Propulsion units (LCS & Classic)

The 55mm and 68mm LCS motors, high-mount options, and legacy bolt-on propulsion.

2 min readUpdated Jun 10, 2026Propulsion & Masts

A propulsion unit is the complete drive system — a carbon (or aluminum) mast with a direct-drive motor and your choice of propeller. Wings, boards, and batteries are sold separately. eFoils require a propulsion unit — a standalone mast (Classic, X2, M2, M6) will not work on an eFoil.

Current LCS propulsion (LIFT5 / LIFTX)

All run direct-drive motors with Quiet Ride Technology and the tool-less Lift Connect System.

LCS Carbon 68 (LIFT5)

The higher-power, higher-torque motor and the volume default on most LIFT5 carbon eFoils. More headroom for heavier riders, beginners, and towing. Available in 28" (ships on Cruiser, LIFT5 F) and 32" (ships on Sport, Pro, Laird).

LCS Carbon 55 (LIFT5)

The smaller, more efficient, surf-forward motor — preferred by lighter and surf-oriented riders. Available in 32".

LCS Carbon 55 High Mount (LIFTX)

A surf-forward LIFTX propulsion with higher motor placement (fully submerged on takeoff for fast lift, then clear of the surface for zero drag once on foil) and a fully integrated nose cone. The 33" SuperMount raises the motor even further. LIFTX boards only.

55mm vs. 68mm

55mm

68mm

Character

Surf-forward, efficient

Higher torque, more power

Best for

Lighter riders, surf, range

All-around, beginners, heavier riders, towing

Classic propulsion (legacy / bolt-on)

For LIFT3, LIFT3 F, LIFT4, and bolt-on-era LIFT5. Available as 28" or 32" carbon with folding, fixed, jet, or fixed-aluminum propellers — plus LIFT3 F-specific aluminum-mast units. Each ships with the complete assembly, mounting hardware, and a carrying case.

Compatibility

  • LCS Carbon 68 / 55: LIFT5 (LCS-equipped)

  • LCS Carbon 55 High Mount: LIFTX only

  • Classic propulsion: LIFT3 / LIFT3 F / LIFT4 and bolt-on LIFT5

See Compatibility reference. For the safety-focused enclosed option, see the LCS Jet.

Keep reading