Wilderness Systems announces its hotly anticipated Helix MD™ Motor Drive. Pairing Torqeedo’s forward-thinking technology with a rugged, compact design, the 15 lb. motor was created for the boatbuilder’s Flex Pod OS-compatible kayaks. The high-performance motor drops into a specially designed scupper within the kayak. The prop and skeg extend from the centerline of the hull, with its nominal weight forward of the kayaker, providing ideal balance.
The Helix MD harnesses Torqeedo’s proven innovative energy technology and durable, long-lasting construction. Its rechargeable lithium battery with integrated GPS is waterproof, buoyant and can provide a range of up to 20 miles, or achieve a runtime of up to 8 hours. Solar charging, even while underway, is available with Torqeedo’s 50W Sunfold panel. The motor allows kayakers and anglers to be hands free, while going farther and faster—hitting speeds up to 6 mph.
“The Helix MD’s integrated design and user-friendly interface lets kayakers enjoy more time on the water,” said Evan Lyendecker, marketing director for Wilderness Systems. The Helix MD Motor Drive is equipped with an intelligent remote throttle that displays GPS-calculated speed, and remaining range and battery runtime. With fully variable forward and reverse functionality, it can be set to a desired cruising speed. It also works with TorqTrac, the iPhone and Android app that displays motor information on Bluetooth LE-equipped smartphones.
“Big things are happening in kayak angling, now the third-fastest-growing outdoor sport,” said Steve Trkla, President of Torqeedo, Inc. “Kayakers demand a lightweight, waterproof, easy-to-handle and powerful solution, and the Helix MD Motor Drive really delivers.”
The motor is compatible with Wilderness Systems’ A.T.A.K., Thresher and Tarpon 130X kayaks, and will work with future models featuring the Flex Pod OS. A video on the Helix MD is at bit.ly/23HjzAw.
Wilderness Systems is a premiere kayak manufacturer. Its award-winning designs are popular with anglers, and recreational and touring paddlers. Its website is www.wildernesssystems.com.
Contact Torqeedo Inc., 171 Erick Street Unit A-1, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. 815-444-8806; Fax: 815-444-8807. usa@torqeedo.com; www.torqeedo.com.