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Video: Jet Tech Hybrid Sunnies/Goggles Back In Stock

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The wait is over. 

Snazzy looking, super useful, and low-key high-tech, Jet Tech’s Hybrid Sunnies/Goggles are now back in stock. 

A cross between fashionable sunglasses and feature-rich on-water protective goggles, Jet Tech’s Hybrids offer the best of both worlds. 

The 2-in-1 design Hybrid kit incorporates an industry-first modular design that allows the sunglasses to be easily converted into goggles whilst on the move, giving the rider modular options to suit their particular needs for on-water action. What’s more, the JetT prescription glasses inserts also allow for spectacles to be inserted for those who require further vision support.

Whether you are surfing, fishing or just opening the throttle right up for an accelerated ride, the Hybrids are going to be the reliable solution knowing they have a secure fitment, reduced wind drag behind the lens, and complete sun protection.

Offering a polarized scratch-free black lens with Cat 4 UV400 Protection and a green low-light, scratch-proof lens with CAT 2 UV400 Protection, these lightweight and comfy Hybrids are drop-ball tested for durability.

Each kit purchased includes not only the sunglass/goggle frame, and the two lenses, along with the prescription clip in insert, you get arms and a strap that are interchangeable, a nose pad for comfort and fit, and a quick-attach magnetic windbreaker, a lanyard strap, a magnetic foam pad, and both a hard and soft case. All for $99 – and Jet Tech will even throw in free shipping for Australia, New Zealand and U.S. customers. 

With universally-positive customer reviews from customers, like this one from Sam A., who said “Been rocking these shades for nearly three weeks now in all kinds of different conditions. These are the perfect on-water sunnies. I’ve always had issues with either wind getting behind the lenses or uv. Not the hybrids! They tick all the boxes for all different environments. I’m rough on the gear and still haven’t managed to scratch my lenses,” you know you’re making an investment in a solid product that successfully combines looks, quality build, durability and convenience. 

And while you’re on the Jet Tech website checking out the Hybrid Sunglasses/Goggles, be sure to catch up on all the deals offered on their site, such as Jet Ski Docking Lines, their in-shore anchor lines, and the Jet Tech Adventure Fish Box.  

Take on the Summer in Style with RIVA Racing’s New Apparel

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We all know and love the folks over at RIVA Racing for their performance kits, custom builds, and wide array of personal watercraft parts and modifications, but you may have also seen their stylish t-shirts, hats, and accessories while out on the water. Luckily, this year they’re spicing up their offering with a new drop of apparel to help you show off your watersports love, both on and off the water. They’ve released a number of cool new hats and t-shirts just in time for the summer, branded with the RIVA Racing logo in a variety of designs, so that you can help rep the brand that levels up your watercraft fun!

The shirts come in black, white, and gold, featuring eye-catching prints to help you stand out on the water. They are made of 100% cotton, so that you can stay comfortable and cool under the summer sun. Similarly, their branded trucker hats have a mesh webbing in the back to keep your head cool and your face shaded from that brutal UV.

But what truly sets these items apart is their durability. Crafted with high-quality materials, RIVA Racing’s clothing is made to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle, whether you’re tearing through waves on your jet ski or lounging on the pontoon with your friends. Just like with their top-tier customer service and high-quality products, you can trust RIVA Racing to provide some of the best apparel on the market!

You can find the new line of RIVA Racing apparel at their website, where they’re offering free shipping on all orders over $150 within the continental USA.

Videos: RIVA & Precision EFI Develop Tunable ECU for 2024 Sea-Doo 325

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It was only a matter of time before RIVA Racing cracked the code on not only reflashing the ECU of the new 325-horsepower Sea-Doos, but have it ready to be reprogrammed using a Maptuner. Amazingly, that day is today and RIVA Racing is excited to announce that this new Unlocked MG1 ECU is the ECU that the new Sea-Doo should’ve come with from the factory.

The product of the pairing of RIVA Racing and Precision EFI, the new Unlocked MG1 ECU ($1894.95) is fully tunable using RIVA’s Maptuner tuning devices – meaning, no more sending off your factory ECU to be cracked open, monkeyed with, soldered back together and shipped back. Heck, it even comes with its own tuning license.

So now you can plug the MG1 in, plug in your Maptuner Nano and access the entirety of RIVA’s massive tuning library just like any 300 ACE engine. These ECU’s are ready to ship out May 24th so get your orders in right now if you want to get yours as quickly as possible. [And for those certain to ask yes, this will void your factory warranty. It’s for competition use only. –Ed.]

Here’s the original press release from RIVA Racing:
The RIVA Sea-Doo 325 Unlocked MG1 ECU is the “gateway” part to unleashing the full potential of your 325hp supercharged Sea-Doo engine! This direct replacement ECU is ‘Plug-n-Play’ and fully programmable with Maptuner Tuning Devices (sold separately), eliminating the need to ship your ECU out for programming. Includes required Tuning License that gives you access to RIVA’s World Famous Tuning Library along with unmatched technical support.

Features:

  • Fully programmable with Maptuner Nano (BRP) or Maptuner X Tuning Devices (sold separately).
  • Enables installation of additional performance upgrades.
  • Works on all 2024 & newer 325hp Sea-Doo models.
  • Includes RIVA/Maptuner Tuning License.
  • Access to our World Famous Tuning Library.
  • Retain your original ECU.
  • Unlock technology supplied by Precision EFI

Note: Requires Maptuner Nano (BRP) or Maptuner X Tuning Devices (sold separately) to read your original ECU and then program new unlocked ECU.

FOR COMPETITION USE ONLY. PRODUCT NOT FOR USE ON POLLUTION CONTROLLED VEHICLES.

Kawasaki Unveils Enhanced ‘Build & Price’ Tool

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If you’ve shopped on the Kawasaki website before, you may have gotten some good use out of their “Build and Price” tool, a convenient way of seeing real-time price comparisons as you check out the different options available for their wide variety of recreational vehicles.

Well, luckily for customers, they recently announced a new and upgraded version of this tool, which is set to really enhance the online shopping experience.

Their new interactive Build & Price tool, available currently for the Ridge and Ridge XR lines, allows users to access a three-dimensional model of the Kawasaki Ridge as they compare models, packages, add-ons, and accessories. Along with the price difference of each option, the simulator also provides a visual representation of what the end product would look like, allowing for an all-around more informed decision at the time of purchase.

The simulator offers 360-degree views and lets users toggle through backgrounds for a more realistic view. What’s more, there’s even the option to put yourself behind the steering wheel to get a feel for how the interior changes with each upgrade.

While the upgraded Build & Price tool is currently only available for the Ridge and Ridge XR lines, Kawasaki has confirmed that it will be expanded to more models as the software is further developed, meaning there’s a good chance we’ll be able to use the tool for PWC shopping as well. Meanwhile, the standard version of the Build & Price Tool is still available to help with your purchase of any Kawasaki PWC. 

To check out Kawasaki’s impressive customization tool, visit their website and click on the “Build & Price” button on any of their vehicles.

Jet Ski Riding Officer Rescues Man and Dogs Amid Texas Floods

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In the wake of the tragic flooding and severe storms in Texas, stories of heroic rescues have flooded the internet. One that caught our eye was shared by the Houston Police Department on Monday, showing a truly heartwarming rescue. The bodycam footage shows an officer mounted on a Jet Ski, cruising through the murky floodwaters to save a man and three dogs stranded at an almost completely submerged house. The floodwaters had risen up to 10 feet, and you can see the relief on the faces of all four during the rescue.

These rescues take place against the backdrop of the severe storms and flooding that have plagued Texas this week. As of Sunday, 224 people had been rescued from the deluge and winds affecting Harris County, along with 153 dogs. Despite these inspiring numbers, the death of at least one child has already been reported. Furthermore, county officials have reported that the stranded livestock and damage to homes will have a significant negative impact on people’s livelihoods, as well as the area’s infrastructure, well past the end of these rains.

Communities are bracing for further rain and damaging weather conditions, rallying together to prepare for whatever problems this string of severe weather may continue to bring. Through the struggle, it’s inspiring to see the resilience of Texans shining through amidst the adversity, finding ways to defend their community through whatever means they can.

The full video is available from BBC.

FuelTech New Headquarters Flooded, Employees Lost Homes in South Brazil Floods

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Following up on The Watercraft Journal’s article on Monday about flooding in the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, which borders Uruguay and Argentina, WCJ has learned that FuelTech’s, well-known in PWC circles as a leading developer and manufacturer of high-performance vehicle control units, has suffered severe damages from the recent storms and flooding in the Southern Brazil region. 

FuelTech new company headquarters, located in the city of Porto Alegre in Rio Grande do Sul, is partially underwater after last weekend’s torrential rains, and company CEO Anderson Dick has posted on social media, saying that many of the company’s employees lost their homes. 

In a post on Facebook on Monday, he stated, “The South of Brazil is under the worst natural disaster ever, over 300 cities under the water, flood (levels) never seen before, even 3ft higher than the historic 1941 flood. FuelTech new headquarters are flooded about 3 feet and we don’t know yet how bad it is. We did some actions to protect what we could. It will take a few days for the water to go down to actually see, but we will go through it.

But hundreds of thousands of people lost everything, at least 15 of our 200 employees lost their houses. Everyone is safe but we want to help them rebuild their houses. If anyone would like to donate something to help, it will be very (appreciated). 

He provided a link to the fundraising site for those who would like to make donations.

Floods in the city of Canoas, Brazil, in the State of Rio Grande do Sul State. More than 1 million people has been affected so far, in the State, out of which 41,000 are refugees or persons in need of international protection (UN Refugee Agency)

In a recorded reel posted to his page some time prior, for which WCJ is relying on Google for translation, he stated, “It is in times of difficulty that you discover who is on your side! The employee who has lost everything and has no hope of recovering what took decades with his salary to buy, but with the solidarity of people who are able to donate a little so that he can rebuild his life.

This is perhaps the biggest investment the company can do at this moment, because the only way for the company to recover will be with the dedication of this employee and the entire team who, even though they didn’t lose anything, even donated to those in need and feel the same pride of being in a company that cares about everyone , which has the purpose of doing good for both those who run the company and its customers.

As bad as we feel now, I’m proud to say, even with my company under water, that with the strength of the union of the people who work at FuelTech and MANY customers, friends and suppliers, we will come out of this stronger, I’m absolutely sure!

The state of Rio Grande do Sul is on its knees, we need help in countless ways, thank you to everyone who is superheroes these days in different ways! We are collecting donations for those who want to help directly to the families of FuelTech employees who lost everything, this helps us more than directly as they are the force that we need to keep strong now… And for those who can help in another way, buy a FuelTech product on our website, it may be the excuse you needed, but it will help to rebuild this company that we care so much about!”

Per the the official Rio Grande do Sul social media accounts and information from the Rio Grande do Sul Governor’s Office and social media accounts, there is a confirmed avenue for donations, with US Donations being directed to Standard Chartered Bank in New York, Account Number 3544032986001, Swift SCBLUS33. Instructions say to include the following information with the donation to make sure it is directed to the Rio Grande do Sul disaster relief funds:

IBAN Code: BR5392702067001000645423206C1
Name: Associacao dos Bancos no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul
CNPJ: 92.958.800/0001-38

According to a post by the Governor’s office, “The resources will be fully donated to humanitarian aid to flood victims and to reconstruction of urban infrastructure. The SOS Rio Grande do Sul account is an official and secure donation channel.

In an updated Reuters report from yesterday, May 8, at approximately 6 p.m. EST, resumed rain, lightning, hail and heavy winds interrupted rescue efforts in southern Brazil, and the death toll from the flooding, landslides, washed out roads and collapsed bridges has risen to more than 100 now, with 130 still listed as missing.

At 10 p.m. EST last night, AP reported that more than 230,000 residents have been displaced and are seeking shelter. Heavy rains are expected to continue through the coming weekend. A report by the National Confederation of Municipalities estimates damages at 4.6 billion reais ($930 million) in nearly 80% of Rio Grande do Sul’s municipalities.

Only two of Capital city Porto Alegre’s six water treatment plants were functioning, making drinking water a priority, according to a report from the mayor’s office, which also stated that water for hospitals and shelters were being supplied by tankers.According to the Reuters report, “Army soldiers used amphibious armored cars to rescue people from flooding in Canoas, just north of the city, where the waters have reached a depth of some three meters (10 ft) and the streets can only be navigated by boat.” Canoas is the hometown of PWC racers Tiago and Ismael Geitens, who have been assisting with rescue efforts on PWCs.

Prepping Jet Skis for Big Wave Surfing: Mark Healey’s Safety Protocols

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When it comes to water safety, few people understand the urgency like big wave surfers. The intensity of the sport demands a level of knowledge and preparation that few others have, making them some of the most well-trained watermen out there. That’s why, for a big wave surfer like Mark Healey, controlling the protocols and preparation needed to prep a jet ski for big wave surfing is a crucial part of protecting his own safety.

While Jet Skis can be some of the most useful tools in many of these hardcore watersports, it’s important to know that a stock ski from the dealership will need some upgrades before it’s ready for extreme usage.

In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Healey, a Hawaiian surfer and spearfisherman, walks us through the steps he takes to ensure his personal watercraft is ready to tackle some of the world’s most challenging surf, whether for big wave surfing, rescue, spearfishing, or any other hardcore usage.

Of the modifications that Healey covers in the video, some of the most important are the hatch and seat strap kits. These work to hold down parts of the ski which could potentially pop off in a crash, preventing the hull from filling up with water and sinking.

He also emphasizes the importance of many smaller modifications – a tow-point on the front of the ski, handles on the sides of the hull for rescue, a backup key in case a different drive needs to mount – which can make all the difference in a rescue situation. Even gunwale kits designed to add traction can be the key to a successful save. The video details a variety of other important modifications that allow for effective towing as well.

If you’re looking to prep a ski for heavy surf, or even if you’re just interested in learning more about the process, check out Healey’s video on his YouTube channel for a full run-through, along with some super useful visuals!

Kickstart Your Summer With Great Sea-Doo Deals From Cycle Springs

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Bombardier Recreational Products

While the official start of summer is still more than a month away, many PWC racers and rec riders are getting a jump on the official calendar and are more than ready for Summer 2024 to start.

For many, that may mean an on-the-water upgrade – and Cycle Springs Powersports and Sea-Doo are making that upgrade just a bit easier with some Kickstart Your Summer sales prices on 2023 model year PWCs, and even some great deals on 2023 Switch Pontoons. 

Just how good of a deal, you ask?  Try $1,000 off PWCs, and $3,000 off the Switch. That means, for a limited time, you can get a  2023 Sea-Doo Spark® Trixx, with a Rotax® 900 ACE™ engine with Sport Mode and Sea-Doo’s exclusive extended range Variable Trim System for $7,090, more than $1,100 off regular price. Not only that, but during the sale, you can snag financing starting at 0.99% on select Sea-Doo personal watercraft models. 

The Trixx not your bag?  How about a 2023 Sea-Doo FishPro™ Scout 130, with cooler, fish finder, rod holders and 9 pre-set trolling modes  more, for $12,690 – more than $1,600 off the regular price.

And if high performance is your thing, Cycle Spring’s got the 2023 Sea-Doo RXP®-X® 300 iBR, with a supercharged 300-HP engine and race-inspired handling and styling, for $14,099 – a whopping $2,400 savings. 

Looking to go all-out?  How about a  2023 Sea-Doo RXP®-X® Apex 300, the most exclusive high-performance personal watercraft ever created by Sea-Doo, with a carbon fiber hood and race-ready hydraulic steering, for a $2,700 savings at only $18,290.

And if you’re looking for a ski with a little bit of experience, check out Cycle Spring’s pre-owned inventory, with a lineup of deals like  nearly $1,000 off a 2018 Sea-Doo WAKE™ 155, on sale for $8,495.

And just to make life easier, don’t forget Cycle Spring’s Trade-In tool, where you can jump on the Cycle Spring website and get a trade-in value for your old ski

Video: PWC Brothers Part of Rescue Operations in Flooded Brazil Hometown

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In the Brazilian state of  Rio Grande do Sul, PWC racers Tiago and Ismael Geitens, along with many other residents-turned-rescuers – many on PWCs – are even now desperately attempting to retrieve survivors from rooftops and rivers as this southernmost state in Brazil reels under the torrential rains and flooding of the past days.

According to reports from local authorities, as told to me by social media sources and confirmed by national media outlets, massive floods in Brazil’s southern Rio Grande do Sul state killed at least 75 people and at least 100 more still missing.  The rains and resulting floods, landslides, washed out roads and collapsed bridges injured another 155+ people and forced more than 88,000 people from their homes. 

Tiago, who posted on Instagram about the rescue efforts, including those being made by jet ski, told The Watercraft Journal,  “We are facing the worst ever climate disaster of our state. Rio Grande do Sul are with much water, so much rain! People are sinking, more than 5 meters of water in their houses, we are putting the boats for take them out. Our City Canoas is needing help!”

It is reported that electricity and communications are sporadic, and more than 800,000 people are without a clean water supply, according to the civil defense agency, which cited figures from water company Corsan.

According to a Reuters report, “Flooding from storms in the past few days has affected about two thirds of the nearly 500 towns and cities in the state, which borders Uruguay and Argentina, leaving more than 88,000 displaced.”

While we have not been able to communicate with Geitens again, WCJ did find, through research into the official Rio Grande do Sul social media accounts and information from the Rio Grande do Sul Governor’s Office and social media accounts, there is a confirmed avenue for donations, as shown in the below graphic, with US Donations being directed to Standard Chartered Bank in New York, Account Number 3544032986001, Swift SCBLUS33. Instructions say to include the following information with the donation to make sure it is directed to the Rio Grande do Sul disaster relief funds:

IBAN Code: BR5392702067001000645423206C1
Name: Associacao dos Bancos no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul
CNPJ: 92.958.800/0001-38

According to a post by the Governor’s office, “The resources will be fully donated to humanitarian aid to flood victims and to reconstruction of urban infrastructure. The SOS Rio Grande do Sul account is an official and secure donation channel.”

The Watercraft Journal will continue to monitor conditions in Canoas and Rio Grande do Sul, and provide updates as they become available, including efforts by FuelTech, whose founder and owner, Anderson Dick, is from Rio Grande do Sul.

CA State Waterway Safety Grants Can Go Toward Purchase of PWCs For Patrol, S&R

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California State Parks' Division of Boating and Waterways
California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways

California’s waterways are vital recreational and environmental assets, drawing enthusiasts from all over the world and all walks of life. In order to bolster safety measures and protect against abandoned and unwanted vessels in the waterways, the California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) has announced an increase in grant program funding, with a total of $4.25 million available for this cycle.

The program works by offering funding to local public entities across California for boats, equipment, and personal watercraft, which can be used to enhance safety protocols and preserve the natural beauty of the state’s waterways. 

Ramona Fernandez, Deputy Director of DBW, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Enhancing safety on California’s waterways and protecting our shared environment can create healthy and memorable outdoor experiences for experienced and new recreational boaters.”

In 2023, DBW distributed grants totaling $1.57 million under the Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment program and $2.75 million under the Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange program. This year, DBW has increased the total grant funding to $4.25 million, reflecting the critical need for ongoing support in these areas. The application window for the two competitive grant programs closed for the current cycle on Tuesday, April 30.

Here’s a breakdown of the grant programs and the funding available:

Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment (BSEE) Grant Program
Under this program, up to $1.5 million is earmarked for local government agencies statewide. These funds will support the acquisition of patrol boats, replacement engines, personal watercraft, search and rescue equipment, and patrol gear necessary for conducting recreational boating safety and enforcement activities. It’s important to note that these grants are intended to complement existing local resources rather than fully funding boating safety and enforcement units. Funding for the BSEE program is provided by the U.S. Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Safety Program.

Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange (SAVE) Grant Program
The SAVE program allocates up to $2.75 million to local public agencies statewide. These funds will facilitate the surrender of recreational vessels and the removal and disposal of derelict recreational vessels from coastal and inland public, navigable waterways. Grant funding for the SAVE program is sourced from the Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund.

By offering these grants, California State Parks aims to strengthen waterway safety measures and preserve the pristine beauty of the state’s aquatic landscapes. Local entities are encouraged to seize this opportunity to enhance their capabilities and contribute to a safer, more enjoyable boating environment for all.