Wait! Whaaat? Yup, that’s what many people are saying. And by all accounts the two skis shown in the image on the right, which was posted by FNGYogi in a Reddit thread, shows two such X2’s; one in Kawasaki Green and the other in a pale blue – both touting some impressive custom stitchwork by Jettrim.
Based off of a modern SX-R 160 (touting the Kawasaki’s proven 160-horsepower 1,498cc four cylinder 4-stroke), each X2 features a completely redesigned deck with a heavily contoured single seat, dual latch hood cover and fixed steering neck. Unique kickouts at the rear provide a “tray wedge” shape for foot placement.
Unfortunately, even the most casual observer can see the “Speed Magic” banner stretching across their hoods. Speed Magic is a manufacturer of speed parts (mainly for Kawasaki) out of Japan, as well as very unique conversions and custom kits. Prior to 2018, Speed Magic was famous for its 1.5-liter 4-stroke swaps in SX-R 800s until the SX-R 160 debuted.
Shortly thereafter, Speed Magic revealed its X-2 project in April of 2019. At the time, the conversion kit took the current SX-R 160 JetSki and replaced the deck, hood and handle pole with a new top, single-rider seat, added a fixed steering neck and a heavily reinforced hood/engine cover. These two skis are not official pre-production X2’s from Kawasaki, but a customer’s skis built by Speed Magic. Even a metal flake X2 similar to the ski on the left debuted in an issue of Pro Rider Magazine (see attached image) a few years ago.
Florida continues to secure its foothold as the leading market for personal watercraft and motorcycle sales, as RIVA Motorsports just announces the acquisition of Spaceport Cycles in Titusville. The newly renamed dealership will be known as RIVA Space Coast, and will continue the tradition of motorcycle and off-road sales, as well as expand into PWC and marine sales.
The expansion of the RIVA Motorsports dealer network helps to service the Central Florida market as well as pull a portion of workload from its existing dealerships. Even amid concerns for the current economy, RIVA service departments are slammed with work orders and expanding the dealer’s network of certified technicians was a “must.” Read the original press release below:
RIVA motorsports has expanded its dealer group with the addition of RIVA Space Coast located in Titusville, Florida. This is RIVA”s 4th location with 3 existing dealerships in South Florida. This new location will allow RIVA to service the rapidly developing Space Coast and Central Florida motorsports markets. To achieve this, RIVA acquired Spaceport Cycles, a longtime Titusville based dealer for Yamaha, Suzuki and KTM. The experienced staff of Spaceport Cycles has joined the RIVA Space Coast team under the leadership of general manager Shane Hildy.
“We are excited to expand our business into the Space Coast/Central Florida market,” said Dave Bamdas, President of RIVA Motorsports. “We have plans to grow the PWC and marine side of this dealership while respecting the off-road legacy and community connection created by former Spaceport Cycles owner Conrad Eigenmann over the past 30 years.” This acquisition marks a key step for the RIVA Motorsports Group as it grows its footprint within the industry while delivering a high level of service to the area.
I’ve been either somewhat adjacent or wholly embedded in the personal watercraft (PWC) industry for roughly 18 years (as I can measure) and I can say with some surety that this industry is changing. Of course, change isn’t anything new and it shouldn’t surprise anyone, but the direction of this latest change is what concerns me.
As far as I can see, there have been three major (and I mean full scale, tectonic-level) changes in this industry that comprehensively changed the landscape – with a fourth currently underway.
First, I’m not counting the introduction of the 1972 JS400 “JetSki” from Kawasaki as that is less of a change as much as it was the beginning. Rather, I’m looking at events that altered the trajectory from that point forward.
The original JetSkis were small, uncomplicated and required a degree of athleticism to master, which effectively made them exclusionary to casual entrants looking for a leisurely pastime. That is, until 1986 when Yamaha revealed the WaveRunner, providing a somewhat stable 2-seater platform that was less challenging and far more accessible.
Now “jet skiing” was available to everyone. This was the first of these industry-changing events.
The advent of the “sitdown” sparked Bombardier’s return to personal watercraft in 1988. Suddenly, sitdown sales rivaled that of standups, and waterways were filled with all types of riders. By 1991, sitdowns were introduced into professional racing – previously exclusive territory of standups.
This period took us to 1995, which marked the industry’s all-time peak for new unit sales. As I understand, that number was as high as 155,000 units sold in a single year. The newfound popularity of PWC drew in new manufacturers like Polaris and Tigershark with each OE offering dozens of models and trim levels.
Suddenly, everyone owned a jet ski. They were cheap, easy to work on, easier to repair and parts were plentiful. Conversely, every body of water was packed with rowdy buzzing 2-strokes jumping boat wakes spouting plumes of blue smoke and leaving prismatic snail trails in the water.
While few will look at 1995 as I do, I see this as the industry’s breaking point – and the second biggest pivot point in our industry. Why? Because it was at this time that the public’s tolerance for PWC was pushed to its limit, and the years that followed were a procession of legal actions outlawing skis from lakes, shorelines and public waterways.
Without the explosion of popularity in 1995 and the legal backlash that ensued, we wouldn’t have seen the industry forced into developing 4-stroke powertrains. In 2002, Sea-Doo was going to roll out its new 4-tec 1503 3-cylinder first, but Yamaha poured on the gas and rushed out its 4-stroke FX140 on the exact same day.
It is here, with the advent of the 4-stroke engine that I submit the third biggest change in our industry occurred. Although the move to 4-strokes eventually pushed Polaris and Tigershark out, it did welcome Honda into the fray that same year. Shortly thereafter, Kawasaki joined it’s competitors finalizing the era of smog-compliant 4-strokes.
Equally, the performance aftermarket either had to convert, hold fast or fade away. Like Hemingway, once household brand names like Performance Jet Ski (PJS), Mobby’s, Pro-Tec and Beach House vanished gradually, then suddenly.
Unfortunately, 4-stroke engines were far heavier than 2-strokes and relied less on low-end torque but high RPMs to generate horsepower. Carburetors were replaced with clunky electronic ignitions and digital fuel delivery systems adding even more weight and greater sensitivities to water intrusion.
Watercraft ballooned in size as heavier internals required greater buoyancy. Wider, more stable craft also welcomed less athletic riders whose purchasing power pushed manufacturers to cater to their demands over the slim number of racier riders. Skis swelled further, more endowed with gadgets, digital features and novelties.
Is this tidal surge of technological accessories the next change mentioned at the beginning? No, although it is significantly altering our industry. Rather, the next change is far less visible to the outward observer: the trajectory of future watercraft are being directed by focus groups, emailed questionnaires and sampled dealerships instead of enthusiasts.
Look, I’m not naive. Seeking maximized sales has always been the name of the game, but previous industry stewards knew who they were targeting. Today, OE’s are staffed with corporate ladder-climbers and marketers – gone are almost all of the diehards who built each brand’s respective watercraft divisions – and they don’t know how to create new and exciting product.
Here’s some wisdom: focus groups can only react to what’s currently happening – they can’t tell you what’s coming. The most successful companies understand that reacting to ever-shifting trends (instead of setting them) has forever been a failed business model. Always chasing “the latest thing” is often costly and if response is too slow, ineffectual.
If the PWC industry was to learn anything from tech mega-giant Steve Jobs’ success, it is that the product should always drive the demand, rarely the inverse. Currently, I and many others recognize Sea-Doo as the industry’s leading innovator. It’s a dangerous position to hold as the gamble can fail spectacularly or hit the ball out of the park.
As far as I can tell, for every one failure, BRP has enjoyed three successes. This forward-thinking posture also has given Sea-Doo the upper-hand as being the brand that seems to care most about performance enthusiasts; changes made for the 325 ACE directly target the top echelon of tuners and racers – and that speaks volumes to this tight-knit community.
My hope is that Sea-Doo’s most recent moves shake Kawasaki and Yamaha awake to the value in directly addressing the core enthusiasts first before sampling the opinions of a focus group or dealership managers. If not, I don’t see this industry coming around this last corner.
Kawasaki JetSki enthusiasts are pretty much used to watching KSpeed do some unique and interesting things. Recently, they quietly released a video of their latest project, code named “GHOST”.
KSpeed had the first registered new generation Kawasaki on the water in Australia. The 2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310 LX-S was purchased and owned by Marty James, one of the guys over at Kspeed. As the team began testing, tearing apart, beating up and playing with the new machine, they decided to go all out.
Almost immediately, Marty wanted a custom paint job. He decided to go with an all black paint job with some Kawasaki Green pin stripes that really pop. The KSpeed team painted the ski in house. They had many discussions as to what to do with the seat, but they decided to keep the LX-S stock seat as it keeps more of the Kawasaki Green and matches the sharp pin stripes running down the ski.
Now begins the fun part. The first thing they did was add the KSpeed intake grate. Luckily, it is the exact same fit as the previous Ultra generation, so they did not need to make any adjustments. After comparing numbers between their grate and the stock, they moved on to their Stage 1 kit.
It took Kspeed only a couple of months to completely tune the ECU for the new Kawasaki Ultra platform. Once completed, it was immediately installed into “Ghost” for extensive testing, along with the rest of the stage 1 kit, intake grate (already installed) and the Kspeed pump wedge.
They also installed the custom 48 settings Kspeed Ultra Racing Sponsons and continued their testing. Even though they had no doubts, “Ghost” was performing beautifully.
In true KSpeed fashion, they quickly added their stage 2 kit to improve cooling, increase air flow and potent low – midrange performance. This included installing the super charger pulley, billet fuel rail, atmospheric trumpet and the Intercooler BOV blockoff. They immediately hit the water with hours upon hours of testing.
After months and countless hours of testing, the team is thrilled with the numbers, handling and over all performance that they are seeing and documenting. However, KSpeed is not done with “Ghost,” yet.
The team had been developing a new ride plate for the 2022+ Kawasaki Ultra Platform. They pulled “Ghost” into the shop and was excited to install this new development ride plate. In addition, they added a set of RIVA full upper and lower racing handlebars.
We know that our readers want to know about the new KSpeed ride plate, but that is for an article another day, after KSpeed officially releases it to the public. KSpeed offers all of this as individual parts, or in kits. If you want to see “Ghost” in action, check out the video below.
RIVA Motorsports and Marine of the Keys is offering huge price cuts on Sea-Doo Watercraft. Their featured inventory of Manager’s Specials is a good place to score a Sea-Doo jet ski at a great price. The 2022 Sea-Doo Fish Pro Sport 170 is marked down to $14,988, which is almost $2,000 in savings.
This machine is equipped with the Garman Echomap plus 62cv fish finder so you can get out there and find the big ones. The iDF Intelligent Debris Free Pump System will help you to stay dry in the shallows. There is no need to get off your ski anymore when your impeller sucks up grass and other debris. Turn on the pump and send the trash on its way.
If you’re looking for a race-ready high-performance watercraft, the 2022 Sea-Doo RXP-X 300 iBR & Audio is marked down to $16,188. If you put 20% down, you can get it for $180 a month at 4.99% APR for 60 months with approved credit. It is available in premium triple black or millennium yellow. The yellow one is priced to move at $15,988.
For those who just want something low key, but fun, the 2022 Sea-Doo Spark Trixx are in the mix as well. RIVA Motorsports and Marine of the Keys has multiple units in the 2-up and 3-up models. They range from $7,988 to $8,488 and several colors are available. A couple of 2022 GTI SE 170’s iBR, iDF with Audio. Both are in coral blast & eclipse black. Check out these jet skis and more at RIVA Motorsports & Marine of the Keys. They always have great Manager’s Specials on offer!
Australian Jet Ski Racer, Jett Cavanagh was seen sporting gear from Unlimited PWC at the 2023 World Series in Vichy, France. Although he didn’t get a great result, he looked good. Cavanagh was wearing the Rush S/E Life Jacket in white and black. The Rush S/E is an easy vest to put on and take off with its side entry. The jacket is made of lightweight nylon and with its flat design, it makes for an almost stress-free ride. The USCG approved Type 3 Rush S/E Life Jacket will set you back $115.00.
Cavanagh wore the comfortable X-Light Gloves, which gave him the grip he needed to hang onto his PWC and to easily operate the throttle. The gloves are equipped with reinforcement panels on the inner part of the thumb and index finger joints, which we love. Anything that cuts down on those blisters are welcome here. These make for great midsummer gloves with the super lightweight materials and breathability.
Cavanagh completed his look with the Unlimited PWC Rush Wetsuits John, which is popular with Unlimited Team Riders. The Rush line was designed in a collaboration with professional riders. It offers extreme flexibility, giving you the freedom to get after it on the racetrack. The Rush John is easy to get into and remove with its Velcro closure on the left shoulder. The Rush Wetsuits John is available in small all the way up to XL and comes in at $162. Check out the Unlimited PWC website for Cavanagh’s gear and other cool gear so you can “look fast, go fast.”
Yamaha WaveRunners recently rolled out a brand-new seven-inch touch screen for their Connext System Display and an upgraded infotainment center for the new FX models. It is packed with excellent features that will make life on the water even better. Access robust well-organized menus with just a touch of a finger. You literally have total control of your WaveRunner at your fingertips.
With the new and improved large screen it’s much easier to see important information about your PWC while underway. The latest interface has a simplified and cleaner layout, making it easy to set up the various menus in a way that works for you. This new interactive hub offers quick and easy access to navigation, entertainment, and vital watercraft information.
The Home screen features a speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, trim settings, battery voltage meter, and shift position. Located below the home screen are icons, which alert you to when your engine needs service. There is also a check oil light, a temperature gauge, and a mute button for the low fuel buzzer. The whole panel is well lit and the digital gauges and icons are large, and easy to read at a glance.
Several different modes can be selected as well. You can choose economy, performance, comfort, tow, or customize your own riding mode. The navigation tab is another awesome feature on the Connext panel. When activated, your region-specific map card is displayed. From the map, you can choose other navigation features like adding waypoints.
Connext has many great media functions as well. Connect your phone or other devices via Bluetooth and have access to your music, receive texts, and calls. The Connext System has one of the best security set ups on the market, especially since security is a top priority on Yamaha WaveRunners.
A key security feature is a PIN Code that you set up. This code locks the engine and prevents unauthorized start up until you enter it again. Make sure you check out the tutorial with all the features explained. With the Yamaha Connext Infotainment System, you can be sure your WaveRunner is always connected and protected.
A couple of years ago, The Watercraft Journal paired up with sailboat and maritime apparel leader, Windrider to create a unique riding long-sleeve riding shirt for those who stay out on the water all day long.
Made using Helios material proven to provide UPF 50+ protection, stellar stain resistance, superior water wicking and maximum breathability, the WCJ riding shirt isn’t the gaudy, heavily printed jerseys that you see PWC selling every day.
Rather, WCJ riding shirt is lighter and less cartoonish in its design. Each shirt features durable mesh lining the inside length of the torso all the way down the sleeve to the elbow. WCJ long sleeve riding shirt is cut slightly larger than typical shirts including a longer cut torso.
As the summer draws to an end, we wanted to provide our readership a specially reduced price that cannot be beat. We dropped the cost of each shirt to $40 each ($45 for XXL and XXXL sizes) and only available in a Sunset Red pattern. When these sell out, we can offer a new color for 2024.
Help us clear out the remaining inventory of Sunset Red WCJ riding shirts by clicking this link to go immediately to The Watercraft Journal store and pick yours up today.
Protect your watercraft with a new cover from Sea-Doo. These are great for when waxing and maintaining your watercraft’s exterior just won’t do.
Sea-Doo’s new PWC covers are perfectly fitted so your whole PWC is protected from the sun’s damaging UV rays. It is also safe from getting scratched, falling debris, rough weather, and discoloration.
They are made of heavy-duty UV resistant materials to protect your ride whether it’s trailered, or in storage. The interior is lined with a soft fabric to prevent abrasion. Areas prone to high wear feature an extra layer of canvas.
A complete line of covers is available for every model in the Sea-Doo lineup. The covers also feature an air release vent system that makes sure it’s well ventilated and allows for trouble free towing.
They have convenient zippered openings for easy access to mooring cleats, front storage, LinQ accessories on the rear deck. Additional zippered openings are available for refueling and the use of tie downs for securing your watercraft to the trailer. They also have side hooks, which enable you to secure the cover while heading out with the ski in tow.
The covers range in price from $284.99 to $339.99, which seems like a small to pay to protect your investment from damage that could land it in the shop or just make it look bad. Check out Sea-Doo’s high-quality covers and save your Sea-Doo from unnecessary damage. Whether you’ve got a Spark, Fish Pro or something in between, Sea-Doo has a cover for you!
The points race between multi-time national and world champion, Dustin Farthing and privateer Camden Powell came to a boiling point this weekend and the two battled it out for rough water supremacy at Round 2 of the P1 AquaX series at Daytona Beach.
Farthing came well-equipped with his factory Yamaha race crew but was bested in Moto 2 by Powell aboard his 310X. Undaunted, Farthing clinched the checkered in Moto 3 fetching him the overall and the second consecutive win at Daytona (2022 and 2023).
Farthing wrote, “Our team has absolutely shined the last 2 races in big surf. Thank you to an amazing group of friends that have become our family over the years. It takes a village to run a race team and help raise our boys. The team busted their ass and gave us every opportunity to win races.”
Here’s the original Facebook post from Yamaha Motor USA: Multi-time World and National Pro watercraft racing champion Dustin Farthing wins Round 2 of the P1 AquaX Pro Enduro Tour held in Daytona Beach over the weekend.
Farthing (pictured) finished the three-moto event 1-2-1 on his Yamaha FX SVHO WaveRunner, besting Camden Powell and fellow Yamaha FX SVHO pilot Tory Snyder who finished 2-3 overall, respectively.
One of the most noticeable rides of the day came from Deven Farthing, who bounced back from Moto 1 and Moto 2 DNFs to finish second in Moto 3, giving his dad Dustin, space to rack up more points over Powell, who follows him in tour points.
Tour Standings After Round 2:
1. Dustin Farthing (Y)
2. Camden Powell (K)
3. Tory Snyder (Y)
4. Sophie Francis (Y)
5. Eric Lagopoulos (Y)
P1 AquaX racing action continues Sept 1-3 at Round 3 in St. Petersberg, Fl.
Wait! Whaaat? Yup, that’s what many people are saying. And by all accounts the two skis shown in the image on the right, which was posted by FNGYogi in a Reddit thread, shows two such X2’s; one in Kawasaki Green and the other in a pale blue – both touting some impressive custom stitchwork by Jettrim.
Made using Helios material proven to provide UPF 50+ protection, stellar stain resistance, superior water wicking and maximum breathability, 
Protect your watercraft with a new 
