Bill,
The Endura Max freshwater line and some of the Riptide saltwater line models have "Digital Maximizer" circuitry that is likely simple Pulse Width Modulation throttle control. Most trolling motors use energy wasting resistors in the nose of the underwater motor pod. This is a cheap way to achieve throttle control: just burn some extra energy before it gets to the motor... that way the motor runs slower. The control head of these simpler units are just switches, switching the electricity down different combinations of the usually 5 wires running inside the shaft down into the motor pod.
The more expensive extended range models don't waste electricity heating up the pod. They pulse full power electricity down the wires directly to the motor. The "Width" (or length in time) of these power pulses are Modulated usually between 15,000 and 20,000 times per second. So full power is 20,000 pulses each 1/20,000 of a second long, and low power is something like 20,000 pulses each 1/200,000 of a second long (about 1/10th power). Typically these "5 times more efficient" trolling motors have infinitely adjustable throttles, rather the 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds. Typically, not universally.
Long story short: your freely available trolling motor is a really great choice for maximizing electric-only distance. If you're with the current or wind, lower power settings will maximize distance. If there are forces working against your progress, somewhat faster power settings will maximize distance.
More specifically, in flat water, experiment with speeds that minimize or eliminate your following wave. There are two main visual components to your wake: the outward traveling angled waves that start nearer the bow, and the horizontally following longer period waves that appear to be chasing you as you speed up. These chasing waves are you, wasting energy. Your speed might increase slightly, but the waves grow in size exponentially as you approach "hull speed". Remember the throttle setting that just eliminates the following wave, then go a little above or below that to maximize range in adverse or assistive wind/wave/tide circumstances. Play with it in calm conditions so you can wisely choose in adverse conditions. Sometimes survival depends on abandoning plans A and B, and going with plan C. 100 miles downwind may be safer than 1/4 mile upwind. Your motor, whatever its size, is only one of the forces you are playing with.
Mark Stafford
e-scooters, e-motorcycle, e-GEO, e-sailboats, e-kayak, e-house
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