Can’t find a new 2021 Yamaha SuperJet at your local dealership yet? Maybe instead you want to give that tried and true 2-stroke a fresh new face for next season. Well in this video, freeride world champion Mark Gomez walks us through one of the best modifications you can make to your ski which is to put a new traction mat kit on it.
This is the easiest way to improve the lackluster factory mat or to simply replace that worn out mat that has been on your ski for years.
For this video, Gomez is replacing the factory mat on his new 2020 SuperJet and the process will be identical if you have a 1996-2020 model year Yamaha SuperJet. The particular mat being installed is Hydro-Turf part #HT-751 and is shown in black molded diamond, with a 9mm plush under pad and 2-inch corner kick wedges.
This mat is being installed using the recommended contact cement adhesive method however you can also order the kit with a peel and stick adhesive, although that method might not hold up as well. So get those scrapers out, roll up those sleeves, and follow Mark along in the video below.
When we first learned about the all new Sea-Doo RXP-X 300 for 2021, we here at The Watercraft Journal asked the question whether it could rise up to the challenge of the closed course.
Well folks, the results are in and the answer is a huge yes! It rose up to the challenge and took home a world championship win at its first-ever debut race. We’d definitely say that is a huge success by Sea-Doo and the factory team racers.
A big congratulations to Erminio Iantosca who took home the Pro Runabout Box Stock World Championship and Anthony Radetic who won third place in Veterans Stock aboard this revolutionary new Sea-Doo platform.
Iantosca couldn’t be happier with the podium finish he scored for Sea-Doo as he posted his thoughts following the race below.
We did it! Pro Runabout Box Stock World Champion onboard the all new 2021 @seadoo RXPX 300. I can’t thank my team enough @seadoo for having the faith in me @rivaracing @jesusgarcia_pwc for the amazing parts and set up @jettribe for the sweet gear to look good @hydroturf for the best traction in the business @jetx_powersports for doing everything and anything needed to get me on the line @nutritionelite for keeping me fit #xpslubricants for their amazing products, Allen Walker for never stopping and making sure I have the best and last but not least @richardmaley for working those long nights to make sure everything was perfect.
We never fail to be amazed by the images that come from the Jet Ski Club Stavanger. Club member Audrius owns and operates North Pix Media, a professional photography and video service company, and from what we’ve seen, is well worth the money. Audrius sent me this video and these images from the club’s most recent trip, which included some amazing footage from The Fjord Flier, hang glider pilot. Audrius wrote:
“Everyone has their own hobbies and activities that make them feel truly alive. We set out early for a 110 mile jet ski trip to meet the hang glider pilot aka TheFjordflier. Passionate about flying. A man is living his hobby and using every good weather window to do what he loves. Most of the time he flies in the early morning just before the thermals pick up. To get perfectly still weather for a flight is really rare at this time of the year. He drove 80 miles from the city to “Lysebotn” to reach one of his favorite launch spots.
“About the place called Lysebotn. Lysebotn sits at the end of Lysefjord – one of the pearls of Fjord Norway – and gets many visitors in the summer on the car ferry or tourist fast boats from Stavanger city. The village is located in a very isolated valley that is only accessible by one road or by boat. When the narrow mountain road is closed during the winter, for seven months of the year the village is accessible only by boat. It is most alive from June to mid-August, with base jumpers from around the world coming here to jump off “Nesatind” and “Kjerag”.
“The tourist season has ended in October and there is no activity in the valley. TheFjordflier launched from the low spot close to the road. Normally, during the season, he launches from the very top of the Lysefjord mountains. For more breathtaking flights, please visit TheFjordflier’s YouTube channel HERE.
Usually nothing really “big” happens on Wednesdays (at the time of this writing) but we at The Watercraft Journal are excited to announce two big bits of news: First, we’re excited to welcome Unlimited PWC Products as the newest advertising sponsor of the world’s most popular PWC magazine. We’ve been following Unlimited’s progress over the years, particularly their custom carbon fiber components and billet parts for a wide variety of PWC.
Secondly, Unlimited recently launched its own line of USCG-approved life vests, wetsuits and many more bits of apparel. Although still in the production phase, these items will be available to purchase in a couple of months. Whether you’re looking for riding gloves, jackets, front or side-entry vests, Unlimited has exactly what you’re looking for. The apparel catalog is available in the link HERE.
Prepare to see a lot more coming out of Japan’s fastest-growing performance parts and apparel brand, as Unlimited is really ramping up its catalog of products. We’ve got a slew of new product releases waiting to be rolled out, so you’re just gonna want to click the hyperlink and check out their newly redesigned website (make sure to select your preferred language in the translator bar at the top of the screen) and peruse their store beforehand!
Those of us with a few years of experience under our belts have trained ourselves not to launch our trailers too deep in the water because your ski will tend to float away if the hull isn’t making contact with the bunks. It’s a pretty common occurrence. Unfortunately, the consequence of this is often having to throttle into and up your bunks to properly dock your ski before winching it the rest of the way up, resulting in stressed, worn and even broken bunks.
Thankfully, the team at Easy Guide have made boat loading demonstrably easier with its floating docking system. Designed to help save you from stressed or broken bunks – as well as novices and those persons not too comfortable with the launching/loading process, the chambered plastic, heavy-duty floats literally guide the PWC between the bunks, keeping your watercraft from floating away while you dismount and attach the winch. Made of sturdy, reinforced polymer plastics, the Easy Guide is durable (literally, bulletproof!) and made entirely in the USA.
Designed for single PWC trailers, the Easy Guide kit ($399) requires zero cutting or drilling. And with several inches of adjustment in both the width and length of the brackets and arms (respectively), the dual float system will work on most all single-bunk trailers. Again, for you seasoned pros, you’re going to feel that you’re not going to need the help. That’s fine, but your wife and kids – or that one buddy whose been begging to use your ski that you’re just not too sure about – will like ’em. See how it works below:
It’s very likely that we’ll be seeing electric personal watercraft enter the mainstream market in the next 2-3 years, and leading that charge is Canadian powersports brand Taiga Motors. Last year, Taiga shook the PWC industry with the reveal of its Orca prototype. Slightly larger than a Sea-Doo Spark, Taiga’s Orca is poised to be world’s first production emissions-free watercraft.
Available in 3 tiers of performance – Sport, Performance and Carbon – the three Orca models range in top speed, battery life and weight, and of course, asking price. Yet, the freshest bit of news is Taiga’s recent partnership with ABB, a company who develops high speed charging stations. As The WatercraftJournal discussed in a recent YouTube Live session, the biggest hurdle for electric PWC is not so much getting the ski to work itself, but building an infrastructure to keep them charged.
In a recent press release, Taiga announced its partnership with ABB and its cooperation in building wallbox charging stations for the brand’s electric powersport vehicles. Here’s the full release:
Global e-mobility leader ABB has partnered with Taiga Motors, maker of electric powersports vehicles, to expand sustainability to off-road vehicles across North America and Europe. ABB will offer its safe, reliable and compact Terra AC wallbox and Terra DC wallbox charging stations.
The global powersports market delivered record-breaking sales this year and is expected to continue growing rapidly with a compound annual growth rate at over 6% between 2020 and 2026 according to Global Market Insights1. But this growth may take an environmental toll because snowmobiles are one of the few vehicles that do not require a catalytic converter, a device that reduces the amount of harmful pollutants from a vehicle. The absence of this converter leads to disproportionate emission levels to the point where electrifying one snowmobile can have the same environmental impact as electrifying more than forty cars.
Canada-based Taiga Motors is heralding a new era of electrification for off-road vehicles with the world’s first production electric snowmobiles and personal watercrafts. By eliminating noise pollution and reducing the vehicles’ environmental impact, this partnership leads the way to a sustainable future at a time when countries have increased regulations at national parks, lakes and trails worldwide.
ABB will enable Taiga Motors to bring reliable and effective charging solutions to its customers. For recreational vehicles, the two key factors are ensuring power and performance, which are both fulfilled by Taiga Motors’ electric offerings that feature more torque and faster acceleration.
ABB lays the foundations for a future of safe, smart, and sustainable mobility, accessible by everyone, everywhere by providing charging solutions that meet the needs of the next generation of electric vehicles. Its e-mobility solutions form an important part of ABB Electrifications ‘Mission to Zero’ initiative, which supports carbon reduction with solutions which use less and cleaner energy.
This partnership will encourage adoption of EVs across North America and Europe by making it easier for recreational riders and fleet operators to charge their off-road vehicles at marinas, ski resorts, popular trails, and even remote riding areas such as the mountainous backcountry. ABB’s charging stations, designed to work in harsh weather conditions, are a perfect fit as these vehicles will be operated in some of the most extreme environments.
Since entering the EV charging space nearly a decade ago, ABB has driven sustainable transportation forward having sold more than 17,000 DC fast chargers in over 80 countries across the world. With its entry into the electric off-road vehicles charging, ABB remains committed to driving innovation in the sector.
“We are excited to play an integral role in making the rollout of the world’s first off-road vehicles a success while reinforcing our commitment to sustainability,” said Frank Muehlon, Head of ABB’s global business for E-mobility Infrastructure Solutions.
“We envision a future where riders can explore the great outdoors without transporting fuel. Renewable powered batteries can be placed in remote areas to provide off-grid charging, so adventurers can simply plug in and go further than ever before,” said Samuel Bruneau, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder at Taiga Motors.
Taiga Motors will begin delivery of its electric snowmobiles for fleets this winter season and will increase next fall. Deliveries of its Orca electric personal watercrafts will begin next year during spring. This partnership will support the transition to more sustainable outdoor adventures by providing a turnkey solution to customers.
Frankly, 2020 has been tough on watercraft racers. With venues shutting its doors, promoters struggling to find ways to appease local governments and travel restrictions, attendance at what few events that occurred was thin – and that’s not including the events that didn’t happen at all. So it’s very welcome news to learn that the Mark Hahn Memorial Havasu 300 will return for 17th year this coming February, in 2021.
In a recent press release, event founder and former offshore champion racer, Mike Follmer announced that Yamaha has renewed its title sponsorship of world’s longest-running PWC endurance race for 2021 as well. Prior to his retirement, Follmer was the longest continually-signed factory-sponsored racer for Yamaha bringing home a steady string of Region 1 podium finishes, as well as being instrumental in helping develop countless aftermarket performance parts with RIVA Racing and R&D Racing.
Here’s the entire press release from Mike Follmer: Fountain Valley, Calif; Kennesaw, GA – Yamaha Watercraft renewing its Title sponsorship of the 2021 Yamaha Mark Hahn Memorial Havasu 300 Endurance Race presented by Hot Products /Jettrim /RIVA Motorsports, the longest-running PWC endurance race in the world. Now in its 17th year in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., the internationally attended 300-mile race is considered one of the sport’s premier events and a favorite for Yamaha high-performance watercraft owners.
“The Yamaha Mark Hahn 300 is a world class event sanctioned by the IJSBA. This format of professional and novice racers can both compete side by side to test their skills,” said Andrew Cullen, Sr. manager, digital marketing and communications, Yamaha’s Watercraft Group. “The race demands a combination of high performance, durability, reliability and fuel efficiency – all attributes the Yamaha brand is known for and we look forward to seeing several different models of ours in the competition.”
Slated for Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021, and held annually at the Crazy Horse Campgrounds, in Lake Havasu City AZ, the Yamaha Mark Hahn Memorial Havasu 300 was created by former Yamaha Factory Rider Mike Follmer, in memory of his friend fellow endurance racer Mark Hahn, who was instrumental in promoting endurance PWC racing across the country before his untimely death in 2004.
The “team” format allows two riders for runabout, or sit-down, teams and up to three riders for a stand-up watercraft. Solo riders are also welcome to “Ironman” the race on either style of watercraft, which is the ultimate test of endurance and stamina.
Entry forms, race information, updates and results will be posted on the Mark Hahn web site: ijsba.com www.markhahn300.com
According to a recent Yamaha newsletter, “For 65 years, Yamaha Motor products have exceeded customers’ expectations with innovative technology, forward thinking engineering and thoughtful designs.”
Here, we learn about some of the many ways that Yamaha WaveRunner products allow customers to do more, experience more, and connect with each other on the water in new ways; it’s Yamaha’s pursuit of perfection.
It all begins with a passion for innovation at Yamaha. Power and soul are inspirations behind the Yamaha name badge and through this drive to innovate, Yamaha creates exceptional value and experiences that enrich the lives of customers. This is how they revolutionize fun on the water.
Innovation is born when we break through challenge barriers and Yamaha is no stranger to challenges. After all, Genichi Kawakami, the founder of Yamaha Motor Co., defined a spirit of challenge 60 years ago when he said “It isn’t a product if it isn’t world class.” This statement set forth a clear standard for Yamaha engineering and manufacturing.
Yamaha’s originality in innovation is also derived from a company mission to be kando. From the early days to the present, Yamaha definitely delivers on their desire to bring joy and unexpected exhilaration to customers around the world.
To read more about Yamaha’s rich history and innovative technologies, check out their story.
Listen, everyone could use an extra helping of cheer these days, so we’re gonna give you a “pass” if you’ve decided to start celebrating Christmas well over a month early (just don’t make a habit of it). Thankfully, if listening to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” on an endless loop sounds closer to Guantanamo Bay-level torture, there’s other ways to get into the Christmas spirit: like saving big on your favorite stuff.
The Bopenski Kickback PWC Chair has been on The Watercraft Journal’s Top 10 Christmas Gift guide a few times already, and frankly, will likely return again this year. It’s really that good. Thousands of Kickback chairs have been sold since it’s initial release, and through some of the biggest names and distributors in the industry. If you love to “kick back” while out on the water, the Kickback PWC chair is the ticket.
Now Bopenski has a special Christmas discount code that will shave off a nice chunk of change when you purchase from their store. They announced, “We have created a discount coupon that works only on our site (www.bopenski.com) for a $20 savings – the coupon is “BELIEVE” and it will be good through December 15th.” Again, that’s a little over a month away, so you better get off your duff and place an order soon!
Yamaha has a couple of new storage options for the Yamaha EX Series. On offer are the Genuine Yamaha EX Stern Storage Bag and the Genuine Yamaha EX Hatch Bag. Both bags are compatible with the all EX and EXR WaveRunners. They are designed to seamlessly integrate with your ski while providing easy access to on the water essentials and your extra stuff. The stern storage bag offers 15 meters of storage capacity and has open access to your ski’s towing point so you can still wakeboard or pull a tube.
The hatch storage bag enables easy access to your phone with its transparent built-in phone sleeve. It sits forward the steering housing, making it easy to view the screen, while cruising. The bag also has a large compartment behind the phone sleeve. The compartment has room for plenty of essential items. The bag is comprised of durable water-resistant material.
Both bags are super easy to install and only take minutes. No tools are required to install the stern storage bag. You will have to drill a few holes to in order to secure the hatch storage bag using the included fasteners. The Yamaha EX Stern Storage Bag retails for $129.99 and the Yamaha EX Hatch Mounted Storage Bag retails for $54.99. See them both online or shop your local Yamaha WaveRunner dealer for bags and the all new 2021 Yamaha WaveRunners.
Well folks, the results are in and the answer is a huge yes! It rose up to the challenge and took home a world championship win at its first-ever debut race. We’d definitely say that is a huge success by Sea-Doo and the factory team racers.
