Here I am, riding the Yamaha WaveRunner VX Cruiser right after the “entry level” V1 Sport. You can definitely tell the difference.
After the first approach with V1 Sport, already online on BoatMagInternational, it’s now time for Yamaha WaveRunner VX Cruiser: another test on Lake Maggiore, this time with a version whose price tag is some 2000 euros higher than the V1. Let’s see if it’s worth it.
Yamaha WaveRunner VX Cruiser
Yamaha WaveRunner VX Cruiser and V1 Sport share one thing, which is the new TR-1 HO engine. This 3-cyclinder unit displaces 1049 cc and is 13% more powerful than the previous Yamaha MR-1. It’s also 40% more compact and20% lighter, with the whole Waverunner VX stopping the scale at 302 Kg (a 27 Kg diet on the model it replaces).
But there’s more on this VX Cruiser: first of all the system called Ride (Reverse Intuitive Deceleration Electronics) which allows to brake of reverse by using the left lever. Add to this the most advanced electronic features by Yamaha including the reverse traction control, the Cruise-assist, andt the No Wake; then again a safety device with Low-RPM mode and remote control.
For thrilling acceleration, Yamaha WaveRunner VX Cruiser combines a stainless steel impeller and the high efficiency jet HyperFlow water pump. The hull is made in NanoXcel, a light and resistant material specifically developed by Yamaha.
To complete the picture, there’s a saddle perfect for two but designed to host up to three passengers, hiding a large locker under the back part to house cell phone, wallet etc. Then again, the LCD multi-purpose display, large rearview mirrors, long swim platform with Hydro-Turf surface, and a sturdy towing hook.
The test
The commands on the WaveRunner VX Cruiser handlebar are more complex than on the V1 Sport. Beside a proper cruise control with speed-up and –down buttons and the No Wake mode for slow cruising where needed, I focus on the Ride system. Which is pretty impressive: when in reverse, the water flows are conveyed to the sides, improving steadiness, and when braking the space to dead stop is reduces by 30% on the traditional inverter. Above all, the command is intuitive, returning a sensation of having the WaveRunner always under control.
The 105 HP delivered by the TR-1 HO engine can be better exploited than with V1 Sport. The improved stability allows to exceed 40 knots in safety and turn more aggressively. Lake Maggiore is quite rough so I can directly compare the handling with V1 Sport: the price difference is not significant at all when considering the feeling at the helm and the pure performance. If I had to choose, I would go for the WaveRunner VX Cruiser.
The numbers of Yamaha WaveRunner VX Cruiser
Engine 3 cylinders, 4 stroke, supercharged
Displacement 1049 cc (64 ci)
Reserve 70 l (18.5 US gal)
Length 3.35 m
Width 1.22 m
Height 1,19 m
Dry weight 302 Kg
Storage space 93 l (24.5 US gal)
Passengers 1-3
Indicative Price
Yamaha WaveRunner V1 Sport€ 10.600 + VAT
