Wave Runners - Tell me about them

[Juggernaut]

My dad just built a very nice house on a lake.... and basically he has a 12 acre lake that he just owns. He is building a dock so go fishing off of, but being the crazy son that I am, I want to buy myself and my little brother a wave runner; only problem is that i know jack about them. Can you guys please advise what's hot and what's not? WHat should I look for, and whats an average price i will be looking at spending? Thanks!

[Bushman]

First, does it have to be a "waverunner"? Yamaha makes great jet skis, but is your heart set on a waverunner or are you using the term to refer to jet skis in general.

A new jet ski can cost between $7000 and $14000 depending of course on the different features the different models have. This includes "waverunners" as well.

Since you have no experience with jet skis and you plan on riding a small lake, I would advise you to only look at jet skis with 2 cylinder, 2 stroke engines.

Taking care of a jet ski engine is very similar to taking care of a car engine.

Some jet skis can only seat one person while others can seat up to 3 people, so keep that in mind when you go to the dealer.

Lastly do not bypass any of the safety features. Jet skis come equipped with a kill switch that is attached to a wrist band. The kill switch is designed to cut off power to the engine when you fall off of the ski.

Remember to always wear a life jacket while riding a jet ski.

[jason]

Are you buying new or used? Bushman has some good tips for buying new. If used look at the hull closely. Run your fingers along the bond line and feel for cracks or splinters. If either is felt it could indicate abuse or a collision. Take a look at the prop and pump area. Look for abuse there, cracks and chips missing.


Take it for a test drive. Look at the water line that sprays water overboard. This keeps the engine cool. No spray means no water flow which leads to overheating and a burned up engine.