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Gallery: 39th Annual 2020 VP Fuels IJSBA World Finals in Lake Havasu City, AZ

By
Ally Emig
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The 2020 race year may have been a big letdown for some race sanctions due to the pandemic, but that didn’t stop the IJSBA from putting on the 39th VP Racing Fuels World Finals in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Racers from all across the US flocked to the freshly christened “PWC Capital of the World” to not only take home titles, but to also see longtime friends and rivals. Even a few lucky international riders were able to compete despite rigorous early planning and many quarantine setbacks.

Throughout the entire year, there were many whispers and rumors going around of World Finals not happening this year. With the West Coast sanctions receiving cancellations to almost every race event planned, the promise to have World Finals this year looked out of the question. But IJSBA President Scott Frazier ensured the PWC racing community that, indeed, World Finals was happening.

Frazier released steady updates of what to expect at this year’s event, and described the newfound complications that riders, pit crews, and vendors may have to endure during the week due to COVID-19 regulations. Regardless of the setbacks, racers from all over arrived ready and willing to take home titles and bragging rights.

This year proved to be, as Havasu local Nedra Atwood would put it, “all about the kids” with young riders completely dominating not only their Junior classes, but proving their worth in the Expert and Pro classes too. 12-year old Havasu resident Sebastien Girello (#27) claimed overall wins in both Junior 10-12 Lites and Am Ski Lites despite admitting not wanting to practice this year.

“I didn’t have much motivation to practice and be ready for the race during the summer,” Girello admitted. “After a while, I realized it was my last year racing in 10-12 before moving up to 13-15, so I trained hard the past couple of months, and it paid off! I won twice!”

Throughout the week, numerous young racers continued to top the podium. Race legend Dustin Farthing’s son Devin Farthing (#116) swept up the overall win in Blaster GP and took Top 3 in a full Sport Spec line-up. Havasu local Ryder Wildeboer (#888) took home the overall in Expert Ski Modified, Pro-Am Ski Lites, and Pro Am Ski Stock. Revin Harris (#100) also had an impressive week, dominating the AmSki GP overall win and finishing Top 3 in Pro Am Ski GP.

The crowd was on its feet when the young rider took to his Kommander GP1 and “battled with the big boys” on Sunday, taking home the overall win in Pro Ski Modified, and quite possibly making him the youngest rider to win that overall class in World Finals history.

With travel restrictions making the attendance a record low this year, that didn’t stop a few international riders from taking home a few wins. Canadian native Mike Klippenstein (#212) brought home overall wins in Master Ski GP and Master Ski Stock, along with Kuwait rider Rashed Aldawas (#130) taking overall wins in Am Runabout Limited, Runabout Naturally Aspirated, and ProAm Runabout Limited.

Other notable wins for the week are David Zipperian (#508), who came back this year with a vengeance and took the overall in Am Vet Ski Stock. Kawasaki rider Jon Phan (#110) won overall in Wednesday’s Novice Ski Stock, a championship he honored after his mechanic and long-time friend, Aaron Cress, who tragically passed earlier this year.

2020 World Finals may have had its share of hardships despite the current pandemic, but overall nothing that attendees hadn’t expected. Vendors such as Jettribe, WorksH2O Designs, Bomber Eyewear, Worx, RockTape, RiznWild, and Jettrim did their best to fill vendor row and strictly complied with the event’s regulations. Local food vendors kept both spectators and racers well-fed and hydrated.

And event safety and staff members worked through many challenges to have a safe and successful week for all that attended. The IJSBA recently released their World Finals dates for 2021 (October 2nd – October 10th), so we can be sure to expect big  things for their 40th anniversary celebration next year!

Gallery: 2021 Yamaha VX Limited HO WaveRunner (Video)

By
Kevin Shaw
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Right out of the gate, it’s important to note that for the past three consecutive years, the Yamaha VX Cruiser High Output (MSRP $12,049) has remained the highest-selling personal watercraft in the world. Again, let me reiterate: for the past three years in a row. And with PWC sales the highest they’ve been since 2007, Yamaha Motor Corp. USA wowed the industry by rolling out an incredible eleven new models for 2021, making this the single largest new product launch in the brand’s 35 years of watercraft production.

Coming into 2021, Yamaha focused on it’s most popular series – the VX WaveRunners – by integrating a king’s ransom of new standard features and accessories previously unavailable on models other than higher-end FX Series runabouts. Of course, the biggest addition to the VX Series is the new top-of-the-line model: the 2021 VX Limited High Output (MSRP $13,549).

Yamaha married its single-most popular WaveRunner with its “everything-but-the-kitchen-sink” Limited accessory package previously exclusive on the TR-1 powered VX Cruiser (MSRP $12,449) and flagship FX Cruiser SVHO. For those unacquainted, the Limited package provides buyers with nearly the entirety of Yamaha’s accessory catalog including a matching ski cover (with glove box access), a color-matched tube and rope, a tube inflator, a tube holder, rope bag and two Yamaha fenders.

New to the Limited package for 2021 is the inclusion of Yamaha’s factory-installed marine audio system; comprised of twin 4.5-inch waterproof marine speakers, an integrated 2-channel (50 watts per channel) amplifier, and a low-voltage regulator to protect the battery that’s all operated by an easy-to-access control pad found below the handle bars on the left hand side.

Also below the handlebars is an all-new glovebox. And not only is it the largest glovebox ever offered for the VX Series, it’s also watertight and lit with blue LED lighting coming from a USB and a 12v power outlet as standard equipment (except for the base model VX and VX-C). In fact, all of the VX’s base storage is up – from 24.6-gallons to 28.4-gallons, thanks to a wider bow compartment for easier access; a more durable, high strength hinge and dampener; and a snap-top, water-resistant box found beneath the rear seat.

The complete redesign of the VX Series’ deck also provides deeper and wider self-draining footwells; a broad, flat rear swim platform; and a completely reshaped seat that radically improves rider comfort and ergonomics. Add to that new standard features like a full-color digital dashboard, and the VX has seriously stepped up its game.

Drivers now enjoy the industry’s first full-color LCD “Helm Control” – the 4.3-inch screen displaying Yamaha’s Connext software reading off fuel mileage and consumption rates, a PIN security code and even the ability to pre-set a maximum speed – all controlled by a touchpad located beneath the steering on the right hand side.

Connext can also adjust acceleration speeds from “normal” to “slow” ideal for less confident riders – a smart addition as last year marked the first time in decades that the percentage of first-time buyer sales (52%) eclipsed return buyers (48%). Just aft of the gauges is the newly standardized multi-mount accessory system integrated into the dashboard. Now riders can simply screw in a RAM ball-mount and attach any number of items like a GPS, fishing rod holder, an action camera, and more.

With the deck’s redesign comes a reshaped saddle that is 1.5-inches narrow and slightly tapered at the knees, allowing the driver better lower-body grip while cornering and greater comfort while cruising. This new seat mounts to a secondary deck panel – similar to those first used on the EX Series WaveRunners – providing greater engine access when removed.

Below that is Yamaha’s naturally-aspirated High Output 1,812cc four-cylinder. Producing a reliable 180-horsepower on 87 octane, the Yamaha High Output 4-stroke delivers plenty of low-end grunt for towing the kids on the raft or just ripping across the lake. (It is the same powerplant used in the race-ready GP1800R HO after all.)

In fact, that’s not all the VX Limited HO shares with the GP1800R. The VX models share the same hull and deck molds as the performance-bred GP, meaning the two series share similar handling and cornering characteristics. The differences between the two are in their material construction. The VX Limited HO is molded in Yamaha’s proprietary NanoXcel clay, providing a thinner, yet equally durable molecular bond as FMC, which dramatically shaves weight; while the GP’s are cast in Yamaha’s NanoXcel2 material shaving off even more weight.

Thankfully, the VX Limited’s casting is far more forgiving in rougher water, soaking up a lot of the chatter and vibrations that comes from streaking across a bumpy lake. Striking the balance between sporty and comfortable is a hallmark of the High Output VX’s, and the Limited is no different.

Equally, both series share the same 18.5-gallon fuel cell providing the VX Limited HO plenty of range for those looking to rack up some serious mileage. Though for 2021, the VX Limited HO does pack on a few extra pounds over previous – coming in at 794-pounds, 27-pounds over last year’s model (a large part of that is attributed to the added deck panel, tilt steering and standardized sound system).

Backing out of the dock using Yamaha’s dual throttle RiDE system is a cinch, as its quick forward-and-reverse response is second to none. And since the VX Limited HO comes equipped with Yamaha’s easy-to-operate Cruise Assist and No Wake Mode features, idling through the marina’s prolonged slow speed zone was a breeze.

For 2021, Yamaha radically redesigned its steering controls as well. Gone are the traditional start/stop buttons; replaced by a single ignition-and-kill switch moved to the right-hand side. Equally, the Cruise Assist and No Wake toggles are on the left, while the speed control toggle is now on the right. (It’s a slightly frustrating change that’s gonna a while for the more experienced of us to reprogram our muscle memory.)

Once past the buoys, we could open up the VX for some fun. With a nearly full tank, we managed a respectable 62 miles per hour at 7500rpm. According to our rough math that equals roughly about 13.5 gallons per hour at wide-open-throttle.

When otherwise operated, the VX Limited HO is torquey, with satisfying throttle response offering a playful ride without feeling loose or squirrelly. It’s certainly fun enough for dad to come back to shore with a big smile on his face, with enough static and dynamic stability for mom to feel confident piloting on her own.

For 2021, the Yamaha VX Limited HO comes in Carbon with Lime Yellow with coordinated two-tone Hydro-Turf deck mats. The iridescent yellow is a little flashy for some people’s tastes but Yamaha is pouring on the bold for 2021, and that’s alright with us. Given the balance of an enjoyable, predictable ride; radically improved ergonomics and an avalanche of accessories all with a pricetag of $13,550, it’s no wonder the 2021 VX Limited High Output is going to be yet another home run for Yamaha.

Video: Dawn Dawson’s “Profiles in Freestyle” Interview with Mark Gomez

By
Ocean Priselac
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We are stoked to bring to you Dawn Dawson’s interview with her long-time friend and Hydro-Turf freerider, Mark Gomez. Gomez puts Hydro-Turf to the most extreme testing and the traction keeps in place as he launches into flips, spins, and big jumps.

He modifies his skis with mat kits from Hydro-Turf. Hydro-Turf is an industry leader in PWC traction mats and has backed Gomez throughout his exceptional career.

Dawson chatted with Mark Gomez via Skype earlier this year and she put together a flawless dialogue with Gomez for her Profiles in Freestyle Series.

Mark Gomez is a talented freestyle and freeride champion who is an awesome ambassador of watersports. He is straightforward and down to earth when speaking about his life and Dawson leaves no stone unturned.

We thoroughly enjoyed this interview and think you will too.

The conversation is captivating and flows from one subject to the next as Gomez shares how he got his start, his competitive drive, and much more. He even invites everyone to reach out to him on Instagram, @MarkGomez137.

After watching the Gomez interview, you may feel inspired to do some jumps on your ski and we recommend heading over to Hydro-Turf for some fresh traction before you do so!

Videos: Two New Storage Bags for Yamaha VX Series

By
Ocean Priselac
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Take a look at these nice new storage bags from Yamaha. The Yamaha Watercraft channel on YouTube presents the 40 Liter VX/GP Stern Storage bag and the fully compatible Yamaha Genuine VX cooler. Both bags will make your outings much more organized and fun. The stern storage bag is super easy to mount to the back of your ski. Just strap it on and go!

The bag is equipped with two side rod holders and has a 40-liter storage capacity and it mounts in such a way that you don’t lose any water sports capability because you still have access to the machine’s tow point. This gives you the best of both worlds because you can fish and also take a friend out to wakeboard during the same trip. The bag retails for $249.99 and the Genuine Yamaha VX cooler will integrate seamlessly with the Stern Storage Bag.

The cooler can also be used by itself.  Load up enough drinks for a full day on the water. You can chill and stay hydrated while you’re out.  The cooler has a wide zippered opening, making it easy to fill with up to 18 drinks and ice. It also features a small compartment for snacks. It is well insulated and has a built-in  handle for carrying the cooler onto land and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. The Genuine Yamaha VX/GP Cooler Bag retails for $129.99.

Both bags look sharp on the back of the Yamaha WaveRunner and are compatible with all 2015 to current VX WaveRunner models. They also fit the 2017 to current GP WaveRunner models. Both accessories are great additions to the Genuine Yamaha product line. Check out the bags and the all new WaveRunners here. Happy riding!

Hydro-Turf Acquired by Greg Pickren of SBT, Inc., Watercraft Superstore

By
Kevin Shaw
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One of the personal watercraft industry’s most respected brands – Hydro-Turf – has just been acquired by Greg Pickren, owner of SBT, Inc., BlackTip Jetsports and the Watercraft Superstore, among other brands. The move absolves founder Arno Olbricht of his position as CEO, and will relocate the company from its Anaheim, California headquarters to the Clearwater, Florida campus for the aforementioned brands.

Per the press release included below, this move promises to keep the highly-valued Hydro-Turf name and level of quality EVA-foam traction mats and products. To those familiar, Hydro-Turf also supplied traction mats for factory-built Yamaha WaveRunners and Kawasaki JetSkis, as well as many offerings for standup paddle boards, surf boards, and other boats.

What questions remain is the impact on the world of racing. Hydro-Turf regularly supported local and regional racing, offshore events, and more importantly, budding racers. In fact, there are few jet ski racers who weren’t at one time sponsored by Hydro-Turf. With 30 years of history, it’s hard to argue the importance of Hydro-Turf to our sport – something that cannot be done away with. Here’s the original press release:

Marine and powersports entrepreneur, Greg Pickren, has acquired Hydro-Turf from founder, Arno Olbricht. “Hydro-Turf has been for over thirty years and still is the leader in watercraft traction mats and seat covers, and we are extremely excited about this acquisition.  Mr. Olbricht certainly deserves a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to the industry,” says Mr. Pickren. 

“Founding and growing Hydro-Turf to the company that it is today has been my passion for most of my adult life.  I will miss the daily challenges of running the business, but I am confident that the company has a bright future under the direction of Mr. Pickren,” says Mr. Olbricht.

The company will be relocated to a new, larger manufacturing facility in Clearwater, Florida during the first quarter of 2021.  “Hydro-Turf will continue to provide the same outstanding level of customer service and product quality, something for which the company has been known for over the last thirty years,” added Mr. Pickren.

Broward Motorsports Tequesta Has The All-Black ’21 FX Cruiser SVHO in Stock

By
Kevin Shaw
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Undoubtedly, one of The Watercraft Journal’s most popular (and viral) videos was when we dressed up as Darth Vader and rode the 2020 Yamaha FX SVHO around Allatoona Lake in Georgia. Of course, the machine itself is one of our personal favorites – despite the absolute chore it is to keep an all-black PWC from showing any waterspots or discoloring – and from the response we get from all of you, it’s one of your favorites too.

That’s why we were so happy to see that Yamaha carried the blacked-out livery for 2021. Moved over to the Cruiser-edition SVHO, the gloss-and-matte black package doesn’t make your FX any faster and will likely scald your legs if left out on a super sunny day, but that’s the price of looking badass, we figure. Nonetheless, this new 2021 machine is now for sale (with an MSRP of $16,499).

More importantly, this exact unit is sitting on the showroom floor of Broward Motorsports of Tequesta, Florida. Operated by world champion racer Chris MacClugage, Broward Motorsports of Tequesta also offers in-house maintenance and performance modification using parts sold through BMS Racing, the racing division of Broward Motorsports. (So yes, you can literally say your Yamaha was tuned by Chris MacClugage! Pretty cool, right!)

And there’s many more 2021 WaveRunners uncrated and ready for purchase at Broward Motorsports of Tequesta, so if this murdered-out FX Cruiser SVHO is sold before you get there, don’t fret! They’ll have something else ready for you. Just give them a call now before it’s too late.

Video: RIVA Racing Yamaha Rear Exhaust Kits for GP1800R & FX Models

By
Ocean Priselac
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We’re bringing you another great video from the RIVA Racing YouTube channel. This clip highlights the RIVA Racing 2019 Yamaha Rear Exhaust Kits. This particular kit fits all 2019 GP1800 and FX models only and it’s priced at $399.95.

The aftermarket exhaust kit improves engine performance by reducing back pressure and restriction. Moreover, it creates more room to work in the engine compartment with the removal of the bulky plastic and rubber hose stock system and the restrictive sound suppression system. The stock system is replaced with a mandrel bent aluminum exhaust tube that is powder coated to prevent corrosion. A large billet through-hull exhaust outlet comes with the kit as well.

The outlet makes for a cleaner ride because it is installed separately from the pump unlike the stock exhaust. This one blows straight out the back, leaving your ski nice and clean. You will no longer have to wipe off black streaks of exhaust and the outlet looks really good.

The RIVA Racing Yamaha Rear Exhaust Kit comes with all of the necessary hardware and installation instructions. Order now for free shipping in early November.

Tampa Bay Lightning Celebrates Stanley Cup Win Via The SeaDooLife

By
Brice Leckrone
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So, what do you do when your hockey team wins the Stanley Cup?  Well you tow around your massive trophy aboard a Sea-Doo of course.  This is exactly what Tampa Bay Lightning player Alex Killhorn did.

After finally wrapping up the season as champions, Killhorn rode around Tampa on his GTX Limited showing off the trophy and bringing together fans and supporters.  Take a look at the full Sea-Doo news content below for the details.

While Alex Killhorn is a superstar on ice, he’s fast becoming a Sea-Doo rockstar on the waters of Tampa Bay. 

In March, Covid19 stopped the professional sports world faster than clamping down on the Sea-Doo intelligent Brake & Reverse lever. During the down time Tampa Bay Lightning star Killhorn started visiting his teammates via the waters of Tampa Bay aboard his Sea-Doo GTX Limited. To keep his fans engaged, he shared the adventures via YouTube video series, ‘Dock Talk.’ 

Who would have bet their season would end with a Stanley Cup championship. In true Tampa Bay style, the celebration included an on-water parade. Lightning players and celebrities floated the cup on their various Sea-Doos to the joy of Lighting fans.

This new celebratory use of Sea-Doo watercraft has led some Sea-Doo designers to explore a new LinQ accessory to easily lock in trophies for future championship rides.

2021 Hot Products “Best of the West” Tentative Schedule

By
Kevin Shaw
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Great news! 2020 is almost over! With a little over two months left to go (and a possible civil war-sparking event) we’ll be cruising into 2021 ready to start our lives anew! And with that good news comes hope for a return to normalcy and some good ol’ fashioned jet ski racing. Thankfully, promoters aren’t letting the grass grow beneath their feet and have been working to bring athletes new dates and new venues to test their mettle.

One of those is west coast event promoter Ross Wallach of RPM Racing Enterprises, who just announced the tentative schedule for Rounds 1-through-6 of the “Best of The West” series starting next April! Originally posted on Facebook, the following announcement reads:

“Best of the West” Racers, I am working hard to finalize the 2021 Schedule. Here’s the 2021 Hot Products “Best of the West” tentative schedule (pending final approvals).

  • Round 1 – April 17 & 18 – The 3rd Annual Huntington Beach Moto Surf & Freeride
  • Round 2 & 3 – May 1 & 2 – The IJSBA Western States Nationals/Gary Hart Memorial Race, Patria Flats or Blue Water
  • Resort (TBD) Parker, AZ
  • Round 4 – June 12 & 13 – The inaugural Ventura Moto Surf & Freeride (pending final approval) – Pending Final Approval
  • Round 5 & 6 – August 14 & 15 – The 2021 Hot Products “Best of the West” Lake Elsinore Season Finals – Launch Pointe

As soon as I have the final approvals, which I expect shortly this schedule will become finalized. Looking forward to a great 2021 “Best of the West” Season! All updates and information will be posted at www.rpmracingent.com

Ross Wallach, President
RPM RACING ENTERPRISES
(Note: Working on a date for July, if it becomes available it will be added to the schedule before end of 2020)

Winterize Your Watercraft With High Quality XPS Detailing Products

By
Brice Leckrone
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It’s hard to believe that it is getting toward the end of the year with those colder months approaching.  As many of you get ready to store your watercraft away for the cold months, it’s important to take some time to winterize and care for your units.

For these tasks, BRP is here for you with their high quality XPS maintenance and cleaning products.

Of course, we all know that changing your engine oil with a quality lubricant such as XPS oils, will give lasting engine performance but it’s additionally important to care for your watercraft’s exterior.

Utilizing XPS’s line of hull cleaners, degreasers, and wash/wax products, will seal in those factory finishes and keep your prized possessions looking new for years to come.

The formulations in each of the XPS products is backed by industry science and technology that is specifically designed for maintaining your watercraft.

For more information on these products, check out our many reviews on the care products or go directly to the XPS website.

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