Typically, we don’t blend the content generated on The Watercraft Journal’s YouTube channel and what we publish here on the digital magazine – particularly when it comes to the live weekly podcast The Watercraft Journal IRL – but in this instance, we found the subject matter so pertinent to the swelling audience of first-time buyers of PWC that we felt obligated to share it here.
First some context: The Watercraft Journal IRL is a live podcast hosted on our YouTube channel (meaning it’s free; there’s no passwords or downloads), and is filmed in the standard long form discussion format, often with host Kevin Shaw interviewing guests or discussing topics with others. When he “flies solo” is usually when Shaw focuses on a technical topic.
For this most recently aired episode, Shaw went over the basic characteristics of each of the three OEM’s full-sized 3-seater runabouts; namely, the Kawasaki Ultra JetSki, the Sea-Doo ST3 hull, and Yamaha’s FX platform. While remaining general in regards to performance, storage and ergonomics, Shaw focused on how each hull behaves in smooth-to-rough water.
In doing so, Shaw is trying to arm neophyte buyers with some third-party knowledge on what to expect from each offering. He listed both attributes good and bad of each machine; what one might expect when it comes to repairing each hull; and what each platform offers in regards to wear-and-tear, longevity and overall riding comfort.
Arguably, no other company has been more dedicated to developing and producing top tier performance products for the Kawasaki JetSki line of watercraft than Brisbane Kawasaki’s Kspeed division. With the advent of the redesigned Ultras for 2022, Kspeed has been hurriedly wrenching on handling components and adapting its already vibrant catalog of go-fast parts to the new platform.
With changes to the new Ultras in the form of the KSDR braking-and-reverse system, Kspeed needed to amend its existing ride plate. With that, Kspeed also has been re-configuring its pump wedge and plate package to eke out the utmost speed while maintaining the JetSki’s handling and drivability – and all with great success. The combo helps push the 310 past its limited 67mph to 70.
The video attached below is another example of Kspeed’s dedication to its customers: a detailed step-by-step tutorial on how to properly install both the pump wedge and KS3 performance ride plate on an Ultra 310LX. Kspeed’s Jamie Eade couldn’t be more thorough in this guide, and even throws in a few tips and tricks used by the best shops, dealerships and race teams.
UIM - ABP Aquabike Class Pro Circuit World Championship Regione Sardegna - Grand Prix of Italy Olbia June 20 - 23 - 2024 Photo Simon Palfrader
UIM – ABP Aquabike Class Pro Circuit World Championship Regione Sardegna – Grand Prix of Italy Olbia June 20 – 23 – 2024 Photo Simon Palfrader –
Last week, The Watercraft Journal began a recap of early-season race results with a look at Pacific Northwest Watercross, East Coast Watercross and Great Lakes Watercross results from the first weeks of the 2024 race season.
As promised, we will continue with our run-through of US race action, but first, with news from the Aquabike World Championship series flooding social media over the past 2 days, we are taking a quick detour and heading to Olbia in the region of Sardinia to get the results of the Regione Sardegna Grand Prix of Italy
The opening round of the 2024 UIM-ABP Aquabike World Championship was held at Quy Nhon in the province of Bình Đinh in central Vietnam on March 22-24, setting up many key matches for the coming season, and in Round 2, announced by the one-and-only Dawn Dawson, the weekend of high-octane racing featured many names familiar throughout the race community, regardless of nationality, as well as many regional favorites.
More than 166 riders from 30 countries were cited as pre-registered across the various classes, and additional riders were added to the lineups through the start of racing.
UIM-ABP AQUABIKE Class PRO Circuit World Championship – REGIONE SARDEGNA, GRAND PRIX of Italy – Olbia, Italy, 20 – 23rd June 2024, Photo: Arek Rejs –
As reported on the Aquabike website, defending World Champion Jessica Chavanne, Belgian Quinten Bossche, Estonian Mattias Siimann and Team Abu Dhabi’s Rashid Al-Mulla secured Grand Prix victories in the Ski Ladies GP1, Ski Division GP1, Runabout GP1 and Freestyle categories in difficult conditions at the Regione Sardegna Grand Prix of Italy in Olbia, while Belgian Yoni Hamelin, Estonian racers Mattias Reinass and Karl Keskula, French girl Cyrielle Bramm and Mattias Siimann of Estonia earned World Championship and Grand Prix victories in their respective Ski GP3, Ski GP4, Runabout GP4, Runabout GP4 Ladies and Runabout GP2 categories in blustery conditions at the Regione Sardegna Grand Prix of Italy on Sunday afternoon. Reinass also claimed the Ski GP2 title.
UIM – ABP Aquabike Class Pro Circuit World Championship Regione Sardegna – Grand Prix of Italy Olbia June 20 – 23 – 2024 Photo Simon Palfrader
Complete results and Aquabike recaps of the races are available here and here.
The Maptuner NANO is already a first-choice go-to for instant plug-in horsepower.
But last week, things went next-level when it was announced on social media that an update to the newly-released version 37 Firmware for the Maptuner Nano NB3 provides removal of the restrictive GPS speed control function on US and Canadian Sea-Doo 2018~24 300 hp models and all 325hp models.
According to the post, the Speed Control Override delivers significant increases in top speed with the stock ECU.
It is noted that “Touring Mode” can be manually selected after start-up.
Additionally, no Tuning License is required to utilize important features, and best of all, the firmware update is completely free for those who have purchased the associated Maptuner Nano (BRP).
Within hours of the post going live on social media, posted by Maptun Powersports and shared by several online sources, including GreenHulk PWC Performance Store, The Watercraft Journal noticed a number of comments and posts by experienced racers industry gurus about the potential this update would make available in the impacted PWC models. However, WCJ also, within those first hours, received several inquiries from less experienced racers and new riders, asking, essentially, “what does this mean, and is it something I need.”
To answer those questions, and more, WCJ turned directly to the experts, and spoke with RIVA Racing Operations Director Mike Hodges.
WCJ: I’m sure a lot of our readers are very familiar with the Maptuner Nano, and aware with what this firmware update offers, but for those who may not be as conversant in the benefits, can you tell us exactly what it is this Firmware update accomplishes?
MH:
Hodges explained the reasoning behind manufacturers installing the limiters, which is mandated by US government regulations
MH:
He added that the practice of a private owner overriding the limiter, appears, from review of the statutes, to be permitted, especially for competitive riders, which this product is mostly geared toward.
Hodges stressed that the firmware update is a simple process that requires no mechanical knowledge, and he pointed out that the Maptuner Nano App is compatible with both Android and IOS.
In addition to being a simple process, the update comes directly from Maptuner and the update is free of charge.
He explained that this particular Firmware update, to version 37, was specifically aimed at the SCOM functionality, but mentioned that an inconsistency with the use of a feature allowing the system to start in “Sport Mode” has been rectified.
Stepping back from discussion about the upgrade, Hodges said a lot of customers overlook the ability of the Maptuner Nano NB3 to offer live monitoring, and to read and clear fault codes.
Hodges explained the relationship between RIVA and Maptun.
What’s more, this update is now automatically included when purchasing the Maptuner Nano, either directly from RIVA Racing, or through the GreenHulk PWC Performance Parts store, and the Maptuner Nana NB3A, which was out of stock for a short time, is expected to be back in stock this week.
Following is the data released by Maptun Powersports on the firmware update to version 37 Firmware:
NB3 only: Added SCOM (Speed Control Override Module) to all Sea-Doo 325 watercrafts (all regions, not only US/CA. This is a plug-and-play feature that removes the speed limiter on the watercraft when the Maptuner Nano NB3 is connected. You don’t need to reflash the ECU but your Maptuner Nano NB3 needs to run this firmware version (37) or newer for this feature to work.
Both NB3 and NX3: Fault Codes Manager, Monitoring and Start in Sport Mode is now available for Sea-Doo 325 with any Maptuner Nano running the latest firmware (does not require a tuning license).
For more technical data and information, the MapTuner Support page offers a wide variety of informational modules, including guides, instructions, comparisons and more.
A similar post from GreenHulks touted the same firmware update. You can see the full post below:
Maptuner posted a firmware update Monday night that enables the Nano BRP (01-NB3A) to function as a SCOM on U.S. & Canadian 325hp Sea-Doo RXT & RXP models. All U.S. & Canadian customers that received a Nano BRP module prior to today only need to synchronize their Nano with the MyMaptuner app on their mobile device to activate the SCOM functionality. After today, all Nano BRP modules we receive and ship will include the SCOM functionality for U.S. & Canadian models.
We also updated our Sea-Doo 325 Stage 1 Kits, consolidating them into one page for each model that utilizes the Maptuner Nano BRP and as a SCOM module. We will continue to offer the 325 ECU Speed Control Override Service separately for customers that wish to go that route, but it is no longer included as part of either of our Sea-Doo 325 Stage 1 Kits. If you have any questions please let us know. Thanks!
With the July 4 weekend just around the corner, and racing underway in many US race tours settling into their 2024 season, The Watercraft Journal made a quick run through the race results and upcoming calendars to provide an overview of the top competitions shaping up for the season, taking a look at the emerging rankings, with many familiar names, and some unexpected challengers.
Today we’ll take a look at all things IJSBA, as reported through IJSBA.com.
The first US IJSBA results of the season came out of Washington, where Pacific Northwest Watercross battled torrential rains in their season opener at Vance Creek in Elma on April 27-28. At the end of the weekend, Curtis Pitman took the Ski Stock 2 Stroke Lites class, with Elif Baydar in second and Cole McIntyre taking 3rd. Elif Baydar took home the Ski Women’s 2 Stroke Lites win, and Wyatt Kennedy walked away with the Ski Junior (10-15 2-stroke lites) win. In X2 Vintage/Sport Spec, it was Tom Hobeck taking first, Chip Perkins in second and Jared Holland taking third. Runabout Open (Any Ski) was all Greg Moyer and Ski Open GP (Any Ski) saw Elif Baydar take first and Nathan Clements claim second. In the Ski Vet Open (35+) class, it was Elif Baydar (1), Paul Cota (2) and Garrett Marr (3).
In Ski Stock (4-stroke 1050-1500), Paul Cota took first, Nathan Clements took second, and Garrett Marr claimed third. Ski Vintage (550-650) finished with Chris Obuch in first, Jordan Smith in second, and Nathan Clements in third, while the Ski 2-Stroke (No AM Hull) class was Wyatt Kennedy (1), Cole McIntyre (2) and Nathan Clements (3).
Pacific Northwest Watercross heads to Vance Creek again this weekend for the second weekend of their 2024 season.
On June 1-2, the new owners of East Coast Watercross made their debut in Webster, Massachusetts. Following are the posted results:
Round 1 (Saturday June 1)
Womens 1100 Limited: 1 Teri Burke, 2 Hanna Senra, 3 Kelly Stringer Stock runabout 800: 1 John Bick Novice runabout 4 stroke: 1 Judy Ciocco Beginner 1100 Limited: 1 Joe Yetman, 2 Tanner Batzold, 3 Brody Sebben Pro/ Am sport spec: 1 Brad Nickerson, 2 Nathan Dalli, 3 Noah Dalli Pro/am Ski Lites: 1 Jack Cutts, 2 Billy Beers Jr., 3 Troy Gancarz Superchicken: 1 Warren Burke, 2 Thomas Hager Pro/Am runabout Rec Lites: 1 Mike Northrup, 2 David Anderson, 3 Ian Smith Pro/am Ski GP: 1 Rick Sherker, 2 Brayden Sebben, 3 Kelly Wilcox Pro/am runabout 1100 Open: 1 Cory Dickson Pro/am runabout 4 stroke: 1 Jay Edworthy, 2 Ian Smith, 3 Mike Northrup Pro/Am womens Rec Lites: 1 Kelly Stringer, 2 Julia Kapelewska, 3 Emily Petrowski Pro/Am X2 Open: 1 Doug Wintle, 2 Karlk Hausch, 3 Kayla Pliszka Junior X2: 1 Warren Burke, 2 Kristopher Van Wie Jr. (DNF) AM/Nov 1100 limited: 1 Jon Dean, 2 Noah alli, 3 Colby Stringer Pro/am Ski Stock: 1 Rick Sherker, 2 Brayden Sebben, 3 Charlie McCarthy Pro/am 4 stroke Ski Lites: 1 Sebastian Wilcox Ex/pro runabout 1100 limited: 1 Jay Edworthy, 2 Brian Baldwin, 3 Dave Davidson Vintage ski 550: 1 Cove Batzold, 2 Kyle Pelletier vintage ski open: 1 JonJon Mozonski, 2 Derrick Stec Junior sport spec: 1 Liam Beers, 2 Avery Nickerson, 3 Ryder Downey Amatuer Freestyle: 1 Karl Hausch, 2 Tom Clam Pro 1200 freestyle: 1 David Oski, 2 Joseph Gluck
Round 2 (Sunday June 2) Womens 1100 Limited: 1 Teri Burke, 2 Hannah Senra, 3 Sydney Czarcinski Beginner 1100 Limited: 1 Joe Yetman, 2 Brody Sebben, 3 Tanner Batzold Pro/ Am sport spec: 1 Colby Stringer, 2 Brad Nickerson, 3 Lucas Kean Pro/am Ski Lites: 1 Jack Cutts, 2 Troy Gancarz, 3 Sebastian Wilcox Superchicken: 1 Warren Burke, 2 Thomas Hager Pro/Am runabout Rec Lites: 1 Ian Smith, 2 Joe Demario, 3 David Anderson Pro/am runabout 1100 Open: 1 Cory Dickson Pro/am Ski GP: 1 Rick Sherker, 2 Brayden Sebben, 3 Jack Cutts Pro/am runabout 4 stroke: 1 Jay Edworthy, 2 Ian Smith, 3 TJ Brito Pro/Am Women’s Rec Lites: 1 Kelly Stringer, 2 Julia Kapelewska, 3 Emily Petrowski Pro/Am X2 Open: 1 Doug Wintle, 2 Teri Burke, 3 Kayla Pliszka Junior X2: 1 Warren Burke, 2 Kristopher Van Wie Jr. AM/Nov 1100 limited: 1 Noah Dalli, 2 Jon Dean, 3 Justin Kean Pro/am Ski Stock: 1 Rick Sherker, 2 Charlie McCarthy, 3 Brayden Sebben Pro/am 4 stroke Ski Lites: 1 Sebastian Wilcox Ex/pro runabout 1100 limited: 1 Jay Edworthy, 2 Brian Baldwin, 3 Dave Davidson Vintage ski 550: 1 Cove Batzold, 2 Alexander Unrue vintage ski open: 1 Derrick Stec, 2 Jonjon Mozonski Junior sport spec: 1 Avery Nickerson, 2 Colin Beers, 3 Ryder Downey Biggie Smalls/ Junior: 1 Emilio Demario Amatuer Freestyle: 1 karl Hausch, 2 Tom Clam Pro 1200 Freestyle: 1 Joseph Gluck, 2 David Oski East Coast Watercross heads to Sylvan Beach, NY this weekend for the second weekend of their 2024 season.
On June 10, IJSBA posted the following results from the Great Lakes Watercross season opener on the second weekend in June.
Round 1 June 8 Junior Rec Lites: 1 Isabelle Gahagan, 2 Mason Puccio, 3 Kali L. Bohat Junior Ski Lites: 1 Brodie Murphy, 2 Reese Gahagan, 3 Zayne Genrich Sport Spec: 1 Justin Eblin, 2 Jack Eidt, 3 Lanny Blackmore Pro Am Runabout GP: 1 Kyle Niquette Pro Am Runabout Stock: 1 Carson Petersen, 2 Patrick Sarenich, 3 Kyle Niquette Am Runabout 1100 Limited: 1 Joseph Ruetz, 2 Scott Trolinger, 3 Andrew Schaaf Am Runabout 1100 Stock: 1 Maddie Elders, 2 Brad Bohat, 3 Erich Nehls Vintage Ski 550: 1 Anthony Cellucci, 2 Scott Hyke, 3 Timothy English Vintage X2: 1 Rod Hall, 2 Jen Doidge Veterans Rec Lites: 1 Justin Gotsch, 2 Craig Fritz, 3 Ryan Rasmussen Pro Am Ski GP: 1 Dustin Voss Pro Am Ski Stock: 1: Heber Blackmore, 2 Olin Blackmore, 3 Steve King Novice Ski Lites: 1 Emerson King, 2 Dylan Genrich, 3 Jack Eidt Amateur Rec Lites: 1 Ryan Rasmussen, 2 Jaymie Bohat, 3 Nick Krupka Pro Am Ski Lites: 1 Dustin Voss, 2 Trevor Schmitt, 3 Marvin Gahagan Round 2 June 9 Junior Rec Lites: 1 Mason Puccio, 2 Isabelle Gahagan, 3 Matt Voss Veterans Rec Lites: 1 Justin Gotsch, 2 Edward Gahagan, 3 Craig Fritz Sport Spec: 1 Justin Eblin, 2 Jack Eidt, 3 Lanny Blackmore Pro Am Runabout GP: 1 Kyle Niquette Pro Am Runabout Stock: 1 Carson Petersen, 2 Jarret Peterson, 3 Patrick Sarenich Beginner Runabout: 1 Steve Bransted Am Runabout 1100 Limited: 1 Scott Trolinger, 2 Andrew Schaaf Am Runabout 1100 Stock: 1 Brad Bohat, 2 Maddie Elders, 3 Erich Nehls Junior Ski Lites: 1 Reese Gahagan, 2 Brodie Murphy, 3 Zayne Genrich Novice Ski Stock: 1 Travis Branson, 2 Nick Krupka Pro Am Ski GP: 1 Dustin Voss Pro Am Ski Stock: 1 Heber Blackmore, 2 Olin Blackmore, 3 Steve King Vintage Ski 550: 1 Anthony Cellucci, 2 Timothy English, 3 Gina Cellucci Vintage X2: 1 Rod Hall Novice Ski Lites: 1 Dylan Genrich, 2 Cody Hritz, 3 Jerod Delong Amateur Rec Lites: 1 Maddie Elders, 2 Alex Thundercloud, 3 Ryan Rasmussen Pro Am Ski Lites: 1 Zach Genrick, 2 Dustin Voss, 3 Trevor Schmitt
Great Lakes Watercross heads to Prarie Du Chen, Wisconsin this weekend for rounds 3 & 4.
Be sure to check in next week when we’ll finish up the IJSBA recap with the NautiWater Racing results and review the P1 AquaX, AJSA and international race series results.
The HydroDrags ‘24, presented by FuelTech, may have ended nearly a month ago, but talk of the event – with its slew of world records and jaw-dropping 141 MPH run – with no nitrous – is still turning up the excitement in the world of Watersports.
The 141 MPH run, sans-nitrous, was accomplished by Cuco Performance, riding in place of Jose Hernandez on his Yamaha GP1800R Jet Ski managed by FuelTech’s FT550 ECU. In addition Cuco Performance’s record-setting run, FuelTech also played a part in performances that took 1st-3rd in Pro Stock, Pro Speck, Unlimited, and Super Stock classes.
And while talk is great, and reminiscing, and even a little bit of bragging, is all well and good – there’s nothing like black and white proof – or actually full color proof in this case.
In addition to the chance to watch the lightning fast rounds of the HydroDrag, FuelTech provide the direct links to the next step for those interested in diving into the world of HydroDrag Racing, with information about the FuelTech Hub Dyno Experience, FuelTech FT Education Training and a library of FuelTech Tech Articles.
And when you’re finished marveling at the 141 mph adrenaline boost, don’t forget that FuelTech is still offering customers a chance to steal the spotlight with FuelTech Customer Spotlight.
With the upload of an entry form, and photos and/or videos of your ride, as well as how you use FuelTech products, you could land on FuelTech’s spotlight page, garnering bragging rights and notoriety for your build.
The process is as easy as 1, 2, 3:
Show Your Ride: Jet skis, cars, trucks, snowmobiles, tractors or something else entirely, if it runs FuelTech, they want to see it
Show your Fuel Tech: Be sure to include pictures and/or video of your FuelTech products with your Customer Spotlight Submission
Show off: Share pictures and/or video of your vehicle in action to show off what your ride can do.
And last, but not least, theFuelTech HydroDrags t-shirt is now available for just $25 on the JetTech Facebook page.
It can be the ultimate letdown – you do your research, you purchase your new speed-demon PWC, you get your new Kawasaki Jet Ski® Ultra® 310 home and on the water… and a twist of the throttle just doesn’t quite live up to your expectations.
In the latest video from the Kawi gurus at Brisbane Kawasaki and Kspeed, you can learn from the pros what to do if your 2022 or 2023 Ultra 310 doesn’t hit the speeds you expected.
The issue comes down to the pump setup from the factory that results in pushing the nose of your ski down, even when the dash shows you riding at neutral, and this detailed video shows how to first check, then fix, the problem by adjusting the pump nozzle to be level.
Walking you through the process, the video shows you how to put your Ultra in maintenance mode, remove the ride plate, and check the trim measurements, which will show a difference between the top measurement between the nozzle and the housing, and the lower measurement between the nozzle and the housing, resulting in a downward trim that will impact speed.
This KSpeed video then details each step in adjusting that trim to set the nozzle to level so that the water is not bending, and instead is exiting in a level line, giving the most thrust and speed.
For many new PWC owners, one of the most daunting parts of the learning process may take place before the ski has even touched the water. Hitching the ski to the trailer and preparing to launch can be difficult steps for first-time owners, but perhaps the trickiest part comes when it’s time to put your car in reverse with the trailer attached for the very first time. In fact, while PWC trailers generally provide more control and sensitivity than a boat trailer, that sensitivity can make them much more difficult to reverse.
Luckily, in a recent video uploaded to their YouTube channel, JetTech’s Mikey and Ashley provide a phenomenal tutorial on how to do just that and avoid any unwanted accidents along the way.
One of the most common struggles that beginners face when reversing a PWC trailer is the dreaded “jack-knifing,” for which Mikey offers a detailed demonstration of how to avoid and maneuver out of this situation. They go on to coach learners through a variety of possible situations and how to address them in the moment.
The video is part of JetTech’s ongoing series dedicated to teaching beginner PWC owners how to handle and care for their skis. The series includes a wide variety of tutorials for beginners, covering everything from “How to Clean Your Jet Ski” and “How to Drive a Jet Ski” to more advanced tutorials on how to anchor, launch, or install upgrades to your personal watercraft.
Check out the video on their YouTube channel to see the full guide to Jet Ski trailer reversal.
People are going to read this announcement the wrong way, so we’re just going to address it: this is not a replacement program because Kawasaki is not confident in their engines. This is because the Kawasaki 1.5L powerplant (be it the 160-horsepower variant or the blistering 310-horsepower plant) is being routinely yanked from perfectly fine watercraft and supplanted into aftermarket standup skis, small craft and other vessels.
So instead of buying a brand new JetSki, extracting the drivetrain and junking the runabout Kawasaki wisely launched an engine replacement program that allows shops and certified installers to purchase a fully kitted engine of their choosing. This saves the market from losing functioning units and helps third party builders to save massive overhead costs.
Companies like Kommander, Bullet and Fast Powersports all use Kawasaki 4-strokes in their aftermarket standups; now they no longer need to eat the cost of purchasing a functioning SX-R or STX-160 just to eviscerate it for its engine. Makes sense, right? Well thus far, Kawasaki is the only of the Big 3 to offer such a program. Here’s hoping Sea-Doo and Yamaha will follow suit.
Here’s the original press release: Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., a pioneer in the personal watercraft industry, is thrilled to announce replacement engines are now available for select models of its iconic JET SKI® watercraft lineup. This new offering showcases Kawasaki’s commitment to providing enthusiasts with the ultimate riding experience and helping to extend the longevity of their watercraft investments.
The replacement engine lineup will include engines for the following models: • JET SKI® SX-R™ 160 stand-up • JET SKI® ULTRA® 160 • JET SKI® ULTRA® 310
With an MSRP of $7,499 for the engines for the JET SKI SX-R 160 and JET SKI ULTRA 160 watercraft, and $7,899 for the engine for the JET SKI ULTRA 310 watercraft, Kawasaki owners can now continue to maintain the performance and reliability they expect from their watercraft.
Owners can now find complete replacement engines for select JET SKI personal watercraft models by browsing the Parts Diagrams found in the Owner Center on Kawasaki.com or by contacting their local authorized Kawasaki dealer to place an order.
Fathers Day is making significant gains in popularity.
Once known as the forgotten holiday, the National Retail Foundation reported in 2014 that Father’s Day was the smallest American gift-giving holiday.
This year, 75% of consumers say they will celebrate Father’s Day and Father’s Day spending is projected to reach $22.4 billion this year, according to a yearly survey by the NF anRd Prosper Insights & Analytics. It is the second-highest figure in the survey’s history, following last year’s record of $22.9 billion.
Despite shoppers planning to spend an average $189.81 on gifts and celebrations, #dad’sdaydisappointment is bound to still be a trending hashtag in the days after Fathers Day, when fathers across the nation unwrap ties, cologne, Hawaiian shirts and bargain-rack golf, fishing and barbecue tools.
The Watercraft Journal readers, however, have a secret weapon against the dangers and pitfalls of Fathers Day Gift Giving. Just yesterday, SeaDoo released their curated list of perfect Fathers Day gifts, available directly from the Sea-Doo Shop
With their bright polarized chrome colored lenses and advanced UV400 solar ray protection, the Sea-Doo Floating Polarized Lagoon Sunglasses are your new go-to pair from sand to sea. Fear less about losing these to the water thanks to floating frame tech, while air-injected arms have an ultra-light feel. A removable and adjustable safety strap system completes these sun-loving glasses.
Push your limits without putting undue stress on your ankles in the unisex Sea-Doo Riding Boots. Styled like a pair of on-land boots, these performance boots have good looks and plenty of tech primed for serious rides. Water drains quickly thanks to ventilated mesh uppers and perforated insoles, while an all over urethane coating serves as an exterior barrier for debris. A lace closure, heel pull tab and non-marking rubber soles round out these double-duty kicks.
Those chilly pre-ride mornings or post-wave cookouts call for the luxe, warm Sea-Doo Men’s Sunset Tech Zip Up. Polyester and spandex join forces to create plush brushed back fabric. Anti-microbial and anti-pilling finishes ensure durability so this hoodie lasts. Adjust the hood for versatile coverage and store your essentials in the 2 hand pockets and 1 hidden elbow pocket. A Sea-Doo logo rounds at the left chest adds extra interest to this staple piece.
You’re an outdoor lover through and through. If there’s no stopping you, even when the weather isn’t cooperating, the Sea-Doo Men’s Windproof Jacket is your new best friend. Water-resistant and quick-drying material keeps moisture from soaking through, so you stay dry when you’re outside. Windproof technology also comes to play, blocking icy winds so you can focus on your fun. Exterior hand pockets keep essentials safe and close at hand, while the adjustable and stowable hood adds versatile coverage where you need it.
Sleek, stylish soft-sided thermal insulated bag is perfect for keeping your refreshments cool for up to 48 hours. Waterproof, sealed construction with durable material is easy to clean. Carry handles and removable shoulder strap for easy transport to and from the water. Features outside ID pocket and magnetic top closure for quick access and a sure seal.
And there’s more where those came from. Be sure to check out the full lineup of gifts perfect for the father in your life – even if that’s you!
The HydroDrags ‘24, presented by FuelTech, may have ended nearly a month ago, but talk of the event – with its slew of world records and jaw-dropping 141 MPH run – with no nitrous – is still turning up the excitement in the world of Watersports. 
Earlier in June, FuelTech posted a new video, “
And when you’re finished marveling at the 141 mph adrenaline boost, don’t forget that FuelTech is still offering customers a chance to steal the spotlight with FuelTech Customer Spotlight. 
It can be the ultimate letdown – you do your research, you purchase your new speed-demon PWC, you get your new Kawasaki Jet Ski® Ultra® 310 home and on the water… and a twist of the throttle just doesn’t quite live up to your expectations. 
Walking you through the process, the video shows you how to put your Ultra in maintenance mode, remove the ride plate, and check the trim measurements, which will show a difference between the top measurement between the nozzle and the housing, and the lower measurement between the nozzle and the housing, resulting in a downward trim that will impact speed. 
This 
For many new PWC owners, one of the most daunting parts of the learning process may take place before the ski has even touched the water. Hitching the ski to the trailer and preparing to launch can be difficult steps for first-time owners, but perhaps the trickiest part comes when it’s time to put your car in reverse with the trailer attached for the very first time. In fact, while PWC trailers generally provide more control and sensitivity than a boat trailer, that sensitivity can make them much more difficult to reverse.
One of the most common struggles that beginners face when reversing a PWC trailer is the dreaded “jack-knifing,” for which Mikey offers a detailed demonstration of how to avoid and maneuver out of this situation. They go on to coach learners through a variety of possible situations and how to address them in the moment.
Fathers Day is making significant gains in popularity.
For those more chill summer nights, there’s the