ShuttleSlide Trolling Motor Mount Review

Discover the ShuttleSlide trolling motor mount: a durable, retractable solution for boats. Read our in-depth review, specs, and user insights.

Trolling motors are essential for anglers and boaters, offering precise control and maneuverability. However, mounting these motors securely while avoiding bow overhang can be challenging, especially on boats with limited deck space or complex bow configurations. The ShuttleSlide trolling motor mount has emerged as a popular solution, praised for its retractable design, durability, and ease of use. This comprehensive review explores the ShuttleSlide mount, its features, user experiences, and why it stands out compared to traditional quick-release brackets. We’ll also cover specifications, pricing, and practical insights for boaters considering this mount for their trolling motors, such as the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova or Rhodan GPS anchors.

Why Choose a Retractable Trolling Motor Mount?

Trolling motors, especially high-thrust models like the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova 112 lbs. with a 72-inch shaft, often extend beyond the boat’s rub rail, creating an overhang that risks damage during docking or trailering. Traditional quick-release brackets, like Minn Kota’s RTA-17 or MKA-21, allow easy motor removal but don’t address overhang or provide retraction flexibility. Retractable mounts, like the ShuttleSlide, solve this by allowing the motor to slide back, keeping it inside the rub rail when stowed. This protects the motor, improves safety, and maximizes deck space.

The ShuttleSlide’s appeal lies in its ability to retract the motor without compromising stability. Unlike fixed mounts, it offers adjustable positioning, which is critical for boats with bow features like pop-up cleats, windlasses, or anchor lockers. Its lifetime warranty and customizable options further enhance its value, making it a compelling choice for both offshore and inshore boaters.

ShuttleSlide Mount Models and Specifications

ShuttleSlide offers several models tailored to different trolling motors and boat configurations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the primary models, their specifications, and compatibility.

Key Models

SS-12-15

The ShuttleSlide SS-12-15 is a compact and efficient mounting solution designed for smaller trolling motors. With a retraction distance of 12 inches and compatibility for motors up to 80 lbs. thrust, it offers smooth and secure stowing for shafts up to 64 inches long. Its bolt-through-deck installation ensures stability, making it ideal for boats with accessible deck space near the rub rail.

Specifications Table:

SS-7-HD (Heavy Duty)

The ShuttleSlide SS-7-HD (Heavy Duty) is a durable and adaptable motor slide mount designed for medium-sized motors. Offering a 7-inch retraction distance, it’s compatible with long-shaft motors and allows flexible bolt configurations for secure and efficient installation.

Specifications Table:

SS-9-HD (Heavy Duty)

The ShuttleSlide SS-9-HD is a robust and reliable heavy-duty retractable mount designed for trolling motors. Engineered for boats requiring full motor retraction, it accommodates up to 60-inch shafts (72-inch with UHD). Its 9-inch retraction pulls the motor and skeg fully inside the rub rail, making it a top choice for serious anglers and boating enthusiasts.

Specifications Table:

SS-9-UHD (Ultra Heavy Duty)

The ShuttleSlide SS-9-UHD is a robust and highly customizable retractable mount designed for ultra heavy-duty marine applications. Ideal for large offshore boats or vessels with intricate bow setups, it supports longer shaft motors and offers a retraction distance that ensures optimal stowage and deployment flexibility.

Specifications:

SS-7.5R (Rotating Mount)

The ShuttleSlide SS-7.5R (Rotating Mount) is a heavy-duty, precision-engineered mounting system designed for optimal angular flexibility on boats. With full 360-degree rotation and secure locking at key angles, it supports trolling motors with thrust up to 120 lbs and shaft lengths up to 108 inches. Ideal for anglers who need versatility along the gunwale, it offers a compact 7.625-inch footprint and rugged performance.

Specifications Table:

Compatibility

ShuttleSlide mounts are compatible with major trolling motor brands, including:

• Minn Kota: Ulterra, Terrova, Powerdrive, Riptide series, Quest series (with QST-1 expander plate).
• Rhodan: HD GPS anchors.
• MotorGuide: Xi5, Xi3.
• Garmin: Force Kraken.
• Power-Pole: Move PV.
• Others: Haswing, Water Snake, and models with matching bolt patterns.

Material and Build

All ShuttleSlide mounts are CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum, with the SS-7.5R featuring Type III Hard Coat Anodizing for superior corrosion resistance. The mounts use 3/8-inch 316 stainless steel hardware, ensuring durability in saltwater environments. The retractable mounts include a hands-free brake system to prevent unintended sliding, with adjustable tension for user preference.

Pricing Table

*Requires all 6 bolts for longer shafts.

Installation Process

Installing a ShuttleSlide mount requires careful planning to ensure proper bolt placement and deck compatibility. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on user experiences and manufacturer instructions:

1. Assess Deck Space: Measure the distance from the rub rail to the first feasible bolt hole. For SS-9-HD, this should be within 3.75 inches; for SS-9-UHD, up to 6.5 inches.
2. Choose Bolt Configuration: Use all 6 bolts for maximum stability, especially for motors with shafts over 72 inches. If only 4 bolts are possible, ensure flush bolts are used near the rail.
3. Mount the Base Rail: Secure the base rail to the deck using 3/8-inch 316 stainless steel bolts, fender washers, and nylock nuts. Some users add a backing plate for extra support.
4. Attach the Trolling Motor: Mount the trolling motor directly to the ShuttleSlide or use a quick-release bracket (e.g., RTA-17) with an adapter plate like BMAP-54.
5. Adjust Brake Tension: Tighten the brake screws to set the desired sliding resistance. For rough seas, increase tension; for calm waters, a lighter grip may suffice.
6. Test Retraction: Slide the motor to ensure smooth operation and verify it retracts fully inside the rub rail.

Installation Challenges

• Bow Obstructions: Pop-up cleats, windlasses, or anchor lockers may require custom retraction lengths or angled mounting, as seen in a Henry O 170 installation.
• Bow Light Compliance: Ensure the mount doesn’t obstruct navigation lights, which may require side-mounted lights or a raised light post.
• Tight Sliding: Some users report needing to “cinch down” the brake screws for trailering, which can make deployment harder in rough conditions. Adjusting the brake screws carefully resolves this.

User Experiences and Reviews

Boaters have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about ShuttleSlide mounts, highlighting their durability, functionality, and customer service. Below are key insights from users on forums like The Hull Truth (THT):

• Fisherprice (Tidewater 230 CC): Installed an SS-9-UHD for a Minn Kota Riptide Terrova 112 lbs. with a 72-inch shaft. Described it as “awesome” and “perfect,” noting seamless retraction and protection from docking damage.
• triumphrick (KeyWest 268): Used an SS-9-HD for a Rhodan with an 84-inch shaft. Praised the mount’s six-bolt security and retraction, which minimized overhang despite a windlass and anchor locker. The quick-release pin made motor removal easy for theft prevention.
• moymurfs (Terrova User): Switched from a quick-release mount to an SS-9-HD, appreciating the motor’s retraction out of the “kill zone” during docking. Noted the need for a more positive lock for trailering but found brake adjustments effective.
• Striperk9 (Henry O 170): Installed an SS-9-HD for a Minn Kota Terrova 80 lbs. with a 60-inch shaft. The angled installation fit a small mounting area, though navigation light adjustments were needed.
• Boardfeet (Pioneer 202 Sportfish): Valued the fore-and-aft movement of the SS-9-HD, which protected the motor during docking. Installation by a trusted technician added confidence.
• Aldux (Sea Hunt): Enjoyed the mount’s performance and recommended waiting for end-of-summer sales for discounts.

Common Praise

• Retraction: Users consistently praise the ability to retract motors fully inside the rub rail, reducing damage risk.
• Durability: The lifetime warranty and robust aluminum construction instill confidence in saltwater environments.
• Customer Service: ShuttleSlide’s responsive support, including technician consultations and quick email replies, is a standout feature.
• Customization: Options for custom retraction lengths (up to 44 inches) and adapter plates for existing deck holes cater to diverse boats.

Criticisms

• Sliding Tension: Some users, like moymurfs, found the brake system requires fine-tuning to balance easy sliding with secure trailering.
• Price: At $249.99 for the SS-9-HD, it’s pricier than basic quick-release brackets ($40–$100), though users justify the cost with its functionality.
• Navigation Light Issues: Improper placement can obstruct bow lights, requiring additional modifications.

Comparison with Alternatives

To understand ShuttleSlide’s value, let’s compare it with two alternatives: the Rhodan puck system and the SeaSwivel mount.

Rhodan Puck System

The Rhodan Puck System is a minimalist, quick-release mounting solution designed for small retractions of trolling motors. With two pucks mounted 18 inches apart, it allows for manual repositioning of the motor without drilling new deck holes.

Specifications Table:

SeaSwivel Mount

The SeaSwivel Mount is a premium, heavy-duty mounting solution designed for both saltwater and freshwater environments. Built with durability and adjustability in mind, it offers stable positioning but comes at a significantly higher price point.

Specifications Table:

Why ShuttleSlide Stands Out

ShuttleSlide offers a balance of affordability, retraction, and durability. Unlike the Rhodan puck, it provides smooth sliding and customizable lengths. Compared to SeaSwivel, it’s more budget-friendly while offering comparable strength and a lifetime warranty. Its narrow footprint and adapter plates also minimize deck modifications, a key advantage for boats with existing mounts.

Practical Applications

ShuttleSlide mounts are ideal for various boating scenarios:

• Offshore Fishing: The SS-9-UHD and SS-7.5R handle high-thrust, long-shaft motors (e.g., Minn Kota Quest, Garmin Kraken) on large vessels, ensuring stability in rough seas.
• Inshore Angling: The SS-9-HD suits smaller boats like the Henry O 170, retracting motors to avoid docking hazards.
• Complex Bow Layouts: Custom retraction lengths and rotating mounts accommodate windlasses, cleats, or lockers, as seen on triumphrick’s KeyWest 268.
• Theft Prevention: The quick-release mechanism allows easy motor removal, as noted by triumphrick for marina storage.

Chart: Decision Tree for Choosing a ShuttleSlide Model

This chart helps boaters select the appropriate ShuttleSlide model based on shaft length, bolt placement, and rotation needs.

Tips for Maximizing ShuttleSlide Performance

1. Consult ShuttleSlide Support: Email support@shuttleslide.com or call 321-345-3315 for technician advice on model selection and installation.
2. Use a Backing Plate: For heavy motors, add an aluminum backing plate to distribute weight, as triumphrick did.
3. Check Navigation Lights: Ensure compliance with Coast Guard regulations by adjusting light placement if the mount obstructs the bow light.
4. Seasonal Discounts: As Aldux noted, look for sales in late summer or fall to save on purchases.
5. Fine-Tune Brakes: Adjust brake screws for optimal sliding resistance, especially for trailering or rough conditions.

User Reviews: ShuttleSlide Trolling Motor Mount

Pros

1. Effective Retraction: Users like Fisherprice and triumphrick praise the SS-9-HD and SS-9-UHD for retracting motors fully inside the rub rail, reducing overhang and protecting against docking damage.
2. Durable Construction: The CNC-machined 6061-T6 aluminum and Type III Hard Coat Anodizing (SS-7.5R) ensure saltwater durability, backed by a lifetime warranty, as noted by multiple users.
3. Customizable Options: Striperk9 and others highlight the availability of custom retraction lengths (up to 44 inches) and adapter plates, accommodating complex bow layouts like windlasses or cleats.
4. Responsive Customer Service: ShuttleSlide’s quick email responses and technician support, as experienced by Striperk9, make model selection and installation straightforward.
5. Versatile Compatibility: Boardfeet and others confirm compatibility with major brands like Minn Kota, Rhodan, and MotorGuide, with no need for additional quick-release brackets in most cases.

Cons

1. Sliding Tension Adjustment: Moymurfs noted the brake system requires careful tuning; too tight makes deployment difficult, while too loose risks sliding during trailering.
2. Higher Cost: At $249.99 for the SS-9-HD and $849.99 for the SS-7.5R, it’s pricier than alternatives like the Rhodan puck ($40), as alweld92 pointed out.
3. Navigation Light Obstruction: Mbb flagged that improper placement can block bow lights, requiring additional modifications like side-mounted lights, as Striperk9 planned.
4. Installation Complexity: Triumphrick mentioned challenges fitting the mount around bow features like windlasses, requiring precise bolt placement and sometimes a backing plate.
5. Backorder Delays: The SS-7.5R’s 4–6 week delivery time, as noted in the product description, may frustrate users needing immediate installation.

These points capture the core strengths and drawbacks reported by users, balancing functionality with practical considerations. For further details, visit www.shuttleslide.com or contact 321-345-3315.

Conclusion

The ShuttleSlide trolling motor mount is a robust, versatile solution for boaters seeking to eliminate bow overhang and protect their trolling motors. With models like the SS-9-HD and SS-7.5R, it caters to a wide range of boats and motors, from inshore skiffs to offshore vessels. Its retractable design, lifetime warranty, and excellent customer service make it a top choice over traditional quick-release brackets or pricier alternatives like SeaSwivel. While minor adjustments may be needed for sliding tension or navigation lights, user reviews confirm its reliability and performance. For boaters rigging a new vessel or upgrading an existing setup, the ShuttleSlide is a worthwhile investment to enhance safety, functionality, and peace of mind on the water.

For more details or to purchase, visit www.shuttleslide.com or contact ShuttleSlide at 321-345-3315.

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