As it stands, a current 300-horsepower Sea-Doo RXT-X when equipped with a SCOM (Speed Control Override Module) averages a top speed of about 75mph in ideal conditions. Equally, a Yamaha FX SVHO when reflashed to remove the factory speed limiter peaks at around 74mph.
Until now, the newly-redesigned Kawasaki Ultra 310 models required much more hardware to push the heavier JetSki and its 22.5-degree deadrise to those speeds; an ECU reflash also required an intake grate and a pump wedge to free up the drag from Ultra’s modified displacement hull.
That is until today: three days ago RIVA Racing‘s engine tuning guru Jesus Garcia teased a short clip of him blasting across RIVA’s test lake aboard a ’22 Ultra 310LX-S at a sustained 74mph at 8,000rpm. And all achieved by a simple Stage 1 reflash of the ECU. No impeller swap or pump wedge.
“This is a very basic tune,” Garcia told The Watercraft Journal on the phone. “I removed the speed limiter and advanced the timing 5-to-7 degrees…and a few other little things. At first, I just wanted to remove the speed limiter. I was expecting 71… maybe 72. 74 was a surprise.”
The LX-S is heavier than the stripped down 310X by 33-pounds, promising even better speeds for those aboard the lower-tier Ultra. The fully-equipped 310LX, which outweighs both, will likely fare slower. And all speeds are dictated by rider weight, fuel levels, weather conditions and temperatures.
“This is our Stage 1 tune. It’s available today but they’ll have to send their ECU into RIVA Racing (or an approved RIVA service shop) for the reflash. We’re still working on the canbus adapter,” Garcia noted. “The new Kawasaki ECU shares zero lines of code with previous years. Nothing is the same.”
Looking towards the future, Garcia continued, “This got us excited for [the new Ultra platform]. We’ll have a few things coming very soon. I’m already beyond this stage. I’m working on a new impeller pitch and tune right now, conservatively 76-77. Maybe faster.”
Admittedly, we didn’t see this one coming. In recent years, Sea-Doo has made custom one-off watercraft for celebrities or unique events that garner the brand some added attention on social media for a few weeks. So when the early images of Formula 1 racer Daniel Ricciardo aboard a graphite-and-green RXP-X 300 sprung up in Spring of 2022, people rightly became suspicious.
Then the video dropped with Sea-Doo teasing, “We’ve partnered with F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo to bring a fresh Sea-Doo perspective on the world of high-performance watercraft. Bold, unique, with an attitude that commands the water – just like the people who squeeze the throttle. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s coming next! Stay tuned!”
And that left all of us thinking, what the heck was that supposed to mean?
Well, what it meant was the 2023 RXP-X Apex 300. Offered as a 2023 limited run model that are only available via pre-order with deposits ending November 30th, 2022, you’ve already missed the pre-order window as of this recording.
Slated with the brand’s first MSRP over $20 grand – $20,999 – the Apex offers the consumer a few extras and added features over the traditional RXP-X 300 – but are they enough to counter the $4,500 premium? Let’s talk about it.
The Apex comes almost exactly as shown in the leaked pictures and video – the Apex is wrapped in Racing Green and Graphite Gray, and features a carbon fiber hood structure and rearview mirrors (which retain their conventional plastic substructure) and custom blacked-out emblems. Custom diamond-patterned traction mats and foot wedges fill the gunwales.
All Apex models come standard with the BRP Tech Package – meaning the 100-watt sound system, USB port in the glovebox and 7.8-inch wide full color digital dashboard.
The ErgoLock R saddle is also covered in a grippy two-tone canvas as is the adjustable bolster seat. As part of the Apex’s asking price is the otherwise optional second passenger seat. Aesthetically, diamond-patterned graphics and color-matched rounded handgrips complete the package.
Yet, what truly sets the Apex apart from the standard RXP-X 300 is the use of a Hydraulic Steering Damper on a reinforced steering column.
The adjustable hydraulic damping action is designed to reduce the amount of rider input necessary to track through chop – particularly at speed – and consequently, reduce rider fatigue. This addition – more than any other attribute or feature – is the sole reason that performance enthusiasts should consider the Apex over the standard RXP-X.
In our testing, The Watercraft Journal pounded on the Apex, pushing its 1,630cc centrifugally-supercharged 3-cylinder and all of its 300-horsepower as far as we dared in and out of hairpins, chop and boat wakes (nearly losing two cameras in the process).
Now, it’s important to emphasize that there is nothing different about the Apex over the RXP-X 300; the hull’s the same. The sponsons are the same design – although Sea-Doo says they’re “carbon injected” (whatever that means). The pump, intake grate and impeller are all identical too. There’s absolutely zero mechanical differences between the two machines…except for the steering damper.
And…it totally friggin’ works. Like, of all of the gimmicks, add-ons and doodads that Sea-Doo has come out with in the last 15 years, this one honest-to-goodness delivered.
The steering damper is surprisingly easy to operate – even on the fly – and rewards the rider with immediate feedback. Backed all the way down, it’s no different from the standard RXP-X. Cranked up to the third setting (there’s only three settings) the hydraulic steering neck soaks up a huge amount of play in the steering and more importantly, reduces rider input by half.
This means immediate, snap-quick steering response in all water conditions. The RXP-X can feel muted and (at slower speeds) downright obstinate to steering input – not so with the Apex. Never once did the Sea-Doo feel unruly, wander in cross chop or bow hunt in surf.
The steering damper cannot undue certain characteristics imbued in the hull design – be them good or bad – but it does make them far, far more manageable.
Now I understand that most watching this will likely never push an RXP-X 300 or an Apex to its bleeding edge, and that’s OK. But it’s nice to know that if you do, the Apex’s steering system will enable you to do so smoother and easier than without it.
Otherwise, all other characteristics of the Apex remain identical as the standard RXP-X. Again, the T3R hull remains unchanged, meaning the Apex mirrors the traditional RXP-X’s dimensions: length, width and height included. Even with using carbon fiber over molded plastic, the ski’s weight is identical too at 780 pounds (that excludes the weight of fuel, engine oil and coolant, and battery). That might be due to the mandatory addition of the tech package.
Storage too is a direct carryover at 40.6 gallons of total cargo – two and a half of that belonging to the RXP-X’s voluminous glove box.
During our testing we eked out a decent 70.1 mile per hour peak top speed before the Intelligent Throttle Control manually backed the ski down. Other features include the fast-acting VTS trim control toggle, push-and-play MODE controls allowing the rider to toggle through Touring, Sport and ECO modes; and Sea-Doo’s intuitive Speed Control – a far more user-friendly version of traditional cruise control.
Pressing the UP and DOWN arrows on the VTS pad simultaneously sets the Sea-Doo’s Launch Control feature like unlocking a secret code in a video game. Launch Control toggles the trim for a more precise launch from a dead stop. The attuned rider will often fare better results operating the trim manually, but for the neophyte, Launch Control never fails.
It’s difficult to justify the added premium for the Apex over the standard RXP-X when we know that the 3-way adjustable steering damper – the most significant addition – will become an optional item down the line. Rather, I surmise that the Apex buyer is looking for exclusivity more than anything. The 2023 Sea-Doo RXP-X Apex 300 is only meant to be sold for this year only and those with the cash and drive are going to snatch ’em up. And that’s cool too.
Only now are we starting to see more folks customize their skis – not just in performance but in looks and coloring – so the Apex is really gonna speak to those people. And that’s the kind of targeted marketing that builds some serious brand loyalty and some diehard enthusiasts.
When it comes to holiday gifts, Kawasaki has something in mind for every member of the family. So, you’ve bought yourself a new JetSki Ultra 310LX, and got your wife a new Ninja 400 in Pearl Blizzard White, but what about the kids? Get your kids away from the screen and inspire a new generation of powersports enthusiasts with the latest offerings from Team Green!
Kawasaki recently released the all-new Elektrode balance bike – designed to get kids as young as three years old on the track and on their way to the podium! Featuring premium features and Kawasaki KX-inspired styling, the Elektrode features fully adjustable seats, handlebars, and brake levers- to accommodate riders between 37 and 55 inches tall and up to 99 lbs.
A 250 watt in-wheel brushless motor with three selectable password-protected modes (low/mid/high) coupled with a frame-integrated battery, gives your little motocross champion 2.5 hours of runtime. A premium disc brake, lightweight aluminum frame, twist-grip throttle, and 16” knobby tires give kids an authentic motocross experience.
The Elektrode Electric Balance Bike can be purchased at your local Kawasaki Dealer with an MSRP of $1,099. Expect a “Freight and Materials surcharge” of $50 to be added onto the price.
If your family prefers to roll on 4 wheels, look no further than Kawasaki’s new KFX Series Youth ATVs. Featuring parental controlled ignitions and adjustable throttle limiters, the KFX50 (49.5cc) and KFX90 (89cc) provide the perfect introductory platform for entry-level riders aged six and up.
The KFX Series ATVs both feature single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engines with electric start (and kick-start), engine-stop safety lanyards, and an automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) collar that allows the speed and performance to be adjusted to match rider experience.
According to Kawasaki, new full coverage floorboards with slip-resistant footing contribute to increased grip that helps young riders control their ATV when riding while in a standing position, while an independent A-arm front suspension and swingarm rear suspension provide a smooth ride.
Both 2023 KFX trims are available in Lime Green or Vibrant Blue (remaining 2022 models are available in Lime Green or Super Black), and feature LED accent and tail lights, knobby tires, and new sporty front-end styling that is sure to give Santa Claus a run for his money this year.
The KFX50 and KFX90 can be purchased at your local Kawasaki Dealer with an MSRP of: $2,299 for the KFX50, $3,099 for the KFX90. Expect a “destination charge” of $265.00, and a “Freight and Materials surcharge” of $200 to be added onto the MSRP.
You can now find Radinn Electric Jetboards in Pompano Beach, Florida at RIVA Motorsports located in Pompano Beach, Florida. We discovered this new intel in an Instagram story on the Radinn Official account.
Currently, only the 2022 Radinn Freeride X-Sport is the only Radinn Jetboard in stock at RIVA Motorsports. That’s cool because this is a great all-around board for beginners and experienced riders. The X-Sport is the most durable model and can handle almost anything you throw at it.
Radinn used an ultra-resistant hull technology to create this board. This is the type of material that kayak hulls and windsurfing boards are made.
The Freeride X-Sport can handle extreme conditions with its fiberglass reinforcement and ASA polymer skin. The board is super responsive and is built for all riding conditions and with its lightweight, it isn’t hard to carry.
The customizable fin set up is another good thing about this board. Make it twin fin for getting loose and use the quad fin set up for when you need more traction for that down the line speed in the surf.
Speaking of speed, the Freeride X-Sport can hit speeds of 35mph, and you can score almost an hour of ride time on one full charge. That’s a longer ride time than any other electric jetboard on the market.
Check it out on RIVA Motorsports and pre-qualify for financing while you’re on the site. The Freeride X-Sport comes in at $9,345. You can check out the complete Radinn lineup and pick up some accessories for your new X-Sport on their website.
Sea-Doo is offering their Black Friday deals until November 30th, 2022. Save some bucks and get 30% off all life jackets, apparel, and items designed to enhance your experience on the water. These are in the water fun category and include bodyboards, floats, towing accessories, and tubes, and much more! The sale includes 25% off all XPS care for keeping your Sea-Doo looking good.
Selected accessories for your Jet Ski are 20% off. These include items like tie downs, fenders, and audio systems. Wetsuits, rashguards, and other riding accessories have a spot in the deal too. There are plenty of items under $100 too. Black Friday deals are offered online and at your local dealership.
You can also have items shipped to your local dealer as well and do an in-store pickup. That’s one way to save on shipping fees. This is a good time to do some more Christmas shopping or even wrap it up with some killer deals from Sea-Doo. There’s something for everyone during this sale and you don’t have to ride a Sea-Doo to sport the logo.
They have youth graphic T-shirts for $13.99 and hoodies for less than $40. A number of different types of gloves are on sale and they make great stocking stuffers. Get them with or without fingers starting at $20.99. Maybe you know someone who has wardrobe malfunctions when changing in the parking lot. They might appreciate a Sea-Doo Quick-Dry Changing Poncho! These fun changing ponchos are marked down to $55.99. With that and time running out, we’ll let you get your shopping on! Head over to the Sea-Doo website and check out the goods.
Hailing from Scottsdale, AZ, sixteen-year-old Reese Giese is one of Yamaha’s top Rising Stars. She is a talented young rider who crushed it on the closed course at the 2022 IJSBA World Finals. Racing her Yamaha SuperJet, Giese finished second overall in the Four-Stroke Lites Class. She had some epic battles on her way to obtaining that second-place finish. She went on to place fourth overall in Women’s Lites.
Giese said she learned a lot from racing with the women from all over the world and she was super stoked to get the holeshot in moto one. She ended up snagging the third in 4-Stroke Slalom and thrilled to round out her weekend with that finish. Racing against world class riders from overseas will push Giese to go harder. Though she experienced some ups and downs at the 2022 World Finals, she’s happy and healthy and ready to welcome the 2023 season. She is super grateful for everyone who has helped her get to this level of competition.
Giese will only get better and gain confidence as she hones her skills and continues to go all in and remains teachable. She puts in the work to get the good results and for a racer who has been competing for only a few years, she is a stellar performer. At 15 years old, she claimed a World Title in the Junior 13–15 year old division for the Yamaha SuperJet four-stroke class at the 2021 IJSBA World Finals. She was the first to pull off a world title in the four-stroke. Giese has the drive to win numerous world titles and with her great attitude and willingness to go the distance, we know she has the goods!
Book your next Sea-Doo outdoor adventure with Uncharted Society. That’s what these two families did. They set up a family trip with an Uncharted Society guide out of Salty’s Water Sports in Fort Pierce, FL. It was their first time on a Sea-Doo adventure. They wanted to do something different that everyone could participate in and get outside. Trips with Uncharted Society are geared toward riders of all levels, so no one gets left out.
Whether you’re an old salt or just want to try out a Sea-Doo watercraft, they have something for you. Their outfitters are pros and enjoy getting people of all abilities outside and on the water. The crew with Uncharted know there’s much to see while cruising the Florida waterways and they want you to take part.
Jared Wells was just the guide to take them on the tour. He was born and raised in Fort Pierce, FL and knows the local waters in the area. He knew where to take the family to snorkel, ride with dolphins, and get up close to manatees.
The families felt safe and comfortable, and Wells enjoyed seeing them with big smiles and having fun! Everyone had a great time riding Sea-Doos, traversing the waterways, playing in the water, and going snorkeling. It was a stress-free day away from TV and the internet. Let Sea-Doo and Uncharted Society take you on your next family adventure.
Andrew Hill, born in New Zealand, grew up in and on the water. From a young age he became “hooked” on fishing, always wanting to do more. Years ago, PWC’s were utilized primarily for watersports and recreation, but Hill thought, “why not have a go at fishing off of it?”
After lots of real-world testing (and plenty of lost gear), Andrew perfected his fishing setup. Through his experiences, he also developed a variety of products designed around PWC fishing. As the sport grew in popularity, so did the potential to take his ideas to the next level.
It was then that Andrew was contacted by Sea-Doo, who was in the process of designing the new Sea-Doo FishPro line of watercraft. Despite experiencing heart problems as the result of a hereditary disease, Hill was cleared to join the Sea-Doo team- and the rest is history.
Hill recognized Sea-Doo as an innovator and leader in the PWC industry, and knew that BRP had the resources to develop and deliver the first purpose-based fishing PWC. And Sea-Doo did exactly that. In the years since the FishPro’s introduction, Sea-Doo has continually looked for ways to expand and improve the platform.
Read the official press release below: The 15 year journey to get to this point is a huge honour and I am so grateful to have such good people in my life who believed in me, after all, this project all started in my garage at home!
My introduction to PWCs (Personal Watercraft’s) was for fun and recreation, and quickly transformed into the coolest job which I still love today.
My true passion still continues to be sharing my fishing adventures to inspire people to experience the same enjoyment which I do all around the world… this determination helped make no challenge to big!
This was enhanced after the support from the Global team at Sea-Doo and was the point the sport of PWC fishing went to the next level with the introduction of the FISH PRO, which made my dream reality with more people enjoying what I do!
Enjoy watching this powerful and true story.
I look forward to reading your comments. For those in NZ this is a cool ‘Kiwi feel-good’ story. It proves never give up on your goals.
Thanks again to all the people who took time to feature and help create our story of why we love PWC Fishing!
BRP is happy to announce that Manitou pontoon boats received awards in three categories during the 2022 Boat Builder Awards on November 16th. The show was hosted by the International Boat Industry and Ray Marine. During the awards ceremony, Manitou won in the Innovative On-Board Design Solution and Rising Star categories. The team scored an Honorable Mention in the Retail Marketing Initiative category.
Check out the full press release below: BRP is thrilled to announce that Manitou was recognized in a total of three categories during the 2022 Boat Builder Awards, hosted by International Boat Industry (IBI) and Raymarine, at the METSTRADE Show in Amsterdam. Manitou showed up strong at the premier Boat Builder Awards ceremony and won in the Innovative On-Board Design Solution and Rising Star categories, while getting an honorable mention in the Retail Marketing Initiative category.
In August, BRP shook up the boating industry with the launch of fully redesigned Manitou pontoon boats, featuring the all-new Rotax S. The new generation of Manitou was built to rise above in every way and elevate the on-water experience to a whole new level. The result is a truly integrated boat that frees up valuable space for boaters and their families, while pushing the design to a stunning new height.
“We set out to shake up the industry and break away from traditional pontoon and outboard engine experiences with the launch of the new generation of Manitou,” says Karim Donnez, President, Marine Group at BRP. “Collectively, BRP design and engineering teams worked on reimagining the boating experience with a forward-thinking design and a focus on consumers’ needs. We are honored to be recognized by industry experts for the efforts and collaboration of our innovative teams and Rising Star, Garrett Koschak, who brought this new experience to the industry. The brand marketing team also set new standards with the Manitou launch campaign by creating unique content to engage consumers along their journey.“
Winner – Innovative On-Board Design Solution The sleek new MAX Deck platform, unique and exclusive to Manitou, was incorporated into the timeless design of the boat, enabling the transom to better fit consumer needs and maximize usable space. The MAX Deck unlocks 38 square feet of additional functional space at the stern and is made possible when paired with the all-new outboard engine Rotax S featuring Stealth Technology.
With the new design, Manitou has paved the way for the complete integration of the MAX Deck, removing visible hoses and wiring seen with a traditional outboard engine. This design creates a new stern experience meaning more comfort, and more possibilities for recreation that can only be found on the all-new Manitou Cruise and Explore models.
For Model Year 2023, Manitou introduced the all-new Sport Bimini that is standard on Explore models. The Sport Bimini features a forward angle to compliment the new design of walls and opens rearward, elevating the visual appearance and design of the boat. Also, the new design allows to keep the bimini up when cruising up to 55 MPH, allowing boaters to benefit from more shade throughout the day for the ultimate onboard experience.
The all-new Trifold Bench, available exclusively on the Manitou Explore models, creates three unique seating arrangements in one space, allowing for flexibility throughout an entire day on the water. Arrangements include a full length bench, face to face seating, or a face to face dinette table, effectively offering the functionality of three boats in one. The Trifold Bench is a true testament of engineering integration, forward-thinking design and a focus on consumer needs.
Winner – Rising Star: Garrett Koschak, Global Product Strategy Manager, Manitou The Rising Star category acknowledges those aged 35 or under, working in the marine industry who have made an impact and influence through their work. “I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition. Although I am being recognized for my accomplishments, being part of the BRP family and having access to its expertise contributed to my success,“ said Garrett Koschak, Global Product Strategy Manager, Manitou.
Garrett has been fully engaged in the BRP Marine Group mission since he began his career straight out of university 12 years ago. He is a critical member of the new product development team and works in close collaboration with the design, engineering, and finance teams to ensure successful completion of the New Product Development process. Garrett possesses an in-depth understanding of the marine industry and the competitive landscape and maintains strong relationships with sales teams and the expanding Manitou dealer network.
Honorable Mention – Retail Marketing Initiative The Marine Brand Marketing team developed engaging and fresh content to inspire consumers along their journey and have them discover the new boating experience they can enjoy with Manitou. The campaign clearly stands out by elevating Manitou pontoon boats via a sleek, modern visual treatment, reaching audiences in unexpected and unconventional ways, and creating aspirational partnerships to bring Manitou into a class of its own.
“As we prepared for our launch, we observed that all recreational boat advertising currently looks the same,” said Julie Tourville, Director, Global Marketing, Sea-Doo and Marine Group at BRP. “To breakout from the sea-of-sameness, with the new creative direction and intent to elevate Manitou in an aspirational way, we developed a 360 comprehensive, multi-channel launch plan that included activation and strong influencer campaigns.“
Unlimited Personal Watercraft Performance Products has a great looking 2.5mm chloroprene jacket that is not only functional, but it also looks sharp. The black Expedition Coat is a great addition to your winter riding gear. It is versatile enough to use for other water sports as well. With its high neck and integrated hood, you’ll be protected from the wind, cold, and splash.
The jacket is waist length when sitting, so it won’t hamper your riding. It has a chest zip pocket where you can stash your phone and front slash pockets. The Expedition Coat is built to fit close to your body but stretchy enough, so it won’t restrict movement. The wrists are secured with Velcro, which will keep the sleeves from interfering with throttle use.
Wear the coat with the Rush Wetsuit John, or Rush Wet Pants to complete your winter riding look. The Rush Long John is available in Black with Gray accents or black with red accents. The John is made with Flex neoprene, which is super stretchy so you can move without restriction. The lightweight material and fit are ideal for a more comfortable ride. The zippered ankles and Velcro on the left shoulder make the suit easy to pull on and off.
The Rush Wet pants also have the zippered ankles. The pants are made of the Flex Neoprene as well and they have the X Riding Protectors on the knees and shins. These are comprised of firm thick cushions to absorb impact and wear. The pants area available in red or gray and they look good. Make a statement on the water in Unlimited PWC riding gear. Look fast, go fast!
Radinn used an ultra-resistant hull technology to create this board. This is the type of material that kayak hulls and windsurfing boards are made.
