Real Review: Jobe Ruthless Molded Side-Entry Vest

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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

By

Tam Clucas

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September 10, 2015

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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!

Yamaha Australia Helps Make 2015 Cronulla Rip N’ Ride Biggest Freeride Payout Ever

By

Andrew Donovan

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September 10, 2015

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There’s only a week left until Australia’s biggest annual freeride event, the Cronulla Rip N Ride. This year marks the 8th anniversary of this awesome get-together of over 100 riders from all over Australia and the world coming to Cronulla, Sydney for a few days of freeride fun.

Not only is it the biggest event in Oz, but the biggest prize pool in Australia and maybe the world. How much? Over $30,000 worth of gear is up for grabs, thanks to Yamaha Australia and a heap of other great sponsors. Yamaha is giving away a brand new SuperJet again. That’s 5 years in a row and sixth ski to be given away.

The best thing about it is, anyone can be the one to take the SuperJet home. If you entered the event you have a one in 100 chance of winning. It’s a raffle, so everyone is super exited; pros, amateurs and rookies all get to ride together and have fun and learn from each other in a relaxed and safe environment.

The Watercraft Journal spoke with Mark Harman, National Marketing Coordinator for Yamaha Motor Australia and he had this to say: “For the eighth year running, Yamaha has proudly stepped up as a major sponsor of the Cronulla Rip ‘N Ride. There is no other watercraft event like this in the world, so we’re pleased to support the growing Freeride community by sponsoring this premier event.”

So if you’re in the area make sure you come down to Cronulla this September, 18th-through-20th and say “G’day!”

WatCon To Be At 2015 quakysense IJSBA World Finals

By

Ocean Priselac

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September 9, 2015

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The International Jet Sports Boating Association (IJSBA) received confirmation through a press release that WatCon will participate in the trade show at the 2015 quakysense IJSBA World Finals held in Lake Havasu, AZ. Rock County Jet Ski, which owns WatCon, will make an appearance at one of the most prestigious events in the sport of jet skiing. The competition hosts the best riders in the world and the trade show is the place to see what is new to the sport of jet skiing.

John Zigler, President of RCJS and chief designer behind the thriving Watcon line of modification and enhancement parts states that, “Watcon is very excited to support the World Finals as the premier event in the sport and 2015 will showcase the best riders, equipment and teams in the world.” He adds, “Watcon has been busy developing new products this year and look forward to sharing them.”

Check out the trade show and competition if you are in the Lake Havasu area during the first week of October this year. Racing gets underway at 7am and the trade show begins at 9:00 AM, Tuesday October 6. For a complete list of events and times, check out the International Jet Sports Boating Association’s link on their website.

The functions for the week are listed in chronological order and there is an abundance of other quality information throughout the IJSBA website. Enjoy the event!

Video: Enjoy Episode 1 of The Watercraft Journal Long Haul

By

Kevin Shaw

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September 9, 2015

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“Wait!” you’re questioning. “What’s this ‘Episode 1’ stuff?” And yes, you’d be right. A few months back we announced what we called The Watercraft Journal “2015 Long Haul,” a world record attempt at crisscrossing the entire State of Florida both ways. Together with Jetski Junkies’ Kev Hemingway, we put together an awesome attempt to minimize fuel stops, maximize efficiency, and execute a 300-mile ride that zigzagged across an entire state. Sounds pretty cool, right?

Thanks to Sea-Doo for providing us a pair of 155-horsepower, naturally-aspirated GTIs (a Wake 155 and GTI SE 155), Bob Chamberlain at Kool PWC Stuff who not only provided us with a pair of stout storage racks with a quartet of Rotopax fuel cans but showed up and installed them himself, PWC Life for a pair of water-wicking jerseys, Ride Power USA for keeping our smartphones (and GPS) charged, EZ Throttle for keeping our hands from cramping up, and Jet Renu for their support, we were able to make the ride.

Of course, if you’ve read the article, you’ll know that our first attempt was a bust when State Park employees decided to cut out of work 20 minutes early, leaving us stuck at our final lock well before the final 5pm closing time. Government workers, right? Well, that’s not going to stop us as we’ll be announcing a second attempt at this record – and best of all, everyone is invited to join the fun! We want to see 100 PWC charging the canal!

But here’s the big announcement, with this being our “pilot episode,” we’re looking to develop the “Long Haul” into a regular monthly web series! If you like the video below, please share it with your friends and family, as we want to get people excited about the first web show dedicated to making ridiculous attempts at world records and other harebrained rides! Because we’re in it for the Long Haul, it’s always about the adventure. Enjoy!

Gallery: Silver River Monkey Fun Run

By

Leonard Micheau

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September 8, 2015

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Wild monkeys in Florida, you ask? Absolutely. They live in Ocala, Florida, along to pristine waters of the Silver River. Many believe they were released or escaped during the filming of the Tarzan movie “Tarzan Finds a Son,” but this was not the case. The monkeys were released by tour boat operator Colonel Tooey to enhance his “Jungle Cruise” ride as to enhance the scenery. He bought six macaque monkeys and released them on a small island. He did not know that macaques are great swimmers and according to locals, they swam off the island within minutes.

Since then, the monkey population has grown to over 1,000 monkeys, but they have faced issues with some calling for their removal citing health risks and diseases. Over 25,000 citizens sign petitions to save the macaques and as of now, the State of Florida still holds that the monkeys don’t belong on the land but officials are no longer racing to clear them out.

This trip has been enjoyed by many boaters and jet skiers alike. “You need to rustle a bag of potato chips to bring them out,” claims Bill Hills, President of Space Coast Jet Riders and highly regarded expert on boating the waters of Florida and most of the Southeast. He was our gracious “Jungle Cruise” guide my first time many years ago. This trip was a combined group trip with the Central Florida Jet Riders and the Jacksonville Jet Riders.

There are a few rides that remind us of why we do this, of why we buy skis, of why we ride. “The Monkey Run,” as we have come to know it, is one of those experiences that makes you think that buying that jet ski was not only a good idea, but a great one. Arriving at Lake Griffin we got that anxious feeling and started to wonder if we would see monkeys that day. For the Monkey Run, we took Lake Griffin north from the Train Depot boat ramp at Herlong Park. It was a quick jog through a small waterway to the south end of Lake Griffin and a seven mile crossing to the top of the lake and on to the Ocklawaha River.

The Ocklawaha River provides a very scenic view of Mother Nature in her prime. From birds to alligators, riding it always gives one a feeling of serenity. Passing Big Pine and Little Pine Islands, we came up to Highway 42 bridge. From there, we blasted up the Ocklawaha River for another seven miles to the Moss Bluff Lock and Dam.

Originally built in 1925, it was a source of hydroelectric power. It was rebuilt by 1969 to what it is today and now serves as a source to control the lake’s elevation as well as provide waterway passage. With a tug of the bell, a call to the lock operator or a simple wave, we entered the lock. The main conversation of the day was whether 30 skis from the Jacksonville Jet Riders and Central Florida Jet Riders could fit in one lock.

The lock operator seemed to think so and with some three wide, we began our 20-foot drop to the lower Ochlawaha level. A small wake zone to the 464 bridge and it was now time to grab some throttle. As jet skis lineup single file as the river supplied plenty of lily pads on both sides (as well as some downed trees) providing some interesting opportunities for maneuvering.

With a train of riders ahead and behind, taking turns became almost second nature. After a few quick rights and lefts, we came up to a No Wake Zone and a quick left turn at the Silver River. Now we started to see the water beginning to clear and the underwater sights coming in to view. We made another right and headed up to the Ocala Boat Club for a quick lunch and to stretch our legs. Then it was a quick run out and back on to the Silver River to go see if we can find those monkeys!

The Silver River runs from its source in Silver Springs. The Silver Springs is one of the largest artesian springs in the world and generates nearly 550 million gallons of crystal clear water daily. It’s also a tourist attraction and glass bottom boat have been operating in the Silver Springs since the 1870s. The Silver Springs has been the site of several films like “Tarzan,” “The Seven Swans,” “Sea Hunt” and “The Creature From the Black Lagoon.” It’s over four miles of No Wake up the Silver River to the Springs, but the monkeys can be seen anywhere along the way.

With nature on full display, chatting and laughing with fellow jet skiers, the time and miles passed quickly until someone further up relayed that they have found some monkeys. With hearts racing with anticipation, first there were a few, with one just relaxing on a branch. And after some calls, more came out. Many more this time, in fact. We saw some large males, some juveniles and even mothers with babies who also came out to see what was going on. They looked straight at us taking pics and videos as if to say, “This group of tourists are quite peculiar in deed!”

They tolerated us and greeted those bearing gifts. Some seemed more excited than others as they moved from branch to branch. Some moved closer to get a better look as us or to see if we had snacks. A quick fight took place over a small piece of fruit, with the larger and more agile male monkey taking the prize. Survival of the fittest at its best. With monkeys and jet ski tourists having their fill of each other’s company and many pictures taken, we continued up to the Silver Springs.

When almost to the Springs, we pass several glass bottom boats filled with tourists. Now we got the fascinated looks and our pictures taken! I guess they were as surprised to see jet skiers as we were the monkeys just an hour earlier!

The Silver Springs lives up to its billing as you can see clear to the bottom. You can see some wooden wrecks, fish and whatever decides to swim on by. With the skis looking like they are levitating on thin air, riders idled around in amazement. Some took pictures, some took underwater videos, some got their feet wet in the cold spring water and others just took in the sights and chatted it up with fellow riders.

With time getting away from us, it was time to head back downstream, which proved to be way faster. Still courteous to boaters, we were even able to get a few waves from kayakers. We rendezvoused with those that didn’t make the trek to see the monkeys or the springs and we all made that right turn back on to the Ocklawaha River at after that pesky No Wake Zone.

With turns memorized a little better this time, we picked up the pace. Ski after ski moved down the river, riders enjoying the way back with fresh thoughts of the springs and for some, finally seeing monkeys. As we made our way back into the lock, the talk was now about when will we would do it again, some trying to get a signal to beat everyone else to posting pics on Facebook and others taking pics of the group and the lock.

Leaving out of the lock, a few stopped to take a quick break with the one taking a short dip. After realizing that log was actually three-foot ‘gator, it is time to go! Heading back down the Ocklawaha River to Lake Griffin, we only had seven miles left separating us from home ramp. It was a quick dash with the faster skis making it in first. Some now with new bragging rights to add to the day’s list of accomplishments. We all made it back in safely and all accounted for. As we pulled the skis out, many riders stood around to chat and share stories and the “did you see that” moments. Most grateful to see the monkeys. It was indeed a great day.

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Video: Sea-Doo Wants to Pay You $1,000 to Guess What’s Coming Out For 2016

By

Kevin Shaw

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September 8, 2015

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No, this is not a prank. Sea-Doo wants to pay you (actually, five lucky participants) $1,000 towards the “purchase of a new or unused Sea-Doo model or Sea-Doo parts, accessories and clothing.” Yup, all that just for making a solid guess at what Sea-Doo is cooking up for 2016. Of course, y’know The Watercraft Journal has dropped some serious hints and there’s been rumors swirling around for years now, so your chance of hitting the nail on the head is pretty dang close.

All you have to do is go to Sea-Doo’s “What’s Next” contest page and submit your guess. In fact, according the rules (listed below), it doesn’t even appear that Sea-Doo will even care if you’re right or not, as five contestants will be chosen at random to receive a winning prize package. But since you heard about the contest here, do us a favor and let Sea-Doo know that you first learned about the contest at The Watercraft Journal! It makes us look good.

Oh, but here’s what we can gather from the video below: The 2016 craft shown feature two color options: orange/black either GTR or RXT, a white/black RXT-X, and a black/red or orange RXP-X, and from all the shots of turbulent water, we almost *gasp* wonder if a new “rough water” hull might be coming out. The marketing types at Sea-Doo are pretty sneaky like that.

OK, here’s the official announcement:

BRP Ready To Launch 2016 Sea-Doo Line And A Chance At $1000 For Guessing, “What’s Next”
Valcourt, QC, Canada – September 7, 2015 – BRP is preparing for the launch of the highly anticipated 2016 Sea-Doo watercraft line by offering a chance at one of five $1000 prizes° towards a new of unused Sea-Doo model or Sea-Doo parts, accessories and clothing for thoughts on WHAT’S NEXT.

BRP is the world leader in watercraft sales, a result of continual industry leading innovation to improve the Sea-Doo owners’ riding experience making good days on the water great. The Sea-Doo SPARK model has been the catalyst for BRP’s ability to re-spark the industry making the dream of owning a Sea-Doo watercraft a reality for a much more broad audience. The 2016 Sea-Doo line will be launched Friday, September 18 at 10:30PM EST and is poised to extend the heritage of introducing benchmark-setting watercraft.

Watercraft enthusiasts and water lovers alike can go to sea-doo.com/whatsnext starting Tuesday, September 8th to provide their guess as to how Sea-Doo is taking watercraft riding to the next level in 2016. Visitors simply enter their information and provide their thoughts on what the Sea-Doo design and engineering teams have been developing and perfecting and what will be introduced on September 18th. Five random entrants will be chosen and rewarded with $1000 towards the purchase of a new or unused Sea-Doo model or Sea-Doo parts, accessories and clothing.

The conversation will extend to the Sea-Doo social media channels as visitors are offered 10 days of sneak peek looks at What Comes Next starting on September 8th up to the September 18th launch.

° For complete contest rules and details visit www.sea-doo.com/whatsnext

Endless Summer: 2016 Yamaha VX Limited WaveRunner

By

Kevin Shaw

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September 4, 2015

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Conventional wisdom would have you thinking that in order to compete with Sea-Doo’s Spark that Yamaha would need to build an equally-compact, lightweight runabout priced below $5,000. Surprisingly, such is not the case. Although the highest selling watercraft for 2015 was (thus far) the Spark, it wasn’t the base model, but the high output (90-horsepower HO) Sea-Doo Spark 3-up with iBR version.

What does that tell you? It means that families want a compact three-seater with enough features to make it enjoyable, yet at a value enough to not break the budget. This gave Yamaha the mission to not only surpass the fully-loaded Spark’s perceived value by customers, but exceed it in every other facet imaginable (power-to-weight, storage, stability, and “fun factor”).

For the family looking to not only enter into the world of personal watercraft ownership, but to wring out of it the most fun and enjoyable experiences possible, Yamaha’s all-new 2016 VX Limited WaveRunner is an ideal fit. In addition to the purchase of the vehicle itself, owners are bathed in a cascade of additional offerings, making it one of the most heavily-optioned personal watercraft under $11,000 that we have ever had the joy of testing riding.

Let’s begin with the unit itself: The Limited boasts the all-new TR-1 1,049cc (1-liter) 3-cylinder 4-stroke powerplant announced last month. Replacing the heavier 4-cylinder MR-1, the new TR-1 shares much of its design with a similar 3-cylinder used in the brand’s snowmobile division. Moreover, the new plant is 40-percent smaller, 20-percent lighter, and cranks out 13-percent more power.

Set further back in the now far more vacuous VX engine compartment, the TR-1 takes full advantage of the Limited’s NanoXcel lightweight hull and deck material and delivers significant gains in throttle response, and packs all the punch of the outgoing 4-cylinder and more. During our testing, we were pleased to find a strong torque curve (without lulls or “flat spots”) that carried upward in a linear band.

Even on a hot and humid day in Kennesaw, Georgia, we fetched a top speed of 55.5 miles per hour, even with a single 230-pound rider. Weighing nearly 40-pounds less and producing an unofficial 125-horsepower, this new 3-cylinder power plant not only improves the overall performance of the Limited, but rightly cements Yamaha’s place as an engine manufacturer first, and a boat builder a close second.

And since the Limited is based upon the same Swiss Army knife VX hull used by the entry-level VX Sport, all the way up to the National Championship-winning VXR, the Limited’s ride is both controlled and sporty, able to happily lean in and cut a tight turn as easily as it tracks through mild lake chop. Snapping donuts is loose and playful when positioned right, ensuring that everyone will have a blast.

The Limited is swaddled in Yamaha’s Torch Red Metallic that glistens in direct sunlight, with jazzy black and white highlights, most prominently on the Cruiser-style tiered seat. The Limited also comes equipped with a king’s ransom of options including the increasingly popular RiDE dual-throttle braking and reverse system (which, responds famously with the new TR-1, far better than it ever did with the MR-1), Cruise Assist and No Wake Mode.

The Limited also includes possibly our favorite feature for which we pray becomes an industry standard, a 12-volt socket in the glove box. Ideal for charging a cell phone, GPS or VHF radio, the plug was incorporated to power an electric air pump (more on that in a second). The Limited is also adorned with four pop-up cleats and chromed “Yamaha” badging, as well as watertight storage beneath the rear passenger’s seat.

But, wait! That’s not all. Yamaha wanted the Limited to not only meet family’s needs but exceed their expectations. That is why the Limited includes a whole host of other accessories: a specially-made one-passenger towable raft and tow rope (all color matched to the Limited), a true ski tow eye, a special rope bag that attaches to the helm, folding reboarding step, a dry bag, and the aforementioned 12V pump to inflate the tube while out on the water.

Oh, and there’s one more thing: not only does the Limited come with its own special edition ski cover with a zipper access door to the glove box, but a hard case solar panel and trickle charger to maintain battery life while stored alongside or behind the house. In our view, the VX Limited is truly the best “family fun starter pack” we could ever see coming from a manufacturer.

Priced at $10,899, the Limited exceeds the VX Cruiser’s asking price by $400. In a quick web search, we found the total retail price of the included accessories nearly double the added cost over the Cruiser. And combining the 18.5 gallons of fuel capacity and the TR-1’s super-efficient fuel consumption rate, the VX Limited promises hours of fun on the water long before a pit stop is ever needed. Frankly, we think the Limited more than delivers on total value and definitely comes through in the fun department, and that should be enough to make up anyone’s mind.

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Jobe Releases 2016 Boating and Wetsuit Collections

By

Kevin Shaw

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September 3, 2015

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All of us at The Watercraft Journal have enjoyed this year’s partnership with Jobe PWC. You’ll see how we logged some serious hours on our Ruthless Vest and have even had the kids getting the most out of their Children’s Vest. So just when you thought things couldn’t be better, Jobe steps up to the plate and knocks out two big releases for the new year: the 2016 Jobe Boating Catalog and the 2016 Jobe Wetsuit Catalog.

The next biggest announcement from the international riding gear and apparel manufacturer is the introduction of its all-new 2016 Jobe SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) catalog. Focusing on the lifestyle and functionality of the sport, the catalog makes you want to pick up the sport as much as purchase the awesome products listed inside its covers! Check it out here first!

Here’s the original press release:

The 2016 Jobe Collection
Now that the summer is almost coming to an end, it is that time of the year again to start making plans for next year. Jobe has been doing that for a bit longer now and has proved to be totally ready for the future, because today they released their complete 2016 collection. Of course you can expect new products and innovations, but this year Jobe also chose to show you what their brand is really about!

Jobe Boating
Jobe wants you to have fun on the water. To have unforgettable #jobemoments. Together with your loved ones you can enjoy your time on the water with their 2016 boating collection. Their boating guide perfectly visualizes this. You can expect the coolest towables to ride on, skis, kneeboards, wakeboards ánd all the accessories you could possibly wish for. You can find them all in this beautiful guide.

Jobe Wetsuits
In their 2016 collection Jobe also emphasizes the fact that wetsuits do not solely exist to protect you and keep you warm; they can actually look good too! Besides using industry leading materials and construction methods, they are specifically designed for you to enjoy the water in style. Dress to impress with these wetsuits that appear in various trendy colors and models. Download the wetsuit guide now and be impressed by the fashion-like feeling of the guide.

Prefer to read a hard-copy version? It is available soon at your local Jobe dealer!

Video: Double Backflip you Say? Tanner Thomas Pulls It Off

By

Ocean Priselac

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September 3, 2015

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A very cool video featuring Alaskan born Tanner “Tanman” Thomas was posted on YouTube on August 3, 2015. Tanner is shown performing a double backflip on a jet ski which is one of the raddest performances we’ve seen. After 29 attempts of trying to complete the double backflip and landing [including one such attempt that we published earlier this past June -Ed], he eventually executed it perfectly.

Tanner manages to kill the highly skilled and gutsy maneuver by using V-wake (also known as double boat wake) to get the height for his many jumps. V-wake worked well for Tanner’s move. He piloted his standard watercraft, the custom “Ninja Edition”, a TC Freeride-built Rickter. Tanner reached the needed height and perfect rotation to execute the maneuver. It was the first time the double backflip had ever been landed (in the tray) on a personal watercraft.

We watched the video at least 10 times just to see Tanner keep landing it. We actually studied what he was doing just to see how in the world he was able to perfect such a tactical maneuver. He has amazing skills and will go far as long as he has the needed funds to get there! The video was presented by TC Freeride, one of his main sponsors. His other sponsors are Tyler Rental, Bam, Rickter, Dawson Construction, KMG Racing, Jet Lift, Alaska Diesel Power INC, Sigma Pro of Ketchikan, Alaska Marine Lines, Mystic Lubricants, Jet Pilot, Ketchikan H2O, Hout Enterprises, and DASA. He is also a Liquid Militia team rider.