Even the best doctors will recommend getting a second opinion on a prognosis, and we at The Watercraft Journal are no different. While we’ve shared our views on the 2020 GTI lineup from Sea-Doo – particularly in regards to the wider use of Polytec (in this case, a newly coined second generation of Polytec deemed “2.0”) for the model segment’s hulls – in previous articles and reviews, we submit this video review from Joe Zammataro of PWCmuscle.com.
He writes, “Can a plastic hull really work in a full sized ski? With the new 2020 GTI lineup, PolyTec 2.0 has been launched and is used exclusively through all GTI models, even the GTR230. These are full-sized skis using the plastic hull, significantly heavier than the Spark. So do they hold up? Do they feel cheap? Would this hull work for a ski I’d own? These are the questions I set off to answer as we tested out the new models in the GTI lineup.”
And true to his word, Joe details a list of pros and cons to the new GTI and GTR models, how he saw how the lightweight Polytec material holds up in a variety of conditions, and whether he’d recommend its purchase to friends and family. As a bit of a spoiler, we feel we’re on the same page with Joe for the most part, and glad to see so many in the industry take a shine to this latest innovation from Sea-Doo.
Traction is what makes or breaks a performance watercraft, and there’s no machine that benefits from improved traction and hookup than the Yamaha GP1800. Prior to the 2019 upgrade to the GP1800R, the GP1800 had a rather lackluster intake grate. Many noted initial acceleration suffered from cavitation in its factory form. Yet, all that changed when RIVA Racing introduced it’s top loader intake grate.
Now, if you order one of RIVA’s intake grates for the GP1800 or VXR, you’re going to score a $80 Pump Seal Kit completely free! That’s right, you’re going to enjoy improved top speed in rough water conditions (with zero speed loss in smooth conditions); excellent handling; dramatic gains in acceleration and hookup; and most importantly, reduced cavitation.
The one-two-punch combination package (PT# RS22110-PS) is priced at $299.95 and lands you RIVA’s bulletproof stainless steel intake grate and matching Pump Seal Kit for all Yamaha GP1800s and GP1800Rs, and 2015-and-up VXR and VXS WaveRunners! Act now by clicking here!
As you might already know, most of the summer’s major movies have been pushed back by the studios – some as far back as next year! With people unable to fill a movie theater to capacity, it only makes sense that the rollout of Larry Rippenkroeger’s “Hot Water” movie also be altered.
But rather than push a very obviously summertime film back to the Fall, Ripper and team have smartly decided to make it available for viewing online! The “Hot Water” team announced yesterday, “Starting April 23rd you’ll be able to go to www.hotwatermovie.com and click a link that will be an embedded Vimeo On Demand page. Since this is a special sneak peak you will only be able to rent it and the price will be $11.99. This will be a limited time engagement.”
If you’re impatient to see Ripper’s film (like we are) then jump on the opportunity before it’s taken down once all this lock down hubbub is done with. Why? Because “Hot Water” won’t be available again until late this summer on the larger streaming platforms where you will be able to rent it or purchase it as a digital download. This is promising to be the fun, rowdy jet racing movie you’ve been waiting to see forever, so do not miss your chance to catch it early – it sure beats binging episodes of “Tiger King.”
For the uninitiated or the would-be shopper, gathering as much information about the newest offerings from Sea-Doo can be a wee bit overwhelming. Considering the avalanche of features, options and configurations, deciding which model best suits you, your budget, your intended use, and riding style can leave many scratching their heads. For this reason, The Watercraft Journal partnered up with Sea-Doo Public Relations’ Tim McKercher to walk us through the many similarities between the 2020 GTX 170 and the all-new GTI SE 170, as well as what differences distinguish the two.
First, it’s important to understand that the GTX 170 rides on the larger ST3 hull, bringing the GTX’s overall dimensions in at 135.9-inches long, 49.4-inches wide and a total of 776-pounds. Compare that to the GTI SE 170 and its smaller and lighter platform, and you’re looking at a difference of 4.5-inches in length (130.6-inches long), .2-inch in width (49.2-inches wide), and 37-pounds (739-pounds total dry weight). Moreover, the larger GTX touts a massive 18.6-gallon fuel cell compared to the GTI’s 15.9-gallon tank.
Interestingly, while total rider capacity is identical at 600-pounds, the GTI has a total storage capacity of 42.5-gallons compared to the GTX’s surprising 26.1-gallons. Yet, as Tim illustrates in the video below, accessing the cargo aboard the GTX is made demonstrably easier thanks to Sea-Doo’s central storage system. Unlike the GTI’s more traditional bow storage that requires a little bit of flexibility to reach the bottom, leaning down into the belly of the GTX can be done from the driver’s seat. And so can refilling the gas tank, as the filler cap is found directly under the GTX’s glove box.
While both the GTI and GTX feature Sea-Doo’s watertight phone storage pocket, the glove box of the GTI is far roomier, permitting the storage of a couple bottles of water, sunscreen, or even a digital camera. As both machines are equipped with the identical 1630 ACE four-stroke, both enjoy robust torque delivery from Rotax’s efficient 3-cylinder engines; yet, it’s the lighter GTI that claims a dramatic increase in 0-to-30 acceleration over its previous iteration (or the GTX for that matter). And both come equipped with Sea-Doo’s third-generation of iBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse).
When first introduced in 2018, the newly redesigned GTX rode on Sea-Doo’s innovative ST3 platform. The hull is a blend of an ocean-going 23-degree deadrise at its bow that tapers to a smoother, wide – almost flat – second half. This gives the ST3 phenomenal balance and buoyancy at low speeds. The 2020 GTI, on the other hand, is entirely new for this year and rides on a very unique hull. The shape itself is tremendous, well balanced and predictable with a progressive 17-degree deadrise. Yet, what’s most unique is Sea-Doo’s use of a second-generation Polytec that is both scratch resistant and lightweight.
Above the bondline, both the GTX and GTI employ Sea-Doo’s industry-leading “Ergolock” tapered seating and ergonomics, as well as its modular accessory system “LinQ.” Featuring twin pop-up cleats, both watercraft can carry one of two coolers, a gas caddy, or storage cases. Additionally, a removable puck reveals a port to install the retractable ski pylon – making either of these two machines into its own “Wake” model. McKercher further details the many features – including Speed Control, optional iControl speed settings, and much more – so watch the whole video below.
In today’s world, we are constantly using the internet. Whether it be to check up on social media or online shopping, it is the way we live our lives. When shopping online, the best and least frustrating way to view the products and conduct a purchase is through an easy-to-use website. It can be extremely frustrating when a website is difficult to use or confusing. However, Sealver Waveboats is different, they have just launched their new online website.
For those of you that do not know, Sealver Waveboats takes your own water experience to a whole new level. With 11 different models offered they have something for everyone. Their WB, RIB and Z Line HEVO models act as an attachment to any major PWC offered on the market. They latch into the model and turn your two or three-seater PWC into a boat powered by your PWC.
You now have the chance to turn your day out on to the water to a day out on the water with friends and family. Their newly designed website allows you to look all of their models and see which model fits best with your style. Sealver also offers 3 HYBRIS models that are equipped with an outboard motor if that suits your needs better.
Whether you are in the market for making this summer the best one yet or curious about Sealver Waveboats, their new website has all the information you need. Check them out today!
Yamaha is proud to offer to their customers, the industry’s largest range of financing and purchasing options. This seasons’ Perfect Choice Sales Event is comprised of four offers. There’s something available for all qualified buyers.
Moreover, consumers can estimate their payments with Yamaha’s Finance Calculator and also check on prequalification for financing by filling out the Yamaha Card Pre-Qualification Form. The options are available on the Yamaha WaveRunners website. These are good ways to pass the time while safely tucked away at home during the pandemic.
Yamaha is offering $0 down, 0 payments for 90 days, and 0% APR. This deal is for qualified buyers who want to defer payments and interest for 90 days. The offer applies to tier A1 buyers who opt to buy a new 2014-2020 WaveRunner. When the 90 days are up, 4.99% APR kicks in for 60 monthly payments. The buyer must take delivery by April 30, 2020.
The second offer gives the buyer a choice of $500 off of a brand new WaveRunner or 5 years Genuine Yamaha Coverage. SuperJet’s qualify only for the $500 off. The beauty of this deal is that it can be combined with other finance offers.
Deal number three lets you score 2.99% APR if you’re a well-qualified tier A1 credit customer. The 2.99% APR financing is good for 36 months.
The final offer is for the purchase of two WaveRunners at 6.49% APR for 96 months. The deal is available for the A1 credit customers who finance through Yamaha Financial Services. Purchase two new 2014-2020 WaveRunners and get this great deal!
With spring weather here for many of us as well as the fact that many people are cooped up in their homes, now is the perfect time to get ready for warm weather riding.
With that can come some modifications to your Sea-Doo or other personal watercraft and if you are in the market for some extra performance, then JetX Powersports out of Ontario can help you reach your goal.
Specializing in modifications and tuning, JetX partners with the industry’s best brands and parts. Take for example this recent RIVA Stage 2 equipped RXT-X 300.
In this build, they appear to be testing different impellers and according to the factory GPS-speedometer, they reach a maximum speed of 86 mph which is truly impressive for a Stage 2 build.
If you are looking to add some extra performance to your watercraft this year, JetX Powersports has the knowledge and reputation to reliably help you out and they have been doing it for many years.
For more information on this particular build or to get some service and tuning done on your watercraft, reach out to JetX.
In today’s connected world, it is easier than ever to shop online. We shop for many of our daily essentials routinely from the convenience our smart devices and computers. But how about a brand-new Sea-Doo watercraft?
With Sea-Doo it’s not only possible to browse and select a type of watercraft, but you are even able to customize your very own Sea-Doo. With this powerful shopping tool, you are able to produce your ride built your way.
If you are unfamiliar with the various categories and models, you can click on each category of watercraft in the models section to explore all of the features and differences.
Sea-Doo even has a great tool that allows you to view models side-by-side or enter some brief information about your preferences which will guide you to the correct category or model.
Once you have selected the model right for you, simply go to the customizing link above, select your model and appropriate package, if applicable. On the next page, you can select from various options such as engine size and power level if applicable, iBR or BRP Premium Sound System options, and color packages.
Once you have narrowed down the overall model, performance spec, and color, you will make your way to the accessories page. Here you can add anything that your heart desires from heated handlebar grips, to various LinQ accessories, and even options for a trailer to accompany your new watercraft.
Finally, you will see a summary of your build sheet along with pricing. You can send this build to your local dealer who will begin the process to get you your ultimate ride built your way.
The all new Kev-Racing SX-R Race Diffusors are created with passion to evolve the riding experience. Tested by Pro racers for over two years these sponsons are nothing less than Championship proven.
The Race Diffusor is created to regenerate the stand up riding feeling we all love so much, with all the benefits of the new SX-R 1500. The signature hydrodynamic flow shape allows to enter corners at higher speeds with additional grip throughout the corners. Due to its unique design it has perfect straight line stability in any condition. Super sharp corners or wide open sweepers – the sponson that brings back the stand up riding to its roots.
“I believe everyone should live to their fullest potential. With the Race Diffusors we created something that allows racers to up their game and bring back the joy of riding stand ups. It took two years in the making to finally create a product that I am really satisfied with. I am very pleased to share a product that I love and hope it helps racers around the world to evolve their riding.”
Tim McKercher from Sea-Doo Special Projects takes us on a video tour of the new Sea-Doo RXT-X 300. California Green is a new color for 2020 with the ski also being available in Lava Red and Eclipse Black. The RXT-X 300 is built for the rider who likes to ride open water and wants to reach their destination really fast. The PWC is super stable whether idling, moving at full speed, or with the engine off. The stability comes from the watercraft having a low center of gravity unlike other machines in its class.
Another helpful feature is the Ergolock seating. The seating set up allows the rider to position forward to the engine and lock in with their legs with no strain. The featured X-Steering makes it easier to pull off aggressive turning with your feet locked into the footwells. With knees locked into the seat, even more leverage can be had. This machine is so stable, riders don’t have to be concerned with teetering at a dead stop.
Storage is another big deal with the Sea-Doo RXT-X 300. The set up makes it easy access to your storage from the seated position. Simply lift up the top and you can fill your gas tank without worry about fuel going into the water. A safety kit and fire extinguisher are all within reach. Plenty of room is available for extra supplies as well. The glove box is integrated with a waterproof cell phone case and USB charger. A 100-watt waterproof sound system is a popular add on to the RXT-X 300. The sound is focused on the rider so it can be heard at high speeds.
Another cool feature to note is the new 9½-inch digital display with fuel gauge, hour meter, clock, and trim level. Also, the right handlebar is equipped with a button that allows you to navigate through stats and other information, so you know what’s going on with your watercraft at all times. A couple of other cool features are the Intelligent Brake & Reverse (iBR) system. These items are placed in a way that your hands never have to leave the handlebars, so you can stay in control.
The Sea-Doo gives the rider more control at slower speeds because it will shift in forward, neutral, and reverse in idle speeds. Another great feature of the Sea-Doo RXT-X 300 is the expanded big back deck. Remove the seat and LinQ accessories and you have an instant sun deck. If a big day is planned, accessorize with the LinQ accessories like the cooler and clip in gas can. No tools are required for LinQ.
At 300hp and the quickest acceleration on the market, this bad boy will move! Engage the Launch Control and harness even more power and remain in control as the Launch feature keeps the bow down. Check out the video to see this beast in action and then schedule a test ride with your local dealer and experience the Sea-Doo RXT-X 300. We think you’ll dig the Sea-Doo Life.
