Choosing a jet ski - how to find one that won't disappoint

If you like high speed boat trips, but you are not a hunter or fisherman, it is not necessary to buy a motor boat. Perhaps a boat is what you need, but it is too expensive.


There is an alternative that will bring no less impressions than a high-speed classic vessel - a jet ski. But choosing the first water scooter is not easy, especially considering the fact that such a technique is not very popular in Russia.

Today's article will tell you what parameters you need to choose jet skis, how they differ from each other, and what to look for when buying. Of course, these are the basics, but even they will help you navigate the unfamiliar world of jet skis.



Jet skis are suitable not only for single trips - some of them can be ridden by three people. So this technique is suitable even for a family person.

Classification of models

All ATVs can be roughly divided into three broad categories. The first is sports models. They are small in weight and dimensions, while having a powerful engine.

It is not recommended to take a sports jet ski for beginners - such models have an “evil” character, require management skills and good physical shape, including flexibility. Among them, there are also stand-up jet skis without a seat, which are often used by athletes. This model is especially not recommended for beginners - any trip on it puts a serious strain on the arms and legs.



The second type is tourist jet skis. Despite their impressive size, they are most suitable for beginners. Such a model can have a three-seater seat, many of them have a calm character, although the engines allow you to develop impressive speed.

The most powerful tourist models are suitable for use as a kind of "tractor" for attractions like "banana", paragliders and water skiers.



There are also special children's or teenage models. Many of them are inflatable, but he is able to "take on board" a driver weighing up to 80 kg. It is easy even for a child to operate such a jet ski. The main thing is that the skiing takes place under the supervision of adults and with a life jacket on.

Jet skis are often used for water excursions - some make money by renting them. Vacationers often ride in the passenger seat - in this case, you can not be afraid for the safety of your equipment, trusting it to inexperienced hands.



Water motorcycles are bought specifically for individual or family tourist trips. Some manage to combine recreation and fishing, using this technique instead of motor boats and boats.

Design features

The first thing you need to pay attention to is the body of the jet ski. As a rule, it is made of polymeric materials, that is, plastic. Well-known manufacturers reinforce the case with metal inserts.

The shape of the jet ski is created taking into account the streamlining, so that the model turns out to be as controllable, maneuverable and fast as possible. Touring versions almost always have special waterproof compartments for things and clothes.



In a high-quality jet ski, they try to place the engine inside the hull and protect it as much as possible from water ingress. The steering is similar to a motorcycle - simple and intuitive.

Modern jet skis have a lot of bells and whistles:

✅ Navigation
✅ Echo sounders
✅ Special braking systems
✅ Satellite tracking

As a rule, jet skis are recommended for use on large bodies of water. It is undesirable to operate such equipment on mountainous and fast rivers with a rocky bottom - you can not only damage, but also break the hull.

Security

Jet skis are considered an easy-to-learn mode of transport compared to two-wheeled land vehicles. There is nothing strange in this - falling into the water is far from being as scary as on asphalt.

But this rule only works in cases where special equipment is used. First of all, you need to take care of life jackets. There should be several of them - for the driver and passengers. A vest is a must! Otherwise, there may not be time to do it.



For safety reasons, the key to the ignition lock must be tied to a waistcoat on a cord. If the driver takes off “out of the saddle”, the hydrobike will stall. The key tied to the vest won't go anywhere.

It is advisable to wear a helmet on your head. As a rule, bicycle models are used, although most Russian owners of jet skis neglect this equipment. It is better to use cross helmets - they will protect not only the upper, but also the lower part of the face.



It is also recommended to buy gloves and specialized boots for a serious model of a jet ski. This will avoid blisters on the hands and injuries on the legs, respectively.

Before accelerating, you need to understand how the jet ski stops. Check his braking distance. Otherwise, you can crash into a pier, boat or boat without calculating the speed.

How to choose a jet ski?

The first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing a jet ski is the engine power. If you do not take children's and teenage models, then the parameter varies in the region of 90-300 liters. With.



The more powerful the motor, the faster the water transport will be. But do not forget about fuel consumption, which also increases with this.

The type of cooling is an important parameter. It can be air or liquid - open or closed circuits. In the latter case, everything is like in a car - antifreeze.

An open circuit provides cooling by passing sea water through the system. In this case, deposits collect in the channels, which must be periodically cleaned. Often they are clogged with salt from sea water.

Jet skis come in one, two or three seater. If there is a financial opportunity and you do not need a specific sports apparatus, it is better to take a model with a margin. You never know, you will have to travel not alone, but with your family.



It is desirable that the steering column of the jet ski is adjustable - this will help to adapt the unit to any owner. Although, before buying on the model you like, you need to sit - evaluate its convenience for yourself.

The presence of a reverse gear is relevant if it is supposed to operate a jet ski in crowded places, where boats and boats are moored at the pier.

If you want to not just ride, but perform tricks, you can look at models without a seat. But driving long distances on them will definitely be inconvenient.

Maintenance

Before buying a jet ski, it is imperative to study the delivery channels for spare parts and consumables. For this reason, it is worth choosing common models from well-known manufacturers.



It is advisable to carry with you an additional set of candles and the appropriate key to replace them - those on the engine can be filled with water. The motor is also recommended to be regularly treated with a special anti-corrosion compound - it also helps against salt water.

Before buying a jet ski, do not rush, and calculate all the pros and cons. This is an expensive pleasure, but it’s not even about the cost of equipment - you can also take it second-hand.

In addition to the jet ski itself, you will also need a carriage trailer and storage space. If everything goes well and there is a financial opportunity, a jet ski is worth buying - an unforgettable ride!