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Yamaha VX Cruiser HO (2024-)

1 x 1.9L HO Yamaha



Brief Summary

Testing the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO in the dead of winter was not only a thrilling experience, but also a chilling one. The new 1.9 L Yamaha 16-valve engine lived up to expectations for high-output performance. But at the dock, she was a pussy cat with Yamaha's intuitive forward and reverse system. See it in action!

Specifications

Length Overall 132.7''
3.37 m
Dry Weight 780 lbs.
354 kg
Person Capacity 3
Fuel Capacity 18.5 gal
70 L

Captain's Report

By Capt. Ken Kreisler

Power Package with Innovative Engineering


Mission

It’s no wonder the VX Series from Yamaha is the most popular PWC in today’s enthusiast market. With its HO model leading the pack, the company brings a series of advanced features to the forefront from the undisputed industry leader in this boating sector. 

Specifications

  • Available in Azure Blue with White, or White with Black
  • 1-3 person capacity
  • Power: 1898cc 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, 1.9 Liter High Output Yamaha Marine Engine
  • Connext 4.3" TouchScreen with Security and Drive Control
  • Low rpm mode, Cruise Assist/No Wake Mode™
  • Footwell drains

Notable Options

  • Factory Installed Integrated Audio System, Bluetooth capable and audio control
  • Reboarding step
  • VX Recdeck — $1,199.99
  • Recdeck Shade Kit — $374.99
  • VX Recdeck Touring Bag — $369.99
  • Premium Jetfish Package — $1,646.99
  • Jetfish Package — $560.99

VX Cruiser HO Inspection

Since its introduction in 1986, Yamaha WaveRunners® has set the standard for PWC design, engineering and performance. With its VX Cruiser lineup and the HO Model leading the way, a new benchmark has been achieved. 

The heart of the VX Cruiser HO is the company’s 1898cc four-stroke, four-cylinder, 16-valve High Output Yamaha marine engine, providing quicker and smoother acceleration and top speed. 

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO engine

Increased displacement, optimizing intake and exhaust paths, and a 10% boost from the larger throttle body, results in more power and torque from the Yamaha marine engine.

Other advanced developments include a Connext 4.3" TouchScreen whose many functions include Drive Control, allowing customization of the ride and the ability to monitor critical engine functions, has fuel, water temperature and depth gauges, tachometer, voltmeter, and speedometer displays, show trip info and engine hours, and can be paired via Bluetooth to your smartphone. 

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO Connext TouchScreen

Using the brightness control allows for easy viewing in various conditions.

The VX HO’s Ride® Throttle Control System, located on the handlebars, allows for seamless operation while underway at speed, docking, or in close quarters situations. Besides being able to switch from forward to neutral to reverse with one pull of the throttle resulting in easier deceleration, reversing and docking, drivers can also employ the many features on the handlebars. 

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO handlebars

Right and left sides of the handlebars allow for total control over speed, forward and reverse, and precise docking procedures.

Offering complete control while in operation, RiDE, for Reverse with Intuitive Deceleration Electronics, provides independent functionality of the left and right levers, with the right lever controlling forward and the left lever controlling reverse. As a result, reverse is achieved by just using the left lever while keeping both hands on the handlebars. This provides single-action forward/reverse capability. It also provides the ability to decelerate using the left lever while riding. 

Other operational features include Cruise Assist/No Wake Mode allows the operator to set a consistent engine speed to reduce throttle fatigue and to cap engine RPMs at an easy idle speed, Reverse Assist for increasing engine speed while backing into the water after trailer launching, and TDE, for Thrust Directional Enhancer, for ultra-low speed operations useful for when approaching or leaving docs, tying up to other boats, and keeping position on the water. 

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO fingertip control

Ease of fingertip control allows for safe operations at all speeds.

While the VX Cruiser HO is a hotshot in the PWC market, it is also a comfortable and resourceful WaveRunner® and can be outfitted with several notable options to make time out on the water that much more enjoyable and fun.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO optional Recdeck

The optional Recdeck can be outfitted for cruising or fishing.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO is equipped with a cooler and rod holders

Equipped with a cooler and rod holders, the VX Cruiser HO can go places and do things others cannot.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO watertight, removable storage behind the seat

Watertight, removable storage is located behind the seat.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO drivers seat

The driver's seat is bolstered for comfort.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO stern

The stern features a padded boarding platform which continues forward and into the footwells.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO watertight storage compartment forward of the seat

Forward of the seat is a convenient watertight storage compartment. Inside is LED lighting, a USB port, and a 12V outlet.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO bow storage

Bow storage includes a dedicated place for a fire extinguisher.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO factory installed optional sound system

Tunes underway are a necessity and adds to the overall fun experience. The VX Cruiser HO offers a factory installed optional sound system consisting of a pair of 4 1/2" waterproof speakers, a 2-channel amplifier with 50 watts of power per, and low voltage regulator.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO docking

With enough practice, and utilizing all the intuitive steering and controls, expertise around the dock or in close quarters situations will become second nature.

Summary

The Yamaha VX Cruiser HO is the definite leader of the pack in the model line-up. The combination of power, performance, and superior engineering results in an exciting, fun-packed adventure for the on-water enthusiast as well as supplying family and friends with memorable times together.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO running