Best Kicker Motor Mount for Swim Platform: Top Picks and Buying Guide
Finding the right kicker motor mount for a swim platform depends on your boat size, motor type, and mounting needs. This guide highlights five durable options, explaining who each is best for, their key limitations, and why they were selected. The top picks cover 2-stroke and small 3–20 HP motors, with materials ranging from stainless steel to corrosion-resistant aluminum. Ideal buyers include anglers with compact auxiliary motors, owners of small Jon or bass boats, and inflatable or kayak setups needing reliable transom mounts.
Summary table of selected products:
- YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket — Best for 2-stroke auxiliary use on larger boats; up to 110 lbs, stainless construction.
- Vinland Marine Outboard Motor Mount Bracket — Best for 20 HP limits with long-lasting 304 stainless steel and PP base.
- Haida 2 Stroke Outboard Bracket — Best value for up to 20 HP, simple lifting mechanism.
- Klanata Outboard Mount Bracket — Best adjustability for various transoms and quick lifting.
- Camoo Transom Trolling Motor Mount (Kayaks) — Best for kayaks or small boats with up to 3 HP motors.
YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat
Brand: YaeMarine
Features: All stainless stamped construction for 2-stroke motors; supports up to 110 lbs. Motor pad width 7.9″ with side lengths 6.3″ and 8.15″, thickness 1.09″. Transom mounting bracket 5-3/4″ wide by 4-3/8″ high. Vertical lift 10.5″. Designed for most 2-stroke outboards; not recommended for 4-stroke motors.
Best for: Boats running lightweight 2-stroke auxiliary motors in calm to moderate conditions. Why selected: Strong stainless build and higher lift make it suitable for a stable kicker mount on larger transoms.
Caution: Not compatible with most 4-stroke motors, which may require a different bracket or mounting approach.
Vinland Marine Outboard Mount Bracket for 20hp
Brand: Vinland Marine
Features: 304 stainless steel motor bracket with a durable black PP mounting base. Spring-loaded torsion springs with 5 vertical positions for adjustable mounting; wide track body for stability. Supports up to 20 HP and 115 lbs. Fit for jon boats, bass trackers, or canoe mounts.
Best for: Small powerboats needing a robust, adjustable kicker with corrosion resistance. Why selected: Combines corrosion-resistant materials with a practical adjustable system for consistent mounting heights.
Caution: Heavier base materials may require more secure fasteners to ensure proper trim alignment on rougher water.
2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat Up To 20HP
Brand: Haida
Features: Made of 304 stainless steel; base is plastic; mounting size 4-7/16″ x 5-11/16″; roller size 8-1/4″ x 10-3/8″; supports up to 20 HP; manual lifting required.
Best for: Budget-conscious boaters needing a simple, durable 2-stroke kicker mount. Why selected: Strong stainless framework at a lower price point with straightforward operation.
Caution: Manual lift means extra labor when adjusting motor height or docking in tight spaces.
INTEX 68624EP Motor Mount Kit
Brand: Intex Recreational Inc.
Features: Quick setup for inflatable INTEX boats with rear mount fittings; heavy-duty composite mount with aluminum arms; supports motors up to 3.0 HP.
Best for: Inflatable boats and smaller vessels needing a compact, easy-to-install mount. Why selected: Lightweight and quick to deploy for hobbyists on inflatable platforms.
Caution: Limited to 3.0 HP, not suitable for larger auxiliary motors.
Klanata Outboard Motor Mount Bracket
Brand: Klanata
Features: Heavy-duty aluminum construction with 4-position mounting plate; spring-assisted lifting; adjustable to 13.4 inches; designed for powerboats and sailboats.
Best for: Boats requiring high adjustability for varying transom heights and motor heights. Why selected: Offers flexible setup to fit a range of transom configurations and motor sizes.
Caution: Heavier aluminum units may require careful alignment to avoid overextension on smaller boats.
usvehj Transom Trolling Motor Mount for Kayaks
Brand: usvehj
Features: 6mm thick full-cast aluminum; 3HP max thrust; 3.75″ x 4.75″ bolt pattern; suitable for flat stern kayaks and small boats; freshwater and saltwater capable.
Best for: Kayaks and compact boats needing secure clamp-on electric motor compatibility. Why selected: Excellent compatibility range and corrosion resistance for small craft.
Caution: Not for higher power trolling motors beyond 3HP.
Newport Trolling Motor Transom Mount
Brand: Newport Vessels
Features: 3 HP maximum; aluminum locking lip; compatible with 3.75″ x 4.75″ bolt pattern; suitable for both freshwater and saltwater.
Best for: Small boats and kayaks seeking a standard, reliable mounting solution. Why selected: Simple, widely compatible bolt pattern with corrosion-resistant construction.
Caution: Restricted to 3 HP max; not suited for larger trolling motors or heavier loads.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Choosing a Kicker Mount
- Match the mount’s horsepower rating to your motor. Higher HP motors require sturdier brackets and capable transoms.
- Stainless steel and aluminum are common; choose according to water type (saltwater needs extra protection).
- Check motor pad width, transom bracket dimensions, and vertical lift to ensure fit on your specific boat.
- Ensure the bracket supports the motor weight plus dynamic loads during waves and docking.
- Consider manual vs. spring-assisted lifting, and whether you need quick detachment for storage or transport.
- Some mounts cater to kayaks, jon boats, or inflatable craft; verify bolt patterns and mounting surfaces.
- Look for replaceable nylon plates, simple lubrication points, and corrosion-resistant fasteners.
FAQ
- What is a good kickers mount for 2-stroke motors? Stainless steel mounts designed for 2-stroke motors with adequate vertical lift and secure transom mounting are typically best.
- Can I use a 20 HP bracket on a smaller motor? Some 20 HP brackets accommodate smaller motors, but always verify weight limits and mounting compatibility.
- Are forged aluminum brackets as durable as stainless ones? Durable aluminum brackets offer good corrosion resistance and lighter weight, but stainless usually outlasts in harsh conditions.
- Do these mounts fit kayaks? Several options are designed for kayaks, especially those with standard bolt patterns and compact footprints.
- Is a spring-assisted mount better? Spring-assisted mounts make lifting easier and safer, particularly when mounting heavier auxiliary motors.
- Should I avoid any mounts for saltwater? Avoid mounts with non-coated components or inexpensive plastics in saltwater without proper protection and maintenance.