A kicker gives you the piece of mind of never being stranded and extra confidence if you have a POS like me. Also, docking with a kicker is childs play, especially when you can roll in at 1.3 knots as opposed to 3 knots. it makes a big difference. Less wear and tear on your main motor, i have an OMC Cobra and it is one issue after the other.... Sk8man has it nailed!!! Fishing aside, i can now take my children out on the water without freaking out. Definitely worth the investment, (i bought a Merc 9.9 Xtra long shaft with a 4 bladed propeller, my boat is 3900 dry and it tops out at 5 knots)