Are you interested in buying a jetski? If so, congratulations! Jetskis are among the most fun toys you can have on the water. Don’t let yourself be overawed by their sheer size if you’re not used to them – they are surprisingly simple to tame, even for first-time riders.
If this is your first foray into the world of jetskis, you might be tempted to buy a cheap one. If so, don’t – they are notoriously unreliable and unsafe. While there is truth to the notion that more costly versions have superior build quality, it’s usually worth paying a little extra for something designed with the right goals in mind.
In general, it’s best to think of a good jetski as a form of transportation – you get what you pay for. The more expensive models will be far more durable and dependable, essential if you keep your jet ski for a long time. This isn’t the case with less costly, disposable jet skis, which will eventually malfunction and need to be replaced after a few years anyhow.
When looking for a new jet ski, there are essential factors you need to consider. These are:
Type: The three most common types of jetski are “sit down,” “stand up,” and “tandem.” Sit-down models tend to be relatively stable and easy to ride but are less nimble than the others. Stand-up models are more lively in the water, while tandem jetskis tend to be large and bulky.
Dimension: When choosing a size, the number of people riding the jetski at once and whether or not there will be any storage capacity should be considered. Jetskis range significantly in size – they can be small enough to carry one person or large enough to fit multiple passengers. Smaller jetskis are usually more accessible for beginners, while larger jet skis can accommodate more people and are great for watersports activities.
Engine size: Engine size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or horsepower (hp). Smaller engines usually range from about 150cc to 250cc, medium-sized ones are around 350cc to 550cc, while the most prominent models can have over 1,000cc. The choice of size is a personal one. Smaller models can be more agile and easier to control, while larger ones may accommodate more passengers or fit better into a boat trailer.
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Engine Power: The engine power is vital for acceleration purposes – more powerful engines are great for experienced riders but may feel harder to handle for beginners. Engine power is measured in horsepower (hp) and ranges from around 30hp to over 200hp. If you’re starting, it’s best to choose something with a bit of power – too little, and you’ll quickly get bored, while too much will make the jetski hard to handle.
The more horsepower a jetski has, the faster it will accelerate – keep in mind that this may make it harder to control. Lower power engines are usually very safe for beginners because they react less abruptly to throttle changes. Higher power models are great for larger, more experienced riders because they accelerate quickly.
Materials: Before buying a jet ski, try to find out what materials are used to build it. Many affordable models are made of fiberglass, which can be heavy and crack if you crash. Sturdier aluminum or plastic jet skis are pricier but much more durable – they will last far longer than cheap fiberglass jetskis.
Design: Open or closed designs are best depending on your personal preferences and watersports activities, but a few things are to look out for. Some jet skis have an open design which can be great for riding in the sun but can also get very hot. Others have a closed design which is more weather-resistant but can feel a bit claustrophobic.
Extras: Jetskis can come with various extras, such as storage compartments and ski ropes. If you want to make the most out of your vehicle, these are a great addition, but they can also add quite a bit to the cost.
Price: Additionally, consider your budget before you go out and buy a jetski. Jetskis may cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $10,000. Remember that even the cheapest models will probably need maintenance eventually and would be expensive to fix if something breaks down. Higher-priced, more solid designs are usually much more reliable and will last for years without needing expensive repairs. It’s best to choose a high-quality model it will cost more but won’t need a replacement any time soon.
After you have taken the time to consider these factors, finding the best jetski will be much easier. Happy jetskiing!
Remember to ask around and take a few for test rides before buying to ensure you’re getting the perfect one for your needs.