Typically, we don’t blend the content generated on The Watercraft Journal’s YouTube channel and what we publish here on the digital magazine – particularly when it comes to the live weekly podcast The Watercraft Journal IRL – but in this instance, we found the subject matter so pertinent to the swelling audience of first-time buyers of PWC that we felt obligated to share it here.
First some context: The Watercraft Journal IRL is a live podcast hosted on our YouTube channel (meaning it’s free; there’s no passwords or downloads), and is filmed in the standard long form discussion format, often with host Kevin Shaw interviewing guests or discussing topics with others. When he “flies solo” is usually when Shaw focuses on a technical topic.
For this most recently aired episode, Shaw went over the basic characteristics of each of the three OEM’s full-sized 3-seater runabouts; namely, the Kawasaki Ultra JetSki, the Sea-Doo ST3 hull, and Yamaha’s FX platform. While remaining general in regards to performance, storage and ergonomics, Shaw focused on how each hull behaves in smooth-to-rough water.
In doing so, Shaw is trying to arm neophyte buyers with some third-party knowledge on what to expect from each offering. He listed both attributes good and bad of each machine; what one might expect when it comes to repairing each hull; and what each platform offers in regards to wear-and-tear, longevity and overall riding comfort.
