Gallery: QPWC Queensland Titles, Round 2

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November 19, 2015

Racers were back in action in Redcliffe chasing points at Round Two of the Queensland Titles, and with announcers pumping out tunes all day spirits were high. The day started out perfect with Moreton Bay offering some of the flattest conditions we’ve seen, but after lunch the winds started to pick up and white caps were forming. By the third moto, it felt like an entirely different track offering new challenges to what now seemed like a freestyle event.

The heat was on in the Open Runabout class with seasoned racers bringing in the big guns, in the form of new skis. QPWC’s President, Dan Fox was sporting a Les Cooke-built Sea-Doo RXP-X which he stated was nothing like he’s ever ridden before. Brett Douglas brought along the new addition to his ski family, being the 2014 James Bushell Sea-Doo RXP-X, but unfortunately the ski didn’t make it to the starting line after some technical difficulties forced Brett out of the race. Despite his best efforts, nothing could keep up with “The Hulk,” Brendan Boyd’s tried-and-trusted number 23 Sea-Doo RXP-X, which has consistently been the ski to beat in this class.

The Spark class was lighter in numbers than normal, but the battle between Jetports Matt Daley and JetSkiShop’s Wade Clucas was on. With Jetports’ finely tuned ski due to compete at the Kings Cup, it was going to be the one to beat. Wade Clucas managed the hole shot in the first and second moto and even had an impressive lead in the third moto – that is until his seat unclipped and tried to independently jump ship costing him the lead. After claiming his deserving first place, Matt Daley confirmed the ski will be at the King’s Cup with a local racer ready to hopefully take international victory. Newcomer Josh Barry had a great time racing in Spark class and battled through some pretty hefty chop to pull in third place.

The vintage boys were at it again, bringing with them loads of enthusiasm, like kids in a candy store. Their passion and love of the sport shines right through from their well-tuned upbeat skis, the fun they have on the water and respect (with just enough banter) they have for each other. It was pleasing to see a better turn out for the Ski class with six new racers joining the track, Justin Windsor from Liquid Industries claiming first place on his Superjet.

Returning from the 2015 World Finals was Mitch Wayt, however very unusually sitting aboard a Sea-Doo RXP-X as opposed to his usual Yamaha. Despite the change, he still managed to outpace the rest in Stock Class pulling in first place. Although only racing one class instead of his impressive four from the previous meet, the Rider of The Month was awarded to Bailey Cunningham for his tireless efforts. Rumors have it that he will be back with more skis next time, so watch out.

Once again, a massive thanks to the dedicated committee members, marshals, volunteers and major sponsors TWT Concreting and Liquid Industries for another fantastic event. The final round is set for 13th December at Redcliffe, Queensland, so stay tuned for that coverage next month.

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Real Review: Jobe Neoprene Boots

By

Kevin Shaw

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November 19, 2015

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You can’t win ’em all. George Herman Ruth, Jr. – better known as “Babe” – achieved baseball immortality as a New York Yankee setting a succession of MLB batting records (and some pitching records as well), including career home runs (714), runs batted in (RBIs) (2,213), bases on balls (2,062), slugging percentage (.690), and on-base plus slugging (OPS) (1.164); the latter two still stand today – according to Wikipedia. But unknown to many is that Ruth also known to swing at near anything, causing the Great Bambino to hold the record for strikeouts for his 22 seasons. Frankly put, if you’re gonna bat for the fences, you’re gonna have to accept your fair share of strikes.

Normally, we’ve given Jobe PWC a lot of praise for its riding gear, particularly for their Youth Neo Vest, molded side-entry Ruthless Vest, and Suction Gloves. While these three items have been personal favorites for The Watercraft Journal staff, we struggled with Jobe’s Neoprene Boots. Although there’s enough evidence to see where Jobe’s designers were going with their Neoprene Boots, the final execution leaves a whole lot to be desired – both in the materials used, and how the materials were used. It’s particularly disappointing when considering the stellar offerings from Slippery, JetPilot and Jettribe.

The boots are similar to others tested, comprised of a two-part design: an outer lace-up shoe with an inner neoprene sock. The sock is meant to provide extra warmth and protection. Unfortunately, the material used is a lesser quality neoprene used both in their wetsuits and lifevests that lost its elasticity around the ankle within a month’s testing. Also, the porosity of the sock allowed debris in, turning the protective sock into a reverse soup strainer, allowing everything in and nothing out. Prepare to have a lot of silt between your toes.

The shoe surrounding the sock is stitched together using thin, stiff material with very little contouring or molding. No matter how tight or lose we laced our shoes, material bunched and bind at different places, helping permit all of the aforementioned sand and silt into the shoe and sock. There’s very little in the way of drainage making airing out the boots after use a chore (one that we couldn’t seem to master despite its advertised “drain panels”). We also noted a lack of ankle support or toe protection as well – something that competing brand’s boots have.

Jobe’s own ad material boasts a “stiff sole” as being beneficial for added grip. We’d agree that the Neoprene Boot’s soles are stiff and feature more-than-adequate grip, but fail to see the correlation as both Slippery and even Blacktip’s discontinued slip-on booties feature soft, comfortable soles and feature plenty of grip. Rather, Jobe’s soles feature a thick, reinforced heel and pin-sized drain holes that allow water to seep out but very little air in. Thankfully, the boots are lightweight even when sopping wet or dry, which is a big plus.

Although Jobe advertises these boots as being available in sizes 7 – 11, the fact is you’re looking at a converted sizing chart, so you’re going to want to consult their measurement chart online. Priced at £54.99 (or $85 USD), the Jobe Neoprene Boots are pretty expensive given the quality of the product, particularly as it proceeded to deteriorate so quickly over a couple month’s time. Worst of all, there are very few US outlets for Jobe product so shipping these internationally will only add to the already stilted pricetag.

America’s Motor Sports Seeks New Floors Sales Associate

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Kevin Shaw

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November 18, 2015

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Let’s face it, many of you are working at a job that you hate. And if you’re reading this at work, it’s probably not the kind of job that is fulfilling you in any sort of meaningful way. So why are you there? The money? Really? Guess what, chances are you’re not making that much anyways. So why not get a job you like, work with people who are fun, and get to do something where your heart is in it? That’s right, there is such a thing.

Our friends at America’s Motor Sports, the biggest family-owned motorsports dealerships in Middle Tennessee, are looking for a driven, articulate and team-friendly floor sales associate. Sales experience isn’t a must, but it does help, but training is part of the program and soon you’ll be up and running in no time. Best of all, you’ll be working for a company that takes care of its employees! There’s not a lot of those out there, FYI.

While we’ve included the ad below, you’ll want to respond to the Craigslist ad HERE.

[Are you] ready to be EXCITED about your career?! Tired of cold calling, door knocking, standing on the point, calling colors, walking the lot all day? Tired of working long hours, Sundays, Holidays? Selling products that are boring? Not getting any benefits? Barely scraping by? I thought so.

Middle Tennesee’s LARGEST Powersports Dealership is seeking an experienced sales person to join their team as Floor Sales Associate. America’s Motor Sports is a local, family-owned company that has been in business for 31 years.

Sell something EXCITING for a change: Sportbikes, Dirt Bikes, ATV’s, PWC, and SxS. Reap the benefits of working at a Powersports Dealership (Demo Days, Product Testing, Trade Shows, Motocross Events, Bike Nights).

* Medical and Dental Benefits Available
* GUARANTEED Base Pay with Commission Plans Based on Experience
* 9-5 (Mon-Fri) 9-4 (Sat)
* CLOSED SUNDAY

Qualified Candidates can email a professional resume or drop one off in person, at the 8th Ave. S. location. Include a cover letter explaining why you would be a perfect fit for our organization.

Get paid to do something FUN for a change!

Francis Claims 2nd Consecutive AquaX World Points Championship

By

Kevin Shaw

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November 18, 2015

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If there’s one racer known for putting in the work, it’s Floridian Eric Francis. “The Eagle” to many, Francis has made it a point to tend to his backyard and never miss (whenever possible) a single weekend of AquaX USA racing, as it hosts its annual series around his home state. Aboard a supercharged Kawasaki Ultra 310R JetSki, Francis has been a force to be reckoned with in the 300 Class, and last year’s National Championship and World Rankings Championship proved exactly that.

This year, Yamaha Racing (powered by the venerable Dean’s Team crew) turned up the heat on Francis, who battled against multi-multi-multi IJSBA World Champion, Mike Klippenstein and his FX SVHO for top ranking. Although “The Klipper” ended the year with the National Championship, Francis did thwart the Canadian’s efforts in the final round, stating, “I finally figured out my setup at the last round of AquaX in Taveras, which we won and beat Yamaha.”

Yet, Francis’ consistency not only put him atop Klippenstein, but all of the other 300 class racers worldwide. He told The Watercraft Journal, “It’s been an honor to hold the world ranking in AquaX now for two years, and I look for to fighting for my title next year and regaining my us title as well.”

With Sea-Doo’s new 300-horsepower RXP-X, RXT-X and GTX Limited, many speculated whether Francis’ lead will vanish. He assured us, “I’m just going to work [on our setup] more through the off-season but I’m truly not that worried about it. I will be training very hard but not because of Sea-Doo.”

He concluded by giving credit to those who helped him through his 2015 season, stating: “Of course, my father Edward Francis. My mechanic Richard Maley, Joe Hiem and Kawasaki, Monster Energy, Dustin Farthing and Ryan Hardwick with Mountain Motorsports, quakysense, Fly Racing, and Hydro-Turf.”

Video: Jobe Wetsuits Releases All New 2016 Lineup

By

Kevin Shaw

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November 17, 2015

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We enjoyed much of 2015 working together with Jobe PWC and Jobe Wetsuits. From their form-fitting vests to quality gloves and easy-to-wear boots. Now, with the year drawing to a close, the venerable Scandinavian manufacturer has just released a video announcing their 2016 lineup of softgoods (ie. water sports wear).

Essential for your favorite water sport, Jobe’s riding gear is designed with both style and comfort in mind, with special attention given to flexibility and breathability. Big strides in design and execution were made with all Jobe wetsuits by making use of the latest construction methods and materials. That, with Jobe’s new Aquakiller-technology in their wetsuits – a special quick-dry thermo fabric with different layers that quickly drains the water in your wetsuit – results is a wetsuit that “keeps you warm and dry, while keeping flexibility.”

Jobe continues, “This technology is not just present in the Jobe Wetsuits. It also appears in various vests that are available. Next to the latest construction methods and materials the vests, swimwear and wetsuits…Jobe softgoods appear in various trendy colors and models. Expect sexy shorties for ladies like the Jobe Honolulu and Vienna wetsuits and cool-looking reversible comp vests.”

The Ultimate Used PWC Buyer Checklist

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Kevin Shaw

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November 17, 2015

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Last week, we published a similarly-titled list that as many pointed out, really should’ve been titled, “Tips For Making Sure You’re Not Buying a Stolen PWC” as so much of it focused not on the operating condition of the watercraft (as we’re sure most of you were more concerned with) than the legality of the transaction. Although helpful in its own right, it didn’t really cover the points that many were looking to see.

With huge thanks to loyal reader, Wade Robinson we have today’s checklist of “must have’s” when it comes to (legally) buying a used/pre-owned personal watercraft from a private party. According to Wade, “this was put together with input from vintage PWC enthusiasts as well as modern.” Nevertheless, Wade’s list passed our test and we think it’ll serve as a resource for all of us when it comes to purchasing a new-to-us PWC. Check it out:

Owner quiz at first conversation
1. Break in procedure
2. Oil type/brand
3. Flushing procedure
4. Lubricants (salt water use)
5. Pump bearings greased
6. Gas treated during storage
7. Any damage/mishaps

Tools to take with you
1. Flashlight
2. Rags
3. Compression tester
4. Jack (trailer bearings)
5. Life jacket
6. Spark plug wrench
7. Multimeter
8. Jumpstarter/spare battery

Static checks
1. Oil condition
2. Hull
3. Intake grate
4. Impeller/wear ring
5. Corrosion/rust
6. Compression
7. Oil in hull
8. Engine knock/noise
9. Spark plug condition
10. Voltage-off, starting, running
11. Taste test water for salt

Dynamic checks
1. Acceleration
2. Overall normal operation
3. Steering bearings (stiff/mushy)
4. Water in hull afterwards

Trailer checks (if sale includes trailer)
1. Bearings
2. Tires
3. Spare
4. Lights/wiring
5. Bunks

Paperwork to get/sign
1. Registration card/docs
2. Service/repair records
3. Bill of sale (ski)
4. Bill of sale (trailer)

Accessories to get
1. Owner’s manual
2. Lanyard
3. Cover
4. Tool kit
5. Fire extinguisher
6. Oil/filters/lubricants
7. Spare parts

Real Review: Jet Renu’s Dri Wash & Renu Shield

By

Kevin Shaw

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November 16, 2015

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Over a dozen years of being in power and motorsports journalism, we’ve encountered many a bottled or aerosol spray claiming to be a “waterless cleaner and protectant.” In fact, a cursory stroll through your local big chain auto parts store will introduce you to literally dozens of miracle cleaners that can do all of the work as a couple hours spent detailing your car, motorcycle or PWC. We joke that it’s the “super pill” of cleaners, claiming to help you lose weight, develop muscle and regain your youthful zeal without hitting the gym once. So, even though we’ve typically always been fans of Jet Renu’s line of products, we enter into this test with a heavy dollop of skepticism.

As the eagle-eyed observer might note, we’ve reviewed Jet Renu’s Dri Wash MX (12oz. aerosol can, $12.95) once before, but appropriately on the aluminum swingarm of a Kawasaki KX250F. This time around, we joined it with Jet Renu’s Renu Shield (12oz. aerosol can, $8.95) on a slightly used and abused 2015 Sea-Doo Spark. Because of the Spark’s molded PolyTec chassis and plastic components, we evaluated that the two Jet Renu products would respond not unlike the plastic fairings of a dirt bike. Moreover, it’s been noted by many Spark owners, that the black PolyTec skeleton is prone not to bleaching, but discoloring when spray waxes or other additives are used.

Also noteworthy, was that our Spark once brandished a complete vinyl wrap for well over a year, which upon its removal left quite a bit of residual glue and dirt outlining the edges of the now-gone wrap. With some chalky haze on the superstructure and grime ringing most of the colored paneled, we went to work with our Dri Wash. Jet Renu’s Dri Wash is a non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner developed to clean, maintain and protect most surfaces – again without the need for water. Targeted to remove waterspots, dirt and grime, it also works to remove other contaminants like bird droppings and road grime from your watercraft after towing it a long distance.

Because it’s a foamy cleaner, we sprayed the Spark in even white, frothy coats similar flocking a Christmas tree. Letting it sit let the chemicals work to break up the grime. Unfortunately, the Dri Wash MX couldn’t break up the leftover adhesive – although it did adequately clean the PolyTec Exoskel of previous spray polishes that had faded to white, returning it to a semi-gloss black. We applied some elbow grease and a little bit of Jet Renu’s Yellow degreaser, and quickly removed the glue from the Spark’s pineapple-yellow panels before wiping it down and preparing for the final pass of polish.

The Renu Shield MX is a clear applicant formulated for plastic and vinyl surfaces and leaves a nice, clean, non-greasy sheen. In applying it to the Spark’s black Exoskel, it went on evenly and didn’t pool or goop as other coatings tend to do. The PolyTec responded really well to the Jet Renu (much better than other products we’ve tried), and keeps a shine for more than a couple rides around the lake (although applying to the seat and footwells might make for a slippery ride). Because of the Spark’s unique build-material, traditional soaps, cleaners and polishes haven’t really worked out, but we did tend to return to the Renu Shield more often than anything else.

We’re still big believers of a wash mitt and bucket of soapy water to get your PWC spic-and-span, but for the quick touch up or last minute shine, both Jet Renu’s Dri Wash and Renu Shield are handy to keep in your trailer’s storage box.

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Hydro-Turf & Thrust Innovations Congratulate Mark Gomez on GoPro Award

By

Kevin Shaw

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November 16, 2015

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It should come as little surprise that IFWA World Champion Mark Gomez snagged the “Gopro Photo of the Day Award” this past Sunday, November 15th, earning him $500 for his sweet shot. Gomez is possibly one of the most recognized standup riders in the sport today – displaying his talents in a multiplicity of arenas, from surf riding, freeride, flatwater freestyle to closed course racing whether aboard his top-of-the-line TC Freeride Rickter or a vintage 550.

Gomez, whose many sponsors include the venerable traction mat pioneer Hydro-Turf and billet performance equipment manufacturer Thrust Innovations, recently collaborated with some friends to produce a short video of the session wherein he captured the one-handed backflip that earned Gomez praise from his sponsors and GoPro themselves. He wrote:

“[I’m] really thankful for the support and stoke coming from everyone at @gopro as well as everyone who is stoked on the footage. It all started with this production shot by my friend @elacayo212 and edited by @thebtown. The exposure has helped me gain momentum to gain support to accomplish the world title this year and hopefully lead to other fun opportunities doing what I love to do. So stoked today! Do what you love, keep it fun, and enjoy then ride.”

You can follow Mark on Instagram at @markgomez137

CRT Racing Claims Unlimited Championship, 112mph World Record Still Stands

By

Kevin Shaw

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November 13, 2015

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Nearly a year and a half. That’s how long Maikel Gonzalez’s incredible world record of 112 miles per hour has stood. First achieved in April of 2014 at the Greenhulk Hydrodrags (following the annual MudBug gathering of Greenhulk.net forum members in Morgan City, Louisiana) aboard the CRT Racing-built “GPRXP” known as “Blue Zone.” A full-blown conversion ski made from a modified Yamaha GPR1300 hull and deck and powered by a turbo-powered Rotax 4-tec plant.

Gonzalez told The Watercraft Journal that “Blue Zone” is “…powered by a CRT-built, turbocharged Sea-Doo 4-tec engine making in excess of 700hp but still driveable as a recreational ski. Power is delivered by a Precision Turbocharger and intercooler, but kept under control at all times by AEM performance electronics. Fuel delivery is accomplished through a custom CRT setup consisting of an E85-compatible system feeding six 2200cc injectors.”

Sponsored by AEM Performance Electronics, WWR, Gato Performance, Euro Export, Modular Wiring Solutions, Gonzalez and CRT Racing team looked to not only replicate the 112mph top speed at this past weekend’s RIVA Racing HydroDrag World Championship, but surpass it. Competing in the Unlimited class, Gonzalez’s fastest pass was a blistering 110mph – not enough to set a new record, but well enough to best his nearest competitors: Chris Caputo (107.4mph) and Jesse Gonzalez (103.6).

Gonzalez beamed with excitement writing, “CRT Miami still [has] the fastest ski [in] the world. I would like to thanks my family, my team CRT the best off the world, and a big thanks to ours sponsor that are always there for us!”

What Could’ve Been: The Swiss Aqua Quad (Videos)

By

Ocean Priselac

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November 12, 2015

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Sometimes good ideas just never get off the ground. Such is the case with Switzerland’s Aqua Quad. The machine’s a rugged appearance with its wide tires and tractor-esque front end maybe didn’t make such a big splash on the market, as the Aqua Quad doesn’t exist today. While attempting to uncover more information through the website, we found that the domain was for sale. All that remains are the two videos included below.

The Swiss claim that this is the first true four-wheel-drive amphibious quad and is useful to the Army and rescue services, as well as for personal recreation. The vehicle comes equipped with dual side mirrors, four headlights, and tail lights making it useful for night operations (while on land, of course). The Quad is outfitted with a steering set up like that of a personal watercraft which makes for easy steering.

The first video published in March of 2013, shows the cumbersome quad cruising, stopping to pick up a couple of passengers (demonstrating that the machine is a three seater), continuing downhill until reaching a body of water where the driver rides into the water. There, the fat knobby tires rise with what appears to be the push of a button linked with a hydraulic mechanism.

The amphibious vehicle slowly moves along the waterway with somewhat of a sideways bobble, indicating some lack stabilization at lower speeds. When it reaches a faster speed, it doesn’t look as difficult to stay upright. The second video is more of an introspective on the Aqua Quad factory to show its sleek assembly process and early stages of prototyping. Sadly, none of this came to be, as the Aqua Quad failed to get off the ground (so to speak).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuB8NaxWulw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6W9QvsaiqY