Tuning 4-stroke personal watercraft has come a long way in a very short time. In little over a decade, this industry has gone from completely excising the factory ECU (and a portion of the wiring harness) and replacing it with an aftermarket engine management computer costing several thousands of dollars, to hand-held plug-in-play tuners that are comparable to a smartphone in both size and ease of use.
RIVA Racing has of course, been at the forefront of this effort, first supplying racers and performance enthusiasts with the aforementioned off-brand ECUs, to offering a vast catalog of engine maps, software and eventually, it’s MaptunerX hand-held tuner. This single device has flipped the industry on its ear, removing the need for customers to remove and ship off their ECU to be manually reprogrammed, and shipped back.
Today, the process is done within minutes and within the comfort of your own home garage. Building upon this industry-changing hardware, RIVA is taking the MaptunerX another step forward with its newly announced Dealer Service Application. This subscription software enables the home mechanic, the small performance/maintenance shop and the high volume dealership to perform all of the functions of factory programs all in one tuner.
Whether it’s a Yamaha, Kawasaki, Polaris or Sea-Doo, the Dealer Service App-equipped MaptunerX can perform all of the services with less time, no special manufacturer licensing, or a clunky laptop. Equally, there’s no restriction on how many vehicles can be serviced; if you’ve purchased the MaptunerX and the Dealer Service Application you’re in business. Below we’ve included all of the features and functionalities.
RIVA MaptunerX Dealer Service Application (with 1 year subscription)
• All-in-one diagnostic tool for Powersports dealerships and performance shops
• Runs directly on the MaptunerX Tuning Device eliminating the need for a PC, internet connection or special manufacturer licensing
• User-friendly interface enables service technicians to quickly identify vehicles upon connecting, eliminating need for timely “Read In/Read out” operation
• Compatible with Yamaha, BRP, Kawasaki and Polaris
• Does not require a RIVA Tuning License
(System requirements: Windows-based PC with Windows 7 or higher to load and update MaptunerX Tuning Device)
Info
Auto-detect function identifies specific model with app is launched, eliminating need for time-consuming “read-in” and “read-out” operation for each individual vehicle.
Read & Clear Fault Codes
Displays active & past fault codes recorded in the ECU along with description of each fault. Reset fault codes with push of a button.
Program DESS Keys
Add or delete DESS (Digitally Encoded Security System) keys. Also permits user to program each key with one of three key-types: Normal, Learning or Rental. Provides option to disable DESS security function making it possible to start the vehicle with any key Note: Not compatible with 2003-11 models equipped with Siemens ECU
Reset & Calibrate Throttle
Prompts ECU to record the minimum & maximum throttle position (TPS) values in the ECU. This function must be performed when the throttle body or the ECU is replaced.
Reset Service
Allows user to reset service indicator which starts countdown to next factory programmed service interval. Also displays important detailed service information including date of last service, hours since last service, service location & total running hours.
Reset History
This function will erase the recorded running history in the ECU. Recorded diagnostic information such as RPM, sensor readings, etc. will be deleted from ECU memory.
Monitoring
Allows real time viewing of vital vehicle data, letting you see far beyond your dashboard gauge. This information is critical for performance diagnostics. Monitors and displays multiple vehicle parameters including: Temperature Sensors, RPM, Speed, Ignition Timing, TPS, MAP Sensor & Battery Voltage. Also displays LAMBDA/O2 with optional accessories listed below.
Activation
Energize Fuel Injectors, Fuel Pump and Ignition Coils with audible tone that confirms proper operation. Actuate and calibrate iBR bucket on 2016 & newer Sea-Doo models.
Pair Cluster
Enables pairing new dash display with wiring harness & ECU on 2016 & newer Sea-Doo models.
Some people ride to relieve stress. Some people ride to break records. Some ride for an adrenaline rush. Some enjoy to ride for the community. On the Fox River Chain O’ Lakes in Fox Lake, Illinois there is a Facebook group by the name of PWC Chain Gang and on August 21st, 2022 they hosted their 5th annual group ride.
As the date approached, many people were concerned it would be rained out. With 48 hours until the start of the ride, the chances of rain reached 84%. People from different states were looking forward to participating, but began to fall out stating the weather as the primary factor; 24 hours out and the “all-knowing” meteorologists were now stating at least 50% chance of rain; 12 hours out and it was down to 42%.
At 9am there was coffee, doughnuts, T-shirts, stickers and other goodies provided at no charge, as well as many raffle give-a-ways including life jackets, anchors, discounts on new machines at Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, Illinois and much more. At 9:30 began the rider’s meeting and we were able to corner Mike Missak between announcements for a few questions.
The Watercraft Journal: How did this group ride event come about? Mike Missak: Steve Nielsen and I thought that having a group to ride with would be enjoyable – so we started a Facebook group called the PWC Chain Gang. This was intended to be a spot where other local PWC owners could share their rides or even use it as a tool to get together with other riders. Once the page was created we thought let’s get a group together and make a loop around the chain. Needless to say the 1st time we did this we had a much larger showing than ever expected.
WCJ: Who is the official host? Missak: Myself and Steve Nielsen are the official hosts of the event and the page. Having said that we lean to our sponsors to make the event better and better every year.
WCJ: What is the purpose of this ride? Missak: The original intent was to get a handful of local PWC owners out on the Chain O’ Lakes together. We thought this would be a great way to have a fun day, and maybe meet some new faces.
WCJ: That first year, did you intend for this to become an annual event? Missak: When this 1st ride occurred we were not looking long term, or intentions of making this an annual event – it started more as a loose gathering to get some PWC owners together. After the 1st event was complete, there was a huge buzz.
People were asking “when is the next one.” It was at this point we decided to make this an annual event within the group. We also do other smaller rides throughout the year, as well as encourage other members to create their own rides and gatherings too. As he answered the last question, it was almost 10am the group was off! The route was simple, but beautiful.
The two lead boats, a 2022 Yamaha 255X E-Series and a 2004 Formula 353 Fastech took off with everyone following. This group started off at the Lakehouse going through Pistakee Lake, into Nippersink Lake, into Grass Lake, through Lake Marie and then Buff Lake, the long channel through Spring Lake, into Fox lake, back through Nippersink Lake and Pistakee Lake ending back at the Lakehouse.
Not only did the average Sea-Doo, Yamaha, Honda, Polaris and Kawasaki make it out, but if you were a bystander, you would have seen a number of stand-ups, Kawasaki X2’s, custom made machines and even what many call a go-kart jet ski!
There were about a half a dozen skis that went down for one reason or another during the ride and a few people fell off of their machines when getting caught in the giant wake of the lead boats. Probably the greatest sight of the entire ride was to watch other enthusiasts surround each person in distress to make sure they were safe by alerting oncoming riders. This is what it means to be in a community – make sure everyone remains safe and no one gets left behind.
Group rides can have a bad rap as many inexperienced riders tend to show up, but the 5th Annual PWC Chain Gang Loop The Lakes ride should be the epitome of a great community group ride.
Most boats sit well over a foot higher in the water than a PWC, meaning that many PWC’s can drift under a dock, damaging their paint. Of course, if you happen to have a Yamaha, know that their automotive-grade paint is particularly sensitive to impact, so this article is definitely for you.
Most skis have gunwales that stick up about 2-5 inches above the bond line. These areas are often the first to see damage from rubbing up against docks. While some people carry bumpers, these are often big and cumbersome to stow in your ski.
Rather, some old towels can work just as well to protect the hull and don’t take up much room inside your PWC (plus, you can always use a towel). The towels are laid in place before backing down the ramp; and having a damp towel keeps them in place better, especially if it’s windy out.
We’ve found that simple synthetic dock line – about ½” in diameter – works best. We have used cheaper 3/8” lines but you get what you pay for in thickness. The orange line shown in the images used at the stern of the boat doubles as a tow-rope with a bowline knot tied into each end.
We also use a swivel hook to clamp back on itself. These can be purchased in a variety of metals, however we found that brass and good stainless steel are the best in saltwater applications. We have also painted some of them orange. It is not fun trying to find one of these if you accidentally drop one on the seafloor.
The second line is wrapped around the handlebars unless you have dedicated cleats integrated into your PWC. Having a loop on each end of the rope allows it to pass the working end of the line through the loop and around the bars. Having a swivel hook on each end makes it much faster and easier.
Once we have all our lines and lanyard in place (and of course triple checked the drain plugs), we back down the ramp. You don’t need to fully submerge your trailer. Usually, all that’s needed is just enough to float the stern of the ski off of the trailer.
For those looking how to launch without getting your feet wet, a simple tug on the bow line will free your ski from the bunks. Then just throw one of the lines onto the dock. After walking up the dock, use one of the lines to maneuver the ski to a safe mooring location (and by “safe” we mean as far away from any other boater that may come in right after you.
Now your ski is safely moored to the dock, protected from unwanted scratches or impact, and ready for a day out on the water. It’s really that simple.
The covers are comprised of ballistic nylon, ultra-grade marine vinyl, and non-slip traction materials. The non-slip traction will help you stay put whether you’re racing or throwing down some fast tight turns on your local lake. They can be customized to match the graphics and colors of your jet ski.
The seat covers are available for 2018 and newer Sea-Doo RXT-X 300 and the 2018 and newer Wake Pro. They are available in all black or with red, silver, or yellow stitching and the Unlimited Logo imprint. These covers cost $513. Jettrim seat covers are also in stock for the Sea-Doo GTX Series 2018 and later model years.
These two-piece covers come in black with gold or silver eye-popping threads featuring the Unlimited and Jettrim logos. These are priced at $542. Jettrim has been in the business of manufacturing custom seat covers and mats for over 30 years. We are thrilled about this collaboration.
Unlimited PWC and Jettrim did a stellar job in playing off each other’s strengths in designing these. This partnership lets them shine and you will too when you outfit your seat with one of these distinctive covers from Unlimited PWC.
A blog posted on the Radinn website, covers the pros to winter surfing. Most of us know that winter is the best time because it thins the crowds on the southeast coast in the USA. However, with the winter gear getting increasingly better, those uncrowded days are hard to come by. Still, winter riding does come with fewer crowds and less boats in the water.
When you’re on a jetboard, that makes the day so much better. You can really let loose without the worry of a lot of traffic on the water.
Winter riding is also great way to stave off those winter blues. Find a body of water that isn’t frozen and get outside and start ripping!
If you’re near the east coast, and feel confident in your skills, get out there and see what a Nor’easter is all about. When in doubt, don’t go out.
Also, make sure you have the proper winter surfing gear. We need booties, gloves, hoods, and 3/2, 4/3, and even 6mm fullsuits in the northeast and some areas on the west coast.
Hit your local shop and let them help you pick the winter surfing gear you need. As for your Radinn electric jetboard, the crew recommends the Carve for fall and winter riding.
It is a high-performance model and is designed to take on almost anything. It handles well in big chop and is lightweight and responsive, allowing to ride rail to rail.
It comes with footstraps so you can lock in and go! The jetpack sits deeper in the water, making for decreased buoyancy, meaning that air can’t enter the waterjet, so you won’t lose power. Check out the Radinn website for all the info on their jetboards and start building your quiver.
Powerboat P1 announced that the 2022 P1 Aqua Cross Bahamas World Championship will once again be hosted by Nassau Paradise Island – a lush oceanside resort with a wealth of unique amenities for the entire family. The three-day event will run from November 4-6 2022, and marks the climax of the P1 AquaX personal watercraft race season.
The P1 AquaX Bahamas World Championship will feature a mix of forty professional and amateur endurance riders who qualify for the race through performances in the USA national series. The five-venue 2022 USA national championship features riders from ten countries, running some of the fastest off-the-shelf watercraft capable of speeds excess of 75mph.
In a press release, Powerboat P1 CEO Azam Rangoonwala stated, “Media and broadcast relationships play a key role in building P1 AquaX’s international presence and delivering significant exposure for host venues and commercial partners.
The event will be broadcast in the United States on the Bally Sports Regional Networks and CBS Sports Network, with international coverage on leading sports channels in more than 100 million homes in over 50 countries.
The opening day will include practice, testing, and qualifying, followed by six races across the weekend. Atlantis Paradise Island will provide a breathtaking setting for the high-speed action, and we could not be more pleased to partner with the resort again.”
Powerboat P1 indicated that “Riders seeking qualification through racing in the United States national championship will compete in the P1 AquaX Race to the Bahamas World Championship.
The result will be an international, elite field of the world’s best personal watercraft racers representing more than a dozen countries, with the Pro Enduro riders competing for the world title and the amateur riders battling for the P1 AquaX Amateur International Cup.”
The passing of Bill Chapin, 65 (August 19, 2022) – together with that of Clayton Jacobson II, 88 – marks a severe loss in the PWC community. Unlike the pioneering inventor of both the original sit-down personal watercraft and the nascent standup, Chapin wasn’t one to seek notoriety or even a picture in a magazine. It’s because of this that many might never know the role Bill Chapin played in the sport of personal watercraft racing, and all of us at WCJ feel that shouldn’t be.
Born William D. Chapin on January 2, 1957, Chapin was “extremely ambitious and passionate” about racing, family, and friends. Chapin cut his teeth on the motocross track during his teens and 20’s. After a critical accident, Chapin opted for building motorcycles rather than racing them. By the late 1970’s, motocross segued into JetSkis; first racing them and then building them. Chapin excelled at world famous PJS (Performance Jet Ski) before starting R&D Racing with Glenn Dickinson.
Chapin’s innovations while at R&D were directly responsible for literally thousands of national titles and world championships. Chapin traveled across the US to Japan, Jamaica, and France over his 30 years at R&D; and after retiring from the PWC world, began developing new parts for UTV’s “where a new love of racing took over.” In addition to motorsports, he enjoyed mountain biking, fishing, camping and hiking… and horseback riding.”
In his obituary, it writes, “He was fearless, generous, eclectic, fun-loving, frustrating, creative, sensitive, and protective. As much as he loved his work, he also loved his family. He is survived by his wife Stephanie, his daughters Brittani and Alyson, his son Jeffrey, and his granddaughter Livia.” Bill Chapin’s celebration of life is set for September 10th, 2022 at 3PM at Shugrue’s in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Below we’ve collected a few testimonials sharing their thoughts.
Christy Carlson Swaid wrote: Bill loved and respected all things motor related. After we won the championship back in 1996, I took a hiatus from jet ski racing and went into more car racing; invitationals such as the Toyota Pro Celebrity Race Long Beach Grand Prix. He was very much in the details of all of those side dishes in my career.
Just the sight of him gave me so much more confidence. He would speak the truth as he saw it even if the truth was hard to hear. His faith in my abilities drove me to realize my potential. There were moments I lost faith and he would not allow me to stay there
He had a fun side as well. He loved Christmas and whenever we did a job well done he say let’s get out of town. He packed up his girls – number one Stephanie, number to Brittney, and I was a tag-along. We would go to Vegas not to drink or gamble but to shop and enjoy spa treatments.
Mike Young wrote: Bill Chapin was a very intense and driven man, and his R&D brand was synonymous with winning National and World PWC Racing Championships.
Billy Dearman wrote: I met Bill in 2001 when I was racing for Factory Yamaha with Farthing Racing. He was always very quiet and standoffish but when you get to speak with him alone, he really opened up and was so very nice. He was so much help over the last two decades. My last privilege of working with him was testing R&D reflash ignitions for the Yamaha SVHO.
In 2014-2016 we were racing the Yamaha FZS/R and Bill was a huge part of my efforts. The last runabout championships I won were utilizing his R&D reflashed ECU! I visited with him at his home in Havasu a few years back and we talked for hours about the vintage runabouts he had there from the old factory Kawasaki days. He will be greatly missed.
Vasilis Moraitis wrote: A close friend of fine, the guru of jet ski development parts, Bill Chapin, has left us. … A great loss for me. He was a mentor and a very good friend who gave me the unique opportunity to work with him and learn so much. Lately, Bill was working on a development project with KMC and Jeremy McGrath for the Kawasaki 1000 Teryx. Bill, we thank you so much for all those great things you did for this sport and the riders and teams you supported all those years. You will be definitely be missed but never been forgotten.
Rob Greenwald wrote: Bill will be greatly missed by the racing world. He was always working hard to develop the best products and was a great asset to many a racer as well. His dedication to our community and many great racers will now leave a void with his passing. Bill was truly a cornerstone in our PWC racing world! I will always remember those early morning test sessions at Body Beach and the long hours he devoted to his work and love!
Jeff Ames wrote: Bill Chapin was a maker of Champions, a mentor, and a friend! As the Splash Magazine Editor, I was fortunate to travel, photograph, and write about personal watercraft for over ten years. Testing and evaluating each new PWC and working with the aftermarket industry to make them go faster/handle better was all part of the job description.
One of my most guarded and valued collaborations was with Christy Carlson (Swaid) and Bill Chapin. I’m not sure how many sunrises we saw at Body Beach in Lake Havasu City, but it was many. Bill had to have clean flat water for testing, which meant getting out before the fishermen.
Bill challenged, tested, and taught me so much about watercraft, life, and the Championship mentality he had in everything he did. Rest in peace, my friend; you will be missed!
Brian Boell wrote: Bill was truly a pioneer in the sport of PWC. He also was part of the powerhouse that was PJS before the R&D days. Definitely not many who have ever done what he did, or ever will.
Dustin Farthing wrote: Rest in peace, Bill Chapin! You will be missed, brother. I will never be able to thank you enough for our friendship, and all the help over the last 25-plus-years. I don’t care how crazy the ideas, or how much work it was, you were always there to give 100-percent.
My sons and I have a lot of championships because of you, and I’ll always look at the trophies and think about the memories and crazy-ass stories you’d tell. You were a true champion and the world is a better place because of you. I will miss you buddy, and my thoughts go out to all of your family.
Rob Flores wrote: In total shock once again. This guy shared many cool stories with me about his Pro moto wrenching days back in the 70’s and 80’s and taught me some things throughout my 31-year jet ski career.
John Barrett wrote: A sad loss for the jet ski community. Bill will be missed by all that got the opportunity to truly get to know and hang out with him. I consider myself very lucky to have shared many meals and memories will Bill over the years. Definitely going to miss hanging out at your shop and listening to all the stories you shared over the years. My condolences go out to the Chapin family and friends. Rest easy, Bill.
Mike Follmer wrote: The year 1973 very good for me in two respects: I was selected to race on the Team Maico motocross team, and I also met my new teammate named Bill Chapin. It was a great opportunity for both Bill and me. Bill was a great teammate, fierce competitor and became a good friend and mentor in some areas over the next several years of our tenure with Team Maico.
After a very successful three years racing motocross, I left Team Maico at the close of the 1975 season to follow my dream of going car racing. Always searching for new and exciting avenues to pursue I was introduced to the sport of Personal Watercraft Endurance racing in 1991. I quickly learned that the premier racing parts developer and supplier in the industry was R&D Racing. As one of the owners of R&D, Bill Chapin and I were reunited once again.
I became a factory Yamaha rider and along with Bill’s partner in R&D, Glenn Dickinson, we started R&D Yamaha Team Follmer and became a formidable team in PWC Endurance racing over the next 20-plus-years. Bill and Glenn developed many fine products for Yamaha and other PWC, and if it were not for those products and Bill and Glenn’s support I would not have won as many races and championships over the years.
Bill and I developed a long-standing relationship from those early morning test sessions at Body Beach and the long days going up and down the river working on every new development. Bill was the best tuner in the business and worked tirelessly to come up with the latest innovations that helped me win. Bill was ALL about the WIN.
Bill would set up my boat and I was instructed that it was to be raced as he said. His perfectionism and attention to detail were the reasons we finished every race over my career.
Over the years we had many laughs and fun times together and formed a very special relationship. After I retired from PWC racing we maintained a close relationship and spoke often. Bill would always make a point to come out for my Mark Hahn endurance race and help out with the race and with some of the racers who needed his help. Bill was the best in all respects and always will be.
I will miss Bill very much. He will never be forgotten and always remembered.
It was this wild headline that piqued our interest: Vanquish Yachts tarts up a jet ski to look a little less vulgar. We had to know what was behind the author’s obvious disdain for jet skis. PWC have long been used around yachts either for pleasure or as tenders to make your way to land. We don’t think there is anything wrong with using jet skis to get around when the yacht is anchored.
The Vanquish VQ11 is designed with a yacht like shape, like a classic Boston Whaler. It is larger than a typical jet ski, coming in at 11 feet and a little over 5 feet wide and seats up to 3 people. The Vanquish VQ11 is outfitted with a powerful 170-horsepower Sea-Doo engine with a top speed of 58mph.
It may be oversized, but it can make a turn sharp enough to spray the yacht while joyriding. In the accompanying video, they say it turns like a “go kart.” That must be their way of appealing to the commoner.
The VQ11 is tucked away in the large VQ58 when it isn’t being used. Check out the video to see it in action! It does look fun for an overpriced and oversized jet ski and you and the VQ11 will definitely stand out from all the ordinary jet skis when you will pull up to the dock to grab groceries. Like Vanquish says: The VQ11 is not for everyone.
Radinn Jetboards wants to hear from you and give you the opportunity to be featured on their socials. Get out there and make some waves on your Radinn Jetboard and there is a good chance your photos or videos will make it onto at least one of their social media accounts.
The crew is always uploading new content, whether it’s the team or regular riders out there having a good time making waves on their Raddin Jetboards. They have a ready-made form on their website that you can fill out with your info and upload your content.
A helpful list is included to guide you through the process of getting your content to them. It includes instructions on how to hold your GoPro or phone when filming and other important information so you can get it right.
You can upload up to 5 photos or videos on one form and you can fill out as many forms as you like after each session. You can also include a clip of yourself talking into the camera using the prompt: “My name is [name] and I make waves in [place]”
No picture or video clip is too small, and it doesn’t matter what your skill level is, everyone is welcome to submit content. If you’re just learning, grabbing footage of waterways, or an established rider, Radinn wants to see your stuff!
Fort Lauderdale, USA - January 14, 2013: Water Police Boat, Fort Lauderdale, USA
Fort Lauderdale, USA – January 14, 2013: Water Police Boat, Fort Lauderdale, USA
A news report from Fort Lauderdale’s WSVN 7 News, states that Marine Patrol is making it difficult for jet ski rental operators to conduct business in the area. Bill Schneider owns Hot Scooter and Jet Rental has been in business since 2014. His crew has always used the boat ramps at George English Park to launch their jet skis. Petrina wellington owns Lustre Watersports and uses the same ramps to launch their rental PWC.
Everything was fine until the Fourth of July weekend when one of Schneider’s employees was slapped with a trespassing warning from a Marine Patrol officer. Wellington’s business also received a trespassing warning. They were both hoping for a super busy weekend and instead were forced to temporarily shut down.
The business owners called 7News for help who contacted the City of Fort Lauderdale. City Manager Greg Chavarria said: “…due to an influx and substantial increase of commercial activity, as well as resulting safety concerns … the City has stepped up its enforcement and, with regards to Jetski rentals, has opened up a bidding process and awarded a contract to an authorized vendor.”
Schneider and Wellington were not aware of the bidding process which had occurred in October of 2021. The company that secured the bid has exclusive rights to operate motorized and non-motorized watersports rentals at George English Park. Wellington is operating out of Boca Raton for the time being and Schneider’s jet skis are sitting on their trailers. They both plan to appeal the ruling in hopes of keeping their businesses afloat. This is a developing story and we’ll let you know when we hear more.