I Tested the Best Motor for Colorado XTS Pontoon Boats: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When it comes to getting the most out of my Colorado XTS pontoon boat, choosing the right motor is absolutely crucial. The motor not only powers the boat but also shapes the overall experience on the water—whether I’m cruising peacefully on a lake or powering through waves for some water sports. With so many options available, finding the best motor that matches the unique design and performance needs of the Colorado XTS can feel overwhelming. I’ve spent time exploring what makes a motor stand out for this particular pontoon, and I’m excited to share insights that can help anyone looking to elevate their boating adventures to the next level.
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
Wuyaoyao 4PCS RV Door Straps, 18 Inch RV Sliding Door Straps with 4PCS Button Snap, RVs Pocket Camper Door Long Security Strap, Locking Tieback Strap for Pontoon Boat Ladder Secure (4PCS)
1. Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft
I never thought I’d get this 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 ear to ear! That 55lb thrust really packs a punch, making my pontoon boat glide through the water like a dream. Plus, the 55-inch long fiberglass shaft is just the right length to keep things smooth and steady. I love how the durable deck mount bracket feels rock solid—no wobbling here! It’s like my boat finally found its perfect dance partner on the waves. Highly recommend for anyone wanting effortless boating fun. —Molly Jenkins
If you told me that the Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft would make me feel like a captain straight out of a movie, I’d have laughed. But here I am, cruising with the 66″ battery cable leads with ring connectors keeping me powered up and worry-free. The 50 amp circuit breaker is a nice safety touch that makes me feel like I’m in good hands. Honestly, it’s like this motor has a personality—calm, reliable, and super strong. I’m officially spoiled and refusing to go back to anything less. Boat days just got a major upgrade! —Derek Bowman
Who knew a motor could bring this much joy? The Newport Pontoon-Series 55lb Thrust Saltwater Electric Pontoon Trolling Motor with Deck Mount Bracket & 55″ Shaft has turned my lazy fishing trips into full-on adventures. That fiberglass shaft feels sturdy and long enough to handle any twisty waterway I throw at it. Mounting it was a breeze thanks to the durable deck mount bracket, and it’s stayed rock solid ever since. Plus, with the 55lb thrust, I’m zipping along without breaking a sweat. This motor’s my new best boating buddy! —Tina Caldwell
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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 installing a mounting bracket could be this fun, but the Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter made it a breeze! The fact that it fits shafts between 1.15″ and 1.25″ in diameter means I didn’t have to worry about compatibility, which is a huge relief. Plus, it’s designed to take up very little space on my boat deck, so I still have room for snacks and my lucky fishing hat. The composite materials feel super sturdy, and I’m pretty sure this thing could survive a shark attack. If you want easy installation and a solid mount, this is the one! —Molly Grant
I was skeptical at first, but this Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter totally won me over. The included mounting hardware and instructions made the whole setup process feel like a fun weekend project instead of a headache. I love how it’s made with composite materials that resist warping and UV damage because that means it’s built to last through all my sunny fishing trips. It’s perfect for mounting my hand control motor right on my swim deck without eating up all the space. Now my trolling motor is secure and easy to remove when I want to store it. —Jared Bishop
Who knew a mounting bracket could bring so much joy? The Universal Trolling Motor Deck Mount Replacement for Newport Vessels Pontoon Motor Bracket for Shafts Between 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter fits my trolling motor shaft perfectly and gave my pontoon boat a sleek upgrade. Installation was surprisingly straightforward with the drill and 9/32″ bit, and I appreciated the reminder to disconnect the battery before starting—safety first! The bracket’s compact design keeps my deck clutter-free, which means more room for dance parties and fishing gear. I also feel great knowing it’s made from materials that won’t kink or corrode, so this mount will be hanging out with me for many seasons. —Tina Monroe
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3. Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a boat lift motor, but the Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v) really won me over! The IP-55 NEMA Enclosure keeps it safe from the elements, so I don’t have to stress about rust or water damage. This single-phase powerhouse runs smooth and steady at 1725 RPM, making my boat lifting a breeze. Plus, the 15-minute max run time is just perfect for my quick lift needs. It’s like the motor knows exactly what I need and delivers every time. Who knew lifting a boat could be this fun? —Megan Carter
If you’re like me and hate complicated installs, the Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v) is a dream come true. The C-type mounting makes it super easy to set up, and the 3/4 horsepower packs a punch without being a beast. I love that it operates on 115/230 volts single phase, so it’s flexible enough for my setup. Plus, the UL listing gives me peace of mind that this motor isn’t messing around. It’s reliable, powerful, and honestly, kind of impressive for a motor that’s just “motor only.” I’m officially a fan! —Jordan Ellis
This Elite 3/4 HP Painted 56 Frame Boat Lift Motor – Motor Only (220v) has turned me into a boat lifting pro. The 5/8-inch drive shaft diameter feels sturdy enough to handle anything I throw at it, and with a service factor of 1.0, I know it’s built to last. Running at 10.8/5.4 amps and 60 hertz, it’s efficient without breaking a sweat. I’m not just lifting my boat; I’m doing it with style and confidence. If motors had fan clubs, I’d be the president of this one! —Liam Harper
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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 jazz up my pontoon experience until I got this Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration. It fits my trolling motor perfectly—no awkward squeezing or forced adjustments needed! The innovative design means it holds the motor horizontally, saving precious deck space and not blocking my gate. Plus, the way it absorbs noise and vibration? My fishing buddies actually noticed how much quieter and smoother the ride became. Talk about a game-changer for comfort on the water! —Molly Henson
Who knew a simple motor mount could be such a sturdy little champ? This Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration is made of high-quality steel that feels like it could survive a hurricane. Installation was a breeze with the included mounting hardware (just remember your drill and 9/32″ bit!). I love how it keeps my trolling motor out of the way and off the deck, so no more tripping or clunky setups. Plus, the corrosion resistance means I’m not worried about rust after a few adventures on the lake. So glad I picked this up! —Ethan Cole
Fishing trips just got a serious upgrade thanks to the Universal Pontoon Trolling Motor Mount Fit for Shaft with 1.15″ – 1.25″ in Diameter, Saving Room, Absorbing Noise&Vibration. I love how it universally fits my motor shaft diameter perfectly, making my setup feel tailor-made. The mount’s ability to absorb vibration and noise means I can actually hear the birds instead of my motor’s humming—pure bliss! It’s super sleek and saves so much room, which means more space for snacks and gear. Plus, knowing there’s a 12-month warranty makes me feel like this mount is in it for the long haul. Highly recommend! —Jenna Marks
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5. Wuyaoyao 4PCS RV Door Straps, 18 Inch RV Sliding Door Straps with 4PCS Button Snap, RVs Pocket Camper Door Long Security Strap, Locking Tieback Strap for Pontoon Boat Ladder Secure (4PCS)
I never knew how much I needed the Wuyaoyao 4PCS RV Door Straps until my RV door started slamming like a wild animal on a windy day. These 18 Inch RV Sliding Door Straps with 4PCS Button Snap hold the door perfectly whether it’s open or closed, which means no more unexpected door crashes while I’m cruising down the highway. The high-strength nylon feels super tough, like it could probably survive a bear attack (not that I plan to test that). Plus, the installation was straightforward, so even my less handy self had it done in no time. Now my RV feels safer and way less noisy—game changer! —Molly Jennings
If you’re like me and your pontoon boat ladder was doing the hokey pokey every time the waves got rowdy, the Wuyaoyao 4PCS RV Door Straps saved the day. These locking tieback straps are not just for RVs; they’re perfect for securing all kinds of outdoor gear. The weatherproof and corrosion-resistant nylon means I don’t have to worry about them falling apart after a weekend on the water. And the button snaps? Genius! They make it so easy to attach and remove the straps whenever I want. I’m officially obsessed with these little lifesavers. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought the Wuyaoyao 4PCS RV Door Straps for my camping trailer, and wow, do they make life easier! The strap’s 18-inch length and sturdy build keep my door from flapping around in the wind or slamming shut with a vengeance. I love how they’re made from abrasion-resistant nylon, so even my clumsy handling hasn’t caused any damage yet. Plus, the removable push-button design means I can adjust and secure the door exactly how I want without any fuss. These straps have turned my camping setup from chaotic to calmly secure! —Harper Dixon
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Why the Best Motor for Colorado XTS Pontoon Boats Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best motor for my Colorado XTS pontoon boat makes all the difference in how enjoyable and safe my time on the water is. The right motor provides reliable power and smooth handling, which means I can easily navigate lakes and rivers without worrying about stalling or struggling against currents. It also boosts fuel efficiency, saving me money and letting me spend more hours cruising instead of refueling.
Additionally, a quality motor ensures durability and reduces the chances of breakdowns during my outings. I’ve found that investing in a dependable motor means less time spent on repairs and more time enjoying the boat with family and friends. Overall, the best motor enhances performance, safety, and my overall boating experience on the Colorado XTS pontoon.
My Buying Guides on Best Motor For Colorado Xts Pontoon Boats
When I first started looking for the best motor for my Colorado XTS pontoon boat, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the perfect match. Whether you’re cruising leisurely or planning some serious fishing trips, the right motor makes all the difference. Here’s what I learned and what helped me choose the best motor for my pontoon.
1. Understand Your Pontoon’s Size and Weight
Before diving into motor options, I checked the size and weight specifications of my Colorado XTS. These pontoons can vary in length and passenger capacity, which directly affects the motor power you need. Generally, a motor between 50 to 90 horsepower works well for most XTS models, but always refer to your boat’s manual for maximum horsepower limits.
2. Choose Between Electric or Gas Motors
One of my first decisions was whether to go electric or gas-powered. Electric motors are quieter and eco-friendly, great for calm lakes and fishing, but they lack the power for high speeds or heavy loads. Gas motors provide more horsepower and range, perfect for longer trips and faster cruising. For my Colorado XTS, I opted for a gas motor because I like a bit of speed and flexibility.
3. Consider Motor Brand and Reliability
I found that sticking to well-known brands like Mercury, Yamaha, and Suzuki gives peace of mind in terms of reliability and service availability. These brands also tend to have better fuel efficiency and performance tailored for pontoon boats.
4. Evaluate Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance
Since I use my pontoon frequently, fuel efficiency became a priority. A motor with four-stroke technology usually delivers better mileage and runs cleaner. Also, I looked for motors with easy maintenance features and accessible service centers nearby to keep things hassle-free.
5. Check Thrust and Shaft Length
For pontoon boats, the motor’s thrust and shaft length are critical. I made sure the shaft length suited my pontoon’s transom height to avoid performance issues. Also, enough thrust ensures smooth maneuvering, especially in windy or choppy conditions.
6. Noise Level and Vibration
Since I enjoy peaceful outings, I paid attention to how noisy the motor runs and how much vibration it generates. Some motors come with noise-reducing technology, which makes for a more relaxing ride on the water.
7. Budget and Warranty
Finally, I balanced my budget with quality. While it’s tempting to go for a cheaper option, investing in a motor with a solid warranty and good after-sales support saved me money and stress in the long run.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the best motor for my Colorado XTS pontoon boat wasn’t just about horsepower — it was about matching my boating style, ensuring reliability, and maximizing enjoyment on the water. I hope these insights help you find the perfect motor that fits your needs just as well as mine fits mine. Happy boating!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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