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Video: Watch Motz Search for the Perfect Training Grounds

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Watch Kommander Industries, co-owner Dustin Motzouris and his brother Tyron as they get underway on their PWC in search of a spot to do some bad ass race training. When they find the nearly ideal location, they set their course buoys and get busy lighting the course on fire!

Though the guys had to contend with placing the buoys in deep water, they crushed the course and had an awesome day of simulated race training on their stand-up skis. Motzouris towed his powerful Yamaha GP1 behind a WaveRunner while filming.

Dustin Motzouris (or Motz as he’s known) has raced for 25 years and doesn’t appear to be slowing down, especially on his Kommander Industries Yamaha GP1. The machine is a powerhouse of speed and is known for its stability at high speeds. It’s easy to maneuver at race speeds, thanks to the ingenious hull design.

The hull was visualized in a real world setting and then brought to life in a virtual CAD environment. Using the latest CAD technology, the team was able to create the perfect hull for optimal strength, fit, and performance.

The hull was shaped in such a way that it will lock in when cornering and riders would exert less energy during racing, which makes for faster laps for a longer period of time. Contact Kommander Industries for your custom GP1 build. The shop is located in Phoenix, AZ, where the multi-world champion Motz resides. He is itching to race again and looks forward to when it’s given the greenlight.

For now, he’ll continue training on his rocketship GP1 and developing more stand-up skis.

Don’t Choke; Get RIVA’s Intake Manifold Upgrade Kit

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With summer weather approaching, don’t let that hot weather air rob your SVHO Waverunner’s airflow performance. Reduce your intake restriction with RIVA Racing’s Intake Manifold Upgrade Kit for your 2018-and-up SVHO-powered Yamaha.

Not only is this upgrade a must-have for any other performance accessories, but it is a beneficial kit alone without additional airflow enhancements. By removing the OEM restrictive mesh element, your airflow will increase, boost pressure can bump up by 1 psi, and horsepower is able to be unlocked.

According to RIVA Racing, the additional airflow and pressure will automatically be compensated for by the stock ECU so it is not necessary to make any other adjustments.

Check out the full list of features from this single upgrade in the announcement below from Riva Racing.

Our Intake Manifold Upgrade Kit for Yamaha SVHO engines delivers more horsepower by increasing air flow and boost pressure (+1lb).

Precision machined billet sleeve directly replaces restrictive mesh element that is prone to becoming dislodged in OEM plastic intake manifold.

Provides more low end punch and mid-range pull with improved reliability. This kit is designed for 2018+ Yamaha SVHO engines.

We offer other Intake Manifold Upgrade Kits for most Yamaha & Sea-Doo models. Shop RIVARACING.COM

– For free shipping in USA!
Delivers more boost pressure & HP
Improves reliability by removing OEM element
O-ring design for positive seal.
Includes hole saw & cutting fixture

New For 2020; Get Your Slippery Wetsuits Footwear

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So, you have your riding gear for this season. Rash guards, neoprene shorts or spring suits, life vests, and perhaps a good pair of gloves. Well don’t forget about protecting your feet.

When it comes to riding shoes and boots, Slippery Wetsuits has you covered with their full lineup of footwear that is new and improved for 2020. Entry level offerings include the Amp Shoe which is a low cut neoprene shoe and the Amp Boot which is an above-ankle version.

Both the Amp Shoe and Boot offer the same level of protection against the elements. The 2mm neoprene will keep your feet warm while the molded rubber sole will give great traction while riding or walking around.

For the ultimate in foot support, traction, stability, and abrasion resistance, you want to check out the Liquid Race Boot.

This latest version of the race boot has been specifically redesigned to exceed the demands of racers and hardcore recreational riders. The athletic sole provides excellent stability and traction so you can ride all day without enhanced fatigue.

Other features include a mesh design and perforated chassis for ventilation and drainage. The 1.5mm neoprene liner is removable for easy cleaning and the unique pull-tab and lacing system allow for ease of entry and removal. Additionally, the heel and toe give anti-abrasion and extreme durability.

When it comes to the ultimate riding footwear, look no further than Slippery Wetsuits.

Gallery: The Watercraft Journal’s Top 3 Parts Choices For “First Mods”

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In today’s world of technologically-advanced supercharged personal watercraft, the challenge isn’t so much how to make more horsepower but how to maximize its potential. And if there’s one thing, it is that there is tons of potential buried inside of today’s watercraft. Whether its unlocking more speed, improving hull optimization or ensuring engine longevity, we here at The Watercraft Journal have compiled a list of our Top 3 picks of “first mods” to make to the top-of-the-line performance 3-seaters offered by Kawasaki, Sea-Doo and Yamaha.

It’s important to note that our choices here aren’t merely for increases in speed, although many listed here directly – or indirectly – result in significant gains to sustained top speed numbers. In fact, you’ll see that our average top speed is 76 mph across all three watercraft: the 2020 Kawasaki Ultra 310X, the 2020 Sea-Doo RXT-X 300 and the 2020 Yamaha FX SVHO. More often than not, we considered which aftermarket products delivered the widest overall gains; whether that was to engine cooling, fuel efficiency, handling characteristics or otherwise.

Likewise, we also selected products that did not require extensive technical knowledge to install or resulted in permanent alterations to the PWC, such as a through-hull exhaust system or opening up the engine itself. Nope, everything here is 100-percent reversible. Lastly, we purposely stuck with aftermarket parts suppliers with proven track records, who stand by their products and have conducted extensive testing – no fly-by-night, mail-in order outfits here. It’s super easy to make a claim online, but few can back it up. Trust us.

Kawasaki Ultra 310X JetSki – 77mph
While you were sleeping, Jamie Eade and the mad scientists at Kspeed Performance in Brisbane, Australia, were busy perfecting Kawasaki’s King Kong of blown JetSkis, the Ultra 310X. Despite wielding the highest horsepower output on the market, the Ultra 310X is a beast – tipping the scales at 1049-pounds – and it’s for this reason that many counted the big JetSki out when it came to picking up huge speed gains, at least without some serious re-engineering.

“Not so!” Eade declared. Kspeed found that decreasing the deep-V hull’s drag was key, so the overall plane attitude of the ski is adjusted using Kspeed’s 2-degree pump wedge. “Alone, it’s worth 1-2 miles per hour,” Eade explains. “But together with our Kspeed intake grate, and you’ll gain quicker acceleration, higher top speed and a much smoother and a much more predictable ride. Low speed and high-speed turns are a breeze with new-found control.”

Yet, the most important piece of Kspeed’s Stage 1 package is their ECU reflash. When paired with the pump wedge and intake grate, Kspeed’s kit reliably produces top speeds of 77mph from an otherwise unmolested Ultra 310X. The result of literally hundreds of man hours, Kspeed’s remapping of the engine management curve increases the Kawasaki’s fuel efficiency by optimizing timing, dwell and discharge. Speeds like this from an Ultra once required a $10,000 turbo system; now it can be achieved within 3-hours in your home garage.

Sea-Doo RXT-X 300 – 76mph
Recent results from a wide array of tuners has revealed the insane potential lurking just beneath the surface of a factory-stock Sea-Doo RXT-X 300. With a handful of surprisingly noninvasive aftermarket parts, speeds in the mid-80s are not only achievable but replicable using a number of combinations. Jet X Powersports’ Ryan Dalli explained, “We achieved consistent 84-85mph speeds on Michael Spark’s [RXT-X 300] with little more than a ECU tune and a custom-pitched prop.”

Yet, unless you’re planning on only running on flat water or in a straight line, the RXT-X’s ST3 hull requires some serious assistance. WCJ agreed with Greenhulk.net’s own Jerry Gaddis who stated, “[the RIVA Racing Pro Series] sponsons absolutely transform this ski. I consider them a must have on this hull.” This of course, echoes our test results from over a year ago, as only the RIVA sponsons reset the ST3’s pivot point, dramatically readjusting how the hull enters into and executes turns while under hard throttle.

Equally, tuners have found that the supercharged ACE engine is hampered by excessive oil blow-by, which can dampen combustion and retard the engine’s efficiency. Equally, this super-heated, vaporized oil fogs the intercooler, coating the fins and keeping the cooler from effectively chilling the intake charge. Even bone-stock 300HP Sea-Doos are seeing these effects, and therefore require the addition of a Oil Catch Can/Engine Breather Kit. Although it doesn’t directly increase engine output, it does improve overall efficiency and thereby total performance.

Interestingly, Sea-Doos can achieve extraordinary top speeds without the need of an ECU reflash (although it certainly does help, and is necessary if more extensive modifications are planned for the future). Rather, by simply bypassing the ECU’s speed control module, speed enthusiasts have achieved speeds as high as 76-77mph. Thus, Gaddis also parroted our final recommendation, the RIVA Racing SCOM unit, which literally interrupts the diagnostic plug socket, and permits the Sea-Doo to run unrestricted without tampering with the ECU tune at all. Moreover, it literally takes minutes to install.

Yamaha FX SVHO WaveRunner – 76mph
Fatefully, one of the most potential-rich personal watercraft is also the most restricted. It took a great deal of ingenuity and testing to unearth the true talents of the 2018-and-up Yamaha FX SVHO WaveRunner, and once revealed, it became one of the winningest 3-seaters in racing. Yet, doing so requires considerable engine management re-calibration – and why we recommend a MaptunerX tune. Gaddis explained, “The ski is not going any faster until you reflash the ECU to remove the speed limiter. [And] the beautiful thing about the MaptunerX is you can upgrade tunes at any time at no extra cost.”

Gaddis cautioned, “[Upgrading to the] RIVA ride plate must be done at the same time as tune because [the FX hull develops] very unstable handling at speeds above 72-73 mph.” This very same sentiment was echoed by multi-National and World Champion racer Brian Baldwin, who noted, “the stock FX ride plate [likes] to push the nose too much. It really puts a lot of downforce on the front of the ski, and the RIVA rideplate really gets the ski more on the back-part of the hull, and gives it a lot more top speed as well.”

Lastly, we questioned if Gaddis would recommend the ribbon delete kit as the final modification. “No, the ribbon on 2018-and-newer skis is much larger than previous models and flows more air. (Although, I recommend removing the ribbon on higher stages of modifications, such as Stage 2 or 3.) Instead, I’d go with the RIVA Racing Power Filter. This replaces the restrictive factory air box and lets the engine draw in a lot more cool, dense air,” remembering to add, “And everything is available at the Greenhulk PWC Performance Store – and save 10-percent by using the coupon code “greenhulk” when you check out.”

Kickback This Summer With Bopenski’s Innovative PWC Chair

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Summer weather is approaching and here at The Watercraft Journal, we are certainly ready to get out and on the water just like everyone else. What better way to enjoy the outdoors than with The Bopenski KickBack Chair coupled to your watercraft.

This unique relaxation tool is being hailed as the most innovative non-performance PWC accessory to arrive in years. It adds such a level of versatility to your ski unrivaled by other accessories and the setup and removal is a breeze.

The chair is completely portable and when you are ready to kickback, setting up the chair can be done in one minute without any tools. Relax with two cupholders and a storage pocket included. This chair is the ultimate way to take a break from riding or to simply spend some quality time with your loved ones.

The KickBack Chair is constructed from high quality anodized aluminum and stainless steel parts. It is built to last in fresh and salt water and has a capacity of up to 225 lbs. It is compatible with most 3-seater makes and models that have a tow-eye or pylon so join the thousands of others who have already transformed their watercraft with this versatile accessory.

For more information and to get the latest promotions, head on over to Bopenski today.

Broward Motorsports Changes Rec Ride Date to July 12

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COVID-19 has had a major impact on the United States which has left us to shelter in our homes and help slow the spread of this virus. While the virus may seem to be slowing down, Broward Motorsports has announced that they have moved the date of their Rec Ride from May 31st to July 12th, 2020. While everyone at BMS was excited for this trip, BMS wants to ensure that while everyone has a great time, everyone needs to stay safe.

BMS believes that by July 12th, everyone who has signed up for the ride will be able to enjoy the ride together. Riders will be able to launch from three different boat launches in Key Largo, Florida. This way, the boat launches will not be too crowded, and you can launch at the closest one to you. BMS asks that you arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before 10am to make sure that you can launch and be ready to go by 10:00am. After everyone has launched and it ready to go, you will travel through the Florida Keys with your final destination being Alligator Reef Lighthouse. Here you will be able to explore this beautiful area and have the chance to snorkel!

If this is your first group ride or need a refresher on what to bring, BMS has outlined a list on one of their recent Facebook post, check it out here. While many of you may be upset or dying to get out of your house, BMS wants to make sure that everyone will be safe. They look forward to seeing everyone on July 12Th!

Cycle Springs is Rewarding First Responders

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There is no doubt that COVID-19 has impacted all of us in different ways. While many of us have lost close one to the virus, we should be thankful for all of the First Responders and medical staff who have put themselves on the line to help combat this virus. Cycle Springs has been in business for many years and one of the reasons is that they give back to their community.

Cycle Springs has just announced that if you are a First Responder or retired/active Military, you are eligible for the Military and First Responder Discount! Cycle Springs wants to show their appreciation to all of the men and women who are in the Military or are a First Responder by offering discounts of up to $1,500 off, 10% off MSRP and $250 off with a 2-year Warranty! These huge warranties won’t last as discounts on Suzuki’s run until 8/31/2020, Polaris until 4/30/2020, Kymco until 12/31/2020 and Kawasaki until 6/30/2020.

The weather is starting to get warmer with weather approaching and if you are in the market for a new watercraft, Cycle Springs is here for you. They have an excellent staff who is knowledgeable about all of the products they offer, and they would love to support all of the First Responders and Military personnel. Give them a call today at 727-771-1234 and see how they can help serve you.

Big Memorial Day Savings with Sea-Doo

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Mark your calendars; Sea-Doo riders! Sea-Doo has all of your PWC needs covered with Memorial Day around the corner and the big Sea-Doo Memorial Day Sales Event. When it comes to watercraft and accessories or a new PWC, check out the sales event. Sea-Doo shops will be looking to move some product with COVID-19 putting a major damper on in person shopping and availability of new product. Expect big slashes in prices!

The Memorial Day Sales event runs from May 14th to May 31st, so you have time to hit up your local Sea-Doo dealer to score a new ride or some sweet accessories. Sea-Doo’s Memorial Day Exclusive Offer consists of no payments for 90 days on 2020 models and prior years. Also, receive $150 off when buying $750 or more in Sea-Doo accessories and/or apparel.

Maybe you’re dreaming of the 2020 Fish Pro. Now is the time to purchase one of those powerful well-equipped machines to take you to your favorite out of the way fishing hole.  You could always refresh your old Sea-Doo with a new stereo or maybe your old life jacket is outdated, and you could use a refresher for yourself while you’re “just looking.”

Check out your local Sea-Doo dealer for savings specific to your area.

Boating Industry Names All-New Sea-Doo GTI Top Product Of 2020

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Admittedly, we here at The Watercraft Journal are geeking out on the new Sea-Doo GTI SE 170. Obviously, it being the highest tier of the completely redesigned and re-engineered GTI lineup for 2020, the SE 170 and all others in Sea-Doo’s recreation segment show tremendous promise given its lightweight (via its Polytec 2.0 hull) and 1630 ACE engine producing a torquey 170-horsepower.

That being said, we’re not the only ones heaping praise on the all-new runabout; recently Sea-Doo was awarded recognition for the GTI as being part of the “2020 Top Products” list by Boating Industry. No doubt, it’s a big honor for the freshman watercraft, and we’re excited to see who else recommends this machine. Here’s Sea-Doo’s official press release:

Sea-Doo has landed on yet another top products list, this time for the incredible innovation with the all new GTI SE. Boating Industry’s seventh annual 2020 Top Products list brings 50 of the recreational marine industry’s best new and innovative products and services in the market. BRP is no stranger to innovation and with the new features and design of the GTI SE, they secured a spot on this stacked list.

Sea-Doo’s redesigned GTI SE has taken over the recreational personal watercraft segment with its sleek design and incredible innovation. This 3-seater, do-it-all machine is packed with value from front to back. With the introduction of the Polytec Gen 2 hull, the GTI is now more durable, lighter, and even more stable than previous models. Features were brought down from Sea-Doo’s high-end models such as premium audio system, built in LinQ accessibility with a large back deck, and Ergo Lock seating, giving the consumer even more value and options to extend their day out on the water.

This is only the beginning! Keep an eye out for the Sea-Doo GTI SE on many more “top product” and innovation awards this year.

Super Rack’s Action Camera Bracket For ’18-up ST3 Sea-Doos

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Many of you regular readers of The Watercraft Journal know that we also publish a bi-monthly YouTube show wherein we video record reviews of the latest personal watercraft as well as the occasional spotlight on a particular lake, river or riding location. Part of that process is capturing live footage with action cameras, often mounted all over the PWC we’re riding. Thus far, we’ve only lost one GoPro camera to the bottom of our local lake – but with Super Rack LLC’s new mounting bracket, that could’ve been saved!

Known for their stellar PWC racks and storage systems, Super Rack LLC’s new GoPro Bracket is designed to fit all current (2018-up) ST3-based Sea-Doo 3-seaters (GTX, RXT-X, Wake Pro 230 and Fish Pro). Made from 100-percent marine-grade aluminum, the bracket installs easily to the front “hood” cover using the same factory screws – requiring no new hardware. According to Super Rack, the “GoPro mount is included, all you need is your camera; there is no need to buy any extra parts or accessories.”

As a nice final touch, Super Rack LLC offers the bracket in a variety of powder coating color options. While the colors are not meant to match any PWC, they are “close enough” to some colors use by Sea-Doo, so make sure to check out what’s available! And for a limited time, the regularly priced $69.99 bracket comes to you with free shipping, saving the savvy buyer a few extra bucks!