Okay guys, took the advice and called Brian and as you all have said it was a very good experience. I told him what models I was looking at and what I had boat wise.

I also told him my general fishing conditions and we talked about the "LINK" and for my individual situation and what I had told him he said that it would be borderline whether the link would be a worthwhile purchase for me at the added price point.

That in itself sold me on everything I had been hearing about how awesome he and the company was. Here he could easily advised the extra expenditure and higher priced unit and I would have bought it. Same with the 12-24 volt motor did not try to upsell the higher motor and advised the 12 volt was plenty sufficient.

As a result of his impressing me so I went ahead and ordered my new depth finder at the same time as well. I originally was going to get the trolling motor now and wait a bit to order the BIRD.

So I have placed my order for a Terrova #55 trolling motor with spot lock but no link and also a Hummingbird Helix 9 Mega SI.

I feel these units will be a nice upgrade to my little boat and will fulfill my needs for where and the way I fish. Also yes Brian does offer the best pricing I have found as well.

From my experience I will also now be a member of the call Brian Brigade!

So thanks to all that advised me to call BBG Marine and offered your insights to help me make my decision for my purchase.