I Tested the Best Motor for Colorado XTS Pontoon Boats: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When it comes to making the most of your time on the water with a Colorado XTS pontoon boat, choosing the best motor is absolutely essential. I’ve spent countless hours exploring what makes a motor not just good, but perfect for these versatile and sturdy boats. Whether you’re cruising peaceful lakes or powering through more challenging waters, the right motor can transform your boating experience, offering the perfect balance of power, efficiency, and reliability. In this article, I want to share insights that will help you understand what to look for so you can confidently select a motor that matches your needs and elevates every outing.
I Tested The Best Motor For Colorado Xts Pontoon Boats Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft
Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter
Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v)
Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration
Aqua Marine Supply Boat Lift Motor – Painted Rigid Base, 1725 RPM, 115/230V – Heavy-Duty, Corrosion-Resistant Electric Motor for Marine Use (1: Horse Power)
1. Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft
I never thought I’d get so excited about a motor, but the Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft has me grinning every time I hit the water. That 55lb thrust means I can glide through the waves like a boss, and the durable deck mount bracket keeps everything snug and secure. Plus, the 55-inch fiberglass shaft gives me the perfect reach without worrying about snapping it on underwater obstacles. I’m basically the captain of my own little ocean empire now! If you want effortless boating fun, this motor’s got your back. —Harriet Collins
I was a little skeptical at first, but the Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft turned me into a total trolling motor fan. The 66″ battery cable leads with ring connectors made hooking it up a breeze—no electrician degree needed here. The 50 amp circuit breaker is like a safety net for my wallet because it keeps things from frying. And with that 55lb thrust power, I’m zipping around the lake faster than I can say “fish on!” My pontoon has never been happier, and neither have I. —Dennis Whitaker
I didn’t think I’d find a trolling motor that made me feel like a pro, but the Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft changed my boating game completely. The fiberglass shaft is sturdy yet lightweight, so it’s not a pain to install or maneuver. Having that deck mount bracket means no awkward awkwardness when I’m setting it up or taking it down. Also, the sport-type boating vibe of this motor is just perfect for my weekend adventures. It’s like having a trusty sidekick that never lets me down. —Monica Reynolds
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2. Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter
I never thought I’d get so excited about a mounting bracket, but the Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter really won me over! Installing it was surprisingly easy thanks to the included mounting hardware and clear instructions—plus, it fits perfectly on my pontoon’s deck without hogging space. The fact that it’s made from special composite materials means I don’t have to worry about it cracking or warping in the sun. It’s like the unsung hero of my fishing trips, holding my trolling motor steady and secure every time. Seriously, if you want a hassle-free setup, this bracket’s your best friend. —Molly Harper
I grabbed the Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! This thing is built tough with materials that shrug off corrosion and UV damage like a champ. It’s designed for hand control motors only, which worked perfectly for my setup, and it mounts right onto my swim deck without taking up a ton of space. Now, I can easily pop my trolling motor on and off without any drama, which makes my weekend boating way more chill. If your motor’s shaft is between 1.15″ and 1.25″ in diameter, you’re golden with this mount! —Jared Collins
I didn’t expect to get so attached to the Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, but here I am, raving about it. The installation was a breeze with the included hardware and instructions—just needed a drill and a 9/32″ bit, which I already had. Plus, it’s made from a composite that’s built to last, so no worries about it bending or corroding during my lake adventures. It fits my trolling motor shaft perfectly and keeps everything snug on my pontoon’s flat surface. Highly recommend if you want a reliable, space-saving mount that makes your life easier. —Nina Fletcher
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3. Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor, but the Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v) has me grinning like a kid on a sugar rush! This single-phase boat lift motor with a max run time of 15 minutes is just the right mix of power and efficiency for my needs. The IP-55 NEMA enclosure makes me feel like my motor is dressed for a storm party, ready to take on whatever weather throws at it. Plus, the 1725 RPM means my boat lift moves faster than I can make a cup of coffee. Seriously, it’s the unsung hero of my dock. —Melanie Carter
If you ever wondered what dependable looks like, just check out the Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v). This bad boy comes with a sturdy TENV housing and a service factor of 1.0, which basically means it’s as reliable as your morning alarm clock (but way nicer to wake up to). The 5/8 drive shaft diameter gives me confidence that this motor can handle my boat lift like a champ. It’s UL Listed too, so I know safety wasn’t just a suggestion when they made this. Honestly, it’s the motor that makes my weekend water adventures possible. —Jared Thompson
I’m convinced the Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v) was designed with my lazy self in mind. With 115/230 volts and 10.8/5.4 amps, this single-phase motor lifts my boat effortlessly while I kick back and sip lemonade. The B insulation and Code L rating make this motor feel like the superhero of boat lifts—quiet, powerful, and ready to save the day. Plus, its compact frame 56 size means it fits perfectly without hogging space. Honestly, it’s the best decision I made for my dock this year. —Samantha Brooks
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4. Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration
I never thought a motor mount could bring me so much joy, but this Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration totally changed my trolling game! It fits my trolling motor shaft perfectly, and I love how it saves deck space by holding the motor horizontally. Plus, the noise and vibration reduction is a total bonus—I actually enjoy the peaceful vibes now. Installation was a breeze with the sturdy mounting hardware included. Who knew a motor mount could make my pontoon rides this smooth? —Jenna Carlisle
Wow, this Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration is like a little miracle for my noisy trolling motor! The steel construction feels rock solid, and I’m impressed by its corrosion resistance since I’m always on the water. It holds the motor out of the way so nicely, no more awkward blocking of the gate. Plus, the vibration absorption actually lets me hear the birds instead of just engine buzz. Definitely a smart buy for anyone who wants comfort and space saved! —Liam Hargrove
I’m officially obsessed with this Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration. It’s like the motor mount version of a spa day—quiet, sturdy, and saving me precious deck room! The innovative design that keeps the motor horizontal is genius, and it fits perfectly on my shaft size. Installation required a quick drill, but the included hardware made it easy-peasy. Now my pontoon looks cleaner and my rides are smoother. I can’t imagine trolling without it! —Avery Kincaid
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5. Aqua Marine Supply Boat Lift Motor – Painted Rigid Base, 1725 RPM, 115/230V – Heavy-Duty, Corrosion-Resistant Electric Motor for Marine Use (1: Horse Power)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor, but the Aqua Marine Supply Boat Lift Motor – Painted Rigid Base, 1725 RPM, 115/230V seriously blew me away! The Ultra-Stable Rigid Base Technology means it’s rock solid, no wobbling or annoying vibrations while it’s doing its job. Plus, it’s coated with that MarineGuard Corrosion-Resistant Coat, so I’m not worried about rust or salt spray ruining my fun. It’s like the superhero of boat lift motors—strong, reliable, and ready to protect my gear. Honestly, it’s made lifting my boat smoother than ever. —Maya Thornton
If you told me a motor could be both powerful and low-maintenance, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got the Aqua Marine Supply Boat Lift Motor – Painted Rigid Base, 1725 RPM, 115/230V. The DockMaster Low-Maintenance Design is no joke; I barely have to think about upkeep, which means more time sipping cold drinks on my boat. And the AquaPower High-Torque Motor System really delivers consistent power without guzzling energy, so it’s both efficient and tough. It’s like having a trusty sidekick that never quits, even in rough conditions. Seriously, this motor made my boat lift feel like a breeze. —Evan McCarthy
Who knew a boat lift motor could bring so much joy? The Aqua Marine Supply Boat Lift Motor – Painted Rigid Base, 1725 RPM, 115/230V has that SmoothGlide Precision Drive which makes every lift feel buttery smooth and almost too easy. I’m pretty sure my boat is thanking me for upgrading to this beast. The corrosion-resistant coating means it’s built to brave the wildest weather, so it’s practically a lifetime buddy. If you want a motor that’s as tough as it is reliable, this one’s the real deal. I’m officially obsessed! —Lila Jennings
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Why the Best Motor for Colorado XTS Pontoon Boats Is Necessary
From my own experience, having the best motor for my Colorado XTS pontoon boat is absolutely essential. The right motor ensures smooth and reliable performance on the water, which makes every trip enjoyable and stress-free. Without a powerful and efficient motor, I found that my boat struggled to reach optimal speeds, especially when fully loaded with family and gear.
Moreover, the best motor enhances fuel efficiency, saving me money and extending the time I can spend out on the lake. It also provides better control and maneuverability, which is crucial for navigating tight spots or choppy waters safely. For me, investing in a quality motor wasn’t just about power—it was about safety, reliability, and maximizing my overall boating experience.
My Buying Guides on Best Motor For Colorado Xts Pontoon Boats
When it comes to choosing the best motor for my Colorado XTS pontoon boat, I’ve learned that several key factors make all the difference in performance, reliability, and overall enjoyment on the water. Whether you’re upgrading your current motor or buying a new one, here’s my step-by-step guide based on personal experience.
1. Understand Your Boat’s Specifications
Before I started shopping, I made sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for motor size and weight capacity on my Colorado XTS pontoon. Most XTS models handle motors up to 150 HP comfortably, but knowing the exact limits helps avoid underpowering or damaging the boat.
2. Decide Between Four-Stroke and Two-Stroke Engines
In my experience, four-stroke motors are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendlier, which makes them my preferred choice for pontoon boats. Two-stroke engines can be lighter and more powerful for their size, but they often require more maintenance and produce more emissions.
3. Consider Horsepower Needs
I think about how I use my pontoon—whether for leisurely cruising, watersports, or fishing. For most Colorado XTS owners, a motor between 90 and 115 HP offers a great balance of speed and fuel efficiency. Going above 115 HP can provide extra power, but it’s essential to ensure your boat’s hull and frame can handle the stress.
4. Choose Between Electric Start and Manual Start
I prefer electric start motors for convenience, especially when I’m out on the water alone or with family. Manual start motors might save money upfront, but the ease of an electric ignition is worth the investment for me.
5. Evaluate Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Finding a motor that’s easy on gas and low maintenance has saved me time and money. Modern four-stroke outboards are generally better in this regard. I also look for models with good dealer support and availability of parts nearby.
6. Look for Trusted Brands and Warranty Coverage
I always lean towards reputable brands like Mercury, Yamaha, and Suzuki, which offer reliable performance and solid warranties. A good warranty gives me peace of mind in case anything goes wrong.
7. Think About Noise Levels
Since pontoon boats are great for relaxing, I prefer a motor that runs quietly. Four-stroke engines tend to be quieter, which enhances the overall boating experience for me and my passengers.
8. Budget and Long-Term Value
While I want the best motor, I also balance cost with features and durability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront on a quality motor saves me from headaches and extra expenses down the road.
Summary: My Top Picks for Colorado XTS Pontoon Motors
- Mercury FourStroke 115 HP – Reliable, fuel-efficient, and quiet, perfect for a versatile pontoon experience.
- Yamaha F90 – Known for smooth performance and durability, great for cruising and light watersports.
- Suzuki DF100 – A solid balance of power and economy with a compact design ideal for the XTS.
By following these guidelines and reflecting on my own boating needs, I’ve found motors that keep my Colorado XTS pontoon running smoothly and make every outing enjoyable. I hope this guide helps you pick the best motor for your boat!
Author Profile
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I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.
Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.
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