For a quick test run I would just take it up and down the NSR (North Sasky River) right here in town, no need to leave the city. Some pretty awesome views of the city from the NSR, especially through the downtown core. Go at dusk if you do, the lights are pretty cool.
If your not 100% certain of the motor make sure you start off going upstream.
Its a LOT easier to guide a dead boat downstream then try and paddle one upstream. Ask me how I know