Bixpy Motor: Where to mount and store it all?

The Bixpy electric motor for my Hobie Outback is a game changer. At first when I observed all the motors (electric and gas) being added to kayaks years ago I had my reservations. In fact, I felt the same way when I switched from paddle to pedal drive many years ago. After all there is the art and accomplishment of paddling; however, as my body gets a little older worn parts and old injuries begin to show themselves in the form of discomfort and pain. So from paddle to peddle and now motorized.

I have tested my new Bixpy in fresh and in salt. I used it after what I believe was the half way point to get back. I also considered, if for some reason the unit fails, I still have enough in me to get back using peddle/paddle (still not a problem...just trying to avoid the stiff knees and ankle). The assist from the Bixpy is a definite a game changer!

For those of you who are using the Bixpy I am wondering where you mounted the unit and battery.

Battery: For me I did not want the battery under the seat as I like to sit as low as possible. I used the holes in each corner of the battery and suspended it with bungie cord vertically behind my seat. This saves me a little space in the rear cargo area.

Motor: I am using the mirage mount which I like; however, realize there may be times when I want to use the motor and peddle drive so I am thinking of creating a PVC frame the would allow me a side mount, battery mount and possible storage of the motor when not in use. Storing the Bixby in the yak when in peddle drive is kind of a pain without taking back storage space which I use for fish and often tackle bags/box. The last time out I just placed my mirage drive on top of my front hatch. I was in a local lake, but realized, although the drive was leashed in, it could create some complication. Perhaps, I break down and purchase a fish kill bag for the front of the kayak (I just wanted to keep the space open) which would get me out of the gunnysack storage in the rear storage area and storage my motor or mirage drive in the back

Where do you store your Bixby and/or Mirage drive when not in use?
Anyone build something for all mentioned challenges?

This is what I did http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=97365.msg1091493#msg1091493

This way you can use the mirage drive still and able to lift the motor to clean up weeds or whatever that tangles.
There was a post as well about mounting it on the rod holder, I think it was 123engineering?  I could be wrong ....

Not an answer to your question, but if somebody makes a battery that’ll fit inside the rear hatch on a Hobie, then I’ll be a buyer.

I find my knees not cooperating after a long pedal on the hobie. Started using a motor assist setup. I looked into the Bixby when it first came out, but I did not like the fact that it requires their own proprietary battery. I went with a cheap Watersnake and mount it like this and built my own battery. I did not want to mount it in the spot where the Mirage drive is because I want to be able to use the drive when I want to.


It is rather convenient. I plug it into the rod holder after launch. Pull it out before landing. With a PWM and a 30ah battery, I can either go 4.5mph for ~3 hrs, or troll at 2.5mph all day.

... if somebody makes a battery that’ll fit inside the rear hatch on a Hobie, then I’ll be a buyer.

Does this count? 30ah with remote monitor and remote on/off. I added phyical on/off as well. Case is from Harbor Freight.

btw, I think Paul (123Engineering) also mounts his Bixby on the side. He posted a video a while back. Find it and check it out.

Hi David

I placed my battery under the seat using a 12x12inch Bungee Cargo Net to make sure it didn't slide around, see the attached photo for details.
This was the best spot to keep the center of gravity low.

Mounted the motor at various locations and leaned toward the PVC rod holder mount, as seen in the following video:



One modification I am making for my new 2022 Outback is installing the jet on the front instead of the rear, as shown in the video.

I have not used it on my new Outback yet.  I have upgraded my rudder to XL aluminum one to turn with Bixpy operating.

Paul

Using a rudder mount  allows you to use both the peddle and motor at the same time.  Works great for bottom bouncing for halibut. 

Not an answer to your question, but if somebody makes a battery that’ll fit inside the rear hatch on a Hobie, then I’ll be a buyer.

Interestingly I've been looking at exactly this for the past couple of days. I tried a motor on my TI recently and liked it.

It seems 50AH LifePo4 might fit inside the hatch (obviously lower capacity would be easier). But I've been thinking 100AH and all off-shelf batteries are too large.

I'm not totally opposed to old dudes having motors on their kayaks  , but isn't it "Bixpy"?

Thanks everyone! Your video Paul gives me a great starting point.... You are right Eric... I will edit my topic line for anyone who wants to search for this info in the future. 

Not an answer to your question, but if somebody makes a battery that’ll fit inside the rear hatch on a Hobie, then I’ll be a buyer.

Interestingly I've been looking at exactly this for the past couple of days. I tried a motor on my TI recently and liked it.

It seems 50AH LifePo4 might fit inside the hatch (obviously lower capacity would be easier). But I've been thinking 100AH and all off-shelf batteries are too large.

If you try the 50AH and find it works, let me know. Maybe a couple of them would do the trick...