Jet Skier & Personal Watercraft Magazine
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JAN/FEB 2010 £3.50
Drysuit
special
25 winter warmers
Learn to ride Advice on the training course that qualifies you to ride
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Raising Arizona Brits win the Nations Cup at the IJSBA World Finals in Havasu
What will £4k buy you We shop for the best bargains around
Buyers Guide 2010
Jan/Feb 2010
Your ultimate guide to this year’s personal watercraft
NEWS • cool STUFF • freeride • TECH ADVICE • skis for sale • clubs
Despite attacks from every side, Kevin Reiterer came out on top every time. He was THE man to beat at the 2009 World Finals
Brits rule, OK! Our British competitors had it all to ride for at the 28th IJSBA World Finals at Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA. Martin Rodrigues was there to catch the excitement in every moto.
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F
or a single week throughout the year, the worldwide PW community turns its attention to one single event. It has been like that for the last 28 years, and I’m quite certain that it will be like that for a long time to come. Whether you’re associated with the IJSBA, UIM, AQUABIKE, EJSBA, TJSBA or any other ‘SBA’ that you care for, the World Finals at Havasu are the dogs b’s. Sure we’ve got a lot of good races throughout the world, like Mirandela in Portugal or even the Thai Cup, but the World Finals will always be the World Finals and every racer has dreamt of, and will continue dreaming of going to this small city in the middle of the desert, to pitch it out against the best of the best in the world. After 27 years of domination in their home event, the US have fallen to the almighty conquering Brits (sounds good, doesn’t it!) and were beaten at their own game. The Nations Cup, an award handed out to the country whose racers accumulated the biggest number of points during the week’s races, was given to the UK, with the US coming in second
Kevin Reiterer - man of the weekend - conquered the Ski Pro class
and, believe it or not, Kuwait rounding off the top three - all with 300 points. The number of first places, then second and third places achieved determined the outright winner.
THE PROS Without a doubt, the man of the weekend was the Austrian Kevin Reiterer. He came, he saw, and in his second year racing at Havasu, he definitely conquered. It was some of the most intense racing I have seen in a very long time. The main event, Ski Pro Open, saw the young Austrian battle it out with
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former world champ Steven Dauliach, in a duel that kept everyone on their feet until the very last corner. The first moto, Kevin finished in front of Steven, having the difficult task of having to finish first in the second moto to secure the title, as did Dauliach. This second moto was what Havasu is all about - the main World title in the Pro Class! Kevin started well and rounded the start/finish straight in first place, having just made a severe ‘block-pass’ on Dauliach to keep himself in front. With the two pulling away from the rest of the field, it seemed that the young Austrian had things covered, but then >
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Lisa Barsby raced extremely well, pulling 1st place in Amateur Veterens Ski
A busy vendors alley Easy tiger!
he fell . . . Dauliach passed him and takes over the lead and with just three laps to the finish line, he throws it all away, by losing himself in the midst of the 30-something buoy course. The crowd goes wild! The next three laps we saw Steven do everything to salvage this huge mistake and loss of concentration (otherwise known as a brainfart) and pass Reiterer. We even saw an amazing ‘kamikaze’ attack on one of two huge log jumps, launching himself and his ski about eight-feet in the air. Last lap, and the last attempt to pass the leader came on the very last corner where Kevin simply kept his cool and took the inside line, rolling to the finish, becoming the first Austrian to take home the world title. What a great
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race! Third place came from Jean-Baptiste Botti, the Frenchman who kept having terrible starts, but amazingly got himself back up there, on a very fast Hydrospace prepared by Pascal Barriac . . . In Ski GP, Kevin was again the man to beat. Two great starts and two solid finishes from the Austrian on the Hydrospace, gave him another world title. Behind him came Jean-Baptiste Botti, remember him?! Pushed into this class by his friends, and with a borrowed ‘Hydro-Doo’, Botti came from a terrible 14th place start in the first lap, to finish second in front of Mike Klippenstein, after a huge battle, which he intensified in the second moto. These two were at it hammer and tongs in the second moto, at about the fifth lap mark, when Botti had recovered from yet another poor start. With Reiterer way in front, Botti would attack Klipper the remainder of the laps, with the Canadian ‘cheekily’ looking back over his shoulder at the Frenchman. Botti mounted a mammoth charge on the last lap, crossing the finish line just inches in front of Klipper… With regards to the Runabout classes, well, it was just a case of ‘hope this thing doesn’t break down, and hold on for dear life!’ which was basically what the Aussie Sam Harvey did in Pro Open. In the first moto, we saw a little bit of the old ‘Mac Attack’ that we love, and after a nice holeshot, and a few laps in front with his new and very fast Monster Energy Yamaha FZR, mechanical issues forced him to slow down and just ‘limp-it’ home, putting another world title on stand-by for next year. More engine troubles for Farthing on the Kawasaki Ultra 260X, forced him to slow down as well, as did Craig Warner on an
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extremely fast Kawa STX 15F. This left the course wide open for Sam Harvey on his Sea-Doo GTI to take the world title, ahead of fellow countryman Anthony Antees on a similar Sea-Doo, and Mac in third spot, after a solid second moto win. In the Runabout GP class, Pattaya Chonburi from Thailand secured the win with consistency, after some more breakdowns from the likes of Tim Judge on another very fast Kawasaki STX15F, which dowsed the hopes of the Americans getting a number one spot in the main event Pro classes.
Mini jet pilot!
HAVASU
Chris MacClugage didn’t have a great weekend due to mechanical problems Jim Goodchild rode very well to finish comfortably in the lead in Expert Veteran Ski and Masters Ski
THE LADIES After competing in a huge number of events during the whole week of racing at Havasu, Anya Colley was considered one of the favourites for the womens title, running up against Emi Kanamori, Rachel MacClugage, Yuki Kurahachi and Carla Klippenstein. Things seemed to be going 110% for the young ‘Pink Lady’, and the first moto revealed that she has real fighting spirit when she fought herself up front and took the lead until the checkers.
Emi Kanamori suffered from a false start but still recovered up to the top 5 on her trusty Kawasaki, against an ‘armada’ of Hydros. Unfortunately Anya couldn’t repeat her brilliant performance in the second moto, possibly due to the excess of racing during the weak, sapping out her strength just when it was needed. Who did take the number one spot, even without a moto win, was Rachel MacClugage. With the same aggressive stance and riding style as hubby Chris, Rachel was very consistent and took the number one plate for Macc Racing. >
Pink lady Anya Colley battled her way to the front to take the checkered flag in Amateur Ski
Edwards had a great Havasu A series of breakdowns on his heavily beefed-up Kawi saw Dustin Farthing finish way down the order
Jack Moule pulls a wicked no-handed barrel roll!
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Lee Stone had a great run with some risky but very well executed manoeuvres
Second in line came Emi Kanamori, and a fantastic third spot for Anya.
THE KIDS AND THE REST Divided in two categories, the 10-12 and the 13-15 year olds, there were a few surprises . . . No surprise from the 13-15 year olds, where the Belgian Quinten Bossche cleaned the table of the stock and limited class with his easy wins… A very fast ski, tuned buy his ‘old man’ gave him excellent starts, and even when he didn’t start so well, he passed with ease on the back straight. Matt Edwards put up a really good fight to take the second position in Stock and 10th in limited class, whilst his little brother left Havasu with an extremely well deserved World Title in the 10-12 year old class . . .
Another two riders who did extremely well in their categories, where ‘Mr and Mrs UK Jet Ski’, Jim Goodchild and Lisa Barsby. Running in Expert Vet and Masters Ski, Jim rode some solid motos, having some great starts and then basically controlling things from the front. The same can be said for Lisa, who had some great races, winning the Amateur Vet class with some ease. The result?! A series of well deserved world titles for these two. Lisa could have done some real damage to the front runners if she had lined up for the Pro Womens Class.
FREESTYLE With regards to Freestyle, especially in the Amateur ranks, the Brit Dan Ashcroft seemed to be headed to a full on World
Title, had it not been for Japanese rider Fumikazu Watanabe who just scraped a few more points than the intrepid kid from Lancashire, who pulled off a great routine with some very impressive moves. Unfortunately things didn’t go quite so well for Jack Moule who, even though he nailed a great routine with some risky moves, didn’t get further than sixth place due to a faulty ski. In the pro ranks, we saw the return of the great master of Freestyle, ‘Rad’ Rick Roy. The first man to pull off a back-flip in a competition, way back in ’97 (it was then called the ‘Rickter Inverter’) came back after a five year absence. The main reason was to promote his new line of freestyle skis, the RC1s. Even though he was quick and got everyone clapping and
A work of art
Fumikazu Watanabe had a tremendous routine but was beaten to 1st by Lenzi
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HAVASU cheering, he didn’t get past the fifth spot. If you have never seen a freestyle event at this level, then you are surely missing out. This is where all the best riders come, with their most powerful skis, best routines, and in tip-top shape to pull the best tricks. Alessander Lenzi was crowned with the number one spot after an amazing display. Huge jumps getting the crowd on their feet, and a succession of back-flips, four in a row to be precise (his Brazilian friends at Havasu said that they filmed a training
session when he pulled six straight backflips!), and a routine that was consistent and accurate, just getting in front of Watanabe, the Japanese rider. Lee Stone had a great run, with some risky but very well executed manoeuvres, which landed him a great third spot in the end. Once again and, as we said, the World Finals is the place to be if you want to race against the best of the best. During a whole week of racing, you see hundreds of riders line up for the 20-something classes available (to
anyone nowadays). The whole city of Havasu seems to embrace this event, with teams renting out whole houses to accommodate themselves and friends during the whole week. Some even rent out their own houses, having to live in their huge RV’s during the week. It’s a huge event, with riders from 32 different countries running for that number one spot. Let’s see if Team UK can keep the World Title next year in the Nations Cup. I’m sure we can!
RESULTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Rachel MacClugage – 1st Pro-Am Women Ski – Don’t know if she is running for UK or USA Anya Colley – 1st Amateur Ski; 3rd Pro-Am Ski Stock; 10th ProAm Ski Limited; 3rd Pro-Am Women Ski; 1st Expert Ski Jim Goodchild – 1st Expert Veteran Ski; 1st Masters Ski Lisa Barsby – 4th Ski Open Slalom; 1st Amateur Vets Ski Joe Edwards – 1st Ski Junior 10-12; 4th Ski Junior 10-15 Slalom Matt Edwards – 2nd Ski Junior Stock 13-15; 10th Ski Junior Limited 13-15; 3rd Ski Junior 10-15 Slalom Lee Stone – 3rd Pro Freestyle Simon Gill – 6th Ski GP James Bushell – 13th Pro Runabout Open; 3rd Pro Am Runabout; 6th Pro-Am Runabout Limited; 11th Amateur Ski Dan Ashcroft – 2nd Amateur Freestyle Jack Moule – 6th Amateur Freestyle Lewis Aitken – 13th Amateur runabout Limited; 5th Novice Runabout Limited Mat Aitken – 6th Amateur Vets Runabout Peter Hammond – 9th Amateur Vets Runabout
Lenzi was crowned champion after an amazing display which included a succession of four backflips
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TOP 3 of the MAIN EVENTS Ski Pro Open 1 – Kevin Reiterer – Austria – Hydrospace 2 – Steven Dauliach – France – Hydrospace 3 – Jean-Baptiste Botti – France – Hydrospace Ski GP 1 – Kevin Reiterer – Austria – Hydrospace 2 – Jean-Baptiste Botti – France – Hydrospace 3 – Mike Kippenstien – Canada – Hydrospace Ski Pro Ladies 1 – Rachel MacClugage – USA – Hydrospace 2 – Emi Kanamori – Japan – Kawasaki 3 – Anya Colley – UK – Hydrospace Runabout Pro Open 1 – Sam Harvey – Australia – Sea-Doo 2 – Anthony Antees – Australia – Sea-Doo 3 – Chris MacClugage – USA – Yamaha Runabout GP 1 – Pattaya Chonburi – Thailand – Sea-Doo 2 – Norito Nakano – Japan – Sea-Doo 3 – Dustin Charrier – USA – Yamaha
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DRYSUITS GUIDE
DRYSUITS GUIDE Brrrr, It’s that time of year again. Some of you will have tucked away your PW until the spring but for those diehards amongst you we have sent Jetman out to source some winter warmers.
B
ad weather and cold water needn’t prevent you from enjoying your personal watercraft all year round. Providing you take appropriate personal safety measures, there’s no reason why the seasons have to matter. Some would say now is the best time to ride with empty beaches, beautiful crisp mornings and stunning scenery in abundance. Drysuits differ to wetsuits in that they keep you dry (the clue is in the name). The best way to keep warm is to keep dry. Keeping dry reduces your heat loss and where as wetsuits use that heat loss by retaining and warming a thin layer of water against your skin, drysuits are all about preventing it in the first place. Alone, they offer little in the way of thermal properties. It’s what you wear underneath a drysuit that’s important, as it gives you the insulation that keeps you warm inside. The waterproof outer shell of drysuits is made from a membrane type material. Usually neoprene, rubber or nylon but more commonly a hybrid made from a mixture of all. The material doesn’t stretch so they are worn baggy to allow flexibility, and also room for underclothing to keep you insulated. The bagginess also makes them easy to get on and off. The waterproof zipper for entry and exit, on the front or back, horizontal or vertical was originally developed by NASA to hold air in an astronaut’s space suit.
1 HAMMOND RB100 DRYSUIT Sizes: Made To Measure Colours: Yellow, Navy Blue, Royal Blue, Red, Gold, Orange, Black Features: For use on a Seated jet ski Tri laminate N100 fabric - 70g/ sqm nylon on each side of a 100g/sqm butyl liner All seams are single stitched and hand taped for a longer lasting watertight seam. As standard all seals are latex with a choice of ankle seals or socks, non slip seat, a rear 8bdm zip and an elasticated rear waist Supplied with a suit bag
RRP £355
www.hammond-drysuits.co.uk
At the wrists and neck are seals that prevent water entering by compressing in a ring like a rubber band. They can be made from either Latex or neoprene. Latex as preferred by freestylers for its suppleness is softer than neoprene but offers less restriction. Neoprene tends to last longer but is less stretchy, stiffer and more prone to letting water in. Both do a good job in extreme circumstances but no suit can guarantee to be 100 per cent watertight in every situation, and besides the wearer can get damp due to sweat and condensation.
WHAT TO WEAR UNDER A DRYSUIT To keep warm, a George Dawes type babygrow or insulating under suit is the garment of choice. Synthetic materials such as polyester are better than natural materials due to their insulation properties when damp or wet. A tracksuit or other casual wear is ok but there is no substitute to a purpose-designed under suit. It’s important to remember that drysuits offer no buoyancy and a tear and subsequent leak will wet the under suit, affecting both buoyancy and insulation. Going to the bathroom will do the same, not to mention the problems any lumps will create. We’ve chucked a few other useful items in the shopping cart to keep you warm these coming months. Good thick gloves, boots if your drysuit doesn’t already have them and a hood will all protect your extremities. There’s also a couple of winter steamers for those who like it wet.
2 LOMO TORNADO DRYSUIT Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL Colours: Red Features: Front dryzip with protective flap Latex neck and cuff seals Retro reflective strips on wrists Outer protection on neck, wrist and ankle Latex socks Cordura reinforcement on knees and seat Lomotex 2000 breathable material
RRP £199 www.LomoWatersport.com
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DRYSUITS GUIDE 4 HAMMOND STX MULTI PURPOSE DRYSUIT Sizes: Made To Measure Colours: N100- Yellow, Navy Blue, Royal Blue, Red, Gold, Orange, Black N140- Flo yellow, Flo pink, Flo green, Flo orange, Purple, Aqua blue, Black Features: No frills, multi purpose dry suit It can be used for waterskiing, wakeboarding, jetskiing and sailing Tri laminate N100 or N140 fabric All seams are single stitched and hand taped for a longer lasting watertight seam. All seals are latex and you have a choice of either ankle seals or socks and wrist seals or gloves As standard rear 8bdm zip and elasticated rear waist Supplied with a suit bag
3 JOBE DRYSUIT Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL Colours: Black Features: 320 denier breathable nylon fabric with a nylon tricot coating on the inside Heat taped on the inside of the seams Latex neck, wrist and ankle seals High tech zippers Adjustable braces Elasticized waist for tailored fit Adjustable wrist and ankle straps Non-stitched construction
RRP £199
RRP STX100 £315.00, STX140 £348.00
www.jobesports.com
www.hammond-drysuits.co.uk
5 TYPHOON RACER HYPERCURVE DRYSUIT Sizes: MTM, JNRXL, XS, S, SM, MTM, M, MB, LB, LM, L, LB, XL, XXL Colours: Blue Features: Available with either latex socks or seals Hypercurve back zip position PU Reinforced knees and seat Pre bent arms and legs ‘Glide Skin’ seals on neck and wrists Brass zip, Con Zip available Quad-Ply breathable fabric throughout Elasticated waist Braces
RRP £239.99
6 HAMMOND RB140 DRYSUIT Sizes: Made To Measure Colours: Flo yellow, Flo pink, Flo green, Flo orange, Purple, Aqua blue, Black Features: For a Standing jet ski or Rib/Rescue Tri laminate N140 fabric - 160g/sqm nylon outer, 140g/sqm butyl liner, 70g/sqm nylon inner All seams are single stitched and hand taped for a longer lasting watertight seam. As standard all seals are latex with a choice of ankle seals or socks, Cordura reinforced knee pads, a rear 8bdm zip and an elasticated rear waist Supplied with a suit bag
RRP £370
www.actionwatersports.co.uk
www.hammond-drysuits.co.uk
7 TYPHOON RACER EZEEDON DRYSUIT Sizes: MTM, JNRXL, XS, S, SM, MTM, M, MB, LB, LM, L, LB, XL, XXL Colours: Grey/Black Features: Available with latex socks Ezeedon front zip position PU Reinforced knees and seat Pre bent arms and legs ‘Glide Skin’ seals on neck and wrists Brass zip, Con Zip available Quad-Ply breathable fabric throughout Elasticated waist Braces
8 HAMMOND STX OFF THE PEG DRYSUIT Sizes: Adult XS, S, M, L, XL - Junior S, M, L Colours: Yellow/Black Features: Quality hand made dry suit in every way as good as our made to measure drysuits, but in standard sizes It can be used for waterskiing, wakeboarding, jetskiing and sailing Tri laminate N100 fabric - 70g/sqm nylon on each side of a 100g/sqm butyl liner All seams are single stitched and hand finished with a nylon to neoprene tape All seals are latex and you have a choice of either ankle seals or socks Rear 8bdm zip with elasticated rear waist Supplied with a Free suit bag
RRP £249.99
RRP Adult £286.50, Junior £243.60
www.roho.co.uk
www.hammond-drysuits.co.uk
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DRYSUITS GUIDE 9 GUL SHADOW DRYSUIT Sizes: Call for availability Colours: Black Features: GCX4 breathable Waterproof garment 100% waterproof heat taped seams Tough Dynat front zip with storm flap Glide skin neck and cuff seals Latex socks Action fit-contoured body panels reduced snagging and bulk and improved windage Articulated arms and knees Arm pocket with drainer Adjustable easy grab hook and loop cuff Internal adjustable braces Hardwearing seat and knee panels Braces
10 JOBE SEMI DRY STEAMER Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL Colours: Black Features: Pre-curved suit 5.0mm mesh body and back 3.0mm mesh arms and legs Super stretch mesh combined with super stretch neoprene. A-class neoprene Thermo lining in complete wetsuit for extra warmth. Water repellent mesh panels. Glide skin seals to keep water in/ out. Super stretch fabric on flex areas for better freedom of movement. Taped on critical areas for extra strength. Water shield with H2O draining. Comfortable glide skin collar. Glued and blind stitched Protective kneepads Seamless armpits
RRP £295
www.jobesports.com
RRP £150
www.ncjetski.co.uk 11 TYPHOON LADIES RACER HYPERCURVE DRYSUIT Sizes: S, SR, SM, M, MTM, L, LR, LM Colours: Blue Features: Available with latex socks Hypercurve back zip position Fabric reinforced knees and seat Pre bent arms and legs ‘Glide Skin’ seals on neck and wrists Brass zip, Con Zip available Quad-Ply breathable fabric throughout Elasticated waist Braces
RRP £249.99 www.roho.co.uk
12 JOBE LADIES SEMI DRY STEAMER Sizes: S, M, L, XL Colours: Black Features: Pre-curved suit 5.0mm mesh body and back, 3.0mm mesh arms and legs Super stretch mesh combined with super stretch neoprene A-class neoprene Thermo lining in complete wetsuit for extra warmth Water repellent mesh panels Glide skin seals to keep water in/out Super stretch fabric on flex areas for better freedom of movement Taped on critical areas for extra strength. Water shield with H2O draining. Comfortable glide skin collar. Glued and blind stitched Protective kneepads Seamless armpits
RRP £150 www.jobesports.com
13 JOBE THERMO UNDERWEAR Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL Colours: Black Features: Thermo suit to wear underneath a drysuit for extra warmth Lycra top layer with thermo inner lining 100% stretch fabric for more comfort
14 TYPHOON LIGHTWEIGHT UNDERSUIT Sizes: S, M, MB, L, LB, XL, XXL Colours: Black Features: Made from a thermofiber fabric with a double action front zip Ankle and thumb loops Ideal for surface use under a drysuit TOG rating of 1
RRP £49.99
www.roho.co.uk
RRP £39.95
www.jobesports.com
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DRYSUITS GUIDE 15 HAMMOND WOOLLY BEAR UNDERSUIT Sizes: Adult XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL - Junior 8yrs, 10yrs, 12yrs Colours: Grey, Navy, Black Features: Ideal underneath membrane drysuits for any surface use such as waterskiing, jetskiing, kite surfing and sailing Woolly Bear Undersuit is made from fleece Elasticated cuffs, elasticated top collar Two way front zip, pocket and knee reinforcing
16 GUL RADIATION UNDERSUIT Sizes: Call for availability Colours: Charcoal Features: Quick drying breathable polar fleece Full length 2 way zip Crew neck Elasticated wrists for snug fit Thumb loop for ease of donning Elasticated back for tailored fit Elasticated ankle closure Foot loop to prevent garment riding up during movement
RRP £40.00 www.ncjetski.co.uk
RRP Adult £49.65, Junior £42.20 www.hammond-drysuits.co.uk
17 TYPHOON DUOTHERM UNDERSUIT Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL Colours: Black Features: Designed for surface use in extreme conditions Made from a double layer of 100g Fleece High stretchability as well as extreme breathability and minimal weight TOG rating of 3.5 makes it ideal for those winter days Also available in a single skin monotherm version with a TOG rating of two
18 LOMO ELEMENT POLAR FLEECE UNDERSUIT Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL Colours: Navy Features: 200 gm Polar Fleece undersuit One Piece with double full-length zip to front 2 Pockets Foot Stirrups Soft Neck
RRP £99.95
www. LomoWatersport.com
RRP £25.00
www.roho.co.uk
19 O’NEILL COLDWATER HOOD Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL Colours: Black Features: 3MM Wind resistant Smooth Skin (SL) Exterior Thermo Layer Interior Glued and Blindstiched Seams Lightweight Fluid Foam SL Neoprene UV Protection Visor Adjustable drawstring lace
20 LOMO AQUA BOOT Sizes: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Colours: Black Features: 5mm Neoprene Uppers YKK Zipper Gusseted zip opening Glued and blind stitched seams High Grip Reinforced heel and toe
RRP £23.00 www.LomoWatersport.com
RRP £24.95 www. actionwatersports. co.uk
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DRYSUITS GUIDE 21 TYPHOON RAPTOR HOOD Sizes: S, M, L, XL Colours: Black Features: Blindstitched 3mm, 5mm, 7/5mm neoprene superstretch hood with glide skin interior, face seal and new anatomic cut.
RRP 3mm £19.95, 5mm £24.95, 7mm £29.95 www.roho.co.uk
22 JOBE NEOPRENE JACKET Sizes: M, L, XL Colours: Black Features: 1.5mm neoprene jacket Combination of mesh and neoprene panels Flat stitch construction Fleece body for extra warmth Water repellent mesh Water drained pockets
RRP £75.00 www.jobesports.com
23 LOMO WETSUIT HOOD Sizes: S, M, L Colours: Black Features: 5\3mm Neoprene II Glued and blind stitched seams Smoothskin face seal Smoothskin Neckseal
RRP £15.00 www. LomoWatersport.com
25 STORMSURE MULTI PURPOSE REPAIR KIT Features: Permanent flexible waterproof repairs for wetsuits, towables, air Mattresses, bags, shoes and other products made out of neoprene, nylon, rubber and leather
RRP £7.00 www.jobesports.com
24 JOBE NEOPRENE WINTER GLOVES Sizes: M, L, XL Colours: Black Features: 1.5mm neoprene jacket Combination of mesh and neoprene panels Flat stitch construction Fleece body for extra warmth Water repellent mesh Water drained pockets
RRP £75.00 www.jobesports.com
PROVIDING YOU WITH FEEDBACK ON A MONTHLY BASIS NEEDS REAL PEOPLE This is where you come in . . . We are asking you all to post your product feedback on the JS&PW forum. We will collate your feedback over the remainder of 2009 and will announce an all-out winner at the London boat show ‘the readers choice’ So if you’ve got a favourite drysuit tell us now by posting on the JS&PW forum on our website
WWW.JETSKIER.CO.UK
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Buyers guide
2010
With a new year, a new season, and the London Boat Show fast approaching we thought you would appreciate a lowdown on every personal watercraft available to you in 2010.
I
t has been a tough old year for the manufacturers, and this is evident in the number of new models launched for the New Year. That’s not to say that there aren’t some fantastic new models for 2010 but predominantly they all come from the same company. Battening down the production hatches against the financial storm, Yamaha made the decision not to launch any new Waverunners for 2010, other than alterations to colour, graphics and minor mods. So Yamaha’s flagship models remain the FZR and FZS, which are being exhibited alongside the remainding Waverunner family at the London Boat Show. Yamaha is the only PW manufacturer present at the show this year. Following an exciting year in 2008, which promised so much with the launch of the Series-S and Series-R watercraft (albeit without the much-hyped 278hp and 340hp V6 models), HSRBenelli has been very quiet but assure us that the stand-ups and runabouts are available in the UK through their dealer network. Kawasaki could not disclose their 2010 line-up before this issue went to print, however they did reveal that there are continuation lines for 2010. So colours may vary from the Jet Skis pictured in this guide, but many will be pleased to hear that the Ultra 260X is still available. However, it looks like the SXR 800 stand-up has been discontinued. Finally, as the only PW manufacturer to launch new craft for 2010, Sea-Doo appears to have come up trumps with an exciting range of several new models. Incorporating their electronic iBR transmission system to the majority of new models, and launching the RXT-X 260, Sea-Doo has a hand to be proud of. Unfortunately, Sea-Doo will not be present at the London Boat Show, so anyone interested in the new models will need to arrange a meeting with their local Sea-Doo dealer.
One thing is for sure, as you will see in the following pages, the evolution of personal watercraft has seen the muscle craft and luxury sectors expand dramatically, with over 10 models with engines that exceed 200 horse power.
BUYING THE RIGHT PW
Remember to choose the PW that is right for you. You need to think about what you will be using it for, who you will be riding it with, where you will use it, and how much can you afford to spend. Also consider who is offering the best finance deals, and how much insurance will be on the craft you want to buy. Be sure to consider how much it will cost annually, taking into consideration running costs, transport, and servicing. Practically speaking, ensure that you have space to store your new PW, that you have the necessary security measures to help prevent theft, and that your car is able to tow a trailer. Most importantly, ask yourself what you want most from your new ski. Will you be cruising long distances at sea and therefore require a good sea-faring hull and comfortable seats (maybe even suspension), or are you planning to ride mostly on lakes? Or do you want to race it, so need the quickest acceleration? Maybe you’re interested in buying a stand-up, so need to consider how good your balance is in relation to the width of the ski’s hull, and also how fit you are. Whatever you want, there is plenty of choice and some truly fantastic craft available. We have ridden every single one of these craft, so the following advice comes directly from first hand experience. So, here you have it - every personal watercraft available in 2010! >
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ENTRY-LEVEL RUNABOUTS Kawasaki Ultra LX Developed from the designs of Kawasaki’s IJSBA championship-winning machines, the hull of the Ultra LX is stable in rough, choppy water. A comfortable ride, which would make it good for beginners, particularly as the acceleration is a little sluggish. The 160hp engine gives a steady power delivery but due to it being such a large watercraft, means that the relatively composed motor struggles to get the lumbering hulk moving as quickly as more experienced riders might like (in which case see the Ultra 250X). It also has a reverse. ULTRA LX SPEC • Length: 3.37m • Width: 1.19m • Height: 1.15m • Weight (dry): 380 kg • Engine: 160hp 4-stroke • Displacement: 1,498 cc • Storage capacity: 227-litres • Rider capacity: 1 – 3 persons • Price: £TBC
Yamaha VX Sport / Deluxe / Cruiser
HSR-Benelli Series-R Naked Innovative futuristic styling, an angular sports bike styled seat, and racing inspired ergonomics. The Naked Edition is the entry-level sit-down from HSRBenelli’s runabout range. With a naturally aspirated, three-cylinder engine that offers 142hp, the power delivery is only steady as opposed to blistering and the handling is somewhat flighty. But this is a thing of beauty - just look at it. Black and green, Stealth-like yet lean. Plus a swish digital card sensor system starts the HSR-Benelli Naked, adding to the originality of this unique watercraft top end price tag.
Currently the world’s number one choice among rental operators and family users, the VX is a reliable ski that will stand the test of time. With good fuel economy, an inviting price tag and a 110hp engine, this is a solid choice for most riders but particularly for beginners and families. It is reassuringly easy to drive, and even in choppy seas the semiV hull handles well. The VX models have been revised for 2010, with new metallic decks and a sleek black hull finish. All of the VX models now include redesigned wing mirrors, handy for towing wakeboarders and skiers, and extended rear platforms and Hydro-Turf mats. The VX Deluxe features a sport seat, remote security, low-RPM mode, and a reverse. The shape of the reverse lever has been modified for 2010 to make it more userfriendly. Finally, the VX Cruiser has all of the above with a cruiser seat and a fold-out re-boarding step. VX • • • • • • • • •
SPEC Length: 3.27m Width: 1.17m Height: 1.16m Weight (dry): 340 kg Engine type: 110hp 4-stroke Displacement: 1,052 cc Storage capacity: 57-litres Rider capacity: 1 – 3 persons Price: £8,249 (VX) / £8,949 (VX Deluxe) / £9,399 (VX Cruiser)
NAKED SPEC • Length: 3.23m • Width: 1.20m • Weight (dry): 260 kg • Engine: 142hp 4-stroke • Displacement: 1,130 cc • Rider capacity: 1 – 3 persons • Price: £9,886
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Sell your ski now at www.jetskier.co.uk
Sea-Doo GTI 130 / GTI SE 155/130 The GTI has a decent amount of power for an entry-level ski, which should keep first time buyers content for longer. The pick up is good and the progressive-V shape of the hull means that it jumps onto the plane quickly. The hull is flatter than the Yamaha VX, which makes it that bit more playful, especially on a lake but a less comfy ride in the sea. For 2010, the GTI 130 comes in a bright white colour, which should get you noticed. The GTI SE is available with a 130hp or 155hp engine and comes with extras such as adjustable mirrors, a reboarding step, a ski tow eye for boarders, chrome parts for extra style, a speedometer, and a lake temperature sensor. GTI 130 / GTI SE 155/130 SPEC • Length: 3.23m • Width: 1.25m • Height: 1.17m • Weight (dry): 333 kg / 338 kg • Engine: 130hp /155hp 4-stroke • Displacement: 1,494 cc • Storage capacity: 47-litres / 46.9-litres • Rider capacity: 1 – 3 persons • Price: £8,099 (GTI 130hp) / £9,699 (GTI SE 155hp) / £8,899 (GTI SE 130hp)
ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO BUYING A PW TRAILER To get the most from your watercraft, you have to get a lot from your trailer. A cheap trailer more often than not, won’t hold up. Keep the following tips in mind when buying a trailer for your ski. they have a vast range of products to suit all towing needs and good advice on the correct towbar or trailers for your vehicle, as well as experienced staff on hand to fit any of our towbars safely and legally. www.indespension.co.uk
Bramber Established before the war, Bramber have always been at the forefront of trailer manufacturing and design. Bramber build trailers across the whole spectrum of boat ownership, catering for clients with craft from the smallest standup to boats used by the armed forces. In the last two years Bramber has attained a great standard in quality assurance and in recognition of this has been awarded with ISO9001 accreditation. www.brambertrailers.com
Don’t overload your trailer When you’re buying your trailer you’re going to have to know how much your ski weighs. If you don’t know, it’s better to overestimate the weight than underestimate. You don’t want to buy a trailer with too small a capacity that will then collapse under the excess weight while on the road.
Bigger is better - when it comes to the size of the trailer wheels The bigger your tyres, the less they will have to rotate per mile. There won’t be as much heat or tread wear on the tyres if they rotate more times per mile. You’ll also get more life out of your wheel bearings. The bearings also benefit from rotating less per mile.
Drive on trailers are strongly recommended Most PW trailers are drive-on, except those for stand-up skis. Trailers that are drive-on will make your life a lot easier when recovering your craft. You will be able to back the trailer into the water, and drive the ski up onto the trailer. This will allow you to only have to winch it up a few inches. It’s fairly safe to say that most PW
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trailers are rust-proofed. If you are in doubt, it would never hurt to have it rust coated. You want to protect your ski as much as you can. The only thing between it and the ground is your trailer. So, it’s essential that you take good care of your trailer too. If your trailer doesn’t have one, it’s suggested you get a spare tyre or two. Spare trailer tyres are an especially good idea if you plan on hauling your ski long distances. You don’t want to have to waste any more time than you have to because of a flat tyre. A trailer is an essential part of any watercraft owner’s life. The trailer will help you store your craft. It also will allow you to explore different bodies of water by allowing you to take your ski long distances. It’s important to find the right one for your craft. Remember, don’t skimp on the price. There’s nothing wrong with a good deal, but don’t buy a cheap trailer for the sake of buying a cheap trailer. Here are some trailers companies recommended by JS&PW.
TRAILER COMPANIES Indespension
Indespension has one of the largest catalogues of towbars, trailers and trailer parts in the UK. Recognised as one of the leading specialists in towbars and trailers,
Sell your ski now at www.jetskier.co.uk
Mersea Commerial and Leisure Trailers (formerly Snipe) Started 17 years ago, Mersea Trailers has expanded and become a major supplier to the marine industry, camping industry and general trailer market. They manufacture their own marine trailers, including PW trailers. In 2008 Mersea bought Snipe Trailers product range and brand name. They are currently updating and improving the trailer range stock a full range of spares for older Snipe Trailers. www.merseatrailers.com
Beeline Trailers Beeline manufacture a wide range of boat and PW trailers to suit most requirements. Custom designs are available, and they have a large range of trailer spares, as well as supplying and fitting towbars. Beeline can make trailers to your specific requirements. If no ‘off the shelf’ design is suitable, Beeline will create your own, individual PW trailer. www.pembrokeshire.co.uk/ads/ beeline/index.htm