Gone are the days when SUPs were just for fitness enthusiasts and yoga practitioners. Today’s motorized paddle boards are equally at home as a yacht tender for short hops to shore, a fishing platform for accessing those hard-to-reach spots, or the perfect companion for lakehouse life where convenience meets adventure. They also provide a measure of safety when currents get rough or as a way of pushing several passengers along on larger stand up paddle boards. Read about the best options we’ve tested and reviewed for comparison here.
1. Bixpy K-1 Outboard Kit
Editors Choice
This is a review of the Bixpy K-1 Outboard Kit, which we tested on a paddle board in stand-up form and in kayak mode. It’s not a game-changer for electric paddle boards as much as it is an example of expanding on the success of a great platform.
The K-1 does everything that the earlier J-2 motor did. The newest Bixpy motor just does it smaller and better.
With 33 pounds of thrust or about 1 horsepower, this compact electric motor won’t beat outboard motors on speed. The value of this is in portability, runtime and it’s pleasant yet easy operational experience in more ways than one.
Things we like
- ✓ The battery life is impressive. We got about 80 minutes at top speed and much longer at slower speeds.
- ✓ It's super light. The whole setup, including the battery and motor, weighs just 10 pounds.
- ✓ The quick-release motor is a breeze to remove with only one bolt.
- ✓ We loved the warp speed feature. A double click gets you to max speed fast.
- ✓ The wireless remote control is handy. It offers 12 forward speeds and 3 reverse speeds.
- ✓ Reverse options come in handy for tight maneuvering
Things we don't like
- ✗ $1000+ isn’t for casual SUPpers and kayakers.
- ✗ It's not as powerful as some might expect.
- ✗ A very slight pull to the right when mounted on the fin box