi8XjI/v-deo.html
Adventure videos in the PaddleSki:
Chassahowitzka Springs / River - ua-cam.com/video/zpyIiSv8V3U/v-deo.html
Anclote Key Florida - ua-cam.com/video/LBEROBSGbA8/v-deo.html
Weeki Wachee River -
ua-cam.com/video/KWqfnMJwB1U/v-deo.html
Super cool!
Thanks for watching and commenting Max! Safe adventuring out there!
Thanks for another great video . I purchased a Sea Eagle 380x today 😎👍🏻
Hey, you are welcome Keith! Congrats on your new Explorer. It is literally a do everything boat and indestructible!
Here are some of my other videos in the Explorer:
Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater. This is my affiliate link, purchasing through this link supports my channel and these videos, ThankYou! It doesn’t cost you any more money at all, Thank You!
Website page -bit.ly/3phWOTp
Explorer Amazon Store Page - amzn.to/3PQEEpr
Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W
Adventure videos in the Explorer:
Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html
Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
E-Kayaking with the Bixpy Skeg Motor
ua-cam.com/video/nBaSjGPYoGY/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
Hi Cliff, great video. Would this fit onto the Sea Eagle Travel Canoe TC16? Thanks Jim
Great review. Thanks
You are welcome, thank you so much for watching, and commenting!
Thats not far from me. Im in Jacksonville.
Where you are is close to the Central/Eastern time line.
Looks like it performs well and could sure come in handy.👍
Hey 👋 Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Go check the place out it is really cool. I’m definitely going back when the weather is better to
hopefully do some snorkeling and extended exploring!
Hi Cliff, first time viewer and now a subscriber! Great production values.
I’ve only kayaked a few times, done more canoeing. Definitely hoping to get a kayak this summer.
RE the requirement to get a license for a powered boat, maybe WE should start agitating for a Class One e-canoe, like a class one e-bike? Also, I think Canada, or at least Ontario allows trolling motors without any licensing
Great idea, I don’t think they’ll fall for it down here in Texas though. If it’s so much, has a propeller with a wind up, rubber band, you have to put a registration on it. I’m just getting away with it for now, because you can’t even tell there’s one underneath it. Thank you for watching, and commenting!
I hate to break this to you, but I just discovered that Bixpy has an Indiegogo campaign until May 4th for the updated J-2 motor and battery, now called K-1.
I just ordered. New anodized aluminum case which is stronger and dissipates heat better, 2 inches smaller, more powerful and quieter. I paid a little less than the current model. The new K-1 will ship after campaign.
Thanks Wayne. How long until the campaign ends and it ships? Will these be first production models?
Ends May 4, will starting shipping thereafter. This is the first version of the newly designed model. It truly is a J-3, but they did “140 various improvements”, changed the color and called it K-1.
Very interesting, thanks for sharing!
You are correct. The J-2 motor is still an awesome motor and it is well constructed. I have been using my Bixpy J-2 for 2 years now and it is flawless. The K-1 is going to be a great addition to my 350fx and fs126.
That K-1 sounds amazing!
I assume I'd need an adaptor kit, but can i change out skeg motor for rudder motor? J2 motor. Damaging scares me. What is a rough idea draw on the boats...385fta. Can't find it. Thanks. You are so clear!
Thank you so much for watching and commenting, Mikal! I am not aware of a rudder mounted motor mount for inflatables. I’m sure it’s possible to MacGyver some thing though….. have you checked Bixpy‘s website, they have all types of mounts. On the fast track, the draft is very shallow. Probably only 3 inches without the skeg, and 6 inches with the skeg? I am totally guesstimating here. Where the motor mounts are in the skeg adapter on the fast track, it begins to slope upward, which minimizes the exposure of the motor a little. Just make sure that you don’t paddle through super shallow areas. If necessary, get out and remove. I know, sometimes that is easier said than done. Hope this helps.
Cliff, love your videos! I'm curious about the tracking performance-how does the Bixpy motor affect tracking when it's not in use, especially compared to having a Skeg? I also have a 385FT.
Hey there, thank you so much for watching and commenting! I have noticed on all boats that I've put it on (RazorLite / FastTrack / Explorer, the Bixby does not diminish tracking capability when the motor is off. It even feels like the boat is about the same speed, although I'm sure it is a little less, just because the motor is a little bit bigger than the skeg. It performs surprisingly well, better than I thought!
Great videos. Thank you for the content. Which do you recommend for 2 mid 50 novice kayakers, mostly lake and quiet rivers. Looking at the Auquaglide chelan and cirrus for 2 people. What about sea eagle models? Thanks Steve
Hello 👋 Steve - Thanks for watching and commenting! The Aquaglide Chelan model you reference is a great boat! I’m assuming you do want a
tandem boat, not two individual kayaks? I cannot speak specifically to the Aquaglides, because I have never used one, but I can say it would be
similar to the Sea Eagle FastTrack. Sea Eagle would have two FastTracks for tandem paddlers, the longest one would actually hold 3 paddlers
if needed. If you don’t need to store much the 385FT would be perfect, if you do want to transport a lot of gear too or a large pet, the largest
FastTrack would be the one you want. These FastTracks paddle beautifully and are EXTREMELY stable:
FastTrack 385FT bit.ly/3ecBQ1V
FastTrack Fishing Kayak 385FTA - bit.ly/4bAtqxM
My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html
If you want something a little more high performance, very efficient paddling, very stiff with a hard shell kayak feel - I highly recommend the
Sea Eagle RazorLite line of kayaks. This is a narrower kayak than the Aquaglide Chelan at 30’’ wide. The whole boat is made with high pressure
drop stitch material, so the whole boat has a stiffer feel and performs beautifully. They make the RazorLite in Tandem or Solo. I’ll attach the RazorLite
links below, Plus a video of my 83 year old Dad and I paddling the RazorLite Tandem on a adventure.
RazorLite 393RL website page - alnk.to/gKPBreg
RazorLite 473RL Tandem website page - bit.ly/3CqBUGT
My review of the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/wCpz9gl_8Nc/v-deo.html
Adventure videos in the RazorLite:
Suwannee River Paddling Three Days With My Dad
ua-cam.com/video/m3eifjl1NZ8/v-deo.html
Florida Kayaking Withlacoochee River Dunnellon Florida in the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393RL
ua-cam.com/video/A7urz2yIQmQ/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html
Earth Day Caddo Lake - ua-cam.com/video/ceOGrVkOyzU/v-deo.html
Weedon Island Mangrove Trails - ua-cam.com/video/9lNst39pZsk/v-deo.html
Ft Worth Nature Center - ua-cam.com/video/30iakMQHkaI/v-deo.html
Trinity River Elm Fork - ua-cam.com/video/o6LbEkF7Vrc/v-deo.html
Silver Springs Florida - ua-cam.com/video/T8MZjjmxM9Y/v-deo.html
E Kayaking Sea Eagle RazorLite & Bixpy Skeg Motor
ua-cam.com/video/GErOj-C4yGk/v-deo.html
How to fold the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/Dfbp_lm3jGY/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
Bottom line, you can not beat Sea Eagle’s quality and customer service! They have a very long warranty on their boats too! I think 3 years!
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Will this go on a K2 Explorer? Thank you for the video!
Is the K2 explorer a kayak? If it has a standard Skeg receiver like most all inflatables underneath, it will fit.
@@KayakCliff yes it is an inflatable Intex Inflatable K2 Explorer two person Kayak. It just look a little different I wasn’t sure.
@OverTheHillAdventures Check with the Bixpy people, they will be able to tell you which mount works with your boat.
Great video!
Thanks Greg!!! Safe adventuring out there!
I need to try e-kayaking. Great video!
Thank you so much for watching YRP Audit! Have a great week!
@kayakcliff, how would you say your inflatable kayaks perform with the Bixby motor off? Does it provide enough skeg-like performance when not powered on to help tracking and do you notice much drag?
Hey 👋 there! Great question! I’ve used the Bixpy on my RazorLite, FastTrack and Explorers. When I turn off the Bixpy and just paddle, all three
boats tend to still track well. I notice a little bit of extra drag, but it’s not overly so and still enjoyable. Hope this helps! Safe adventuring out
there!
Best Inflatable Kayaks & Boats
kayakcliff.com/favorite-inflatables
Hey Cliff, love the Bixspy, however, your link goes to an updated page from Sea Eagle and the one you have is no longer available, and perhaps been replaced with the K-1. We have the FastTrac 385, and not sure the K1 would fit ours, as I don’t see it listed or see any skeg adapter to make it fit. Do you have any more info on the newer versions?
Hi there, gypsyrider! If you buy the Bixpy K1 through Sea Eagle. It will fit no problem. Even if you buy from the manufacturer, you just wanna make sure it is outfitted for an inflatable skeg assembly, which is pretty universal, I think.
@@KayakCliff great. Thank you
I like you. Refreshing presentation.
Thanks Michael!
I would love to see that Bixby. On the razorback.
Hi 👋 Rich - oh, it is definitely coming! I will be using it on all of the sea eagle kayaks that I have. Stay tuned…
Will the Bixby fit on sea eagle 385fta skeg? I cant find any info. All skegs arnt
made equally. Thanks very much. Bixby can be attached to back of the boat and kick up in case of obstruction.
Hi Michael! Yes, the Bixpy will absolutely fit the FastTrack angler 385FTA. All the skeg mounts / receivers are the same on all Sea Eagle boats and paddle boards, even though the skegs may change in design, they all will slide into the Skeg receiver underneath the boat. I'm not aware of a way to attach to the back of the boat so it will kick up if you hit an obstruction. Bixpy's site has a bunch of mounting options, maybe they will have something you can use to do that. I have found that the torpedo shaped pointed nose of the bixpy does a great job deflecting off stumps when I bump them. If you hit one just right and got stuck, you could reverse your way out of it. I love the simplicity of the skeg mounting with the bixpy. Let me know if you have any other questions!
FastTrack Kayak Rivers & Flatwater:
Sea Eagle website FastTrack page, this is my affiliate link, purchasing through this link supports my channel and these videos, ThankYou! It doesn’t cost you any more money at all, Thank You! -
FastTrack 385FT bit.ly/3ecBQ1V
FastTrack 465FT Website page - bit.ly/3CkL8EC
FastTrack Amazon store page - amzn.to/3JXFJbn
My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html
Adventure videos in the FastTrack:
Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
I wanted to install a 12 volts Trolling motor in my kayak but have not done that because I understand that once you install a motor in your kayak in Florida you have to register and get an FL number.
Hi Mindful kayaker - Yes, to remain legal, in most states that I’m aware of, you will definitely need to register your kayak if any type of motor is mounted
to it. Some I have talked to have made the observation that’s it is difficult to tell that a motor is mounted when you are using the Bixpy, unless you are going abnormally fast, then you will stick out. Not sure I would follow that philosophy, but they do have a point.
I'm very interested in these. Bet I'd need a boat license tho.
I don’t have mine registered as I switch it between 3-4 different kayaks all the time. No way in you know what, that I’m registering 4 boats that use
the motor. Honestly, with this motor mounted below the boat, it is invisible and you are very unlikely of ever having it discovered.
Hey Cliff, when you add one of these motors to your kayak, do you then have to register it when you’re in public waters in Texas or any other states? I know that unnoted kayaks and canoes and paddle boards do not need to be registered. But according to the regulations once you add a motor, they need to be registered. So I was just curious what your take on that is. Thanks for your excellent content
Yes, by law when you add any form of propulsion, that is not human to a kayak, you need to register it with your local state officials. That being said, I have about 10 inflatables that this motor operates on. I am NOT registering 10 separate inflatables. When you are operating this motor, it is virtually invisible.......🫥 you should do what you feel comfortable with.
@@KayakCliff thanks for your reply. Makes sense
Enjoyed your video as always! Been trying to decide between the Bixpy versus an electric trolling motor for my Sea Eagle 385 Fast Track for which I have the motor mount. The Bixpy is small and light, but expensive at $1200. You can pick up a trolling motor for around $150 and spend as little as $125 or so for a deep cycle battery and another $100 for a battery box. With the trolling motor you can pivot it up easily out of the water in shallow or weedy situations. What are your thoughts on these two different solutions? I love the Bixpy concept but my wallet says I can accomplish the same results with the trolling motor for far less! Anxious to hear your reply!
Hi 👋 Gil - You make some great points! To me the big advantage with the Bixby is it is mounted smack dab in the center of the kayak and is is oriented
perfectly straight forwards. You can literally paddle as you normally paddle your kayak without any different feel to the paddling experience, you are just
going faster. With a trolling motor mounted off to the side, the kayak leans a little to the side and with the back stroke of your paddle, can you get full extension
with the paddle with the motor potentially in the way? Have you noticed your paddling having to be different, while your trolling motor is in operation? As
always, thanks so much for watching and commenting with thought provoking ideas. . . . 👍
Hi Cliff! Thanks for your response! As of yet I do not have a motor for my FastTrack, thus the quandry. You make an excellent point on the center mounted position of the Bixpy in making it easier to keep the kayak going straight. Of course with the trolling motor you can easily turn the tiller handle a little bit one way or the other to keep the kayak heading in the right direction without the need for using a kayak paddle at all. At least that is what I am imagining, but having never had either motor I do not know for sure.
Hi Gil - I think it just boils down to . . . . Do you want to be able to paddle as you normally paddle, just with faster speed? Or, do you want to tiller operate
the FastTrack as you would a typical mounted motor? With the Bixby, you’ll be able to paddle just like you always do, I don’t believe it will work well
paddling normally with a tiller mounted trolling motor, if paddling is what you want to do. Also the weight of a lead acid trolling motor batter is around
65 lbs., which is awkward, compared to the Bixpy motor and battery coming in at under 10lbs. total.
@@KayakCliff You can solve the battery weight by getting a lithium battery instead. We use our PS more often than our explorer and found that a great set up for us is to put two 100AH lithium batteries with a trolling motor and that give us the ability to paddle as we choose or switch to motor when we just want to cover the distance. My husband loves to paddle and I love to take nature photos so we generally use both the paddles and trolling motor each trip. Since we got this set up we generally cover 20 miles a day. We have gone further and believe that if we wanted to we could cover 33 to 34 miles just on the motor in addition to whatever amount we have paddled that day. All together I have around 750 in the batteries, boxes, and motor. It works well on the explorer as well but there is only room to take one battery which cuts our range down but still is pretty good.
Hi 👋 Kathy - Two 100Ah lithium batteries, that’s awesome. I LOVE the lithium batteries, they are so light at 27lbs. compared to 65 lbs. Great story, thanks
for sharing. Safe adventuring out there for you and your husband!
Great video Cliff 💪... Wonder if you could attach this to an eddyline sitka kayak ? It would fly !
Theoretically, you could buy a plastic skeg base from Sea Eagle and adhere it to the bottom of a hard shell kayak with 3M VHB tape assuming there is not a hard chine down the center of the kayak. You would want to mount it to a flat section of the kayak, then you could slide the Bixby in. I might try it out in the future
as a test!
@@KayakCliff WOW💡 Brilliant idea Cliff.... BIXBY should be thanking you big time ❗ HOPE you do it... Would think if you got in touch with Bixby they might also throw some additional tech advice behind that great idea too... Bixby are missing a huge market of people who already have kayaks of all stripes that NEED a fix like the one you came up with 💪🌟
Hey LJ - Check out Bixpy’s website as well, I believe they have rudder mounts, which would work well too. They may also have a tested solution for mounting
to the bottom of a hard shell hull as well.
@@KayakCliff Yes Sir ! Will do... And Thanks again as always... 🙏
I can't find clear answer. If i paddle while running skeg j2, will i increase the thrust and speed, or reduce at least draw less on battery? Just seems logical that paddle and motor combined provide more thrust.
Hi there, Michael! Great question! If you paddle, while the Bixpy is running, you increase thrust, and therefore your speed. I actually recommend that you paddle and use the Bixpy as you get a good workout, you just cover more ground. You will not reduce the draw on the battery as the draw is constant based on whatever speed you are running at - one through 12 speeds. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Take a look at "walk through of bixby k-1 " by bixpy. Great and comprehensive
I will check it out, I have heard great things about the K-1. The same speed as the J2, just lighter and quieter from what I hear.
Wow, what a nice addition to the Sea Eagle Explorer. One thing that did come to mind is whether the Sea Eagle would need a state registration since it would technically be a “powered” boat?
I have a bixpy on a Razorlight in Maryland. Technically it's a must register combo. I never bothered with registering, it's very well hidden and you paddle with it looking like any other kayak on the water.
Hey, thanks for watching and commenting! Yes, absolutely, in most states, once you power a boat in any way, you will need registration numbers on
your hull. Even if it is a rubber band and propeller all wound up! Just make sure you are not paddling noticeably too fast, when there is a warden or
water cop around. . . . 😏
I'd find it hard to believe anyone would notice lol. I use a traditional trolling motor with mine in Illinois and no one has ever bothered me about it
👍
Is the remote waterproof? Does it float? This would be a funtastic addition to our FastTrack 385!
Yes, the remote does float, so does the battery. They really though this one out!
Sea Eagle - best inflatable kayaks & the Bixpy motor
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
393RL Razorlite Kayak - Slow rivers & flat / open water, high performance:
Sea Eagle website RazorLite page - bit.ly/3Enpq1z
RazorLite Tandem - bit.ly/3CqBUGT
My review of the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/wCpz9gl_8Nc/v-deo.html
Adventure videos in the RazorLite:
Florida Kayaking Withlacoochee River Dunnellon Florida in the Sea Eagle RazorLite 393RL
ua-cam.com/video/A7urz2yIQmQ/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html
Earth Day Caddo Lake - ua-cam.com/video/ceOGrVkOyzU/v-deo.html
Weedon Island Mangrove Trails - ua-cam.com/video/9lNst39pZsk/v-deo.html
Ft Worth Nature Center - ua-cam.com/video/30iakMQHkaI/v-deo.html
Trinity River Elm Fork - ua-cam.com/video/o6LbEkF7Vrc/v-deo.html
Silver Springs Florida - ua-cam.com/video/T8MZjjmxM9Y/v-deo.html
How to fold the RazorLite - ua-cam.com/video/Dfbp_lm3jGY/v-deo.html
FastTrack Kayak Rivers & Flatwater:
Sea Eagle website FastTrack page - bit.ly/3ecBQ1V
FastTrack Tandem 465FT - bit.ly/3CkL8EC
My review of the FastTrack - ua-cam.com/video/Nw5ZhcsM8vg/v-deo.html
Paddling & Diving sunken airplane - ua-cam.com/video/gFZ9gjnO1r8/v-deo.html
Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater:
bit.ly/3phWOTp
Adventure videos in the Explorer:
Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html
Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W
Hey Cliff, have you tested this on the Fasttrack? I noticed that the skeg assembly on the Fasttrack is a lot further back and I am worried about whether the motor will be fully submersed when mounted and the boat is in the water.
Hi Dino, I think the skeg position is in the same place as it is on the Explorer 380X. I found it performed wonderfully on the Explorer and I think it will
be the same on the FastTrack. I will be doing some videos this Summer in the RazorLite and the FastTracks, so stay tuned . . .
@@KayakCliff That's great to hear. You're right it looks like both boats have a similar skeg assembly position. Interestingly enough Bixpy has a video on their youtube channel with the J2 motor mounted on a FastTrack but they installed an additional skeg assembly for it. Maybe for the ability to run it with the skeg in place too? I know the FastTrack is near impossible to paddle forward without the skeg in place. I run it backwards any time I need to run it without the skeg and that works much better. Looking forward to your video of the Bixpy on the FastTrack and your comments!
I need to try your idea of running it backwards without a skeg. Whenever I have to. Good idea!
Geat video. The Bixpy J-2 looks very interesting. Just curious, what shoes are you wearing in this video. They look very comfy :-)
Hey 👋 T Sarge - Thanks for watching and commenting! Here are the Keen water shoes that I have worn for years. This particular pair is going on
it’s 3rd season now. I really like the ergonomic footbed that Keen integrates into their saddles. Backcountry is a great place to outfit your adventures!
Keen Uneek Cord Sandles
www.backcountry.com/keen-uneek-sandal-mens
Thanks for the recommendation on the Keens. Mine just arrived and they are great.
That is awesome! I’m really impressed at how durable they are and how long they have lasted for me.
@Kayak Cliff your tips have really been helpful. Our FastTrack 465 just arrived. Very impressive. Now all I need is some decent weather to get it wet. Mothernature is confused again here in Michigan.
These look great unfortunately in the UK we gave to have a licence to paddle on most rivers its only £50 a year, but the moment you add any motor the licence fee becomes much more expensive.
That’s a sad shame. Well, these motors are practically invisible……..
Hi Cliff. I just wanted to ask you what motor angle trim setting you found optimal on your 437ps?
Hi Mike, thank you for watching, and asking! On the PaddleSki, I did not really mess with the angle, much other than down or up when in shallow water. I just think straight down vertical is probably the best. Maybe one notch up……
@@KayakCliff I appreciate the reply, thanks! Love your videos
Is the 380x your favorite from the sea eagle line ?
Hi 👋 Nick! I really do like the 380X as an all around boat. I do paddle the RazorLite the most, because I like the speed and ground I can cover with it. The Explorer is great for white water, exploring shallow rivers with current, or just lazy paddling around your favorite body of water. I really like how you can stand up in the Explorer and also use a paddle board paddle with it. What are you looking for in a kayak? What do you want to use it for? Perhaps with your feedback, I can direct you to the right kayak for your needs. I have 7 Sea Eagle kayaks. All are wonderfull boats and all do different things really well. The key thing is to make sure you get the boat that most closely fits your needs and wants.
Hi cliff. It’s looking like I’m going to order the sea eagle explorer within the week partly due to UA-cam videos such as yours. What do you think of the carbon paddle upgrade? Would you recommend the ab50 over ab40 paddles? That’s my last thing to worry about before I order. Thank you!
Hi 👋 Kdogg788 - thanks for asking and watching! I guess it comes down to whether you want to break it down into four pieces or not. For travel, breaking down into four pieces is great! You save half a pound going down to the AB50. It is a great paddle, and if you are going to be paddling long distances over a long time, the carbonfiber, half pound lighter upgrade is worthwhile. I do have both paddles, and I do use both paddles. They both are great! For this kayak, you have to have an 8 foot paddle due to the width of the boat. Bottom line, if you plan on paddling longer distances, the lighter panel is easier on the body.
If you don’t mind, click on my affiliate link below when you do order. This gets me a little bit back to support this UA-cam channel and future videos and adventures :-) it doesn’t cost you anything extra. Safe adventuring out there, and God bless!
Explorer Kayak - River & Whitewater:
bit.ly/3phWOTp
Explorer fishing kayaks - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W
Adventure videos in the Explorer:
Nantahala Epic Whitewater Paddle: ua-cam.com/video/4CsL96rl2zg/v-deo.html
Texas Kayaking Brazos River: ua-cam.com/video/lU3xlxh35jI/v-deo.html
Kayak Camping 20 miles on the Brazos
ua-cam.com/video/yOea6TfzsHw/v-deo.html
E-Kayaking with the Bixpy Skeg Motor
ua-cam.com/video/nBaSjGPYoGY/v-deo.html
Bixpy® J-2 Electric Outboard Motor Kit with Slide-n-Lock Skeg Adapter
bit.ly/3RKGd7e
@@KayakCliff Thank you for helping me out. I think I’ll end up going for the carbon. It’s not that much more and I’ll probably regret not upgrading later. I’ll remember the links when I go to buy it.
Will you be doing any white water?
@@KayakCliff At least at the start, no, but the explorer just has the most going for it and is more versatile, so if I ever feel more comfortable about doing it, I will have that option.
@@KayakCliff I ordered the kayak today using your link. Hopefully it worked. Went for the 380x Pro Carbon.
I hope I can get this for 1000 shipped at some point. The shipping for this is over 100 bucks on the sea eagle site.
$100??? Where do you live?
Have you registered your Sea Eagles Cliff?
In most states (if not all), they require the boat to be registered to use any kind of motor. Even a trolling motor. In some states you all have to take a boater's course to use any kind of motor.
Typically once your registered in your home state, you can use it in most other states but always check online as each state has their own requirements.
I made a clip on set of plate I laminate with the numbers & registration stickers on them, and use a shoe string to tie them to the pontoons of the boat.
Only the PaddleSki with the Honda
How is the tracking
Hi 👋 there, Ray - The Explorer tracks nicely with the Bixpy motor on! 👍
Explorer Kayak - Website page -bit.ly/3phWOTp
Explorer fishing kayak - bit.ly/3ZLXL5W
My review of the Explorer - ua-cam.com/video/YmOezRl8Dis/v-deo.htmlsi=9eLQqiGKMSGgl0Ny
I have the 465 fast track..any idea how it tracks
@raygibson9719 I have never been in the 465 fast track, but I have never heard anything back from anybody that has one, that the tracking is not good. I think it will track just fine! I assume you have not been out in it before? Great boat for multiple people!
Can razorlite be use in wavy seas?
Absolutely. I would not launch from a beach where large waves (surf) is coming in and breaking over the bow of my kayak, but out in open water with 1-2’ rolling seas, I am very
comfortable in the RazorLite.
@@KayakCliff hmm sorry, what do you mean on 1-2' rolling seas?
Just out in open water with 1-2’ seas
@@KayakCliff So it means that the sea eagle razor lite is Very good in rolling and wavy water in any sea?
If you are a good paddler and if you are comfortable in a 28’’ wide kayak that has less stability compared to wide kayaks, you will be fine in 1-2’ open
water seas.
Hello, how fast sea eagle razorlite gan go?
With a Bixby? Not sure yet, I’m getting ready to do a video on that real soon. Just paddling, you can cruise at about 3 to 3.5 mph and the maximum speed about 5 1/2 mph. I would imagine with a Bixpy and paddling, you cruise at about 5 to 5 1/2 mph and maximum of probably about 8 to 8 1/2 mph. Stay tuned, I will let you know once I do the video.
@@KayakCliff On hard shell kayak what is the fastest top speed record you have?
@@KayakCliff in paddling 5 1/2mph on raxorlite, is it sprinting speed?
That would be sprinting speed. Cruising speed is just your average speed which would be about 3 mph.
Fastest sprinting speed for me in a hard shell touring kayak was about 5 1/2 - 5.75 mph.
Remote should be attached to a person, not to the boat. Unless there is a separate killswitch implementation.
Remote control is not the Killswitch. There is a separate cord that you can attach to your pfd and it runs via a cord back to the battery, where a magnet attaches to the battery and comes off if the cord is yanked in an emergency. Nifty and effective set up!
Electric trolling motors are not new. Why should someone pay $1500 for a Bixpy?
It's not really a trolling motor in the classic sense like the tiller operated / transom mounted ones that have been out for decades. The Bixby mounts underwater in line with the center of hull of the boat. It's really a paddling assist motor. It allows you to paddle like you would normally paddle a kayak, but at higher speeds without the hassle of having to operate a tiller. You just steer with your paddling stroke like you would steer when you're paddling anyway.