Gallery: 2015 Blowsion Surf Slam Brings It Home

September 18, 2015

Tierra Del Mar was the place to be September 11th to 13th, big waves, massive air, backflips, barrel rolls and a camaraderie like no other, combined to make one unforgettable weekend! Over 40 competitors from the United States, Mexico, Brazil, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada came together to compete for cash purses, prizes, and points towards the IFWA World Championship as well as the Blowsion Surf Slam Championship

Surf Slam 2015 kicked off Friday, September 11th with pre-qualifying rounds for all competitors, including the all new Rookie class. This was the first year that a Rookie class was offered at Surf Slam and brought a total of 12 young competitors from the US and Canada to the event.

We had a little morning fog until around 11 am when the sun finally broke through and competition got under way. The surf was powerful in the inner sets with big rollers in the back. There were a lot of new rookie riders at the slam this year, taking advantage of the newly created Rookie class. There were also a lot of new riders in the Amateur class. This made for some great entertainment as most people that follow the sport were not sure what to expect from the young riders. They did not disappoint!

Some honorable mentions for the weekend include the whole ragtag freeride crew that drove over all the way from New York including James Juvet, John Tetenes and Thomas Scaccionoce. Thomas may have thrown the biggest backflip in recent competition history on his water logged stock stroke 850-powered Rickter FR-2. Thomas absolutely sent it during the big air contest! That megaflip would put Thomas on the top podium spot of the K&S Big Air Showdown with a big fat $500 cash prize.

Young Rookie rider Sean Starr of California put a great show on for his first year of competition. The weekend prior to Surf Slam, Sean blew the motor up on his trusty square nose during a practice session in Pismo. He was able to get another motor in his ski in time only to then break his hull with no time to repair. With the help of his friend Trevor and T.C. Freeride, Sean was able to borrow a well set up Rickter Edge and competed all weekend on a borrowed ski. Sean would go on to win the Rookie contest with his aggressive surf style and aired out re-entries and he has already set his sights on the Amateur class for 2016. Watch out guys, he’s coming for you!

Saturday started bright and early with a rider’s meeting followed by a qualifying round consisting of 10 heats of 6 minutes each. Next was the Last Chance Qualifier, which was 5 heats at 6 minutes each followed by a lunch break. Three of the competitors from the Last Chance Qualifier moved on to the 1/8 final (Brandon Lawlor, Christian Young and James Juvet was the wild card). After lunch was the 1/8 finals and all remaining Amateur heats. Props to the three woman competitors this year; Baylee Jones in the Rookie class and Demian Morgan and Danielle Lawlor competed in both the Amateur and Pro classes.

Another standout rider in the Amateur class was legendary racer and Blowsion mechanic Jordan Fielder from the UK. This was Jordan’s first competition in freeride but you would never know it. He has obviously been practicing and was able to pull out the win in the amateur class among some really talented up and coming and experienced riders. Hopefully Jordan keeps going with freeride and we see more competition in Jordan’s future.

Sunday brought the 1/4 finals, 1/2 finals, final round and consolation as well as the Big Air Showdown. We saw good friends Zack Bright and Mark Gomez battle it out in the quarter finals with Zack advancing to the semis. Sunday also brought the only swamped ski of the weekend. Big shout out to the safety crew for recovering Darin Anderson’s ski after a monster re-entry with an off kilter landing in the mosh pit during the semi final round and to his crew for getting him back on a ski for the remainder of his heat.

Zack Bright and Brock Taylor advanced to the finals for a showdown between the Aussie and the American. During this 10 minute heat, Brock busted out some huge airs along with a ruler flip. Brock must have a few screws loose or basketballs between his legs because that trick is insane! Pictures do not do the ruler flip justice.

As the heat went on, Zack put on an absolute surf clinic, launching the cleanest big wave re-entries of the weekend and stomping out aerials one after another. It must have been a close heat but when the results were tallied, Zack would come out on top and be crowned champion of surf slam among the best riders in the world.

Zack took some time off from competition and the IFWA this year to start his new business (Ruthless Unlimited) but do not count him out! There is no doubt that Zack is very much still a top rider in the world and he proved that at the 2015 Blowsion Surf Slam. A well deserved congratulations to ZB for finally taking that coveted top spot!

Another big congratulations to all of the IFWA tour competitors that worked so hard all year to claim their spots. This year has had some really crazy progression and one of the innovators and hardest working guys in competition, Mark Gomez was crowned the IFWA 2015 World Champion. No one deserves this more, and Mark is a class act both on and off of the water. Following close behind Mark on the IFWA podium was Abraham Ho (second) and Mick Anthony (third) who have both been working so hard and throwing down at every contest in hopes to place among the top riders in the world. It was pretty awesome to see riders from three different countries taking out the top spots. We have some great riders and people to look up to on the IFWA podium.

It was a great weekend and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year! If you have not made this event yet, make plans for next year. You will NOT be disappointed! This year’s sponsors included Blowsion, Pape Rentals, K&S Kuwait, Hydro-Turf, TruckBoss, IJSBA, On Course Events, Jet Tribe, Jet Pilot, Fiberlay, ODI, Fullgaz, New West Technologies, DASA, Jetinetics, Tillamook Country Smoker, Skat-Trak, Jet Import France, Fly Racing,Tau Ceti, Pod4Print, ADA racing, Gasket Technologies, Goggle Grip, Novi Jet, Bogwater Brewery, Jetski Club.AU, MFJfoto.com, DP Producciones, IFWA, HyderGraphics, and PDX wraps.

There were also several local businesses that offered their support A big thank you goes out to On Course events, all of the IFWA crew and judges who also work very hard to make the competition run as smooth as butter. A big thank also you goes out to John Dady and all the crew at Blowsion who work tirelessly leading up to and during Surf Slam to make it the premier freeride competition in the world. Without Blowsion we wouldn’t have this awesome showcase of the sport of freeride.

Final Surf Slam Results: Pro: 1. Zack Bright, 2. Brock Taylor, 3. Bruno Jacob, 4. Darin Anderson, 5. Mark Gomez; Amateur: 1. Jordan Fielder, 2. James Juvet, 3. Thomas Scaccianoce; Rookie: 1. Sean Starr, 2. Edgar Quezada, 3. Nicholas Collins; K&S Big Air: 1. Thomas Scaccionoce, 2. Mark Gomez, 3. John Tetenes; IFWA Pro Class Season Results: 1. Mark Gomez, 2. Abraham Hochstrasser, 3. Mick Anthony, 4. Bruno Jacob, 5. Brody Copp

Additional text provided by Dan Lindgren

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Videos: The Shocking Potential & Problem With Electric Turbos

Kevin Shaw

September 17, 2015

OK, for many of you this article might not make a lot of sense. But for the very vocal few who have been taking to the online performance forums or contacting us directly about the potential of OE manufacturers applying the use of electric turbochargers to production watercraft, we felt it was necessary to discuss the pros and cons, and what it would take to even bring us to this level:

On paper, electric turbochargers sound like a great idea. They provide all of the power of a conventional turbocharger without the lag of pressurized exhaust gases, location-sensitive positioning, or the intrusive plumbing concerns. Automotive manufacturers have been working feverishly to apply the technology to withstand the rigors of daily driven/occasionally raced vehicles. While turbocharger manufacturers – Valeo, Honeywell and Continental – are closing in on having their electric turbos in production vehicles as soon as 2016, the technology is unlikely to see powersports applications for years to come.

Why? Because nearly all applications, be them automobiles, commercial vehicles, motorcycles or personal watercraft, run on a 12-volt (12v) electrical system. Of course, many production automobiles and motorcycles prior to the early 1950s ran on only 6-volts of electricity, when most all features were primarily mechanical (manual window regulators, dash gauges, etc.), thus only requiring a little bit of juice to operate. Also, the added voltage was needed to crank over (electric start) larger and more powerful engines. And in order to power the electric turbos these manufacturers are creating requires a staggering 48-volts of electricity, or four-times the current amount.

Even today’s electric and hybrid cars employ 12v systems. Today’s most advanced automobiles employ inverters to power high discharge headlamps and secondary electrical components like electric-assist steering systems, water pumps and electric air conditioning compressors – thus saving the engine from efficiency-robbing parasitic loss. Now, 48v does come in “just below” the 50-volt threshold of potential bodily harm. Of course, getting zapped with 48v won’t tickle, but you’ll still walk away on your own two feet. Nevertheless, as the move is being rallied by automakers, the powersports industry simply doesn’t require nearly as much juice.

The most-equipped touring bikes don’t need 48v to operate, and even today’s Can-Am Spyders and Polaris’ Slingshots with advanced steering and secondary systems don’t require such voltage either; so converting a PWC to 48v is simply a massive undertaking that is wholly unnecessary. Sea-Doo’s iControl-equipped PWC (with GPS controlled speedometers, and full instrumentation) hardly draw enough current to require more than 12v. With even with Valeo’s promise of a potential 10-to-15 percent increase in MPG, the electricity to power their turbo to operate at its 10,000rpm idle (with a maximum of 70,000rpm) is far too much for current PWC.

Now, on the bright side, the conversion of 12-to-48 volts is achievable, but requires doubling the current electric system; specifically, a 12v battery and 12v generator that feeds a DC/DC converter that then feeds a 48v storage unit, which powers the 48v turbo. Thankfully, technology for 48v storage banks (ie. lithium ion batteries) are quickly advancing (and shrinking in size), so such a system is possible although not exactly practical…yet. But, the physical weight of such a system today would already outweigh the efficiency gained by moving to an electric turbo, even if it was solely applied to supplementing the current supercharger.

Normally, it’s wise to always watch the OE’s moves within their snowmobile and in some part, their motorcycle and side-by-side divisions. (example: Both Sea-Doo’s 900 ACE motor and Yamaha’s TR-1 are directly linked to their snowmobile lines.) Right now, mechanically-driven superchargers will remain en vogue until further notice, and that’s just fine. Why so many anticipate manufacturers opting to replace superchargers with turbochargers is still baffling to us, but such is mob mentality. Until then, keep a close eye on manufacturers’ other hand to keep from being distracted.

https://youtu.be/wF39HNJS3AY?t=10m32s

Watch The Watercraft Journal For The 2016 Sea-Doo Lineup

Kevin Shaw

September 16, 2015

OK, we know there’s been a lot of chatter, rumors and junk floating around in the last 24 hours. It’s pretty much an inevitability given the level of anticipation that Sea-Doo’s new 2016 model lineup has drummed up. But what people don’t know is voluminous compared to the total package that Sea-Doo recently introduced to The Watercraft Journal. That’s right. We spent the last three days personally testing half a dozen new models that not only blew our socks off, but will assuredly do the same for you.

Also, it bears noting that while there’s plenty of outlets who will be publishing near exact “cut and paste” press releases issued by Sea-Doo’s marketing department, The Watercraft Journal (together with Greenhulk.net) dug a lot deeper and got quite a bit of “inside baseball” information that others simply won’t have. Namely, modifications to some of Sea-Doo’s most famous models went unmentioned and only we will have the finer details that you hardcore enthusiasts crave. Confirmed GPS speeds? You betcha. Quotes from BRP engineers and aftermarket heavyweights? You can expect that too.

But here’s the rub: The Watercraft Journal is sworn to secrecy until this Friday night, September 18th, at 10:30 EST (Eastern Standard Time). So figure out what time zone you’re in and be prepared. We will delay our weekly newsletter to include the 2016 Sea-Doo release until that very same moment, as well as all of our posts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. So you should expect not to do anything Saturday but read up on all the cool new stuff. Oh yeah, and we’ll have exclusive hands-on reviews of some of the new models, video and a new episode of “Long Haul” in the coming weeks.

How to Extend Your PWC Riding Season

The Watercraft Journal

September 16, 2015

Well, whether we like it or not, that dreaded time of the year is certainly approaching. Temperatures are dropping, days are getting shorter, and you’re probably thinking about winterization plans already. If you’re anything like us at The Watercraft Journal, you’d do nearly anything to get just one extra ride in before you put the ski(s) up for the season. In a great article by Jeff Hemmel, he outlined several tips that will inform you on all you need to know to safely extend your riding season well into the winter months.

Be Seen
The days are getting shorter, so you will either need to shorten your riding day or stat riding earlier. It would be a good idea to get back in before the sun begins to set. Could you imagine being stuck out at night in below freezing temps and you can’t see how to get back? Also, If you are between another boater and the sun, you will appear as a black silhouette and may be difficult to see. Wearing bright colored clothing would help with this, as well as make you visible to any help, should you need any.

Stay In Touch
Riding in colder temperatures requires being prepared for the worst. Make sure you will be able to get help. Riding with a partner or in a group is a great idea, but that’s not enough. If you run into each other and both get injured, you need to be able to call for help. Always let someone(preferably close to your riding location) know where you plan to go. Go over your planned route with that person before heading out for the day. There aren’t many boaters out on the water during the winter, so make sure you have everything you need to get in touch with help if you get into a bad situation. You should take a flare gun also. You may be hard to find out on the water, especially in the ocean. There are no mile markers or many descriptive landmarks to go by, so a flare gun could literally be a life saver.

Suit Up
The most important by far is to stay warm. The colder water will change body temperature much quicker than cold air will. Wear a neoprene wet suit, gloves, boots, and possibly even a jacket when going out in cold weather. Take a spare change of clothes with you in case you get wet. Most importantly, avoid going for a swim at all costs. 30°F temperatures are not the time to test your riding skills. Falling off could result in hypothermia and possibly even death. If you begin to get tired, ride less aggressively or even stop and rest if you have to.

Go enjoy your extra time on the water! Have fun, plan ahead, and above all, stay safe.

Sponsor a World Championship Class, Purse Incentive

The Watercraft Journal

September 15, 2015

The guys at Pro Watercross have been hard at work all year, with new tour stop locations, Pro Watercross membership, and the first ever Pro Watercross World Finals! Now, another great step forward by the Pro Watercross staff. They have decided to let companies sponsor classes for the Pro Watercross World Finals event in Naples, FL.

This incentive program will allow companies to sponsor individual classes. 100 percent of the money given will go towards incentive for that class. For every $100 contributed to a class, the payout will be $50 for first place, $35 for second, and $15 for third.

The Pro Watercross hopes this incentive program will help get more racers involved as well as more companies. This is a great opportunity for both business owners, racers, and even fans. The sponsor who contributes the most money will be the main logo on the check.

The Pro Watercross staff encourages racers to contact their sponsors and get them involved in this incentive program. This would be a great way for companies to let the racers know they support them. It will more than likely lead to business from racers in that class.

The guys and gals Pro Watercross also want to remind you that this is not just for company owners, but for the fans as well. If you are a fan and just want to contribute money to better the Pro Watercross Tour, you will be able to do that as well.

You can get more info on the Pro Watercross Tour and the incentive program HERE!

Seven Deadly Questions With James Bushell

Nicholas Handler

September 15, 2015

The Watercraft Journal: You’ve enjoyed a long career in jet ski racing and have the championships to prove it; what continues to push you to continue to compete when others don’t?
James Bushell: Yes, I have been racing for 15 years. I loved the sport from day one when my dad bought a jet ski, I wouldn’t get off it so he then went out and bought another for me. So it’s all down to him really why I got into the sport. I just love being in the water love the speed, and all the good times jet skiing brings. I love the sport and love winning – this is what drives me. I never give up and train hard to win.

WCJ: From your unique perspective as a world champion racer, what do you see that makes you enthusiastic/positive for the future of PWC racing?
JB: The adrenaline rush keeps me enthusiastic. The adrenaline starts for me being on the line with the best racers in the world, when the band snaps you calm down, apart from if I’m in the lead, there is no better feeling being in the lead at World Finals in Pro Runabout or at King’s Cup. I think that is what keeps me coming back racing because you can’t get that feeling any where in the world. Winning keeps me positive, also I would love to see the sport grow this keeps me positive for future. I see the growth at King’s Cup each year it gets bigger and better, also the U.S. Tour in 2013 was great and I am looking forward to seeing the world championship to see if they make it an awesome event. I think the sport is growing but there are too many organizations they all just need to pull together and make one big organization and grow and promote the sport.

WCJ: You have been partners with Sea-Doo for a long time now. Can you tell us how that partnership came about? What makes this relationship so important to 158 Performance?
JB: Yes I have worked with Sea-Doo since the start of my race career, this also helped me set up 158 performance, the largest Sea-Doo dealer in the UK (also Scarab distributed for UK and Spain, and Flyboard distributed for UK). We work with many racers and build a lot of race boats, we work alongside Sea-Doo Centre also building my race winning RXP-X SDC turbo shark. We can supply and race ready ski from stock to full-blown GP. BRP have the best products and the race results prove it.

WCJ: We’re excited to announce that you’ll be participating in the inaugural Pro Watercross World Championships! What can you tell us about what classes you are planning to race? (What classe(s), and what kind of PWC)?
JB: Yes, I am pleased to be coming to race; I raced the 2013 tour and was great loved the people and loved the racing. I would love to race the tour again. At a the World Championship race I will be working from Jason Russo trailer so I would like to thank him and Julian for sorting all of that out for me. I will be racing in Pro Open on my Sea-Doo Centre RXP-X. I think it is awesome that the race will be on CBS Sports, it’s just what the sport needs.

WCJ: What are some of the best techniques that you’ve found to prepare (both physically and mentally) for a race? Can you tell us a little bit of your training routine?
JB: I train in gym about 4 times a week get out on my bike, ride my Kommander stand up ski.  Any training is good but I love getting out on my bike or stand up, I would love to practice on runabout more but to be honest my turbo boat uses too much fuel would be expensive training. As for mentally, just stay calm focused. I never “big myself up” like some racers, I just stay low key and get on with the job.

WCJ: After this month’s World Championships, what other events do you plan to race this year? Where else can we see you?
JB: I will go straight to World Finals and I thank Mike from Optimaracing.com who will be getting my ski to Havasu. From there I go on to Thailand. Thailand is one of my favorite places to race just love the atmosphere the trophies are awesome (if I’m lucky enough to win one). Thailand and Havasu are my favorite places, they have everything, weather, atmosphere, great waters and great racers.

WCJ: OK, here’s your chance for some shout-outs: Is there anyone that you’d like to thank?
JB: I would like to say big thanks to mum and dad, 158Performance, SB Components, Sea-Doo Centre, Jettribe, Blowsion, Jettrim, WORX, Kommander, and BRP! Thank you!

Cargo Wave Awards a New PWC Trailer to Northeast PWC Club

Kevin Shaw

September 14, 2015

Waaay back in July, Cargo Wave, LLC., the makers of the the watertight, and lockable Cargo Wave trailer launched the “Cargo Wave Towable Giveaway,” offering one of their 100-percent American made, a dual opening, canvas-hatched lightweight (85-pounds) trailers to eligible participants who provided proof of membership in either a PWC club or sanctioning body. Entrants needed to produce proof of either a club or sanctioning body membership and a brief description of how their club would use the Cargo Wave.

Well, that window has closed as Cargo Wave is happy to announce that Ed Emerle and the Northeast PWC Club are the proud winners of the Cargo Wave from our 2015 Club Raffle! Above is an image of Ed receiving the new trailer (that is so big that you can even sleep in it (for those really looking to maximize their PWC camping experience, we suppose!). Paul Thomas of Cargo Wave, LLC. stated:

“Cargo Wave would like to congratulate Ed Emerle and the Northeast PWC Club… they are the winners of the 2015 Cargo Wave Jet Ski Clubs Raffle! In communicating with Ed since the entry of their club, it sounds like they have a great group of folks, a great team of ride schedulers and some of the coolest water runs on the east coast! I believe they will be able to benefit quite well to put their new Cargo Wave through the paces on their rides, and I am very happy to provide them with a great PWC accessory in the Cargo Wave! Pack it up and go Northeast PWC, share it’s use within your members and have a fantastic close to the 2015 season and a great 2016 riding season!”

Towing Matters: 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215

Kevin Shaw

September 14, 2015

It is very likely this will be our last review of a 2015 model before the 2016 Sea-Doos are revealed. There’s so much buzz surrounding the reveal that it’s trickled into a completely unrelated watercraft review. Maybe it’s just because we’re so excited to see what is coming out. Maybe it’s because Sea-Doo never fails to impress when it comes to injecting oodles of innovation into their product. For 2015, the industry’s leading PWC builder held its grip on the largest marketshare thanks in large part to the entry point Spark. Equally, Sea-Doo maintained pointed dominance is certain specific segments, one being tow sports.

Ever since the original Bud Wakeboard Tour in 1992, Sea-Doo has been involved in the evolution of wakeboarding and wakeskating. Its involvement and support of the Nike Wakeskate Team has provided valuable insight in developing new product, and continues to support team riders, Ben Horan, Matt Manzari, Andrew Pastura, Nick Taylor and Silas Thurman.

Based on the same S3 hull shared with all GTX and RXT models, the Wake Pro 215 makes good use of the tiered hull design.

Above left: Same with all (non-suspension) GTX and RXT models, removable rear panels allow easy access to the iBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse motor) and batter bank. Above right: A quick-release filler cap accesses the Wake’s 15.9 gallons of fuel capacity.

Sea-Doo’s introduction of tow sports-targeted watercraft was a bold one 8 years ago. Since that first unveiling, the Wake models (in all of their formats) have progressed dramatically. Today’s highest-equipped Wake craft is the Wake Pro 215, a supercharged, stable and sophisticated machine that offers more than what is listed on the page. Based upon Sea-Doo’s larger S3 hull that is shared with all RXT and GTX full-sized three-seater runabouts, the stepped design employs offshore race boat tactics to reduce drag while improving surface adhesion. When gliding across flat water, the S3 tracks like a high speed monorail, never wavering or wagging.

Sea-Doo engineers are credited with mastering the art of PWC ergonomics, particularly in the seat and footwells. The large single-piece scalloped seat hinges on a gas shock, indexing high allowing maximum access to the engine compartment without watching your seat float away. The bench is smartly narrowed at the driver’s knees and broadened at the seat, with wide, moderately angled coves for multiple foot placement options. Another benefit from sharing the S3 platform is the 5-point tilt steering that articulates the entire gauge cluster as the bars move up and down. And all readout and operation controls are wisely integrated into the steering.

Above: The Wake Pro 215 comes with Sea-Doo’s watertight front storage bin, accounting for part of the PWC’s 13.7 gallons of storage.

Sea-Doo has been involved in wake sports since the first Bud Wakeboard Tour in 1993 when riders boarded behind GTXs.

Yet, the Wake Pro 215 is much more than merely a rebadged GTX. The Pro includes much of the same equipment as its smaller, naturally-aspirated sibling, the Wake 155, namely a detachable board rack that features a smart snap-and-latch locking system and dual bungee cords to secure any wakeskate or wakeboard; and a three-place adjustable/retractable ski pylon. The pylon can extend high above the rear handrail to pull a full-sized adult out of the water, a raft full of screaming kids or even another PWC (don’t ask us how we know), or retract below the handgrip allowing reboarding passengers to use the folding swim step and railing without interference. Topped with an eye hook, double handgrips, and even a rubber hoop, the pylon is a cinch to tether your ski rope and ride.

In the bow, the Pro 215 is provided with the same watertight locking storage bin found in top-of-the-line GTX models that snugly snaps in place beneath the hood with two tabs. The Pro 215 also includes the VTS (Variable Trim System) toggle on the handlebars (rather than needing to scroll through settings prompts in the dash), assisting in finding the right trim angle while towing or just riding. But the biggest advancement and coolest feature on the Pro is its unique use of Sea-Doo’s proprietary iTC (Intelligent Throttle Control) system.

All S3-based watercraft all share the same 5-point adjustable tilt steering system that incorporates the entire gauge pod for unobstructed viewing.

Above left: The retractable ski pylon is sturdy and can extend high above the rear seat or retract flush with the rear handrail. Above right: All Wake models include this removable, locking board rack.

Although all iTC-equipped Sea-Doo watercraft come with a selection of on-the-fly engine map tunes – between “Touring”, “Sport” and “Eco” modes – the Wake Pro 215 also includes a catalog of “Wake Mode” select tunes. These five pre-programmed engine maps manage the supercharged 3-cylinder 1,494cc Rotax engine’s throttle response and acceleration curve, ranging from mild to aggressive. This way, the driver can better manage how the Wake Pro 215 will launch when towing a wakeboarder or towable. Although nowhere near where it could be, the seeds of Sea-Doo’s Wake modes could blossom into what could be (eventually) anti-cavitation “traction control” for hard, aggressive launches.

America’s Motor Sports – Middle Tennessee’s leading family of Sea-Doo dealerships – provided The Watercraft Journal with a new 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215 to put to the test. On two separate occasions we romped on the Wake Pro 215 to see what she could do. As hinted at above, we spent a great deal focusing on the various Wake modes, seeing how they dampen initial acceleration, permitting for the skier or wakeboarder to pop out of the water with ease. Although nowhere near as prominent as with the smaller Wake 155, a full-sized boarder or a heavy-laden towable can manage to swing the Pro 215’s tail, particularly if the driver isn’t ready to negotiate the shift in weight.

Above left: A closer look at the retractable ski pylon. Above center: The hinged seat reveals the supercharged 1.5L Rotax 3-cylinder which can run on 87 octane (minimum). Above right: The Wake Pro 215 shares the same iridescent livery as its smaller 155HP sibling.

Priced between a 260-horsepower RXT and an equally-powered, lush GTX Limited 215, the Wake Pro 215 is targeted specifically for wake sports and towing and should be compared as such.

We enjoyed our time with the Wake Pro 215 but bristled a little at the $14,349 asking price. For $450 less, one could fetch a 260-horsepower RXT ($13,899 MSRP), or an opulently-loaded GTX Limited 215 for $350 more ($14,699 MSRP). Of course, neither include the specific towing options exclusive to the Wake Pro 215, so choosing the Pro should be specific to wanting to tow wakeboarders or drag the kids around on a raft. The Wake Pro 215 is truly a dedicated machine and has been bred to be so.

Special thanks to America’s Motorsports for use of the 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215.

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Real Review: Jobe Ruthless Molded Side-Entry Vest

Kevin Shaw

September 11, 2015

At first we were a little concerned that we had put on some extra weight. In our previous review of Jobe’s Youth Progress Neo Vest, we knocked the Netherlands-based company for its lost-in-translation sizing, but this time around we knew we had the right size selected for our new Ruthless Molded Vest. Now the question was whether we were no longer the same size.

Thankfully, neither were right (or wrong for that matter). Rather, the soft, pliable EVA foam-paneled side-entry vest had yet to be broken in. Similar to a new pair of jeans, we found that the neoprene-covered molded foam simply needed to relax a little as it conformed to our frame. And sure as the jeans analogy, the Ruthless Molded vest suddenly became our absolute favorite side-entry vest we’ve tested since launching The Watercraft Journal nearly two years ago.

Any of our readers who regularly digest our “Real Review” reports will know that we’re huge sticklers on comfort over nearly everything else, because in all reality, nobody is going to wear something that isn’t comfortable for too long. Big advancements in EVA molding has allowed for leaps in life vest comfort, and Jobe’s newest side-entry is in direct reflection of it. Jobe has crammed as much shaped EVA into the Batman-body armor design all without sacrificing flexibility.

In fact, the degree of flexibility is significant particularly when considering the Ruthless Molded Vest is equipped with an integrated back support for additional protection. Extra protection is also provided by additional foam panels at each side of the vest. And, as Jobe’s own website attests, “the foam panels are non-water absorbing, fast drying, durable and lightweight.”

Of course, all of this integrated EVA foam also provides the vest’s buoyancy. Being a European product, the Jobe is not USCG (United States Coast Guard) rated, but seeing that very few riders encounter trouble with law enforcement, this should not be a major deterrent, as the Jobe Ruthless vest is CE-approved (an abbreviation of the French phrase “Conformité Européene” which literally means “European Conformity”, wherein the manufacturer declares its sole responsibility, conformity with all of the legal requirements).

Our prior grievances with side-entry vests were numerous but Jobe masterfully addresses all of them through the use of superior materials and thoughtful design execution. The vest is cut long, so it doesn’t ride up. Assisting in this is an innovative first: a strapped-in neoprene kidney belt that wraps tightly around your midsection to keep the vest in place whether through aggressive riding, sitting down or even floating casually.

Jobe designed the over-the-should straps to be wide and low profile, opening up the neckline and large arm openings for an extended range of motion. The modular foam plating on the back and chest allow a wearer to bend back and forth easily and not feel either like being strapped into a corset or wearing a loose sandwich board. Peeling the Ruthless Molded Vest off at the end of a long day can be a little tight, depending on how wet the neoprene skin is.

Entrance into the Molded Vest is via a broad-toothed, anti-corrosion coated zipper (with thoughtful zipper cover to protect your underarm from being snagged on a loose zipper), and two partially hidden webbing straps that weave beneath the armored back and chest, and appear on the sides. A lanyard loop is stitched into the bottom of the chest plate as well.

We logged a great deal of time on our Jobe Ruthless Molded Vest and discovered that we liked it more and more as we broke it in. Admittedly, our first couple of rides wearing the vest weren’t our favorite, but after a supremely hot day out on the lake, we discovered the vest’s ability to wick water surprisingly well, and keep its cool even under the beating sun. As we continue to use the vest over the summer, we knew we had only one option when it came time for our world record “Long Haul” attempt.

As many have seen in the first webisode of The Watercraft Journal “Long Haul,” the Jobe vest is front-and-center for much of the action, and deservedly so. Regardless of the hours spent in the sunshine, the vest’s deep black hasn’t bleached or faded, and the edged haven’t frayed or torn. The screen printed yellow graphics haven’t even flaked off. Again, this vest has managed to hold up beyond our expectations.

Now, priced at £119.99 (or $185 USD), the Jobe Ruthless Molded Vest isn’t cheap. But given the degree of beating that we’ve put on this PDF, we’re leaning pretty hard on saying the near $200 price tag might just be worth every penny. So if you’re like us, and feel that comfort is king and longevity is a must, this side-entry vest just might be the ticket for you too.

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Seven Deadly Questions: James ” X-Man” Xuereb

Tam Clucas

September 10, 2015

Many might not recognize the name James Xuereb, but if you were in attendance at the 2014 IJSBA World Finals, you will have noticed the Australian Amateur Veteran Ski racer not only sweep the motos, earning him the World Title at Lake Havasu, but do so with an impressive 30 second lead in both motos.

The Watercraft Journal: When did you first start jet skiing and how did you get into racing?
James Xuereb: Firstly, I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to answer the Seven Deadly Questions. As a kid, I always wanted to race dirt bikes, my parents were totally against the idea. It was in 1994, my last year of school and a friend, Ben Pearce and his brothers of four all raced jet skis. I tagged along to a local race to help and watch and fell in love with the sport. It wasn’t until 1997 that I purchased a square-nosed SuperJet and started racing in 1998.

WCJ: As I mentioned you had a massive lead on second place, so much so that some rough chop in the second moto saw you take a brief swim, which still wasn’t enough for second place to catch up. What was going through your mind during these races?
JX: [Laughs] The morning of the races was qualifying. I had never been so nervous. Looking at 40 riders, most that looked like gym junkies, their skis loud and fast. [Laughs] This made me feel so intimidated – I felt like spewing. In the qualifying first start, I nearly hole shot, but got red flagged because someone jump started.

Immediately on my way back to the start line I got this 100% confidence boost. Waiting on the line, I said to Brian, my holder ‘We can do this mate, my ski is on the money.’ Overall, I qualified fourth but made heaps of mistakes, so coming into the main events I knew I could possibly make it work. I mainly focused on a good start, smooth riding and breathing.

WCJ: What support did you have and how did you prepare for your first international race?
JX: I made my decision to go well over 12 months prior to the event. I teamed up with Oz champ of 2014 and great friend Joel Barry and his family who pretty much organized the whole trip and jet ski transport. Preparation was a long-term thought. I built a replica ski I rode and punished for 18 months, meanwhile built my race ski which I did not ride much after development stopped three months prior to [Finals]. For the last three months, I just focused on fitness, which involved riding the spare ski about three days a week and core and cardio fitness at the gym.

WCJ: What racing have you been up to since the World Finals?
JX: After [Finals] it was kind of hard to get motivated and focused, due to the preparations of attending of attending the World Finals. Here in Oz, we had the Yamaha Cup on the AJSBA tour, which was a great idea. I chose to have a break from the Open class and built myself a budget Lites boat for the Cup. Ryan O’Keefe was focused and determined every round winning first, I came second.

WCJ: I think it would be fair to state that racing in Australia is on a smaller scale (in number of events, racers and spectators). How would you compare the racing here in Australia to the States and what would you like to see for Australia’s future in racing?
JX: Yes, it would be great to see more competitors at our Australian events especially with the hard work committee members put in to hosting these events. Obviously, the World Finals is one of the biggest jet ski events held annually, but I think Australia is on par with the way events are run and organized. I think focusing on our Juniors and affordable fees may attract more competitors at our State club rounds. Having a ‘one off’ weekend Australian Titles is a fantastic idea, which may also attract international riders.

WCJ: What are your plans for the future? Will we see you back at Havasu?
JX: At the present moment I am enjoying having a break from racing (kicking back sinking loads on green can, VB no1), catching up on jobs around the house. This year I will not be attending the World Finals, however I do have plans to go back 2016.

WCJ: Is there anyone you would like to thank?
JX: It sure is a big effort with months of prep to attend the World Finals and could not have pulled it off without the help from several people. Big thanks to all that have been apart of the adventure you have all contributed in making a dream come true.

Firstly, my girl Avalon for her patience and motivation. The Barry family for organizing the whole thing. My engine builder, Brad Dawson for one ‘cranky engine’. Andy Tisdall for his involvement in development. Michael from Anglomoil for his support. Garry Watson from WORX Racing, James Berger for some key secrets, and Michael Stevens for persisting with getting us out on the water, rain, hail or shine for training. Brian Colreavy for making a big trip to help me out in any way he could, from making breakfast in the morning to spannering on the ski. Legend!

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