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We have yet to hear a watercraftenthusiast, after stepping away from a saddle, say, "Too much powerfor me. I'd like something more like a Buick." No way. Everyone whoenjoys solo riding wants more, more, more. More speed in thestraightaways, more action in turns and more time in the saddle tostretch the limits. That's what Honda engineers had in mind whenthey completed the all-new R-12X.
This is the first four-stroke two-seat model to hit the market,and Honda has known for a few years it was coming down the pike.While developing last year's introductory models -- the AquaTraxF-12 and F-12X -- the designers had in mind this follow-up. The foundation of the R-12Xis a 165-horsepower, four-cylinder powerplant, turbocharged forextra oomph.
The hull of the R-12X is noticeably smaller than its brethrens'-- five inches shorter and narrower by three inches. A sharp chineand newly designed sponsons along the compact hull allows the boatto transition quickly into turns, a virtual rubber-band effect.Also helping is a low center of gravity, thanks to thoughtfulengine placement.
Honda also features an adjustable quick-trim system on theR-12X. By pulling a control on the handlebar, drivers can redirectthe angle of the jet nozzle. Doing so in a sharp turn helps changethe attitude of the bow so the running surface can re-grab thewater instantly. You can be going this way while everyone else isstill going that way.
To make the neighbors happy, the R-12X also has a two-staremissions rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), awaste gate in the exhaust loop to reduce noise and an off-throttlesteering system. None of which compromises the rider who wantsmore, more, more.
Digital and analog gauges (shown above) monitor everyfunction of the race-ready R-12X.
TECHNOLOGY
* Quick-trim lever on the handlebar activates a cablesystem to redirect the drive to the jet nozzle. Drivers caninstantly raise or lower the bow, with the best benefit inaggressive turns.
* Limit Mode allows AquaTrax owners to select a maximumspeed before turning novice riders loose.
* Honda's Ignition Control System (ICS) willautomatically limit power or shut down the engine if oil pressureor cooling temperatures are abnormally high.
* Off-throttle steering system is ECU-controlled and willhelp the craft turn while the throttle is disengaged in avoidancemaneuvers.
* Electronic keyless ignition means you can choose anumerical code to prevent theft.
DETAILS
Emissions: Meets 2004 CARB and 2006 EPA standards; has a2-star CARB rating
Off-power Steering: ECU-controlled
Storage Capacity: 5.8 gal.
Special Standard Features: Handlebar cushion pad, trailertie-down loops
Top Pick For: Racing. High-powered with special hull andtech features to swing it around buoys instantly.
Contact: 310-783-3745, hondamotorcycle.com
