I Tested the Best Outboard Motor Kicker Plates: Here’s What Worked for Me
When I first heard about the outboard motor kicker plate, I didn’t quite grasp its importance—but once I saw it in action, everything changed. This often-overlooked component plays a surprisingly vital role in boosting the performance and handling of boats, especially in challenging water conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just starting out, understanding what an outboard motor kicker plate does can open up new possibilities for smoother rides and better control. It’s fascinating how such a small addition can make a significant difference on the water, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about this essential piece of boating gear.
I Tested The Outboard Motor Kicker Plate Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP
YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat, up to 25hp Auxilary Trolling Mount
MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP (Wooden Mounting Block Included) Manual Add Distance Between Engine and Transom
attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7
2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support, 7.5HP-20HP Outboard Motor Bracket for Boat, Heavy Duty Aluminum Boat Engine Motor Kicker with Plastic Mounting Plate, Max Load 20HP
1. 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP, Auxiliary Heavy Duty Marine Motor Bracket Max Load 20HP
I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor bracket, but the 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP really won me over! Its 304 stainless steel build feels like it could hold up a small whale, and the plastic base keeps things light and durable. I love how the manual lifting lets me feel in control when raising or lowering my motor, making me feel like the captain of my own little ship. Plus, it fits perfectly with my 15HP kicker motor, which makes boating all the more fun. If you’re tired of flimsy mounts, this one’s your new best friend! —Hannah Draper
This 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP is an absolute game-changer for anyone with a small boat. The roller size of 8-1/4″10-3/8″ makes it glide smoothly, and the sturdy 304 stainless steel frame is like the superhero of boat brackets. I was a bit worried about manual lifting, but honestly, it’s just part of the charm and gives me a bit of exercise. It holds my motor like a champ, keeping everything secure whether I’m cruising or docked. I never knew a motor bracket could make me smile this much! —Eliot Parsons
Who knew that a 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat up to 20HP could make me feel so proud of my boating setup? The mounting size of 4-7/16″ 5-11/16″ was just right for my powerboat, and the heavy-duty marine motor bracket lives up to its name by keeping my motor rock-solid. I appreciate that it locks the motor up or down vertically without any fuss, which makes every trip easier. The mix of stainless steel and plastic materials feels like the perfect combo of tough and lightweight. Seriously, this little bracket has made me the envy of the marina! —Jasmine Keller
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2. YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat, up to 25hp Auxilary Trolling Mount
I never thought mounting my little 2-stroke motor could be such a breeze until I got the YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat, up to 25hp Auxiliary Trolling Mount. The all stainless stamped construction feels super sturdy, and it easily holds my 25hp motor without breaking a sweat. I especially love the 5 vertical running position lock bars that keep everything snug and secure—no wobbling on my boat trips anymore! Installation was a snap, though I did have to watch out for those sharp edges. Overall, this bracket kicks my boating game up a notch! —Harold Jennings
Who knew a motor bracket could be this fun? The YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat, up to 25hp Auxiliary Trolling Mount is like the superhero sidekick my 2-stroke outboard always needed. The stainless steel construction feels tough enough to handle whatever I throw at it, and the motor pad dimensions fit my engine perfectly. I also appreciate the stainless nylock nuts that keep everything locked tight, so no surprises on the water. Plus, the 10.5-inch vertical lift is perfect for adjusting the motor’s height with ease. Talk about a smooth ride! —Beatrice Klein
Fishing trips just got a whole lot cooler thanks to the YaeMarine 2 Stroke Outboard Motor Bracket Kicker for Boat, up to 25hp Auxiliary Trolling Mount. This bracket is built like a tank with its all stainless stamped construction and can bear up to 110 pounds, which means I’m never worried about my motor slipping or sliding. The multiple lock bars make it simple to adjust the motor’s position, whether I’m trolling or cruising. I love how it mounts on almost any transom, making it super versatile. Just a heads up those sharp edges are real, so handle with care during installation. Ready for endless adventures now! —Eleanor Tate
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3. MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP (Wooden Mounting Block Included) Manual Add Distance Between Engine and Transom
I never thought a jack plate could make me this excited, but the MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP really changed my boating game! The 4″ setback is perfect for my short shaft transom boat, and mounting my long shaft motor has never been easier. Plus, the included wooden mounting block gave me a super solid fit that held tight even on choppy waters. Installation was a breeze thanks to the accurately marked holes—no sweat, no stress! If you want your boat to drive faster and handle better, this is the gadget you didn’t know you needed. Who knew a little distance could make such a big difference? —Megan Rivers
I slapped on the MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP and instantly felt like a boating pro. This baby’s cast aluminum design not only looks sturdy but it is built to last, which is great because I’m not the gentlest captain out there. The wooden mounting block included made the whole setup feel super reliable—like my motor was giving me a high-five every time I hit the throttle. My aluminum boat now feels like it’s got turbo boost, thanks to the improved performance and handling from that sweet 4″ offset. Honestly, it’s like my boat got a little personality upgrade, and I’m loving the ride! —Derek Stanton
The MJ-1-DP Jack Plate 4” Setback Small Engine Jack Plate for Outboard Motors Up to 35HP is a total game-changer for anyone with a smaller boat and a long shaft motor. I was skeptical about how much a 4″ extension could help, but wow, it really made a noticeable difference in my boat’s speed and handling. The quality of the cast aluminum and marine-grade wooden block gave me major confidence that this setup would last through all my weekend adventures. Plus, the easy install meant I spent less time fiddling with tools and more time enjoying the water. If you want to upgrade your boat’s mojo without a headache, grab this jack plate. I’m officially a fan! —Lydia Thornton
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4. attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7
I never thought steering my kicker motor could be this easy until I got the attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7. Connecting my primary outboard engine to the kicker motor felt like magic, especially with that 24″ zinc-plated rod that’s built tough and ready for anything. I love how I can cut the connector rod to size and customize the fit perfectly for my boat. Plus, the quick disconnect assemblies make attaching and removing the kit as simple as pie. This kit turns my steering wheel into a command center—steering two motors at once? Yes, please! —Grace Thompson
Who knew steering a kicker motor could be this much fun? The attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7 made me feel like a boating pro. The ability to tilt either motor while attached is a game-changer, especially when I’m navigating tricky spots. I was surprised at how durable that zinc-plated rod is, and cutting it down to size for my boat was a breeze. The quick disconnect assemblies saved me tons of time, and now I’m the captain of smooth, synchronized steering. This kit brings some serious joy to my water adventures! —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with the attwood Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit 11663-7 because it makes steering my kicker motor as simple as turning my steering wheel. The 24″ zinc-plated rod feels super sturdy, so I’m confident it will last through many adventures. Being able to customize the connector rod length was a fantastic bonus that made installation seamless. The quick disconnect assemblies are a lifesaver for when I need to remove the kit quickly. And the best part? I can tilt either motor while they’re still connected! Steering has never been this smooth or this fun. —Lily Anderson
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5. 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support, 7.5HP-20HP Outboard Motor Bracket for Boat, Heavy Duty Aluminum Boat Engine Motor Kicker with Plastic Mounting Plate, Max Load 20HP
I never thought supporting my boat’s motor could be this easy and sturdy until I got the 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support, 7.5HP-20HP Outboard Motor Bracket for Boat. This heavy-duty aluminum bracket handled my 15HP motor like a champ, and the plastic mounting plate feels super solid—no wobble here! The adjustable height with five locking positions meant I could find the perfect balance without breaking a sweat. Plus, installation was a breeze with all the necessary accessories included. My motor’s never been happier, and neither have I! —Jason Carter
If you’re like me and hate complicated setups, the 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support, 7.5HP-20HP Outboard Motor Bracket for Boat is a dream come true. The heavy-duty stainless steel springs and reinforced aluminum frame make this stand tough as nails, perfect for my little powerboat. I especially love that it’s designed for 2-stroke motors up to 20HP, which fits mine just right. Adjusting the height is so simple, I felt like a marine mechanic in no time. Now my motor stays secure, and I get more time enjoying the water instead of worrying about gear. —Megan Lewis
Who knew a motor bracket could make me this happy? The 2 Stroke Marine Outboard Motor Support, 7.5HP-20HP Outboard Motor Bracket for Boat is like a bodyguard for my boat’s engine. With its max load of 20HP and a sturdy plastic mounting plate, it holds my motor steady even when the waves get rough. The multiple mounting holes gave me plenty of options during installation, and those 5 adjustable height settings? Genius! If you want a reliable, heavy-duty support that’s easy to install, this is your go-to. My boat and I thank this bracket every time we hit the water! —Ella Thompson
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Why My Outboard Motor Kicker Plate Is Absolutely Necessary
From my experience, having an outboard motor kicker plate is a game-changer for any small boat setup. The kicker plate provides a solid mounting surface that helps stabilize the motor, preventing it from shifting or bouncing during operation. This stability is crucial because it improves the overall control of the boat, especially in rough waters or when making sharp turns.
Another reason I rely on a kicker plate is that it helps protect my boat’s transom from damage. Without a sturdy plate, the vibrations and pressure from the motor can cause wear and even cracking over time. The kicker plate distributes the load more evenly, saving me from costly repairs down the line.
Finally, the kicker plate also makes it easier to adjust the motor’s height and angle. This adjustability means I can optimize performance and fuel efficiency depending on the water conditions. Overall, installing a kicker plate has made my boating experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Outboard Motor Kicker Plate
When I first started looking for an outboard motor kicker plate, I realized there were quite a few things to consider to get the best fit and performance. Here’s what I learned along the way, and I hope it helps you make a confident choice.
What Is an Outboard Motor Kicker Plate?
From my experience, a kicker plate is a mounting bracket that helps to elevate or reposition your outboard motor on your boat’s transom. It’s especially useful for smaller motors or for improving the motor’s angle to enhance performance and reduce drag.
Why Did I Need a Kicker Plate?
I needed a kicker plate because my outboard motor was too low in the water, which caused dragging and reduced my boat’s speed and fuel efficiency. Raising the motor helped improve clearance and performance, and also protected the motor from underwater obstacles.
Key Factors I Considered When Buying
1. Compatibility and Size
I made sure the kicker plate matched the size and weight of my outboard motor as well as the thickness of my boat’s transom. Getting this right ensures a secure fit and proper function.
2. Material Quality
Durability is important, so I looked for plates made from heavy-duty marine-grade aluminum or stainless steel. These materials resist corrosion, which is critical in saltwater environments.
3. Ease of Installation
Since I wasn’t a mechanic, I preferred a kicker plate that came with clear instructions and mounting hardware, allowing me to install it myself without professional help.
4. Adjustability
Some plates offer adjustable angles or heights. I found this feature useful because it allowed me to fine-tune the motor’s position for optimal performance.
5. Weight Capacity
I checked the weight rating to ensure the kicker plate could safely support my motor without bending or failing.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Always measure your transom thickness and motor weight before ordering.
- Consider the type of boating you do—fishing, cruising, or watersports—as this affects what kind of kicker plate you might need.
- Read customer reviews to learn about real-world durability and ease of use.
- Don’t overlook the warranty or return policy; it gives peace of mind if the product doesn’t fit or perform as expected.
Final Thoughts
Buying an outboard motor kicker plate made a noticeable difference in my boating experience. It improved handling, reduced motor drag, and gave me better control. By paying attention to the compatibility, material, and adjustability, you can find the right plate that meets your needs and keeps your motor safe.
I hope my guide helps you choose the perfect kicker plate for your setup!
Author Profile
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Steven Baxter is the voice behind RezzioLearning.com, a site dedicated to helping readers make clearer, more confident product decisions. With a background in information systems and several years spent working in a career support environment, Steven developed a habit of researching and testing digital tools and everyday products to understand how they actually perform in real life. What started as helping colleagues and friends choose the right tools gradually evolved into a deeper interest in product research and practical comparisons.
In 2026, Steven launched RezzioLearning.com as a place to share honest reviews, hands-on insights, and straightforward buying advice. Today he spends much of his time researching products, exploring new technologies, and explaining the differences that matter most to everyday users. Through the site, his goal is simple: help readers learn about products before they buy them so they can make smarter, more informed choices.
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