YAMAHA’S R ACE-READY GP1800R AND VXR GET PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

​The industry’s best-selling highperformance runabouts return in 2019 with upgraded top-loader intake grates and race-designed ride plates for sharper and more predictable handling in rough water. The new intake grate features a foil that feeds water to the top end of the impeller to improve prop traction and keep the pump hooked up to maintain maximum thrust when turning, and in rough water. 

​The new race designed ride plate is longer to reduce bow rise when accelerating quickly. The planning surface is angled slightly for just the right amount of rocker to give the GP1800R the right riding attitude for optimum top speed. Also, the edges of the planning surface help the GP1800R track straighter at higher speeds. 

​For 2019, Yamaha is taking the VXR to the next level with similar performance upgrades to the intake grate and ride plate like the GP1800R, along with the addition of a NanoXcel 2 hull that significantly reduces overall weight. 

​“With the 2019 performance upgrades, we took designs that were proven on the race course by the best riders in the world, and made it something customers can get right out of the box,” said Watkins. “The result is a whole new character to these WaveRunners, that recreational riders and racers alike will find fuels their desire for ultra high performance experiences on the water with unbelievable handling.”