Gallery: Inside Brian Baldwin’s Pro Open R/A SVHO-Powered Yamaha VXR

August 30, 2016

“Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” is an old turn-of-phrase that was coined back in the heyday years of NASCAR when stock car racing was actually done with “stock cars.” Since falling out of mode decades later, it was later rehashed with jet skiers during the late ’80s and early ’90s, as so many championship-winning skis and runabouts weren’t very far from the stock craft available on any showroom floor. That, and as jet ski racing was so prevalent, the results of such races actually swung trends in new sales purchases.

Moreover, the manufacturers relied heavily on the research, testing and results acquired by such race teams to help test, prove and develop future components (because what harsher environment is there than competitively racing?). Many would presume that such patterns in research-and-development have gone by the wayside, but not so with Yamaha. The brand continues to rely heavily on the efforts of privateer and sponsored racers to provide feedback and insight on how to improve its product.

Most recently, Yamaha announced the retirement of the FZR (and FZS) from its 2017 lineup. The news didn’t sit well with many, particularly those who doubted the replacement runabout, the VX-based GP1800, had the handling prowess to fill the FZ’s shoes. Little do they know that Yamaha Factory Racing/Dean’s Team racer Brian Baldwin has been actively campaigning a clandestine GP1800 all this year in Pro Open class. Although the factory product is only slightly altered from Baldwin’s prototype, the GP1800 soon arriving at dealers across the globe is essentially the same as the runabout featured in this article.

Few racers are willing to draw back the curtain and let the powersports media comb through their championship-winning machines, choosing to hold back a few secrets that they can keep to retain their competitive edge. Gratefully, Baldwin’s smooth Southern charm and willingness to let us crawl all over his modified VXR affirms his North Carolina upbringing. While much of our conversation took place at the 2017 Media Press Introduction earlier, WCJ photographer Alie Block caught up with Baldwin between motos at the Lake Hartwell, Georgia stop of the Hidden Trails Pro Watercross Tour a little over a week ago.

The longtime Dean’s Team, factory Yamaha racer waved at his ski, “You are looking at a stripped-down 2016 Yamaha VXR with a SVHO engine package. The engine is bone stock (other than a set of RIVA valve spring retainers), and it uses the SVHO stock pump with a twin impeller, a modified venturi and stock steering nozzle.” Built strictly for closed course racing and competing in the New Jersey, Georgia and West Virginia stops of the Hidden Trails Pro Watercross Tour, Baldwin did tease that this ski will be racing in Chicago at the Pro Sprint round of AquaX this coming September 10-11.

“The setup is pretty mainstream,” Baldwin shrugged. “It’s all IJSBA Limited class modifications. RIVA Racing and Dean’s Team can supply the parts needed to build a replica of this monster. I built the ski with the help of RIVA parts and a Dean’s Team ECU reflash, that’s it.” Although Baldwin’s modesty is appealing, it belies some other custom work that his racing class allows. He admitted, “We lightened the hull and deck.” Although he wouldn’t disclose the final weight, he did note that it was “close” to what the upcoming GP1800 weighed.

Grabbing the handlebars, Baldwin noted, “I built my own steering system since nothing was available at the time. RIVA has a killer steering system coming out.” When it came to other handling tweaks, Baldwin was a little more mum. “Sponsons? These are custom sponsons that we made.” Information regarding the ride plate and intake grate was withheld. Final alterations included a Jettrim seat cover fitted to the stock seat, and “stock mats over the custom blue paint.” The new GP1800’s brighter blue caught the racer’s eye at the press intro, vowing, “That’s gonna be next year’s color. I love it.”

In its current form, the ski is blistering fast. “0-to-60 times are well below the 2 second mark and top speed is mid- to high-80s depending on the handling setup,” Baldwin noted. Baldwin’s performance on the SVHO-powered ’16 VXR has been enough to frustrate even Dustin Farthing on his 600-horsepower, all-carbon fiber RXP-X in several motos of the ‘Tour. “If it can keep up with a $60,000 exotic like Dustin’s [Sea-Doo],” Baldwin laughed, noting the considerable cost difference between the two builds. “I think it’s doing great.”

With the release of the upcoming 2017 GP1800, for which Baldwin’s build was modeled around, the hull getting its origin from the ’15-’16 VXR, Baldwin attests the new GP1800 will be a top contender on any racing circuit. “Just look at my ski if you want to know if the new GP is up to the task.” Baldwin will continue campaigning the VXR SVHO with the support of his sponsors Yamaha Factory Racing, Dean’s Team, RIVA Racing, Champion Powersports, Jet Lift, and Fly Racing throughout the year, and will return next year on a new GP1800.

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Truckboss Decks Congratulates Sponsored Rider Blair Hull on WCWA Wins

Kevin Shaw

August 30, 2016

Across the continent, jet ski racing is running strong. Recently, the Western Canadian Watercross Association (WCWA) hosted its 7th and 8th rounds of racing this past August 20th and 21st at Crane Lake and enjoyed not only a fantastic turnout of both racers and spectators, but also some great Flyboard lessons and demonstrations. Although the weekend concluded the season for the WCWA, there was still plenty of reason to celebrate.

One with reason to celebrate was Blair Hull, sponsored racer of Truckboss Decks, the industry leader in personal watercraft truck decks. Hull’s weekend not only capped off his first year or riding and racing, but did so on a high note, finishing third overall in Beginner and second overall in Novice Stock. Hull makes stellar use out of his Truckboss Flexx Loader deck on a lifted Dodge Ram 2500, as he tows a camping trailer behind as he’s joined on tour by his wife and two children.

“A huge thank you goes to my wife for putting up with my new found love for jetski’s and supporting me through all this,” Hull wrote in a Facebook post recently. Congratulating Hull on his season, Truckboss’ Kent Natrass wrote, “A huge congratulations to our newest sponsored rider! Way to go Blair Hull, you will be force to be reckoned with!” If you like Hull’s setup as much as we do, it’s easily replicated using ! For more information on this and other Truckboss Decks, visit HERE.

Real Review: Jet Renu Stank Away

Kevin Shaw

August 29, 2016

“So what do you have in the way of a wetsuit cleaner?” we asked Jet Renu a few years ago. “Oh, our Purple is great for that too,” was their reply. “Purple” is the brand’s all-purpose watercraft cleaner. When mixed in a slightly concentrated form, it’ll definitely do the job, even so far as to knock off salt residue and waterspots when scrubbed with a wash mitt. But for gloves, boots and vests (not to mention wetsuits and rashguards), Jet Renu didn’t have much not in the way of cleaning (“Purple” worked fine in that realm), but in deodorizing these items.

Riding can be a workout and people sweat when they workout. Neoprene (much like Spandex) collects pretty much everything and can leave a pair of riding boots or gloves pretty rank, especially if left to dry. At the behest of so many sponsored riders and general consumers, Jet Renu answered their pleas with its new “Stank Away” wetsuit and neoprene cleaner and conditioner.

While cleansers and even dish soap (still one of the most commonly used cleaners for neoprene riding gear by PWC riders) strip away residue left by sweat and dead skin, it also manages to breakdown the neoprene’s elasticity. Jet Renu managed to formulate a cleanser that not only penetrates the porous neoprene and extract bacteria left by human contact, salt residue and other deposits, but also leave the neoprene intact, without stripping the material; and leaving it smelling fresh with a gentle hint of citrus.

Having just returned from the 2017 Sea-Doo Media Intro in Tampa, Florida, and making the 11-hour drive home, our Jettribe riding boots were not only caked in white, sugary sand, but thick with salt deposits and well, being on our feet, which is worse enough. The boots were rank, crunchy with salt and sand and as bad as a pair could possibly be.

We doubled up Jet Renu’s recipe for 1/2 oz. and squirted in what we estimated was a whole ounce into 2-to-3 gallons of water, churning the mix into a whipped foam. We also put our nozzle on high and tried to knock off as much debris from the boots and neoprene socks as possible before soaking them in the mix. Letting it soak for a few minutes (5 to 10), we started kneading each item individually to break up the dried-on stuff and loosen up the materials. Once done, we hosed each boot and sock off (making sure to turn the socks inside-out and rinsing again) before letting them dry.

Although clean, we still could detect some odor, so we repeated the process a second time. In a few hours’ drying time, our boots and neoprene socks were fresh and odor-free. Obviously, neglect was the culprit here and proper maintenance of our riding gear wouldn’t have required a second pass of Stank Away, but we wanted to push the product as far as we could – and again, Jet Renu came through with flying colors.

As is with many of Jet Renu’s products, it’s a fantastic tool to keep in your arsenal of cleaners, waxes and maintenance chemicals (we personally can’t live without their “Yellow” degreaser). “Stank Away” is still very new and not found on the official Jet Renu website, but comes in a 16 oz. bottle and is priced at $14 a bottle. For more information contact Jet Renu HERE.

Case of The Mondays: Shark Nearly Nibbles Jet Skier’s Leg

Kevin Shaw

August 29, 2016

Humans are soft, slightly haired mammals with negligible physical defenses. No claws, no mandibles, rows of razor-sharp teeth, thick coats of hair or armor plating. The only true defense we’ve got going for us is our massive brains, most of which we fill with movie quotes, random trivia, and lyrics to bad songs. And yet, we dominate the world as the planet’s most advanced species. Ironic, isn’t it? Well, that is save for a few times when humans push their luck a little too far and venture into territories where we’re so far outside of our element.

[Update] An eagle-eyed reader forwarded us a report published in The Brisbane Times giving further detail on the interaction between two riders aboard a Yamaha FX with what has been confirmed as a “juvenile Great White shark.” The pair were off of the coast of Fraser Island, near Ungowa Creek, when they spotted the shark and steered towards it to get a better look. This was clearly too close for the shark, which turned around and struck at the ski. “So this just happened,” wrote Libby Williams, who had filmed the event from her GoPro. “I literally had to move my leg so it didn’t get mauled!”

According to the report, “Sunshine Coast shark conservationist and diver Tony Isaacson said humpback whales visited areas around Fraser Island from May to about November, where they gave birth to their calves and said the shark in the video was likely a great white shark in the right place at the wrong time.” He was quoted as stating, “We know great white sharks will follow humpback whales on northern migration and will take any opportunistic feed associated with that calving and whale migration. What interests me about this jet ski and this large shark is that it is the right place but the wrong time of the year for that shark to expect any kind of substantial feed.”

“It has made an error of judgment, instead of navigating south, and I would say it would stay there for no more than a day or two,” he continued. “It is perhaps a sub-adult, which would add to the idea that it has made a mistake because it lacks experience.” Mr. Isaacson concluded saying that the shark’s “torpedo shape” and the distinct grey and white coloring indicated it was a “juvenile” great white.

Again, this is an illustration that nature is one to be trifled with, even if you think you’re smarter that a big dumb fish. Nature didn’t equip you with rows of regenerating saw-like teeth and nigh-impenetrable skin. This video was shared by The Chive’s Facebook page (via ViralHog).

Kevin Shaw: Being The Useful Idiot

Kevin Shaw

August 25, 2016

Because I’m too lazy to look up an actually credible source, according to Wikipedia, the definition of a “useful idiot,” and at least in modern political jargon, “is a term for people perceived as propagandists for a cause whose goals they are not fully aware of, and who are used cynically by the leaders of the cause.” And while this idiom has been bandied about quite frequently in this, possibly our nation’s most hotly contested and almost unilaterally disappointing election season, it also has applications well beyond the sphere of the politik.

These past two weeks have been particularly stressful for the editor of this particular personal watercraft enthusiast magazine. Not only have we launched two full-length feature articles on the 2017 reveals of both Yamaha and Sea-Doo, but were first on the planet to publish an article with the 2017 Kawasaki SX-R JetSki teaser video as well as publishing a world exclusive on the RIVA Racing Limited Edition GP1800R, all within the space of a dozen days. Toss into that traveling to a media exclusive hands-on event with the aforementioned ’17 Sea-Doos, and I’ve barely had time to breathe.

Above: Predicting the future isn’t easy. None of the PWC media saw Sea-Doo Trixx coming.

While penning the articles is by far the easiest part of the above, the months and weeks leading up to the public unveilings have been brutal. At no time has holding a secret from our readers been so difficult. Moreover, minding what I say in public and to friends has been equally unnerving. Yet, such is the nature of the job. If I want to be trusted with certain information and pictures, I need to abide by the established rules. I sign “non-disclosure agreements” vowing that I will not leak any information, images or other data prior to an established date and time.

Yet, many don’t abide by these tenets and consequently lose their privilege, and are left to wait for outlets such as The Watercraft Journal to “info dump” everything into the public arena (thereby making us not only a resource to our 300,000 annual readers, but other media outlets too, as it were). Yet, as many of you are keenly aware, we also publish quite a few predictions, leaks and teases that would contradict the above statements, right?

Above: Greenhulk.net’s Jerry Gaddis mastered the tailstand on the new ’17 Trixx at the Sea-Doo media intro in Tampa, FL this week.

The answer is yes, every now and again, we pick up a loose rumor or a bit of gossip that is very likely given other intel that we have. And typically, we share those in our “Vicious Rumors and Vile Gossip” columns. They’re titled as such because often, the likelihood of any published rumor is at best, 50/50 of actually wielding any sort of validity. Sometimes, it’s just the internal chatter and gossip within a company, or a persistent rumor being spread by overzealous dealers (although we try to take that with the subsequent grain of salt). But at times, the information shared has come directly from a manufacturer, and while you’d reason to believe that that information would be gospel, it often is the exact opposite.

In 2013, I was fed “inside information” that Kawasaki’s newest machine would be a “KX for the water.” That year, Kawasaki had made quite the fanfare of introducing the new KX450F with electronic “Launch Control.” The feature was essentially an ignition retard that dialed back throttle enough for the back tire to bite. Interestingly, aftermarket ECUs such as MoTec had such an option for watercraft, helping scrub cavitation when launching from a standstill. I, considering myself quite the sleuth, had deduced wrongly.

Above: Former “Watercraft World” staffer and “Boating” contributor Jeff Hemmel proved he still has the skills to knock off some sweet tricks (*”sweet tricks” not shown).

In my first “Vicious Rumors” article on the subject, I ballyhooed the idea of a 310-horsepower, traction-controlled machine, ideally based on the STX-15F with the Ultra powertrain. It was lightweight, nimble, already loved by racers, and characteristically in line with being the closest comparison to the KX in question. A second phone call from my source acknowledged my story, thanked me for it and shared another morsel of information, never once offering to correct any bit of my erroneous conclusion. This process carried on for a couple more weeks until the big day of the dealer meeting in San Diego.

The ski that came out was the Ultra 310R, which as many know, is a standard Ultra 310X with a short, stainless steering neck, an exposed set of motocross handlebars, and a textured seat cover. And as you know, no launch control. I was, effectively, irate. I clearly was being baited for several months, winding me up and letting me run loose to spew excitable tales to my audience, and believe you me, people were as excited about the news as I was to share it. Rather, upon the true reveal, the disappointment was palatable. And not just resulting in me being lambasted for my shoddy work as a prophet.

Whether I was being played as an inside joke, a type of litmus test providing the brand useful market research, or just an outlet to beat the drum for the brand for a few months is really immaterial. It was still on me to report on what I was given as best as I could. Not every putt sinks, nor does every shot hit the target. But I would rather share what I’ve got, try to extrapolate what the future meaning might be, and present it to you to judge. Heck, it’s why I call it “rumors and gossip” for a reason.

Go Get Wet,
Kevin

Karujet Joins IJSBA As Part of International Competition Program

Kevin Shaw

August 25, 2016

What is the “Karujet,” you ask? It’s only the toughest, more daunting offshore PWC race in the world. Held in the cul-de-sac harbor of Guadeloupe Island situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic, the 4-day event welcomes best national and international pilots racing the biggest brands of the world (Yamaha, Kawasaki, Sea-Doo) over 400 miles of open ocean.

With over 45,000 spectators, the Karujet is also one of the most popular in the world. And now, as the Karujet has been welcomed into the fold of officially-branded IJSBA international events, the race that takes over the island nation of Guadalupe has even more reason to be celebrated. Together with the IJSBA, the Karujet will continue elevating its prestige and challenging the toughest races in the world.

Here’s the original press release:
IJSBA Welcomes Karujet to IJSBA’s world wide competition program. Karujet’s joining of IJSBA comes as part of IJSBA’s continued emphasis on growth in the Caribbean, South American, and Central American regions where we expect some of the strongest amount of organized racing to grow over the next couple of years. IJSBA is honored to be selected to assist in this very prestigious event and we will be bringing the race community specific news, shortly, regarding the 2017 plans for the Karujet World Championship as well as a greater plan for the Caribbean along with our other partners in the area.

Gallery: Hidden Trails Pro Watercross Tour – Round 7 Charleston, WV

Tim Ducat

August 25, 2016

In a river well below the high banks where the spectators had a bird’s eye view, the sport’s premier classes were set to be decided after a long season of battles. Charleston, West Virginia once again played host to the final round of the Hidden Trails Pro Watercross National Tour. There was not a bad seat in the house to see who came out on top. After a season of three motos-per-round, a one-race main was a huge plot twist.

Pro Am Ski Stock was up first where the heat race set us up for what looked like a two-man battle just like the last few rounds of the tour. Broward Motorsports’ David Cabrera and Judge Motorsports/Hidden Trails’ rider Jimmy Wilson were set to put on a show. Wilson nailed the start perfectly and jumped Cabrera out of the hole, but Cabrera and his Hydrospace had the top end to pull him to the first bouy. Wilson tried to reel in Cabrera the rest of the race but just wasn’t able, giving Cabrera the overall followed closely by Wilson. Rounding out the podium with a solid finish was Callaway Turner out of Apex, North Carolina. Cabrera also took home the National Title with Wilson in second overall and Gage Schoenherr in third.

Pro Am Runabout Box Stock has been a showcase this year for Monster Energy/ Mountain Motorsports rider Dustin Farthing on his Sea-Doo RXP-X and nothing would change at this stop. Farthing made a couple quick moves after a third place start and took the lead never to look back. Sea-Doo X-Team/Hidden Trails motorsports rider Tim Ducat was also plagued with a bad start in 4th place but after the half way point of the race he also moved up to positions to take a familiar second place finish for him. Yamaha rider Jeff Dyckowski took third after an amazing holeshot. The tour’s Overall for the class resembled the podium from this race with Farthing in first, Ducat in second, and Dyckowski in third.

Perfection was the theme of the season for Sport GP and Broward Motorsports rider Sam Nehme who saw no reason to stop now. Nehme put an exclamation mark to his season of perfection by once again winning the main. A familiar face that hasn’t been seen much lately, Christmas, Florida rider Richard Taylor put on a great show riding his way to second place to show. He will be a forced to be reckon with when the Pro Watercross World Championships roll around. Naples, Florida rider Keith Dill had a phenomenal ride on his way to third on the podium as well. Nehme easily took home the National Championship in Sport GP followed by last year’s champion Kelly Smith with third place going to Johnny Smith.

Pro Am Runabout GP was one of the best shows of the weekend and it was a two-man battle between Dean’s Team rider Brian Baldwin and Monster Energy’s Dustin Farthing. Baldwin on his blue Yamaha pulled a huge holeshot to give him the early lead with Farthing in tow. Baldwin rode flawlessly on his way to the win with Farthing finishing a close second. Third place went to Fly Racing’s Dylan Osborn after a race long battle with Hidden Trails rider Tim Ducat. The second place finish for Farthing was enough to secure him his second National Championship of the day on his Sea-Doo RXP-X with Ducat just edging out Hidden Trails owner Trey Frame for second overall leaving third to Frame.

The season’s biggest class, Pro Am Ski GP was a chance for Kommander rider Dustin Motzouris to shine. Motzouris applied that Kommander power to the track on his way to a huge main win. Judge Motorsports rider Jimmy Wilson finished up a highly successful national tour by finishing second behind Motzouris. There was a new face to the podium this weekend with Kommander rider Derrick Helm finishing third after a season of ups and downs for him in the GP class. For the National Tour overall, Motzouris edged out fellow Kommander rider David Redinger for the overall putting Redinger in second. Jimmy Wilson locked up third on the tour with his solid finish to the season.

After a season full of high speed action it was a fitting end to the National Tour in Charleston, West Virginia. The Pro Show did not disappoint and should be a great watch when it is aired on CBS sports next month. If anyone is interested in joining next year’s tour please visit prowatercross.com for more information.

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Gallery: Introducing The 2017 Yamaha WaveRunner Lineup (Video)

Kevin Shaw

August 24, 2016

Over time we’ve come to understand the certain ways that each manufacturer has in developing and introducing new product. While some play things a little “fast and loose,” manufacturers – particularly Yamaha Motor Corp. USA – have a very methodological process wherein designs are proposed, planned, and tested (and studiously retested) before finally being executed. In the simplest of terms, when the tides of change roll in to shore, Yamaha doesn’t react, they respond. But even providing a measured response is only half of the story. Standing at the forefront is where everyone wants to be, and often that position rotates year in and year out.

That being understood, it could easily be said this year belongs to Yamaha. As The Watercraft Journal will show you, the unveiling of Yamaha’s 2017 WaveRunners is a one-two-three knockout combination of a first-strike, a counter-punch and a haymaker that hits harder, more boldly and as smart as we’ve seen the manufacturer be in years. In discourse with some of the best minds in our industry, the consensus was that we’re peering over the precipice of a very diverse marketplace in 2017. A marketplace that is rife with product more interest-specific, stylized and personalized than we’ve seen since the rise of the four-stroke.

Above: Yes, this is it, the 2017 Yamaha GP1800. Powered by the SVHO supercharged 1.8L four-stroke, it rides on a NanoXcel2 hull and deck, bringing this beast in nearly 20-pounds below the VXR.

The “Yamaha Way” as we’ve come to understand is one where there’s no such thing as “leaps of faith.” All future product is weighed against market demand and more importantly, how it’ll effect Yamaha’s already established reputation.”We found that reliability is the single most important attribute for all customer segments,” Product Manager Scott Watkins explained to The Watercraft Journal. “Of all the customers who considered buying another brand, a quarter of them chose Yamaha [over the rest] because of our reputation for reliability.” Within the rental market is this no more better exemplified, as Yamaha handily outsells all other brands.

Tantamount to Yamaha’s reliability is maintaining a level of top level consistency in its manufacturing. Watkins walked us through the hull materials and compression mold process: “All WaveRunners are manufactured in a High Compression Molding process [consisting of a two-part compression mold that uses heat and pressure to compress the “High SMC Compression FRP” into a hull – Ed]. That results in better fit and finish; a smooth, paintable finish (giving us those automotive-grade metallic finishes); controlled tolerances and consistent results each and every time. And the process creates no VOC emissions.”

Above: For 2017, Yamaha retired the SHO (Super High Output) engine, reducing the FX to either the naturally-aspirated HO or SVHO powerplants.

The process freed Yamaha to develop its NanoXcel and NanoXcel2 hulls and decks, which not only shave total weight, but also result in a stronger hull – one with a bond with a higher tensile strength than traditional, or common SMC composites. Durability, strength, quality of finish and lightweight all amount to Yamaha’s priming for 2017. With that, the OE manufacturer has introduced five new WaveRunners for the new year, including a new Full Sized Luxury FX, two new Mid Size Sport/Rec units, and an entirely new segment of machines: Compact Rec/Lite.

We like being surprised, and this year is when Yamaha truly caught us off guard. Well, sorta. Earlier this year, we published the revelation that the FZ series WaveRunners were going to be phased out in lieu of a sportier, more nimble runabout based upon the new-for-2015 VX series. In fact, we had an inkling to this back at the new VX’s introduction when Watkins hinted, “We made the new VX to accept all of our engines. We’ve even got one with a SVHO. It’s bad ass.” The hint was too much for us to shake and the idea of a SVHO-powered VXR was just too exciting.

Above: All VX models return 2017, except for the VXS as well as the entry-level V1 models.

When intel confirmed the return of the “GP” name, it didn’t take much imagination to speculate on the new Yamaha’s name: the GP1800. Before the Internet is sent abuzz with claims that it’s “just” a SVHO-packaged VXR, note that it is much, much more. The GP1800 ($13,999) rides on the same hull and deck mold as the VXR, but is made from Yamaha’s NanoXcel2 material, heavily dropping the weight below the standard VXR ($11,999). Moreover, the GP1800 comes with Yamaha’s electric trim system, the brand’s own RiDE brake and reverse system, a wide (and extended) reboarding step, low RPM mode and a bunch of other features.

Of course, the big news is the application of the Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) supercharged, intercooled four-stroke. Privately dyno-tested, yet unofficially rated at 260-to-265 brake horsepower, the SVHO presses all of that thrust through a 160mm, 8-vein impeller mounted in a 75mm hub. No modifications were needed to be made to either the engine or intercooler to fit the SVHO into the GP1800 hull, and a scalloped and narrowed “cut-and-sew” race-inspired seat saddles the engine compartment. The steering remains fixed (like the current VXR) and is adorned with color-matched pistol-inspired hand grips, as there are two color varieties to choose from; and new CNC-cut Marine Mat traction mats cover the tray and swim platform.

As the GP1800 replaces the FZR and FZS, gone too is the VXS and the final SHO-powered FX models, the 9-year-old engine being retired. Other returning favorites include the perennial SuperJet ($8,499); the complete VX lineup, including the base VX ($9,599), VX Deluxe ($10,299), VX Cruiser ($10,599) and VX Cruiser HO ($11,199); the full-sized FX HO ($13,199) and FX Cruiser HO ($13,699), as well as the FX SVHO ($15,299) and FX Cruiser SVHO ($15,999).

Joining the ranks of the full-sized Luxury FX units is the new FX Cruiser Limited SVHO ($16,899). Taking a page from last year’s wildly popular VX Limited ($10,999), the “family fun starter pack” packaging has been applied to the Luxury class, giving a FX Cruiser SVHO all of the amenities included with the smaller Limited, including four pop-up cleats, a waterproof phone bag and full-sized dry bag, a tow hook and color-matched rope as well as a color-matched inflatable tube, a 12v outlet and electric tube inflator, as well as a custom-made PWC cover with a solar panel battery charger.

Above: Enjoying massive success with the VX Limited, Yamaha applied the same buyer-takes-all packaging and put it towards the FX SVHO, creating the FX Cruiser SVHO Limited.

Yet, the biggest addition to Yamaha’s WaveRunner family is the one that surprised us the most: the EX Series. Consisting of the base EX ($6,599), the EX Sport ($7,599) and EX Deluxe ($8,599), the EX units are a careful, measured response to Sea-Doo’s Spark. As the introduction of the Spark revealed a whole new segment of the PWC market that had gone previously untapped, Yamaha’s research uncovered that 62-perent of new PWC sold in the 2015 were Value/Economy models, the single-highest percentile since they began tracking PWC sales. Additionally, the recent uptick in sales these past two years was due (in large part) to an increase in first-time buyers.

With these persons in mind, Yamaha chose to provide them with a low price point watercraft that still maintained Yamaha’s commitment to reliability, durability and fun without sacrificing dependability. In designing the EX, Yamaha minimized the amount of body parts (fairings, panels, etc.) by incorporating much of the styling cues into the body itself. Equally, Yamaha developed a separate lower seat base (reminiscent of the once Honda R-12X) allowing for easy engine service when called for. The EX features a reduced and simplified instrument cluster, generous glove box storage (with wet bow stowage), and wide swim step.

Above: The EX models still ride on SMC fiberglass hulls (and decks) with a lower seat base that cradles the special EX-edition TR-1 3-cylinder four-stroke engine making 100-horsepower.

Powering the EX models is a slightly detuned 100-horsepower EX TR-1, based off of the same Marine TR-1 engine that received the 2016 NMMA Innovation Award. The changes to the engine are subtle, primarily in the form of a lightened flywheel and redesigned exhaust manifold and muffler. Reducing more weight is the EX’s unique jet pump. Compared to the MY16 V1 pump, the EX pump weighs 1.8kg less (14kg vs. 15.8kg), a redesigned shaft bearing, and features a combined pump and impeller piece. With a full-sized fuel tank, the EX also touts 14-percent superior fuel consumption than Sea-Doo’s Spark with 47-percent longer range (in Yamaha’s private testing).

Not only has Yamaha tightened up its selection of WaveRunners, but has added more excitement, fun and value to a lineup already teaming with such. Assuredly, Yamaha will continue its march towards racing gold with the GP1800 machines, and we’re certain the new EX models will be a hit with entry level riders and first-time buyers, as well as rental outlets and vacation spots. Yamaha’s latest crop of WaveRunners leaves no one behind and we’re certain there is something to fit your taste – if not, they just might surprise you next year.

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Gallery: RIVA Racing 2017 Yamaha GP1800R Limited Edition

Kevin Shaw

August 24, 2016

“Last year’s [FZR] RIVA Racing Limited Edition was a big success,” RIVA Racing’s Dave Bamdas began. “Besides selling every one of the short 25 unit run, we also had a lot of customers inquiring about many of the parts developed for it.” The Limited Edition FZR Bamdas described was the first inaugural “RIVA Edition” Yamaha, first revealed here on The Watercraft Journal, and then exclusively test ridden only a few short months later. “The Limited Edition FZR 350,” as we stated, “is brutally precise, almost punishing anyone daring enough to mount it. The cornering force produced by this FZR on the human body will peel anyone less than a professional athlete from the grip of the Velcro-like seat.”

“It was built for a small percentage of true performance enthusiasts,” Bamdas teased. “It’s definitely not for the common rider.” True to that, the dyno-proven 350-horsepower Yamaha Super Vortex High Output engine was only mildly reworked, regulating much of its alterations to strictly bolt-on pieces. “It doesn’t need it,” Bamdas continued. “We can achieve significant performance gains with an ECU tune, an intercooler and some other non-invasive bolt-ons. Not only is it more than most riders can handle, but there’s that comfort of knowing the engine hasn’t been messed it. It’s a win-win.”

With the announcement that Yamaha’s new-for-2017 GP1800 will replace the FZ series, what does that spell for the Limited Edition? “We were very excited to learn about the return of the GP name, and very happy to find much of our current products worked on the SVHO engine within the VX platform.” As noted in The Watercraft Journal’s extensive reveal of the complete 2017 WaveRunner lineup, the new GP1800 rides on the durable-yet-lightweight NanoXcel2 hull and deck, putting the GP nearly 20-pounds below the existing VXR. “Of course, we had to develop several key components that are unique to the GP1800.”

In addition to a bevy of performance and handling additions to the Limited Edition units, RIVA sends out nearly two dozen components to be anodized and powder coated to match the custom orange/white/blue paint scheme. And adding to the overall aesthetic, RIVA took great efforts to carefully recreate the factory graphics kit that would match both the styling and lettering of the original GP1800 graphics, making the package look like it came from the factory floor this way. Even going so far as to include orange stitching in the custom seat cover.

As with last year’s Limited Edition FZR, this year’s RIVA Racing Limited Edition GP1800R will also see a short production run of 25 hand-built GP1800s modified with a venerable who’s who of RIVA go-fast parts. Central to the GPR’s big horsepower gain is the use of a RIVA Stage 2 ECU Reflash, a RIVA SVHO Power Cooler Kit, a life-saving RIVA/HKS SSQV Blow-Off Valve, an all-new RIVA GP1800 Power Filter Kit, a RIVA Engine Breather Upgrade Kit 1.8L, RIVA’s stellar SVHO Intake Manifold Upgrade Kit, a RIVA Valve Retainer Upgrade Kit, which can be considered the only “invasive” mod on the whole build, a RIVA Pro Series Engine Cooling Upgrade Kit, a RIVA SVHO Supercharger Shaft Upgrade Kit, and a RIVA High Flow Billet Fuel Rail.

Helping the big 1.8-liter breathe a little easier is a RIVA GP1800 Rear Exhaust Kit funneling the spent gases out of the transom, a entirely new RIVA GP1800 Performance Ride Plate, Stainless Intake Grate, RIVA GP1800 Pump Seal Kit and RIVA Pro Series GP1800 Sponsons (with the sponsons’ 5-position billet inserts having also been anodized orange), all of which were specifically designed for the new GP1800 model this year. A Solas 160mm Concord 13/20 Impeller was also uniquely designed for this application, helping transfer all that horsepower into thrust.

For improved rider input, RIVA Racing includes an entirely new and unique RIVA GP1800 Pro-Series Steering System, including a billet aluminum base and neck. A RIVA Pro-Bar 32-inch Runabout Bar retains the factory controls including Yamaha’s electronic trim control and RiDE braking and reverse system. The steering package is capped off with a pair of ODI Ruffian Lock-On Grips. Finishing out the GPR’s new look and feel is a RIVA Limited Edition Rear Traction Mat, a RIVA Limited Edition Seat Cover and of course, the aforementioned RIVA Limited Edition Graphics Package.

While pricing has yet to be revealed, scarcity is already guaranteed as again, only 25 of these will be built in 2017. And if its performance you’re looking for, the GP1800R clicks off an impressive 80mph (sustained) at 8,300rpm. Again, the GP hull was designed for optimal handling in corners, so pushing this machine to a solid (and safe!) 80mph at 8,300rpm is a feat. Undoubtedly, The Watercraft Journal will be the first media outlet to get its hands on one of RIVA’s Limited Edition GP1800Rs, and we’ll have a comprehensive review of it shortly thereafter. Until then, enjoy ogling these images below.

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Video: RIVA Racing Teases New Limited Edition Yamaha, WCJ Will Have It First

Kevin Shaw

August 23, 2016

We’re feeling a bit mean for all of these teasers, but this week has definitely been a crazy one. With Kawasaki’s revealing yesterday, and now Yamaha’s 2017 WaveRunner unveiling tonight, adding yet another hotly-anticipated reveal on top of all of that is enough to give a person a stroke.

Nevertheless, as the Yamaha WaveRunners are rolled out to the public, so will RIVA Racing’s latest Limited Edition Yamaha. It’s pretty dang exciting, and promises to be a bigger collector item than the outgoing 2016 Limited Edition FZR 350. How can we say that? Because we rode it. But more on that later! (Aren’t we such a tease?)

Until tonight, enjoy this video and stay glued to The Watercraft Journal for more!

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