Yamaha VX Limited

The brand-new Yamaha VX Limited just made watercraft touring more luxurious, faster and, priced under $11,000, a great new value.

The big deal on the VX Limited is the performance that’s added by a new, lighter and more powerful TR-1 1,049 cc engine, and a sleek, aggressive Nano-tech hull that shaves even more weight from the craft, adding more speed and economical operations thanks to the fuel saved.

In our tests, the 50 mph top speed gave more thrills than we ever expected when we pulled the throttle trigger. These guys are on it. Even more noteworthy is the rapid, dizzying acceleration. Be prepared when you press the trigger.

Even more impressive is the new RiDE braking-control system — and we mean control. This isn’t just a bucket-reversing system that helps straight ahead deceleration in an “oh no” moment. This system does reverse the bucket, but it does so while maintaining steerage. It’s so nimble that we could go from full speed to a rapid stop with a 180-degree turn at the end and release the activator lever for instant acceleration back to top speed. It’s just as impressive in close quarters, and it allowed us to spin the watercraft inside a boat slip.

It’s as beautiful as it is fast too. The gelcoat is cherry red with aggressive graphics and chrome trim. The dual mirrors enhance the racy look and safety when turning or slowing down. Saddle upholstery has handsome accents and UV-protected vinyl for a long life. Touring requires plenty of storage and that was in abundance in the 18-gallon front trunk. The glove box has two cup holders and a 12-volt charging plug. You can charge your phone or inflate a tube.

For water sports there’s a handy swim platform and a ladder for easy reboarding.

If all the built-in amenities aren’t enough for you, then the accessory package should grab your attention. The VX Limited came with a two-person deck tube, 12-volt inflator pump, saddlebags, waterproof storage bag, tow rope and a mooring cover with a solar-battery maintenance panel.

Touring, water sports, luxury and a rocking price make this a machine to notice.

High Points
*VX Limited comes with a cover and an integrated battery-maintenance solar-charging panel.
*Stainless-steel fittings include retracting cleats and a tow point.
*Watertight storage beneath the saddle
*RiDE braking control enhances rapid deceleration while still providing steerage.

How We Tested
Engine: TR-1 3-cylinder 1,049 cc HO Yamaha
Pump Type: 155 mm high pressure
Fuel Load: 18 gal.
Crew Weight: 150 lb.

Price
From $10,899