Choosing the right boat kicker motor mount can improve control, balance, and maneuverability for small to mid-size craft. These brackets are designed to support 7.5–20 HP 2-stroke outboard motors, with some models accommodating up to 25 HP. This guide highlights five strong options, explaining who each is best for, why it was selected, and any limitations to consider. The focus is on corrosion resistance, mounting stability, and adjustable height for optimal trolling and balance. Use the quick comparison table below to decide at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Notable Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket | Owners needing stainless steel durability | 304 stainless steel frame with plastic base for quick mounting | Manual lift required |
| Marinebaby Marine Aluminum Motor Bracket | Lightweight, portable setups | Heavy-duty aluminum with 5-position height lock | Not ideal for higher HP beyond 20 |
| Vinland Marine Aluminum Bracket | Jon boats, bass trackers, canoes | Spring-loaded, 5 vertical positions, anodized aluminum | Designed for 7.5–20 HP |
| FUTURUP Aluminum Bracket | Broad stability with easy retracting | Aluminum build, spring-loaded 4-position height, wide track | Base plastic; check weight limits |
| YaeMarine 2 Stroke Bracket | 2-stroke favorites needing robust build | All-stainless stamped construction; up to 110 lbs | Not recommended for 4-stroke motors |
Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker
The Haida bracket is built for durability with a 304 stainless steel frame and a plastic base. It supports up to 20 HP, making it suitable for small sailboats, skiffs, and fishing craft that require a robust kicker solution. The mounting footprint is 4-7/16″ by 5-11/16″ with a roller measuring 8-1/4″ by 10-3/8″. This model is best for boaters who value corrosion resistance and a sturdy, long-lasting bracket in marine environments. A potential limitation is that lifting to raise or lower the motor is manual, not assisted.
- Best for: Boat owners needing stainless steel durability and moderate HP towing of up to 20 HP.
- Why selected: Strong construction, corrosion resistance, and clear mounting specs.
- Caution: Manual lifting required can be more effort on larger engines.
Marinebaby Boat Outboard Motor Bracket
Marinebaby offers a heavy-duty aluminum bracket designed for 2-stroke engines from 7.5 to 20 HP. It features stainless steel springs for counter-balancing, a solid polypropylene mounting board, and a five-position height adjustment range from 195mm to 320mm. This makes it well-suited for boats needing reliable balance with moderate engine sizes. A limitation is that aluminum construction is sensitive to impact dents, so careful handling in rocky launches is advised.
- Best for: Small to mid-size boats needing quick height adjustment with strong aluminum support.
- Why selected: Durable construction and thoughtful balance features.
- Caution: Aluminum can dent with rough handling; inspect mounting area after trips.
Mojiate 2 Stroke 7.5–20HP Bracket
The Mojiate 2 Stroke bracket is designed for 7.5–20 HP, with a heavy-duty aluminum frame and a plastic mounting plate. It features a reinforced welded frame and a five-position adjustable height, providing flexible motor positioning for better balance on smaller boats or kayaks. The model notes not to use with 4-stroke motors, so buyers should confirm engine type before purchase. Weight capacity aligns with typical 20 HP outboards.
- Best for: Boaters using 2-stroke engines up to 20 HP who want a strong, adjustable bracket.
- Why selected: Solid construction and practical height adjustments.
- Caution: Not recommended for 4-stroke motors; verify engine type before mounting.
Vinland Marine Aluminum Bracket
Vinland Marine’s aluminum kicker bracket is designed for 7.5–20 HP outboards and features a black PP base, anodized aluminum construction, and a spring-loaded, five-position vertical adjustment. It’s positioned as a versatile option for jon boats, bass trackers, or canoes that require a robust yet light mounting solution with easy motor positioning. A noted consideration is that it’s best for smaller craft rather than larger, heavier boats.
- Best for: Jon boats, bass trackers, or canoes needing a compact, tall-kick support.
- Why selected: Anodized aluminum with a durable plastic base provides reliable performance.
- Caution: May not be suitable for larger, heavier vessels or engines beyond 20 HP.
FUTURUP Boat Outboard Bracket
The FUTURUP bracket uses an aluminum framework with a plastic base and is rated for 7.5–20 HP. It offers a 8-1/4” × 10-3/8” mounting footprint and a 5-1/4” × 9” mounting size, with a maximum weight around 115 lbs. Features include a retractable bracket for easier driving and reinforced welded stainless parts. A practical note is that the base is plastic, which may affect long-term wear on rough water trips.
- Best for: Boats needing a wide tracking base and a retractable, height-adjustable system.
- Why selected: Broad base and sturdy construction support stable trolling.
- Caution: Plastic base may be more vulnerable to wear in rugged environments.
YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket
YaeMarine’s stainless stamped bracket is built for 2-stroke motors and supports up to 110 lbs. The motor pad is 7.9 inches wide with multiple side lengths and a 10.5-inch vertical lift. Mounting transom dimensions are 5-3/4 by 4-3/8 inches. It’s designed for a broad range of 2-stroke motors, but not recommended for 4-stroke engines. This model stands out for robust stainless construction and sizable lift height.
- Best for: Boaters with 2-stroke engines needing substantial vertical adjustment and stainless durability.
- Why selected: High lift height and large foot area provide stable mounting.
- Caution: Not suitable for 4-stroke engines; confirm motor type before buying.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Engine compatibility: Most mounts target 7.5–20 HP 2-stroke motors. If you rely on 4-stroke engines, verify compatibility or choose models noted for 2-stroke only.
- Material and corrosion resistance: Stainless steel and anodized aluminum resist saltwater exposure. Plastic bases reduce weight but can wear faster in rough seas.
- Height adjustment: Five-position or four-position locking allows precise motor positioning for trim and balance. Consider how often you’ll adjust when trolling or docking.
- Mounting footprint: Ensure the mounting size matches your transom and that the base plate can be secured without interference with other boat hardware.
- Weight capacity: Most models handle up to 110–115 lbs, which covers typical 20 HP outboards. Confirm this matches your engine’s weight.
- Ease of use: Retractable or easily adjustable mechanisms reduce effort during operation and help with maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Maintenance and durability: Welding quality, corrosion protection, and spring strength influence long-term performance on saltwater trips.
FAQ
- What is a kicker motor mount used for?
– It supports a small auxiliary outboard to help with steering, trolling, and auxiliary propulsion on boats that need extra maneuverability. - Can I use a 4-stroke motor with these mounts?
– Some mounts are designed specifically for 2-stroke motors; check the product description before purchasing. - How many height positions should I look for?
– Five-position or four-position locking heights provide ample flexibility for trolling and balance in varying sea conditions. - Is stainless steel necessary?
– Stainless construction offers superior corrosion resistance, especially for saltwater use, but weighs more than aluminum. Choose based on your water type and weight tolerance. - Do these mounts affect boat speed?
– Properly mounted and balanced brackets can improve stability and control; they don’t inherently improve hull speed but can assist in efficient trolling and handling.