Cycle Springs PowerSports wants you to join the family. They are in search of lot techs. If you are motivated and hard-working, they want to talk to you. A clean driving record is required, and you must be able to handle working outside even if it’s raining. A positive attitude is necessary.
If you meet these requirements, Cycle Springs wants to meet you. They offer competitive wages, and you can accrue PTO time. Health insurance is available after 90 days and you can score a 401k after spending a year with them.
If you are looking for a good a job in a fun family atmosphere, fill out an application or send them a Facebook message. If you like being around watercraft and other like-minded people, this could be a good fit for you. The crew does fun stuff, too like going to boat shows and hosting the upcoming Yamaha Watercraft Product Tour. Stop in and check out the store located at 29703 Highway 19 N in Clearwater, FL.
IPD Racing has had an excellent summer testing new products for the 2021 Yamaha 4-stroke SuperJet (along with continuing to test and improve our Gen3 2-stroke SuperJet setup), and we’ve found that there was still a lot of room for improvement that allows the rider to make the most of what these watercraft have to offer. One of the first modifications that we recommend for both the 2008-2020 SuperJet and especially on the 4-stroke SuperJet is a set of front sponsons and we were super excited to try out the newest one to hit the market.
We were able to get a hold of the new ProWatercraft Fattie front sponsons. ProWatercraft designed these sponsons to offer maximum stability when you lean into the turn. The Fattie front sponsons were reported to provide better turning through the waves and choppy race water, which is probably where the new SuperJet suffers the most. ProWatercraft designed these sponsons to be universal for most Ski and Sport PWC but found them to be a very good fit on both the Yamaha 2-stroke and 4-stroke SuperJets and we wanted to try them out.
The new 2021 SuperJet design has a deep-V shape, which at times can feel very unpredictable. We have done a lot of riding and testing on the 2021 SuperJet with the Blowsion sponsons up to this point, and we were looking forward to seeing how the new PWR fatties compare. The first thing we noticed with the ProWatercraft sponsons was that the boat stayed hooked up much better in the heavy race chop and had more drive out of the corner.
The next thing we noticed was how smoothly it entered the corners. It felt more predictable and without any of the twitchiness that we had experienced before. When exiting the corner, the ski seemed to come to the center easier than before; likely due to the added buoyancy of the sponsons lifting the ski onto the center of the V-shaped hull. For the racer or buoy chaser, one of the best benefits was the increased drive and control when crossing someone’s wake. All in all, it makes the boat easier to ride in race conditions or just recreational riding.
The 2008-2020 SuperJet definitely handles rough conditions more predictably and with more confidence, but we typically add the first generation PWR sponsons to enhance and improve the setup. Our test ski handled so well that we hesitated to rip off the original sponsons and install the fatties, but boy were we happy we did! The new fatty sponson offers even more stability, more predictability entering and exiting the turns, better rough-water drive, and a smoother transition in and out without sacrificing the awesome playfulness of the 2-stroke SuperJet!
In fact, the sponsons make the ski drive so hard in rough water, that we had to move our nozzle that we had pitched down a bit on our Limited setup, back to the stock location to get the attitude of the boat back to where we like, which will be great for Stock class setups. All and all, they were a massive improvement on our Limited setup test ski!
As for the installation, it was very easy and they can be bolted on in multiple places and fit like a glove. The sponsons do not come pre-drilled, but you will have countersink cones in the design to help you with the installation. For hardware, you can choose to either bolt-on or use the stainless screws from the outside. The sponsons come with instructions and silicone adhesive. You can get these sponsons HERE and many other performance parts right from IPDRacing.com. Feel free to call us to discuss other best-performing options on this and all other standup jet skis.
“Today’s watercraft are just too big,” one commenter wrote. “They’re not fun anymore. You can’t whip ’em around like you used to.” Boy, have we got news for you. The Rec-Lite segment of runabouts have been one of the best additions to the marketplace in nearly a decade, and Yamaha’s EX Series has provided a new entry-point for enthusiasts looking to get into PWC without breaking the budget. Yet, of these smaller entries few have truly embodied the spirit of what many deem as watercraft’s “heydays.”
In 2019, Yamaha took its EX to a new level by shaving off an impressive 60-pounds through the use of its featherweight NanoXcel2 material in the hull and deck, and tuning the TR-1 EX 1,049cc 4-stroke into a throttle-happy 110-horsepower TR-1 High Output – giving us the EXR. Admittedly, it was a personal favorite of The Watercraft Journal as it was sublimely thrilling. Aimed as a entry racer, the EXR leaned heavy on the closed course credibility of its GP Series siblings but failed to set the world on fire as we had hoped.
For 2022, gone is the EXR, the lightweight 110HP Rec-Lite rocket, and in its stead, Yamaha has metamorphosed our favorite little EX into the JetBlaster (MSRP $9,999). The new 2022 ‘Blaster takes all of racy fun of the EXR and pours in a healthy dose of rowdy playfulness that so many enthusiasts have been clamoring for. Drawing from the revered history of the WaveBlaster, the new JetbBlaster is perfectly capable of submarines, power slides and 360s.
Curious how well the new ‘Blaster stacked up against its famous predecessor, the original WaveBlaster, we referenced our previous article, Weight Watchers: The Power of Power-to-Weight Ratios to evaluate the two craft’s respective power-to-weight ratios. Weighing in at 360-pounds and producing a total of 63-horsepower, the 1993 ‘Blaster earned a power-to-weight ratio of .20:1 (horsepower per pound). Interestingly, at 549-pounds and making 110-horsepower, the 2022 Yamaha JetBlaster WaveRunner came in at a near identical .20:1 ratio! While certainly the new ‘Blaster is larger (10’3″ long and 44.5″ wide), it’s power-to-weight ratio is equal to the 1993 entry.
Newly equipped with angled, padded foot chocks, an open-neck cast aluminum steering system with wider 30-inch MX-style handlebars; and custom-configured electric trim, the new ‘Blaster is ideal for wake jumping and powerslides. Speaking of which, the repitched trim alters even the neutral position, raising the bow ever-so-slightly. At full tilt, the ‘Blaster stands tall and with a blip of the throttle ejects itself out of the water. No, it’s not a wheelie, it’s a liftoff.
All of that low-end grunt is courtesy of the same TR-1 HO 3-cylinder rocketing the ‘Blaster up to speed. Power is immediate and the ‘Blaster responds in kind, leaping excitedly out of the water and sprinting up to a maximum GPS-recorded speed of 54.6mph at 7,960rpm. The TR-1 is accessed by removing the single-piece bench seat and through two windows cast into the black plastic “sub-deck” to reach for the dipstick, oil filter, battery or other maintenance items. For full engine access, the entire sub-deck can be removed with 15 screws within a minute’s time exposing the entirety of the engine compartment.
The ‘Blaster benefits from a 13.2-gallon capacity fuel cell, 7.7-gallons of total storage, two-tone CNC-cut traction mats, a padded spring-loaded folding swim step, and of course, Yamaha’s RiDE dual-throttle brake and reverse system. The revised LCD screen below the handlebars now reads off trim settings as well as a little-too-basic 4-bar fuel gauge. The front wet storage is optimal for a wet rope or flipflops. Thankfully, the center console is cavernous, albeit a tad narrow; a can of spray sunscreen, water bottle or a hat slip in without any trouble.
No, you won’t find cruise control or No Wake features on the JetBlaster either. And for most of you reading this, that is all you’d want anyway. Weighing in at 549-pounds, the JetBlaster with a little over 50-pounds lighter than the heaviest EX, the fully-loaded Limited. Pedestrian tricks like bunny hops, donuts, 360’s, wheelies, and even the harder-to-execute on-the-bondrail power slides from our youth are easily achieved. Wave jumping is an endorphin-rewarding experience. Frankly, it’s easily the most excitable, exhaustive fun we’ve had on a runabout in a long, long time.
While cruising at plane, the ‘Blaster – like its EX siblings – is a relatively dry ride; its narrow bench seat and sloping footwells provide an upright but comfortable static riding position. But riding this way would be to wholly miss the craft’s purpose – like riding a standup ski solely upon your knees. Standing with your feet back in the angled chocks and shoulders up over the handlebars is how the JetBlaster wants to be ridden; responding to every shift in weight, every flick of the throttle and snap of the steering with intuitive, excitable energy.
Bathed in a retina-searing Cyan with Lime Yellow, the ‘Blaster is wrapped in bright splatter paint-type graphics, and a high quality cut-and-sew, thickly-stitched one-piece bench seat cover. Yamaha forwent the pistol-grip style handgrips and went with a more rounded MX-style grip and riders will be switching up their positioning often. Lastly, a stainless tow eye juts out from below the rear of the bench permitting the towing of a raft or knee boarder, although the JetBlaster’s lightweight might result in a case of the “tail wagging the dog.”
A final change to the EX lineup resulted in removing the ‘Blaster from the Rec-Lite category and creating a new “Freestyle” category joining the 4-stroke SuperJet. The SuperJet sees a small price increase of $300, from $9,499 to $9,799 with no changes apart from some optional storage accessories and an adaptive bracket to fit two small EcoXgear speakers were made for 2022.
These two machines offer the most hyper responsive, athletically-challenging ride – although not too much. Snapping the tail loose, roosting friends, and spinning 360’s are child’s play – the ‘Blaster makes it that easy.
Originally published on Joshua Dowling’s Watercraft Zone, New South Wales recently went on another COVID-19 lockdown and this time the rules for residents not only applied to home life; they carried over to the water as well. Residents are required to stay within 5 or 10 km from home, depending what area of Sydney they reside. These guidelines apply to boating and PWC and are subject to change based on outbreaks.
NSW Police fined recreational boaters who traveled from a Sydney C-19 hotspot to an area about 40 km offshore to go fishing. Authorities have stated that public health order distance limits still apply even when on the water. They have provided a website for residents to check distances from their home addresses. Boaters had questions about exceptions for different types of transport.
The NSW Police Marine Area Command had this to say about exceptions: “There are no special provisions for motorbikes…doesn’t matter if you’re in a boat, on a bike, walking, running, skateboarding, or doing backflips…10km is 10km.”
When asked about getting permission to get a moored vessel serviced, the NSW Police command said: “Case by case basis, but for a recreational vessel, initially no. You need to ask yourself does it have to be done today or is it something that can wait a few weeks. If it’s urgent-i.e., your vessel will sink-then there’s other provisions (such as) calling us, Maritime, Marine Rescue, local marinas.”
The 2022 Yamaha Product Tour is stopping by Cycle Springs PowerSports for a one day only event. Join them at the Clearwater, FL store TODAY, August 31st from 11am to 6pm. This is one way to get up close and personal with the 2022 Yamaha lineup and to be among the first to check out Yamaha’s new line of WaveRunners – including the new JetBlaster – and new Yamaha boats for 2022.
Watercraft products on display include the Performance Series featuring the GP1800R SVHO. This thing is a beast! The new Recreation Series will be on display with the best-selling VX Limited HO. A couple of fully loaded models from the Luxury line will be there as well. These include the FX Limited SVHO and the FX HO with its new line of accessories. Some of the featured accessories include integrated audio speakers, tubes, tow ropes, and storage.
The all new JetBlaster should make an appearance as well and it screams fun! The JetBlaster is part of the new Freestyle Series which includes the SuperJet. We all know the SuperJet is a favorite among stand-up models. Rounding out the 2022 Yamaha Product Tour are the 252 FSH, and the 255X boats. The two boats are part of the Wake Series, and they look damn cool! You don’t want to miss this event!
Broward Motorsports Racing is accepting pre-orders for the Yamaha FX Glovebox Organizer. This is a custom-made glove box organizer designed exclusively for the VX and FX Series WaveRunners. This is a super nice accessory for the rider who likes to keep all the small things organized for quick and easy access. With this set up, you no longer need to stop and poke around for your stuff because the organizer allows you to keep everything separated and easy to see.
It has two integrated zippered cell phone holder pockets and removable Velcro dividers so you can arrange your gear in a way that suits you. Just drop it in the glove compartment and line up the cutouts with the WaveRunner outlets and you’re ready to place your goods inside. Now you can easily find your snacks and phone or whatever else you like to carry.
The organizer is ideal for the rider who likes to cruise with a lot of small to medium size stuff and is always digging around in the glove compartment trying to find that one elusive thing. Now you can spend less time rummaging and more time riding!
Check it out on the Broward Motorsports Racing website and get your pre-orders in now. The Yamaha FX Glovebox Organizer fits 2019-2022 Yamaha FX Models. Deliveries start late September and run through October 2021. It is affordably priced at $44.99.
Any Yamaha enthusiast who has been paying attention to The Watercraft Journal will have already seen the new RecDeck accessory platform ($999) and the Lounge Package ($499). These two items are designed to give riders a cool, laid-back reclining experience while anchored in a shady cove or drawn up on the shore. But what if there was something that worked just as well, took up a fraction of the space on the rear swim platform and cost literary a tenth of the price?
Bopenski’s KickBack PWC Chair has been around now for several years, and as you can see, delivers all of the recline and relaxing that you could ask for. It’s patented durable-yet-lightweight construction promises longevity, and can even be repaired (remember when we used to repair stuff instead of throwing it away?) with basic tools. The seat is well ventilated and comfortable without being thin or wimpy, and features two cup holders.
The KickBack takes less than a minute to set up or take down, comes with its own carrying bag, and ties right up to the rear handle leaving plenty of room in the bow for a cooler or dry bag. Oh yeah, and the price? Bopenski’s got the KickBack on sale for $149 with free shipping in the continental US. Get the most enjoyment out of your WaveRunner without needing a second mortgage and pick up a KickBack while this sale lasts!
Why’s that? Because like everything else, the price of next year’s Bopenski PWC Accessory the KickBack will increase dramatically due to the increase in parts cost and the shortage we are experiencing from our factories. We have a few hundred left from this year’s stock, and the price will stay $149 with free shipping until that stock is sold. If anyone has been thinking of getting a KickBack, get it quickly before stock runs out and the price goes up. Get yours HERE.
OK, how do we put this nicely? Don’t be an ask hole! And yes, we mean ask, not that other word your think of. The very foundation of The Watercraft Journal is to provide an outlet for quality information about the watercraft industry as a whole; everything from new product releases to performance parts, racing, and so much more!
With so much information going through all of our brains constantly, everybody wants a question answered that is specific to them. Honestly, we get swarmed by hundreds of emails and comments from people asking for advice. And personally, we love it. We love helping out our readers and viewers.
But then comes the occasional goofball who will either argue or outright attack the advice we give. Sure, you’re 100-percent allowed to disagree. We get it. Just remember you came to us for information. Anyway, we at The Watercraft Journal have come to call these lovely contrarians “ask holes” and apparently, many of you find that hilarious – just like we do.
It didn’t require much imagination to rightly predict what Yamaha’s response to the swelling demand for a PWC fishing-capable WaveRunner would be. Rather than a single runabout to serve the multi-billion dollar recreational fishing market, Yamaha opted to equip its entire range of redesigned FX WaveRunners with the tools and accessories necessary to become a bespoke fishing platform.
As we at The Watercraft Journal rightly foretold, Yamaha’s solution was revealing a two-part accessory system that any customer could custom equip their FX; the first being an all-new multi-function RecDeck platform, and the second being two optional JetFish packages, ranging in cost, equipment and accessibility (as well as two accessory packages for the recreational enthusiast).
Bryan Seti, general manager of Yamaha’s Watercraft Group, detailed, “Consumers are looking to use their WaveRunners in all new ways on the water, whether it’s a touring adventure, all day cruising and lounging, watersports, or fishing. We wanted to create a WaveRunner line and related accessories that power our consumers’ passion for the water. […] Our new FX Series pushes the bounds of luxury, tech and performance. And our all new RecDeck offers a new level of customization for anything our customers can dream of doing on the water.”
Sold as a separate accessory, the RecDeck ($999.99 USD) is a 6 square-foot flat platform featuring molded-in tracks and four built-in, fold-flat cleats designed to accept any number of accessories with endless arrangement possibilities. Covered in two-tone CNC-cut MarineMat carpeting, the RecDeck also features a stellar full-length reboarding ladder that tucks up beneath the platform.
As mentioned, the first of two JetFish packages is the Premium Package ($1,199.99), which includes the Multi-Use Rack ($599.99), two rod holders, the Engel 45 cooler, straps and two cup holders. For those not needing the whole enchilada, Yamaha’s standard JetFish Package ($499.99) equips you with the Engel 45 cooler, two RAM-mounted rod holders and the tie-downs.
The aforementioned Multi-Use Rack is used to rigid-mount the Premium JetFish package, as well as the Lounging Package’s folding 25-inch wide rear-facing Folding Bench chair, cup holders and saddle bags ($499.99). Lastly, the Towsports Package includes a single-rider tube (your choice of yellow or grey), a 12V pump, towrope and bungee hold-down ($199.99).
For those with slightly older FX models, the RecDeck fits any 2019-and-up FX WaveRunner, and can be removed to return the FX to normal use in a few minutes (and no it won’t fit your EX or VX). And although part of the accessory group, the massive Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 63cv 6” Fishfinder/GPS (with an Ultra High-Definition Scanning Transducer), and extra rod holders are sold separate from the two JetFish packages.
In testing the RecDeck as well as spending the day with the Premium JetFish Package, we were impressed with how rigid the whole setup felt – there was no rattling or chatter, which is great considering that everything is removable. Equally, the fold-flat cleats will receive any number of bungees or straps to tie down extra fuel, a cooler full of drinks or camping gear, so really, you could bring whatever you wanted with you.
Of course, all of this is made even better now that Yamaha has refreshed FX lineup. While many won’t be able to identify the changes made from 10-feet away, those who are “in the know” will definitely be able to spot a 2022 FX High Output (MSRP $14,299) from the previous models, and not just because of the “White With Mint” color livery.
Yamaha upgraded all HO-equipped FX runabouts touchscreen dashboard with a high-response, glare-resistant glass 5-inch display. This full-color touchscreen dashboard provides audio controls, phone and text notifications (when synced via Bluetooth to your smartphone), Yamaha’s Drive Control functions (first featured on the 2021 GP1800R models), and GPS mapping and geo-fencing. (…and it also means a true GPS speedometer.)
Geo-fencing means that with the optional GPS map card installed (each card is sold separately for a $199 one-time fee), you can input GPS waypoints, follow tracks, and mark a riding area where the watercraft can be operate. With geo-fencing activated, a virtual fence is created and will sound an alarm telling the operator that they have ridden too far – ideal for young or first-time riders.
After last year’s redesigned VX and GP series, the FX too is available with a factory-installed, digitally-integrated audio system. Featuring twin 4.5-inch 50-watt waterproof marine speakers, an integrated two-channel amplifier, and a low-voltage regulator to protect the battery, the system is operated through a control pad fixed beneath the steering column. When synced, a visual prompt will appear on the the Connext touchscreen.
Additionally, you can also receive incoming calls and view incoming text notifications on the Connext screen. There’s even a noise-reducing microphone (found above the audio controls) allowing you to make phone calls using the voice command button and your phone’s assistant (ex; Siri, Alexa, etc.). Note that the audio package comes as a factory-installed option on all FX series models ($800 USD) – it can’t be added later by the dealer.
The FX series inherited sleeker adjustable handlebars and control pods similar to the GP series, including the single On/Off button and relocated Cruise Assist control – as well as integrated dual hoops into the steering neck, making tying up at the dock easier. The FX also received a new waterproof glovebox. The lid is spring-loaded, rising up on its own with a sturdy hinged plastic latch. Inside the FX receives the same LED lights, 12V socket and USB port, and cell phone pocket.
Below the bondline is where Yamaha’s more subtle changes were made. First, Yamaha looked very closely at what aftermarket tuners were doing and radically tweaked the ride plate. The new plate has a center wetted surface angled up 3º on an extended runner that raises the bow, reducing drag. The plate’s flanks are shaved down with deep skegs providing knife-like rails for added tracking.
On the sides, Yamaha moved the sponsons forward 50mm (nearly 2-inches) to reduce drag in corners and allow the sponsons to engage sooner in a turn. But here’s the biggest change: no more NanoXcel hulls. That’s right, all FX WaveRunners now have SMC fiberglass hulls. While the FX HO’s deck remains cast in NanoXcel, all full-sized runabouts will ride on thicker, traditional fiberglass hulls.
Because SMC is heavier than Yamaha’s Nano materials, the development team created a lighter inner liner to shave off a bit of the gain. Nevertheless, all FX HO models increased by 4-pounds (for example, the 2021 FX HO weighs 836lbs. versus the 2022 FX HO which weighs 840lbs.).
While some might bemoan the switch to SMC, the decision – in our view – is a homerun. SMC fiberglass is denser, which absorbs vibration and chatter better. It distributes the force of impact with far less damage. There’s less flexing, cracking and overall failure to boot. And more importantly, it’s easier (and far cheaper) to repair – all things which we should all appreciate.
As our ’22 FX HO was fully kitted-out with the RecDeck and Premium JetFish Package, we couldn’t push past a top speed of 56mph. With less fuel in the tank and our transom cleared of the king’s ransom of goodies we were packing that day, we’d easily see another 3-4mph. Regardless, the changes made to the FX HO radically improved the craft’s straightline tracking, predictability and dryness of ride.
Easily one of the preferred choices by long-distance cruisers (and now PWC fishermen) the 2022 FX High Output (MSRP $14,299) stands apart from the previous models and the competition. As equipped, our JetFish-kitted FX HO came in roughly at $16,600 or nearly $1,200 below the highest-equipped fishing runabout in the closest competitor’s lineup. With some extra cash in hand, more storage, 10-more horsepower and better fuel economy, there’s no wonder Yamaha’s FX High Output is looking like such a strong contender.
Not only is Yamaha Motor Finance intent on providing you the best performing, most reliable powersports and watersports equipment on the market, but now they’re equipping you with the tools necessary to easily access your financials. If you’re financing your WaveRunner, Skeeter boat, motorcycle or more, Yamaha’s new consumer-friendly website allows existing customers to better view their account balance, view statements and make payments – on any digital device!
Here’s the original press release: Yamaha Motor Finance today announced the launch of their new consumer-facing website providing existing customers with easy online access to their accounts as well as providing financial resources for prospective Yamaha buyers.
Yamaha Motor Finance currently supports buyers of Yamaha Outboards, WaveRunners, Boats, Motorsports products, Golf Cars, Skeeter Boats, G3 Boats, and Power Assist Bicycles.
Through the website, existing customers can conveniently access their Yamaha account online to make payments, view balances and statements, and manage account preferences.
Consumers who are looking for financial solutions to assist in their dream Yamaha Motor purchase will find helpful information on Installment plans offered and the Yamaha revolving credit card with easy access to instantly pre-qualify.
Buyers can also learn about additional Yamaha resources through the site including Yamaha Extended Service (Y.E.S.), Yamaha Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP), and Yamaha Pre-Paid Maintenance (PPM) plans.
“Now more than ever consumers are turning to digital resources to explore, research, and make purchases. It’s been our focus to provide current and prospective account holders as well as employees a quicker and easier way to learn about who we are as an organization and browse information regarding our finance solutions and protection products. We can’t wait to continue to build the site to incorporate more consumer engagement opportunities.,” Vera Oh, Marketing and Events Supervisor, Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation
Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, USA (Yamaha Motor Finance), is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA established in 2015 offering captive financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. Yamaha Finance Services provides Retail and Commercial financing for its diverse line of motor products, based out of Cypress, CA & Marietta, GA.
