Nice review! I just picked up the "meaner, nastier little brother" (GP1800R SVHO) and am really loving it. I grew up with older 90s Sea-Doos and these things are totally different monsters!
Literally not at all. They only share the same powertrain and hull/deck material. Hull/deck design is radically different, weight is far different. You need to read up on the differences over at www.watercraftjournal.com.
They don't want to ruin the relationship with both companies, pretty obvious Yamaha is the best machine. If there is some fit, feature, or other reason get to the SD, knock yourself out.
@@newaccount5026 Yeah you are wrong. 😄 It's the best hands down.. I CRUSH for example Seadoos 300s and they supposed to have 35 horsepower more 😅😅😅😅😅🙈🙈
Quick question Watercraft Journal...if you’re used to the ST3 hull/RXT platform, what differences would I notice in riding the Yamaha equivalent? Trying to see if I should make the switch or stay with SeaDoo, thank you!
Good question. True to the marketing material, you literally sit IN a Sea-Doo and ON a Yamaha. Sea-Doo's ST3 hull REACTS to changes in the water surface far more erratically. Only until it's modified with several aftermarket items will it become more RESPONSIVE to rider input. The Yamaha FX hull is dramatically more predictable. It rides atop the surface and has far less drag. It also responds to rider input far quicker and naturally. The differences are night/day. -K
I love the hull and way the yami's drive, but I own a seadoo because of the seat width and just overall better feel period.. Its all subjective and I have rode almost all the models from 2015 and newer and I still chose the sea doo..
Nice video but I wish there were more comparison videos with actual buying advice/guidance. Other than ergolock, how does this compare to the GTX Limited 300? How does their stability and comfort compare out in the water or in chop?
Unfortunately, all 3 OE manufacturers have asked that we DO NOT film comparison videos. And since they supply us with the units to test throughout the year, we cannot afford to injure that relationship. We provide the viewer (and reader over at www.watercraftjournal.com) AMPLE information to do their own research and come to a conclusion. If you're ONLY viewing these videos, you're NOT getting the whole story.
I’ll tell you this. I beat a rxp 300 with a 09 fx sho with decent chop. It couldn’t even break 60 while I was hitting too speed. Not only that the handling can’t handle chop at all either and it feels like you’re about to get ripped off. I haven’t raced or driven a rxt which is the same as the gtx just different handle bars and color but I doubt it’s any better. The new Yamaha fx is literally longer and bigger so it’s probably the best for chop and handling. Sea doo needs to step up they’re game when it comes to handling.
Thankfully, the SVHO has a knock sensor, which detects predetonation. This means that even if you HAVE to run 87, it will retard the timing so you're not damaging the valvetrain. It's definitely not recommended (buy a bottle of octane boost at AutoZone before going out if you fear not finding 91/93 on the lake).
Hi Kevin, love your content!! Trying to decide between FX SVHO AND RXTX 300. I have a Gp1800 svho already for the sportier riding. This will be more of the family work horse that can still run with the GP. We ride inland water ways and no salt walter. Looking for a stable craft, with lots of cockpit room for some fishing, 2 up riding, pulling large skiers, tubes etc. Stability, and ease of opperation are the key points. Which would you recommend? TIA!!
If you're happy with the GP, I suggest the FX. The cabin isn't as roomy as the RXT-X, but you're already familiar with the SVHO powerplant, so it might make for a good set.
I really want footwell drains on my next ski for riding in cold water but these Yamaha ones don't seem like they do anything. There was still plenty of water in the footwell when you talked about the drains in the video. Am I missing something?
OK, first it's important to understand how they work. They are literally just gravity-fed hoses that run out of the back. There's no electric siphon pumping them dry. At speed, the footwells are empty naturally. It is only when the ski is out of the water (level on a trailer or stand, etc.) that they will drain out.
@@watercraftjournal So it's only a storage thing and is not effective on the water? Bummer for me; I thought it would actually do something on the water.
@@watercraftjournal Of course, but that's only if you're moving. I'm referring to when you slow down/stop and your wake flows over the back and fills them again. Maybe I'm the only one who has a problem with this, and if so, then I completely understand it not being something the manufactures ever consider.
Are the 2021 coming out soon? checking out other releases it always looks like in August, which is 2 months way, if so do you think there will be any changes/updates compared to 2020? i was planning on waiting for those 2021 to see if it was worth getting those, or if not then get the 2020 which would be at a lower price/on sale due to the 2021 being out
Hi. I am looking for a 2020 Yamaha Fx. Looking for a JetSki that would be great for saltwater and also to be able to pull skis and tubes and it’s got a really good powerful engine what would you recommend
Looking to buy fall/ winter 2020 into January 2021. So hopefully buy then they will have some. I wanted to buy 2. Thanks for any info on Salt water/Ocean riding
And what’s your question? Under what parameters? What do you value in a PWC most? What riding conditions? What level of skill is the rider? See why asking another person to answer that question borders on impossible?
The Watercraft Journal the simply wanted to know what you liked more or less on each machine than the other based on your preference of riding. I have a RXT X 300 and like,to ride in groups with friends and explore the horesepower and also I have a wife and daughters who like to cruise and tube. It does both of the items I like excellent for me. Was just curious how the Yamaha suited your riding style and I figured I could contrast it against my riding style to make a informed decision.
Norman Ross Jr. our personal preference leans far harder towards the FX hull and powertrain, but heavily in favor of the Sea-Doo ergonomics and cockpit.
@@watercraftjournal I'm looking to get my first pwc. I'll be mostly cruising at around 40 mph, not so much aggressive driving. I've heard that at cruising speed, the mpg doesn't differ much. Not sure if true or not though.
For the SVHO engine? Boost "comes one" around 5500rpm, which is about 44-46mph. Staying around 40-42mph puts the FX in the desirable 5.8-6mpg range. Multiply that by 18.5 gallons and you've got your answer.
I love Yamaha and Sea-Doo, I have both, Yamaha is doing better with their colors but for whatever reason they still don’t match up to Sea-Doo. The color combos either don’t work well or the colors are just dull. Love my Yamaha though. This is a great ski though all around..
Seadoo4life Yamaha typically has more subdued color combinations; they do this intentionally. They purposefully try to appeal to a “more adult market,” as I’ve been told.
The Watercraft Journal my last name rhymes with toona. Lol I grabbed a 19 GTX Ltd 300 back in January. Been stuck out of the country and still haven’t been able to get out on the lake yet. Maybe i’ll run into you out there whenever I can get back stateside.
I don't see how they could make the seat narrower without replacing the 1.8L engine - the engine is just too long and wide to have a narrow seat. And I don't see them replacing the 1.8L engine anytime soon, so they're stuck with wide seats. Sea Doo can make the seat narrower near the front because their engine is shorter due to one fewer cylinder.
You could reshape the seat easily without major changes to the deck or powertrain. It won't be a replica of the Ergolock, but it can be done. Racers have had custom seats made with no trouble.
"Tired and true"? It was first launched in 2014. Moreover, Yamaha continues to win every single racing class it enters, so there's really zero motivation to do so.
I can see them giving it minor updates here soon but otherwise it’s a great engine not need to replace it just yet and it’s pretty bullet proof as well.
@@watercraftjournal did the 1.8 really undergo that much of a change between the sho offered until 2013 and the first svho in 2014? the 1.8 is way older than 2014.
I’m between a rock and a hard place. lol I’m torn between the new 2022 Yamaha GP 1800R SVHO vs SeaDoo RXP-X 300. Both beautiful machines. Which would you recommend for handling, reliability, maybe some towing. Which is overall BETTER please respond thx 😊
Great video. Undoubtedly a trusted machine... but the open loop cooling and the ridiculous jet of water sprayed in the air behind the craft - well, that rules it out for me. I think my SeaDoo Wake Pro 230 beats it with the massive option list and superior IBR brake/reverse sophistication.
IBR is not superior to RIDE, no need to pull two throttles to reverse faster. Also the water spout is a great feature for riding in those tight and twisty rivers, add a valve on the line and you can shut it off with a quick turn. Seadoo knocks it out of the park with the seating position though, the Ergo lock is just awesome.
The visibility spout is literally a rubber hose connected to a plastic sprayer in the deck. You can quickly uncork the hose and it'll spit out of the jet pump. In fact, pay close attention to the video and you'll see snippets where it was uncorked. Kevin plugged it back in to properly represent the product as it is sold.
The Watercraft Journal it’s RUclips buddy. I have a premium membership. If you need more of my money I suggest career day at the local community college.
Nice review! I just picked up the "meaner, nastier little brother" (GP1800R SVHO) and am really loving it. I grew up with older 90s Sea-Doos and these things are totally different monsters!
Yes, today's runabouts are nothing like their ancestors.
Literally not at all. They only share the same powertrain and hull/deck material. Hull/deck design is radically different, weight is far different. You need to read up on the differences over at www.watercraftjournal.com.
Just picked up the silver/torch red and love it!!
randy lovato thats awesome!
@@watercraftjournal keep up the good work with the video reviews we appreciate them
Good to see you out on the water doing what you do best..👌🙌👍
There ARE worse ways to spend your time. ;)
Just picked one up last week. Awesome ski!!
Good choice!
Me too, last Friday 😍😍
How much should one pay used ?
They don't want to ruin the relationship with both companies, pretty obvious Yamaha is the best machine. If there is some fit, feature, or other reason get to the SD, knock yourself out.
Best machine on the market right now💪🏾👌🏾
No doubt
Wrong
@@newaccount5026 Yeah you are wrong. 😄 It's the best hands down..
I CRUSH for example Seadoos 300s and they supposed to have 35 horsepower more 😅😅😅😅😅🙈🙈
Picked up the 2020 limited and going out next week 6/23 to break it in. Always rented one on vacation so I decided to own one. Wish me luck!
That's great! Have fun!
@@watercraftjournal Thank you. Wter temp just hit 64 Thursday. Ocean temp, Old Saybrook CT
Thanks for producing great content!
It's our pleasure!
Quick question Watercraft Journal...if you’re used to the ST3 hull/RXT platform, what differences would I notice in riding the Yamaha equivalent? Trying to see if I should make the switch or stay with SeaDoo, thank you!
Good question. True to the marketing material, you literally sit IN a Sea-Doo and ON a Yamaha. Sea-Doo's ST3 hull REACTS to changes in the water surface far more erratically. Only until it's modified with several aftermarket items will it become more RESPONSIVE to rider input. The Yamaha FX hull is dramatically more predictable. It rides atop the surface and has far less drag. It also responds to rider input far quicker and naturally. The differences are night/day. -K
@@watercraftjournal thank you so much! This helps a lot. I’m always watching the live streams and videos, love the content!
Great presentation
Glad you liked it
Dream ski right here. Just wish they made Yankee blue and black color combo 🔥🔥
The Limited is available in black/blue for 2020.
Thanks, great review hopefully you can also do a review of the 2020 limited
Unfortunately, no. Thankfully, the Limited is no different (mechanically) from the Cruiser. It just comes with more accessories.
The Watercraft Journal ohh ok thank you.
I love the hull and way the yami's drive, but I own a seadoo because of the seat width and just overall better feel period.. Its all subjective and I have rode almost all the models from 2015 and newer and I still chose the sea doo..
Well, considering your name we guess you'd know. ;)
I think the touchscreen is brilliant.
It's a very nice "touch."
@@watercraftjournal lol
I'm looking at this model. Is it a "wet" ride?
Nice video but I wish there were more comparison videos with actual buying advice/guidance. Other than ergolock, how does this compare to the GTX Limited 300? How does their stability and comfort compare out in the water or in chop?
Unfortunately, all 3 OE manufacturers have asked that we DO NOT film comparison videos. And since they supply us with the units to test throughout the year, we cannot afford to injure that relationship. We provide the viewer (and reader over at www.watercraftjournal.com) AMPLE information to do their own research and come to a conclusion. If you're ONLY viewing these videos, you're NOT getting the whole story.
I’ll tell you this. I beat a rxp 300 with a 09 fx sho with decent chop. It couldn’t even break 60 while I was hitting too speed. Not only that the handling can’t handle chop at all either and it feels like you’re about to get ripped off. I haven’t raced or driven a rxt which is the same as the gtx just different handle bars and color but I doubt it’s any better. The new Yamaha fx is literally longer and bigger so it’s probably the best for chop and handling. Sea doo needs to step up they’re game when it comes to handling.
@@jadelees9005 Get a Kawasaki if you want something for chop, deeper hull and more weight.
Alex Chapman new fx is bigger than it now. And a lot more reliable
I am picking mine up next week. What do you do for fuel when premium fuel is not available. The best available is regular 87 octane??
Thankfully, the SVHO has a knock sensor, which detects predetonation. This means that even if you HAVE to run 87, it will retard the timing so you're not damaging the valvetrain. It's definitely not recommended (buy a bottle of octane boost at AutoZone before going out if you fear not finding 91/93 on the lake).
Hi Kevin, love your content!! Trying to decide between FX SVHO AND RXTX 300. I have a Gp1800 svho already for the sportier riding. This will be more of the family work horse that can still run with the GP. We ride inland water ways and no salt walter. Looking for a stable craft, with lots of cockpit room for some fishing, 2 up riding, pulling large skiers, tubes etc. Stability, and ease of opperation are the key points. Which would you recommend? TIA!!
If you're happy with the GP, I suggest the FX. The cabin isn't as roomy as the RXT-X, but you're already familiar with the SVHO powerplant, so it might make for a good set.
I really want footwell drains on my next ski for riding in cold water but these Yamaha ones don't seem like they do anything. There was still plenty of water in the footwell when you talked about the drains in the video. Am I missing something?
OK, first it's important to understand how they work. They are literally just gravity-fed hoses that run out of the back. There's no electric siphon pumping them dry. At speed, the footwells are empty naturally. It is only when the ski is out of the water (level on a trailer or stand, etc.) that they will drain out.
@@watercraftjournal So it's only a storage thing and is not effective on the water? Bummer for me; I thought it would actually do something on the water.
FruitBasket push the gas and the water drains out on any ski...
Again "at speed, the footwells are empty naturally."
@@watercraftjournal Of course, but that's only if you're moving. I'm referring to when you slow down/stop and your wake flows over the back and fills them again. Maybe I'm the only one who has a problem with this, and if so, then I completely understand it not being something the manufactures ever consider.
Are the 2021 coming out soon? checking out other releases it always looks like in August, which is 2 months way,
if so do you think there will be any changes/updates compared to 2020? i was planning on waiting for those 2021 to see if it was worth getting those, or if not then get the 2020 which would be at a lower price/on sale due to the 2021 being out
Theboy 314 we’ll have a full roll out for Yamaha in mid- August. No spoilers until then.
What should one pay for a 2020 used under 20 hours ?
Hi. I am looking for a 2020 Yamaha Fx. Looking for a JetSki that would be great for saltwater and also to be able to pull skis and tubes and it’s got a really good powerful engine what would you recommend
Betsy Rose well you’re out of luck. Everything new for 2020 is sold out.
Looking to buy fall/ winter 2020 into January 2021. So hopefully buy then they will have some. I wanted to buy 2. Thanks for any info on Salt water/Ocean riding
Kevin what is YOUR straight up opinion on this ski VS a Sea Doo GTX Limited. They are direct competitors to each other.
And what’s your question? Under what parameters? What do you value in a PWC most? What riding conditions? What level of skill is the rider? See why asking another person to answer that question borders on impossible?
The Watercraft Journal the simply wanted to know what you liked more or less on each machine than the other based on your preference of riding.
I have a RXT X 300 and like,to ride in groups with friends and explore the horesepower and also I have a wife and daughters who like to cruise and tube. It does both of the items I like excellent for me. Was just curious how the Yamaha suited your riding style and I figured I could contrast it against my riding style to make a informed decision.
Norman Ross Jr. our personal preference leans far harder towards the FX hull and powertrain, but heavily in favor of the Sea-Doo ergonomics and cockpit.
Do you know what size lettering you used for your registration numbers on this ski?
Nope. Because we don't own the skis we review.
Great review Kevin
Thank you, sir!
maximum speed? Thank you?
Click the link in the description of the video. The top speed is both in the video and the article.
Thanks for the review! How's the mpg compared to FX Cruiser HO?
About 2/3rds as good. Again, it all depends on how long you're in the boost.
@@watercraftjournal I'm looking to get my first pwc. I'll be mostly cruising at around 40 mph, not so much aggressive driving. I've heard that at cruising speed, the mpg doesn't differ much. Not sure if true or not though.
I strongly recommend the naturally-aspirated FX HO or Cruiser HO. Less fuel consumption, less maintenance, cheaper entry price.
Love the touch screen. Do you think eventually Yamaha will put touch screens on the GP/VX watercraft?
Just wait...oh, 7 weeks.
Should I upgrade for a 2019 to 2020
Chances are you won't find a 2020 left on dealer floors. They're all but totally sold out.
The Watercraft Journal when will they be back in stock?
@@watercraftjournal there were 3 FX SVHO Cruisers at a dealer by me in Florida today. 2 blue, 1 red.
Act quick. They're drying up fast.
What are the differences between this FX and the GP SVHO? Just a few less pounds?
They are TWO TOTALLY DIFFERENT MACHINES. They only share the powertrain. That's it.
What is the range on a tank of fuel and optimum speed for best mileage
For the SVHO engine? Boost "comes one" around 5500rpm, which is about 44-46mph. Staying around 40-42mph puts the FX in the desirable 5.8-6mpg range. Multiply that by 18.5 gallons and you've got your answer.
I love Yamaha and Sea-Doo, I have both, Yamaha is doing better with their colors but for whatever reason they still don’t match up to Sea-Doo. The color combos either don’t work well or the colors are just dull. Love my Yamaha though. This is a great ski though all around..
Seadoo4life Yamaha typically has more subdued color combinations; they do this intentionally. They purposefully try to appeal to a “more adult market,” as I’ve been told.
The Watercraft Journal oh ok. That’s an interesting thought process. I’m surprised. Either way nice review.
Uh... That good sir, is my lake lol.
We did not test on Cameron Lake.
The Watercraft Journal my last name rhymes with toona. Lol I grabbed a 19 GTX Ltd 300 back in January. Been stuck out of the country and still haven’t been able to get out on the lake yet. Maybe i’ll run into you out there whenever I can get back stateside.
Foot well Drain...... so simple. Is no other manufacturer listening??
We know, right? Especially with how deep the Sea-Doo footwells are!
This or a rxtx 300?
That's a good question. Watch and read the reviews at www.watercraftjournal.com to make your own decision!
@@watercraftjournal I have, I want your opinion, if you had to choose one...
@@watercraftjournal ...hello?
Yamaha makes an awesome ski but personally, the seats are too wide.
Yes, the saddle is rather wide especially when compared to their main competition.
Love my 2020 fx svho but the seat hurts my hips for being so dang wide. Why Yamaha whhhhhhyyyyyy!!!!!!
I don't see how they could make the seat narrower without replacing the 1.8L engine - the engine is just too long and wide to have a narrow seat. And I don't see them replacing the 1.8L engine anytime soon, so they're stuck with wide seats. Sea Doo can make the seat narrower near the front because their engine is shorter due to one fewer cylinder.
You could reshape the seat easily without major changes to the deck or powertrain. It won't be a replica of the Ergolock, but it can be done. Racers have had custom seats made with no trouble.
Lake Lanier???
No, mainly Old Hickory Lake.
Great Vid as always ! Do you think Yamaha will replace the tried and true 1.8L engine anytime soon?
"Tired and true"? It was first launched in 2014. Moreover, Yamaha continues to win every single racing class it enters, so there's really zero motivation to do so.
I can see them giving it minor updates here soon but otherwise it’s a great engine not need to replace it just yet and it’s pretty bullet proof as well.
The Watercraft Journal lol I didn’t write tired it was tried and true. I prefer the Darth Vader look of the regular fx svho. Great machine tho.
@@watercraftjournal did the 1.8 really undergo that much of a change between the sho offered until 2013 and the first svho in 2014? the 1.8 is way older than 2014.
I’m between a rock and a hard place. lol I’m torn between the new 2022 Yamaha GP 1800R SVHO vs SeaDoo RXP-X 300. Both beautiful machines. Which would you recommend for handling, reliability, maybe some towing. Which is overall BETTER please respond thx 😊
No. You can see our videos and articles and make an informed decision on your own. You're a grown man, we believe in you.
Hi mate this one vs Kawasaki 310r...
NO SHOOTOUTS. The manufacturers will quit letting us review products if we do shootouts.
Great video. Undoubtedly a trusted machine... but the open loop cooling and the ridiculous jet of water sprayed in the air behind the craft - well, that rules it out for me.
I think my SeaDoo Wake Pro 230 beats it with the massive option list and superior IBR brake/reverse sophistication.
Open loop cooling is better then closed in my opinion. And jet of water is easy enough to rid of
IBR is not superior to RIDE, no need to pull two throttles to reverse faster. Also the water spout is a great feature for riding in those tight and twisty rivers, add a valve on the line and you can shut it off with a quick turn. Seadoo knocks it out of the park with the seating position though, the Ergo lock is just awesome.
The visibility spout is literally a rubber hose connected to a plastic sprayer in the deck. You can quickly uncork the hose and it'll spit out of the jet pump. In fact, pay close attention to the video and you'll see snippets where it was uncorked. Kevin plugged it back in to properly represent the product as it is sold.
Wife and I love our Wake Pro 230 and GTRX 239. That touch screen on the Yamaha would look nice on them though.
SeaDoo 230 is a nice ski but it’s no comparison to the Fx SVHO.
Who cares between 60-70mph haha damn anything over 60 on water is insane
LOL for many it’s all about that too speed number.
Your not even riding a FX!
The echoing voice over 👎🤮
Buy a T-shirt or hoodie and help us buy a better microphone.
The Watercraft Journal nah. I don’t subscribe to digital panhandling. If you don’t make enough off ad revenue, you’re screwed.
Yet ironically, you'll happily consume free content without supporting the supplier. Gotcha. ;)
The Watercraft Journal it’s RUclips buddy. I have a premium membership. If you need more of my money I suggest career day at the local community college.