Yamaha’s EX Series Waverunners are designed to give personal-watercraft fans the best return on investment possible in both performance and long-lasting good looks. After spending a day on the water with all three trim-level models, we agree.
There are three trim levels on the EX series, each offering significant upgrades in terms of style, features and convenience. But all three, beginning with the entry EX priced at $6,599, boast a full fiberglass marine-grade hull. It’s light, rigid, durable and, best of all, as we discovered on test day, nimble. All EXs are powered with the TR-1 three-cylinder engine, which provides dizzying acceleration and rewards riders with top-end speeds exceeding 50 mph with two riders. All three models boast generous dry storage for phones and other gear you need to take along.
The EX Sport ($7,599) steps up the game with rearview mirrors that add utility and confidence. Upscale metallic color choices with blue or stealthy black accents add flashy appeal. Mechanically, the Sport is souped up with a manual reverse for handling convenience and a boarding step for easy reboarding after a tube ride.
The EX Deluxe ($8,599) is a bird of a different feather. Its sartorial splendor is amplified with deeper use of metallic finishes and a contour-stitched saddle that offers a great look with accented colors and textures of vinyl. Long-term owners will appreciate its easy repairability if it is accidentally torn.
But the most exciting enhancement on the EX Deluxe is what Yamaha calls RIDE. It’s not just a reverse system; it’s an electronically controlled, steerable reverse system that is instantly accessible via a trigger on the left handlebar. Pull it, no matter the throttle setting, and RIDE will lower the reverse bucket to rapidly reverse thrust and slow the boat, while preserving steering control.
Regardless of the EX you choose, terrific performance and nimble handling come with a proven running surface and the award-winning TR-1 1,049 cc engine.
With three attractive feature packages, appealing design and performance across the line, Yamaha has clearly set the bar on boating value.
High Points
* Large swim platform.
* 7.7 gallons of dry storage.
* 13.2 gallon fuel capacity.
* Ready for one to three riders.
* All fiberglass hull.
* Roomy access to TR-1 engine for easy maintenance.
* Automatic bilge pump.
How We Tested
Engine: Yamaha TR-1 3-cylinder
Drive/Prop: 3-blade stainless-steel impeller
Gear Ratio: 1:1
Fuel Load: 10 gal.
Crew Weight: 240 lb.
Price
From $6,599 (as tested)
Yamaha Jet Boat Manufacturing – Kennesaw, Georgia; yamahaboats.com
