Home Blog Page 14

GreenHulk’s JetBlaster Freeride 2025+ Stage 1 Kit Delivers Speed & Acceleration Boost

0

When you see GreenHulk and RIVA in the same sentence, you’re pretty much guaranteed a winning combination.

Up the game even more, and toss in “Solas” and “Maptuner,” and you’re talking excellence of some sort – and in this particular situation, we’re talking excellence of the ‘next-level freeride performance’ sort.

If what you’re looking for is insane acceleration and a +6 MPH top speed, Greenhulk’s JetBlaster Freeride 2025+ Stage 1 Kit delivers – and with simple, bolt-on mods and the use of fresh premium pump fuel (91~93 octane).

It’s hard to argue with figures, and GreenHulks go those – This State 1 kit will take you from the stock Stock 51 MPH @ 7,500 RPM, to 57 MPH @ 8,400 RPM – all for under $1,700.

BREAKING DOWN THE DEAL:

THe JetBlaster Freeride 2025+ Stage 1 Kit includes

The RIVA Maptuner Nano (HDMI) Yamaha TR-1 Bundle (RY210NA-B-TR1). This Maptuner Nano Bundle delivers instant plug-in horsepower and includes everything you need to connect to and reflash your watercraft’s ECU in one complete package. Flash your vehicle’s ECU for more power, monitor and log critical engine data, read & clear error codes all from your smartphone. This app-based device is controlled with your phone via wireless Bluetooth connection. Intuitive and easy to use with a few simple steps.

It should be noted that there is no limit to the number of vehicles or tunes you can reflash with the Nano. Simply purchase one tuning license for each vehicle that you would like to program. This gives you access to RIVA’s world famous Tuning Library along with unmatched technical support. Easily switch between performance tunes and then back to stock settings if you wish.

Features include Wireless Bluetooth connectivity to Android or iOS smartphones; The ability to switch between performance tunes quickly & easily; live monitoring & data logging of critical engine data; and gives you the ability to read and clear fault codes.

A RIVA Yamaha 2025+ JetBlaster Power Filter Kit (RY13210) that replaces the restrictive factory intake system, delivering improved throttle response and top-speed. This kit insures your JetBlaster’s TR-1 engine a steady diet of unrestricted air, delivering improved acceleration and RPM, replacing the bulky stock air box with a high-volume, SAE certified stainless steel flame arrestor that attaches directly to the throttle body. This kit dramatically cleans up your engine compartment by removing the large original plastic air box and relocating electrical components onto a compact, precision-fabricated aluminum bracket.
(IJSBA Race Legal and certified to meet U.S. Coast Guard ‘SAE J1928’ requirements.)

A Solas Yamaha Concord 144mm 12/17 impeller (YJ-CD-12/17) This new design incorporates a large blade area and superior hub design that deliver increased acceleration and top speed. A Billet nose cone is included.

And a RIVA Yamaha EX/EXR/JetBlaster Performance Ride Plate (RY21100), increasing top speed and significantly enhances handling characteristics in a variety of water conditions. This ride plate features deep channels and optimized angle for improved acceleration and traction in and out of turns. Added length provides excellent straight-line stability at top speed with reduced porpoising. It is powder coated to prevent corrosion and is also IJSBA Race Legal.

Interview: Inside RIVA Racing’s Tech Center with Dave Bamdas

0

When it comes to pushing the limits of PWC performance, riders around the world trust RIVA Racing’s products. But the mark of a top tier business isn’t limited to just its products, and high-performance parts often require high-performance support. That’s exactly what RIVA’s tech center delivers. Every call, email, or message from a customer is met with a team of specialists ready to troubleshoot, guide, and ensure that riders get the very best out of their PWC.

Recently, The Watercraft Journal reached out to RIVA’s owner, Dave Bamdas, to find out more about what goes on behind the scenes when riders reach out to their tech center for support.

The Watercraft Journal: When a customer calls RIVA’s tech center, what can they expect from that first interaction?

Dave Bamdas: They can expect to reach a knowledgeable representative that is well versed on supporting RIVA Racing Products and PWC performance issues. They have been trained in customer service and will do everything reasonable to assist our customers.

WCJ: On average, how many calls does the tech center handle in a typical day or week?

DB: In peak season we can receive over 75+ tech calls per day. Due to high seasonal volume, any calls that go to voice mail are logged in our ticketing system to ensure prompt follow up.

WCJ: How many technicians are available to take calls on a given day?

DB: We have 7 technical salespeople that specialize in performance parts sales and support. For more involved issues we have a dedicated technical support person. We also have a high level Maptuner support person that works exclusively through email.

WCJ: What kind of training does a RIVA tech center technician go through before taking calls?

DB: Extensive training at our R&D Center, weekly product update meetings, OEM training courses from the manufacturers.

WCJ: When a particularly challenging or unusual question comes in, what’s the process for finding the answer?

DB: We often use Maptuner logging software to diagnose engine and tuning issues remotely. Our support staff can also consult with our R&D Department on challenging issues if necessary.

WCJ: What types of issues or questions do you handle most often?

DB: Simple installation questions for our bolt on products and Maptuner set up. We supply detailed instructions but we are always here to answer questions.

WCJ: What would you say are the primary goals or mission of the RIVA Racing tech center?

DB: Our primary goal is to provide a great experience with RIVA Racing Products through excellent technical support and strong customer service

From troubleshooting a tricky Maptuner setup to answering simple installation questions, RIVA Racing’s tech center proves that great products go hand-in-hand with great support. With a well-trained team, cutting-edge diagnostic tools, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, the tech center ensures that every rider gets the most out of their PWC experience. Whether you’re chasing speed records or just want your jet ski running smoothly, RIVA’s support staff is always just a call away.

And be sure to check out WCJ Editor-In-Cheif Kevin Shaw’s discussion with Bamdas about The Demands of Performance Trends, from an earlier The Watercraft Journal IRL podcast.

Daly Tops Season Championship Points Battle as AquaX Heads to St. Pete For Final Round

0

The Watercraft Journal opened up our email earlier today to find the official P1 AquaX results from Sheboygan and Clearwater, along with Championship points standing and rankings as of the end of Round 4 of the Series’ 5 rounds. 

And while we have heard, and seen, the dissension and concerns that have flooded social media channels since the closing of the races at Clearwater, we will address those issues in a separate article, after speaking with those directly involved and sitting down first-hand with some of the AquaX racers during this weekend’s AJSA Race, and seeking input from AquaX officials.

For now, we will report on the official results as we would following the conclusion of any race. 

In the Pro Enduro class, which is the only class for which results have been distributed at this point, the late-release results from Round 3 in Sheboygan, which took place Aug. 8-10, have #6 Deven Farthing placing taking 2nd in the first moto, 1st in the second moto, and slipping to 8th in Moto three, to claim the overall number one spot on his Yamaha GP 1800 and adding 56 points to the 57 earned in St. Cloud and the 35 gained in the season opener in New Orleans. 

#477 Jay Edworthy on a Sea-Doo 325 RXPX snagged the second podium spot in Sheboygan, with a 5/7/1 set of finishes to add 51 season Championship points to the 113 earned in rounds 1 and 2. 

Securing the third podium step at Sheboygan was another Yamaha GP 1800, this one piloted by #373 Noah Skipps, who put in 3rd, 2nd and 9th place finishes over the weekend to take 3rd overall and add 47 points to the 71 garnered in rounds 1 & 2. 

Moving to Clearwater results, the Pro Enduro class saw 17 riders on the line, and the official Round 4 results awards #116 Vanjae Ramgeet, also piloting a Yamaha GP 1800, 59 Season/Championship points for his 1st place overall finished, earned with a 3/1/3 weekend record.  

On the second podium spot coming out of Clearwater was #105, Christian Daly, who parlayed a 1/14/3 weekend into a silver finish and an added 55 points to tack onto his 42 from Round 3, 67 from Round 2, and season-opening 49 points in New Orleans, to give him 213 season points and put him him in first in the Championship hunt headed into the final round, which will take place in St. Pete.

Securing a 3rd place finish in Clearwater was Skipps, who pushed his GP 1800 into a 4/2/5 weekend and another 49 points for his season total.

With the final round just a week away, there is a season’s worth of competitiveness built up and bragging rights (not to mention prize $$) on the line as the top three points-holders Daly (213), Edworthy (203) and Skipps (167) hit the line with a full field dogging their heels.

 

RIVA Has You Covered With New Seat Covers And Apparel Like Caps, Tees and Windbreakers

0

 

Two of RIVA’s recent highlight products may seem like low-priority purchases — geared towards superficial appearance improvements only, but both RIVA Racing’s new seat covers for 2024+ Spark & Spark Trixx, and their RIVA Racing apparel, including Tee shirts, hats, & windbreakers, not only offer great-looking style, but provide many benefits besides lookin’ stylish.

Seat covers like the new models specifically designed for the 2024+ Spark & Spark Trixx ($239.95 for either model) can be a small upgrade that provides significant improvements in the ride experience, especially for performance riders or anyone who spends a lot of time on the water.

Enhanced Rider Grip & Control
Jet ski seats can get slippery when wet, especially during aggressive riding or sharp turns. High-quality seat covers add traction zones that help keep the rider (and passengers) planted and in control—even in rough water.

Protection for Your OEM Seat
Sun, saltwater, and regular use can fade, crack, or wear down your stock seat over time. A seat cover acts as a protective barrier, extending the life of the original seat and preserving resale value.

Improved Comfort
RIVA aftermarket seat covers are designed with better materials, textures, and padding that can make long rides more comfortable compared to slick, worn factory seats.

UV & Weather Resistance
Marine-grade seat covers are made to withstand harsh conditions, including direct sun, salt spray, and frequent exposure to water—ensuring long-lasting performance without fading or breaking down.

An investment in a RVIA seat cover is more than cosmetic—it’s a functional, protective, performance-enhancing upgrade for any PWC. Whether you’re carving through tight turns or enjoying a lazy day on the water, these seat covers deliver the grip, style, and durability you need.

RIVA’s full line of seat covers offer precision fit, engineered for a factory-tight fit over OEM seats, and the newest models are specifically designed to fit the updated seat design of 2024 and newer Sea-Doo Spark and Spark Trixx models for a clean, factory-like appearance.
Key features include strategically placed textured panels to enhance rider control and reduce slippage during aggressive maneuvers or rough water conditions, and they are constructed from premium, UV-resistant materials that resist fading, tearing, and cracking—built to withstand sun, salt, and repeated use, all with quick and easy installation.

And for more personal style upgrades, check out RIVA’s line of race apparel. Even when you’re not going for broke on the race course, you can stay stylin’ on the water with RIVA’s short- and long-sleeve rash guards, Tee Shirts sporting the reputable RIVA brand, ball caps in a variety of styles and colors, and jackets and sweatshirts as well as footwear and sunglasses.

 

Video: Active Jet Sports’ SCOM Unlocks Giveaway Winner’s RXP-X 325 to 80MPH

0

It’s like we’ve been telling you for years, it pays to listen to The Watercraft Journal. Not only do we offer the PWC community’s best reporting on the industry, race recaps as well as providing some of the most informed reviews of personal watercraft and components, but also give away some pretty cool stuff.

A couple of weeks ago, we asked participants to write us their funniest reasons why they should win a brand new Speed Control Override Module from Active Jet Sport. We had dozens of entries, but it was Jennifer Mitchell’s submission that had us reeling:

My husband purchased our first jet ski, a RXP-X 325 thinking that we would ride together. After a couple of trips out with him, it became very apparent I would need my own ski. We are fortunate to have a very large community of Sea-Doo friends that always keep you laughing. The competition is real between everyone always trying to outdo one another. It all started between my husband and I the second I got my RXP-X 325.

For whatever reason my ski was just a little faster than my husband’s and everyone knows that just won’t work. So he started to add upgrades and a bunch of things to outrun me and our buddies. The best part about the whole thing is getting to watch him “test” everything. We have all busted our sides watching him throw himself off time after time learning to do tricks. I write all this in hopes of winning this SCOM so I can sneak in a upgrade to beat my husband!

During last week’s live podcast with guest hosts Greg Gaddis of Greenhulk Garage and Billy Duplessis, we made Jennifer our lucky winner with the caveat that she get the SCOM installed and provide us her results. To her credit it took mere days for a report to appear in our inbox:

We have had the best time ever with this SCOM! My husband has already ordered more stuff trying to beat me! The wind was up today so I only got 80 mph. Thank you again for the opportunity.

The pleasure is all ours, Jennifer and those are incredible results for just a Speed Control Override Module from Active Jet Sports! If you’d like your own Sea-Doo 325 GPS Speed Control Override Module (SCOM) from Active Jet Sport (retails for $259.99) click HERE.

IJSBA World Finals Registration, Schedule & Latest Rule Changes, Plus Recap of Releases

0

It may be a bit more than a month before the 44th annual World Championship launches on Oct. 4 at Lake Havasu City, but preparations are ramping up at the IJSBA headquarters, and several releases have been posted in the past few days with updates on schedules, proposed rule changes, and more. 

Taking a quick look back at the initial stages of planning for the 2025 World Finals, which began shortly after the closing of the 2024 event, IJSBA announced the tentative dates for the 44th World Finals in mid October 2024, stating, “IJSBA is altering competitors that the 44th annual World Finals event will take place October 4-12, 2025…Competition will begin October 6 and October 13 will be held as an emergency overflow day.” A month later, it was announced that Short Block Technologies (SBT) had signed on as the lead title sponsor for the 2025 and 2026 World Finals.

Towards the end of May, IJSBA announced that Melissa Ellison will return as the lead scoring and registration director for the 2025 Short Block Technologies World Finals. Melissa’s team of Macy, Diane, and the entourage will open check in on October 3 and, then, shift to scoring and results through the remainder of the event.

Also in May, IJSBA Executive Director Scott Frazier posted that IJSBA was soliciting proposals for the production of the annual World Finals beginning in 2027. 

As the PWC community reeled under the loss of Dean Charrier in June, IJSBA, working in conjunction with the Charrier family, announced that there would be a celebration of life for Dean Charrier at the end of the 2025 Short Block Technologies World Finals. Also, as part of the SBT World Finals, this year, IJSBA will offer Dean’s Cup, a two heat winner-take-all competition.

IJSBA plans for this to be one Closed Course Heat and one Endurance heat each equally weighted as a moto.  

As August began, IJSBA released an updated class list for the 2025 Short Block Technologies World Finals, including Pro Am Ski Modified 1500 and Deans Cup categories for both established competitors and recreational participants; the class list was scheduled to become final on Aug. 19. (See below for the class list as posed in early August)

ronnymac.com

On Aug. 14, an update to the suggested venue layout changes deliberated for the 2025 Short Block Technologies was posted. Highlights of the post include comments about last year’s event, noting “2024 was a rough year for the event.  The reality of cost escalation hit just before World Finals production went underway affecting vendors, the site, and IJSBA.  Everyone scaled back.  Record heat at the event did not help foot traffic.” The post, which can be read in full here, discussed possible re-design suggestions for the site layout, “Most notably, the pits would be moved far away from the channel which just seems too tempting for competitors to stay away from – a combination of factors that is very upsetting to the local sheriff.  A right hand course means that the event has less late afternoon sun in the face of the riders on the back stretch.  The new layout provided much more beach space for pits, a streamlined new opportunity for vendors along with vendor provided shade stations in case the event experienced similar temperatures as 2024.  Perhaps, most of all, the benefit was just trying something new when consistency fatigue was very palpable last year.” 

However, drawbacks to the potential redesign were also noted, including a note that “parking for pits once the trailer was dropped would be close to the vendor area instead of being as closely available as in the traditional layout.  Vendors would have had less paved area and would have had to integrate the cement dividers into their booth design.  What became the subject of most concern was the fact that we do not have experience with a right hand turn course at Crazy Horse.  The estimated starting gate position did not have any test data and probably could not be changed once the event was under way.  This concern is coupled with two additional areas of worry:  rolling wakes coming from the casino ferry at the end of the back stretch (especially in high speed Ski classes) and adequate buffer sending the first turn towards the channel.”

It was decided by IJSBA to postpone any alteration of the site layout for the 2025 World Finals event, with Frazier posting “After much public comment and deliberation, IJSBA will maintain the standard layout for 2025 and will set up a set start, during the event, and invite riders, teams, promoters, and race directors to do a site walk through to test, contemplate, and prepare an implementation for 2026.  Please email questions or comments to [email protected].”

On August 14, it was also announced that “This year, IJSBA is changing to a system of all heats being timed with a “minutes plus one lap” format,” and on the 15th, the tentative addition of the Vintage Ski 550 to the list of competition classes at the 2025 Short Block Technologies World Finals was announced,  with IJSBA sending a preliminary entry form to all parties who request one. It was noted that ten fully paid entry forms must be received by September 1 for the class to advance from tentative to finalized. (To receive an entry form, email [email protected] with a request.)

Last week, Frazier issued details on the planned 2025 Poker Run And PWC Fest, noting “Courtesy of support from Go Lake Havasu and the London Bridge Resort, IJSBA is bringing back the first poker run in 20 years as part of a 2025 PWC Fest featuring special offerings to Personal Watercraft enthusiasts to enjoy the amenities of the Lake Havasu City area.  PWC Fest is a separate event to the 2025 Short Block Technologies World Finals and the two events are intended to compliment each other…There will be two separate poker runs for participants in the PWC Fest: a land based poker run and one on the water.  The land based run will begin at registration where participants will visit a total of five businesses in Lake Havasu City that cater to the Personal Watercraft sport where new products and services will be presented.  The water based poker run will have participants finding 5 plaques placed around Lake Havasu where they will take a selfie and upload the picture to IJSBA’s social media.  A card will be drawn for each selfie uploaded with a clear picture of the participant and the plaque.  The water poker run may be done on Friday, October 10 or Saturday, October 11.

The PWC Fest will include special presentations, complimentary parking for the SBT World Finals event, shop tours, gift bags, and entertainment at the closing party featuring live steel drum music courtesy of Cayman Island racer James Munroe Jr.”

More details on the Poker Run and PWC Fest will be forthcoming. 

Earlier this week, a change in the tentative event schedule was noted for the Pro Am 1500 Modified Class, stating “Competitors contacted IJSBA and requested that this class run earlier in the week due to some competitors participating in other intensive categories that take place during the final three days of the event.  Therefore, IJSBA plans to move this class to Wednesday, October 8.  If you have questions or comments regarding this planned schedule change, please email [email protected].” It was also announced that Vintage Ski 550 and Vintage Super Chicken classes will be added to the World Finals schedule. Vintage Ski 550 will be slated for earlier in the week and Vintage SC will be slated towards Thursday and Friday. 

In the latest additions to the 2025 World Finals Prep, this past weekend, IJSBA released the entry form for the 2025 Short Block Technologies World Finals, which has both early registration and standard registration. Each class price now ends with a 7 instead of a 5 to cover the $2 per entry cost of the software the scoring team selected for the event management.  The form contains two price structures.  The early entry price is good for ten days (as of Aug. 24) and approximates a $20 discount per class. After 11:59 PM on September 3, regular entry fee prices apply.  Please register prior to September 29 at 11:59 PM PST.  Beginning September 30, only on site entry is available and at higher fees. Download the entry form here: Entry Form 2025.

Also over the weekend, an “updated, but still tentative” schedule was released, noting “As a reminder, IJSBA is switching to a timed heat format this year. This new schedule includes the classes of Vintage Ski 550 Limited and Vintage SC.  IJSBA plans to frontload the racing activity to the start of the week to allow for opportunities later in the week to recover from disruptions such as weather.  This schedule is still VERY TENTATIVE and competitors should understand that it is likely to change.  Classes like Amateur Ski GP, Amateur Freestyle, Endurance Runabout, and all Pro classes will remain fixed unless weather forces change.  Additionally, IJSBA holds Monday, October 13, as an emergency overflow day.  There are also constant petitions to move classes to other days, there is a current request to move Pro Am Modified 1500 to Tuesday, October 7.  Please send your questions or comments regarding the schedule to IJSBA by emailing [email protected].  

The tentative schedule is available here.

And finally, yesterday, IJSBA announced that it is accepting petitions to remove restrictor plates in the 13-15 Ski Stock class, noting, “Some nations have experimented with removing the plate but have not produced enough data to be helpful with a decision.  IJSBA now offers a 1100 Modified Class for 13-15 riders and this class does not have a restrictor plate due to the smaller displacement.  Proponents of this change have argued that the performances of the 1100 Modified Class, with an aftermarket hull, are similar to a SX-R 1500 without a restrictor plate.

IJSBA held rule calibration discussions at the European Championship, in Belgium, last month and several field interpretations are being synthesized so that all competitors have fair preparation for World Finals.  This subject is part of that process.  Please send questions or comments about this subject, by email, to [email protected].”

PRINCIPAL PRO CATEGORIES:
PRO RUNABOUT GP
PRO SKI GP
PRO SPORT GP
PRO FREESTYLE

PRO AM CATEGORIES:
PRO AM RUNABOUT 1100 OPEN
PRO AM RUNABOUT ENDURANCE
PRO AM SKI STOCK
PRO AM SKI LITES
PRO AM 4 STROKE SKI LITES
PRO AM WOMENS’ SKI (Aftermarket Hull Class)
PRO AM SKI MODIFIED 1500
PRO AM WOMENS’ SKI STOCK
PRO AM RUNABOUT STOCK
PRO AM RUNABOUT SUPER STOCK
PRO AM VETERANS RUNABOUT LIMITED
PRO AM RUNABOUT LIMITED
PRO AM SKI MODIFIED 1500
Pro Am RUNABOUT 1100 Stock

EXPERT CATEGORIES:
EXPERT SKI GP
EXPERT VETERANS SKI GP
AMATEUR CATEGORIES:
AMATEUR FREESTYLE
AMATEUR SKI LITES
AMATEUR RUNABOUT REC LITES
AMATEUR WOMENS’ SKI LITES
AMATEUR RUNABOUT 1100 STOCK
AMATEUR SKI 4STROKE LITES
AMATEUR VETS SKI LITES
AMATEUR VETS SKI STOCK
AMATEUR WOMEN’S RUNABOUT 1100
AMATEUR SKI MODIFIED 1100
AMATEUR SKI MODIFIED 1500
AMATEUR RUNABOUT 1100 LIMITED

NOVICE CATEGORIES:
NOVICE SKI STOCK
NOVICE RUNABOUT STOCK
NOVICE RUNABOUT 1100 STOCK

JUNIOR CATEGORIES:
JUNIOR SKI 10/12 STOCK
JUNIOR 13/15 STOCK
JUNIOR 10/12 FOUR STROKE LITES
JUNIOR 13/15 FOUR STROKE LITES
JUNIOR 10/12 LITES
JUNIOR 13/15 LITES
JUNIOR 13/15 SKI MODIFIED 1100

UNDEFINED SKILL CATEGORY
MASTER SKI GP
MASTERS SKI STOCK
GRAND MASTERS SKI STOCK
MASTERS SKI MODIFIED 1500
RUNABOUT N/A
SPORT SPEC
X2 VINTAGE
SKI VINTAGE
DEANS CUP COMPETITION
DEANS CUP RIDE

Video: KSpeed’s STX Intake Grate & Ride Plate Combo Improves Speed and Handling

0

Chocolate and peanut butter; bacon and eggs; campfires and ghost stories; Thelma and Louise — some things are just better, together. And you can add one more paring to that list: the Kspeed STX Intake grate and the legendary Kspeed STX ride plate.

Brisbane Kawasaki’s Kspeed division — one of the most reliable go-to solutions for serious overhauls, upgrades and performance enhancements for your Kawasaki — offers an STX intake grate and an STX ride plate that, taken separately, each stand on their own as top-quality, high-impact upgrades. 

The Kspeed STX Intake Grate ($243) is the result of years of research and development and hours of testing, delivering improved traction over the stock grate, allowing  you to reach your full power and top speed quicker. By maximizing water flow to the jet pump, which leads to better hook-up, and reducing the amount of air getting sucked into the pump (cavitation), you will experience a more “locked-in” feeling on the water. 

Whatever your skill level or riding style, the STX Intake Grate will deliver quicker acceleration, higher top speed performance and a much smoother and more predictable ride over the O.E.M. intake grate, with improved control in both low speed and high-speed turns.

The Kspeed STX Ride Plate ($297) will improve speed performance in all conditions, but its mastery is in the ramp-up of speed and reliable handling results in heavy chop, as well as straight-line handling, due in part to the extended length of the KSpeed Ride Plate over the original ride plate’s 9.5 inches. Similar to a boat’s trim tabs, the ride plate alters the PWC’s running angle.

As water flows under the plate at high speed, the KSpeed Ride Plate’s roughly 5 extra inches in length increases the surface area behind the jet pump, creating increased hydrodynamic downforce that keeps the nose of the PWC down and the hull firmly planted on the water, smoothing out the ride, improving handling during high-speed turns and providing better stability. 

As one satisfied customer stated after installing the STX Ride Plate, “I have never felt more stable, dry and comfortable. Forget the extra 2.5Mph I picked up on top! This thing is the cat’s meow; feels like I’m on rails in all conditions and it’s a sin I waited this long for an upgrade!”

And when you combine these upgrades, the leap in performance and handling will multiply those benefits significantly and offer a synergistic improvement to your jet ski’s overall performance. Check out  the KSpeed website and be sure to browse through the extensive catalog of tutorials, upgrade walk-throughs and performance tests on their YouTube channel, like this video of the test-run of a KSpeed Intake Grate and Ride Plate installation, along with the KSpeed Sponsons, on a client’s PWC.

New RIVA Custom Build Takes ’25 JetBlaster And Torques Up The Speed, Power & Handling

0

The action is cooking, once again, in the RIVA workshop. The last time we took a look at the wizardry going on behind the scenes at RIVA, they were busy taking an RXT-X 325 and turning into a dream machine with custom graphics, RIVA’s billet steering system, sponsons, and Stage 2 engine modifications, including a power filter, blow-off valve, Maptuner ECU tuning and a Solas impeller, as well as a dual rear exhaust kit, a Wet Sounds audio upgrade and more.

And, according to a recent release on the RIVA Racing Facebook page and YouTube channel, the latest build starts off with a 2025 Yamaha Jet Blaster Pro 2-Up and piles on the excellence from there. In a detailed video, Dave takes us through the upgrades and mods for this custom lunar yellow and mint Jetblaster, starting with the RIVA Stage 1 engine package, and replacing the plastic plenum and rubber hose with the ultra-reliable RIVA rear exhaust system that improves performance by reducing back pressure and gives the added benefit of a nice deep exhaust tone.

The stock air box is replaced by with a high-flow power filter with stainless steel elements, a reflash on the factory ignition control unit using the RIVA Maptuner Nano engine reflash system, allowing interface with your smartphone. An intake manifold upgrade kit replaces the restrictive stock mesh screen with a high-flow billet aluminum sleeve, resulting in more airflow, thus more horsepower.

Other highlight features of the build include a 1217 Solas Concord Impeller to increase the operating RPMs from a stock ~7,500 to 8,400 RPM and is perfectly matched to the Stage 1 engine package; a performance ride plate and toploader intake grate with an aggressive design compared the stock unit, allowing more water into the jet pump, increasing op speed in rough water conditions; the adjustable pro series sponsons, giving significantly improved handling.

A number of additional steering and control upgrades are capped off with the install of a RVIA JetTrim Seat Cover, improving not only looks, but taking advantage of the effective non-stick material to help keep you planted on the seat no matter how aggressive you get on the water.

The end result is incredible acceleration and a top speed of 57 MPH @ 8400 RPM.

See more details and the complete build specifics below:
This custom built craft features a host of RIVA Performance Products perfectly matched to the Yamaha JetBlaster platform. The modified engine delivers incredible acceleration and a top speed of 57 MPH*. To complement the added power, the unit is equipped with upgraded steering and handling components for complete rider control. This JetBlaster Custom Build was hand built by our team of performance experts and water tested to confirm performance. The craft stands out from the crowd with exclusive hull graphics and custom seat cover.

We don’t claim to be the undisputed kings of custom-built watercraft – although we’re pretty darn good at it. It’s safe to say that the watercraft we do build are a good representation of what we love to do – take great watercraft, and turn them into a badass racing machine. These watercraft are built in-house by our very own master technicians and guaranteed to make everyone’s head turn when you blow past them.

BUILD COMPONENTS

ENGINE
Maptuner Tuning License RY110SC-TL
Power Filter Kit RY13210
Intake Manifold Upgrade Kit RY12090-IMUK
Rear Exhaust Kit RY15210

PUMP & HANDLING
Solas Concord Impeller YJ-CD-12/17
Performance Ride Plate RY21100
Pro-Series Sponson Kit RY26120

STEERING & CONTROLS
Billet Aluminum Control Levers RY24160-RCL-GM
ODI Rogue Grips (130mm/No Flange) L31RGB-S
RIVA ODI Grip End Cap & Clamp Kit RY206-BK

APPEARANCE & COMFORT
Custom Seat Cover (Black w/Silver Stitching) RY5-210-1

Round 4 of P1 AquaX Hits Clearwater Beach This Weekend; Monster Energy Athlete Challenge Returns

0
Photo: ronnymac.com

Challenges have been issued, smack has been talked, and (most likely) wagers have been placed, and we’re just one day away from watching the controlled chaos ensue. 

In other words, the fourth round of the Monster Energy P1 AquaX National Championship takes place this weekend, returning to Clearwater beach on August 22-24. 

The season so far has seen some top-level racing from the ‘usual list of suspects’ along with some unexpected power performances from lesser known names, and this coming weekend promises to be packed with hard-fought motos and close battles, along with some added excitement as five Monster Energy athletes pulled from the ranks of other extreme sports join the fray and compete, many for their first PWC race.  

Cycle Springs Powersports will be the presenting sponsor for this weekend’s races, and will be hosting a meet-and-greet with Round 3’s P1 AquaX Monster Energy Athlete Challenge racers Professional Bass Angler Tyler Stewart, BMX rider Jeremy Malott, BMX rider and Nitro Circus member Andy Buckworth and  5x XGames medalist BMX freestyler Jaie Toohey. The meet-and-greet takes place from 4-5:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at Cycle Springs Powersports, 29703 US Hwy. 19 N in Clearwater. 

The final race of the season will take place in St. Petersburg, FL on September 5-7. 

Photo: ronnymac.com

(Editor’s note: We have requested a preliminary race schedule and course map, and will update this story as soon as we receive them!)

See the full press release below for more information:

Clearwater Beach Hosts The Fourth Round Of The Monster Energy P1 AquaX National Championship

CLEARWATER BEACH, FL – P1 AquaX jet ski racing returns to Clearwater Beach on August 22-24 as the fourth stop in of the Monster Energy P1 AquaX National Championship series. This exciting weekend event will also feature five Monster Energy athletes from other extreme sports competing in AquaX racing for the first time.

AquaX is a globally recognized sport attracting top level riders from all over the world.It offers two categories of racing, Enduro and Sprint. These categories are divided by rider skill and experience into Pro and Amateur classes. Race teams will be set up along Clearwater Beach so that fans can meet the racers and watch all the action free of charge between 10 am and 4 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

Longtime partner Short Block Technologies (SBT), based in Clearwater, FL, is the Presenting Sponsor for the entire 2025 P1 AquaX season. SBT is the world’s largest aftermarket supplier of personal watercraft parts. AquaX and SBT have developed a strong relationship over the years, proving to be a company that truly cares about its customers and delivers a high level of service to the personal watercraft community.

Cycle Springs Powersports, part of the Dimmitt Automotive Group – a family-owned franchise dealer group that has served the Tampa Bay community for over 100 years, is the Presenting Sponsor of the Amateur AquaX Class. Cycle Springs Powersports, the most recent addition to the Dimmitt Organization, takes pride in its innovation and quality, serving local powersports enthusiasts for over 30 years. “We are looking forward to the upcoming race season. We are excited about sponsoring the amateur series this year. This circuit represents the future of AquaX racing, and we are honored to be able to contribute to the future growth of the sport,” shared Nick Waddell, Cycle Springs General Manager.

This year’s AquaX five-race series opened in New Orleans, LA, with additional rounds taking place in Kissimmee/St. Cloud, FL, and Sheboygan, WI. The final race of the season after Clearwater Beach will take place in St. Petersburg, FL on September 5-7. For more information, visit: POWERBOATP1.COM

SeaNXT Elite Scooter is a Real-Life Spy Gadget for the Water

0

There’s no denying that some of the more innovative PWC out there seem straight out of a movie. While mounting something like a hydrofoil can feel purely sci-fi (let’s be honest: that’s exactly what the Silver Surfer must feel like), and blasting through the air on a water jetpack may feel like Jedi powers, most of the time a PWC feels a lot like starring in an action movie. Ripping across the water on a jet ski can certainly feel like Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible, yet sometimes we come across a futuristic craft that seems straight out of a spy film.

Enter the SeaNXT Elite Scooter. We’ve all seen a movie where the protagonist dives into the water, only to grab onto a motorized board and speed away to their hidden base of operations—and this newly launched PWC provides just that (secret lair sold separately).

Capable of reaching an exhilarating 13 mph, the SeaNXT Elite Scooter combines cutting-edge technology with sleek design. Its carbon fiber body houses dual 2-kilowatt electric motors, delivering a remarkable 157 lb-ft of thrust—more than enough for serious divers and thrill-seekers.

While the 48V lithium-ion battery does put some limits on runtime—maxing out at 40 minutes at top speed—the quick 1.5-hour recharge makes it possible to get a few good runs in on the same day. Switching to Eco mode extends that to as much as 80 minutes. Navigation is streamlined with a built-in GPS and LCD screen, making it easy to track speed, depth, and route.

Perhaps most importantly, safety is built in: the scooter is slightly positively buoyant, ensuring it will float to the surface if released. This makes it a dependable choice for divers at any skill level.

As you might imagine, this kind of futuristic technology comes with a “futuristic” price tag—$12,653 to start. Even so, for those seeking an elevated diving experience and some truly cinematic moments, the SeaNXT Elite Scooter might just be worth it.