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7 Basic Tips for Sea-Doo Towing

25 Tuesday Aug 2015

Posted by Sea-Doo OnBoard Editor in Uncategorized

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

fun, icontrol, personal watercraft, pwc, Sea-Doo, Sea-Doo watercraft, seadoo, ski mode, skier, towables, wake, wakeskate, water towables, watercraft

You’ve been eyeing the next addition to your personal Sea-Doo line up. How can you have more fun on the water? The solution—WAKE. The Watercraft Journal recently reviewed the WAKE 155 model stating, “In perfect Sea-Doo fashion, the PWC manufacturer equipped with their Wake units with so much innovation and features that the segment has become one of the brand’s most popular in recent years. Branching further than mere wakeskate and wakeboard riders, the Wake models appeal to families using the craft for whipping towables around their local lake or river.”

Wake 155_13279_MY15

So you’ve made the decision and your new Wake model is home. You can’t wait to get out on the water. One of two things come to mind. It’s either, “I have never towed someone before. How do I do that? What’s right and wrong;” or “I’ve got this, let’s go.” Whichever way, safety is important so here are 7 basic tips for Sea-Doo towing.

1. Know your local laws before towing. Most states require that the watercraft is a 3-passenger with mirrors, with a driver and a spotter. Some states require safety signal devices.  Check www.boatus.org for the laws in your state.

2. Make sure your rope is secure to the watercraft, either a ski pylon or tow eye in the rear of the watercraft. Do not tie ski rope to anything that was not manufactured to be used as a tow point.

3. Take note of a person’s ability. Driver’s should practice without a skier, and focus on smooth accelerations and maintaining a steady speed. On Wake models (WAKE 155 & WAKE Pro 215), SKI mode is a standard feature and can be turned on to accomplish this. SKI mode is an advanced iControl feature that allows the driver to adjust the intensity of the launch for different rider skill levels and tow sports while maintaining a constant speed. You get 5 acceleration profiles for the best possible tow sports experience.

WAKE Pro 215

4. Once your skier is in the water, take the slack out of the rope. Begin idling once the slack is tight.  Then when the skier signals that they are ready to go, accelerate enough to pull the skier up on the top of the water. Get to your preferred speed and maintain that speed.

5. Always look forward, not behind at the skier, that is the spotters job.

6. When the skier is done or falls, come down to an idle, slowly turnaround without running the rope over, maintain a steady, slow speed back to your skier. Loop around behind them so they can reach the rope, and start all over again making sure you never aim straight at your rider, always stay to the left or right of them during your approach.

2015 SEA-DOO WAKE PRO 215_ACTION27. Signals for sking: thumbs up (faster), thumbs down (slower), fist on your head means you are done and you are going to let go of the rope (stop).

 

 

Want to know more? Check out our DOO it playlist on Youtube. Here’s a video that will surely spike your interest for tow sports and get you ready to take on the waters.

 

 

 

 

Riding Comfortably with Sea-Doo Suspension

29 Monday Jun 2015

Posted by Sea-Doo OnBoard Editor in Technologies

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adjustable suspension, comfort, compression, GTX Limited iS 260, GTX S 155, icontrol, intelligent suspension, performance, RXT-X aS 260, sea-doo life, Sea-Doo watercraft, shocks

We know Sea-Doo owners like to take advantage of any riding time that they can during their busy schedules. And, since a Sea-Doo watercraft is so easy to get to the water and back, it’s perfect for quick or extended trips. But, the water can be unpredictable, and as much as we’d like to be able to control the weather to manage the waves, we decided instead to develop an even more optimized ride.

GTXLTDisSea-Doo was the first and has been the only to develop full-rider suspension on a personal watercraft. Models with suspension experience a smoother and more comfortable ride every time even as water conditions vary throughout the day. With suspension, when waters get rough, the rider is cushioned from wind chop and arm fatigue is reduced. So, if you do have the time for an all-day ride, you’ll enjoy it longer. Passengers also love suspension for the extra comfort; whomever you’re living the Sea-Doo life with will want to keep riding with you.

2015-SEA-DOO-GTX-LTD-iS-260-ACTION-2Since every rider has there own preference, there are variations to what Sea-Doo suspension has to offer. The Sea-Doo GTX S 155 has 5.5 inches of manually adjustable suspension. You can enjoy a smooth ride in all water conditions. On the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 260, the “iS” stands for Intelligent Suspension. It automatically adjusts compression to water conditions allowing for the greatest range of suspension travel for the smoothest ride possible. The iS system also offers docking mode that automatically lowers the suspension to lower the rider’s center of gravity during slow speed operation for greater stability and raising the rider environment to the normal riding position when underway. The entire riding area moves independently from the hull, and with iControl, you’ll get optimal suspension during your ride. If you’re one that enjoys a long cruise, you will really appreciate this, perhaps even more so Monday morning. FoxShocksAnd, if you’re a performance fanatic, the Sea-Doo RXT-X aS 260 uses superior-grade, high-performance shocks, with full preload and compression manual adjustability. It offers just the right combination for riders who like to challenge offshore conditions but still maintain plenty of control.

No matter which type of rider you are, our suspension options deliver Smooth sailing, Sea-Doo style.

Dr. Doo Guest Post: Installing Cruise Control to your iEquipped Sea-Doo

09 Thursday May 2013

Posted by Sea-Doo OnBoard Editor in Doctor Doo

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

cruise control mode, do it yourself installation of cruise control, how to install sea-doo cruise control and ski mode, icontrol, jetski, jetskis, performance boats, pwc, Sea-Doo, seadoo, seadoo jetski, seadoo jetskis, seadoo waverunner, ski mode, trailers, waverunner

Watercraftperformance.com recently posted instructions on how to install cruise control to your iEquipped Sea-Doo watercraft.  We wanted to feature this instructional post to provide advice to our Sea-Doo OnBoard family.  Thanks to WatercraftPerformance.com for this informative post!

When people talk about “bells and whistles,” at least in the way of personal watercraft, it’s typically cruise control they’re talking about. Cruise control is a great feature that so many of us aren’t used to on a PWC that its often considered a superfluous option, like a backup camera or fuzzy dice.

Only when using your watercraft for long distance rides, cruises through areas with stretches of limited speeds (everyone who has traveled Florida’s St. John’s River knows what I’m talking about), or leisurely exploring your lake or river have realized that maybe cruise control ain’t all that bad after all.

One such enthusiast recognized this before bringing home their brand-new 2013 Sea-Doo RXT-X from America’s Motor Sports and opted to have BRP’s Cruise Control and Ski Module Kit installed. We followed along the installation process and were surprised how deceptively uncomplicated it truly was. But be warned, there’s quite a bit of wiring to be mastered in this installation, so if tangling with electronics is not your forte, then why not have your local shop or dealer tackle this.

Sea-Doo Cruise Control and Ski Module kit

The BRP Sea-Doo Cruise Control and Ski Module (Kit # 295 100 455) is designed to add cruise control and the ski towing options to all iControl-equipped runabouts and comes with all this equipment seen here.

Thankfully, the rear access panels in the S3 hull make wiring significantly easier. Start by disconnecting your battery, and follow each of the steps to wire your new harness into the existing factory plugs.

sea doo rear wiring installation

All iControl-equipped Sea-Doos (from 2009-on), are built in a modular fashion, meaning that parts and accessories can be added to or removed from all skis rather simply. This “parts bin” process helps to simplify assembly, reduce part numbers, reduce production costs and make working on them significantly easier. The iControl unit is a base foundation from which all levels of accessorized Sea-Doos are built upon.

In the case of this RXT-X, the sportier runabout came from the factory without cruise control. Expecting to take in some long hauls this season, this savvy buyer opted to have the cruise module installed – including the necessary Cruise button on the handlebars.

All work pertaining to electricity on your PWC should begin with disconnecting the battery cables. On this particular unit, the battery is found beneath the rear starboard access panel. The electrical component support is mounted to the battery holder with the diagnostic connector attached to it.

 

Don’t Get Your Wires Crossed

seadoo wiring, sea-doo wiring, intalling icontrol cruise control

Remove the connector and pull the plastic plug from the socket, as you’ll be inserting a new wire terminal and your new harness. With your new wire installed into the diagnostic connector plug, you need to route your new harness wire along

For many, wiring is not for the faint of heart. Installation of the cruise control module requires wiring in a secondary harness with accompanying fuses. The fuse positions are marked out clearly in the instructions and require little more than some patience to get them all in place.

Next, you need to detach and uncover the fuse box. Following the diagram supplied in the kit by Sea-Doo (also found HERE), remove the seal plugs and bus bar to install your new wire terminals to complete the circuit from your connector to the fuse box. Be mindful to follow the specific plug orientations in the fuse box. A audible “click” will be made when a terminal is properly inserted.

picture 4

 

Once the harness is wired into the connectors and the fuse box, the new module can be attached and plugged in. The module is held down tight with zip ties.

Once the fuse box is recovered and reinstalled,go back to your battery and reinstall the component support. reattach the diagnostic connector with a little big of dielectric grease to the module connector (input).

Now its time to install the Ski Module. Secure it to the battery support with a zip tie (check to make sure it won’t move), and apply some more dielectric grease to the module diagnostic connector, attaching it to the vehicle’s connector. (FYI, the new module’s connector can now be used for vehicle diagnostics instead of the standard connector.)

 

Getting a Grip On The Handlebar Control

picture 5

Accessing the back of the gauge cluster requires only a flat screwdriver. Disconnect the connector plug to insert two more terminals to control the cruise module and communicate to the LCD display.

As the RXT-X (and likewise all GTX and RXT models) feature tilt steering that pivots the entire gauge cluster, accessing the back panel of the gauges requires opening up the front storage cover and moving the steering to its highest position. Using a flat screwdriver, unlock all of the plastic tabs careful to pry open the panel from the gauge support. With the panel off, disconnect the gauge cluster.

Since this has the X-Steering package, remove the top cover over the throttle. The locking tabs should unsnap from the lower housing. The kit replaces the factory switch cover, all you need to be mindful of is carefully unsnapping the throttle accelerator sensor (TAS) from the plastic tabs holding it down.

With the TAS unplugged and removed as well as the gauge control switch, route the new cruise control switch harness through the factory sheath. This new harness will connect the new cruise control button to the terminal connector that plugs into the back of the gauge cluster.

Next, install the two new pre-stripped wires into the back of the connector. Once the terminals are coated in dielectric grease, reconnect the plug to the gauge cluster. Now, install the cruise control switch to the housing, followed by reinstalling the gauge control switch and the TAS. Using the new X-Steering button cover, install the rubber button and the new cover (making sure that all the buttons align with the new cover).

WELCOME TO THE WATER: Do you speak Sea-Doo? Sea-Doo Terminology

21 Thursday Feb 2013

Posted by Sea-Doo OnBoard Editor in "How-To" Series, Sea-Doo Lifestyle, Technologies

≈ 3 Comments

Tags

boat, boats, brakes, ibr, icontrol, iTC, jet boats, jet ski, jetskis, on-water brake, performance boats, personal watercraft, pwc, Sea-Doo, sea-doos, seadoo, stopping on the water, suspension, tubing, wake, Wake Boarding, water flume, water rooster, watercraft, waverunner, what does that sea-doo term mean?

Impeller? Ergolock? Sponsons?  The personal watercraft industry speaks its own language and here at Sea-Doo we also speak our own language.  We have distilled some of the most common acronyms and words related to Sea-Doo watercraft so the next time you are wondering, “just what is Sport Mode” you can easily find an answer.

A.E.S.: Adjustable Ergonomic Steering

Adjustable Rear Sponsons:  An efficient design that improves lateral stability. 3-position adjustable for skill level and riding environment: higher for a more playful freeride experience or lower for more aggressive turning. Winglet feature enhances lean angles during turning.

aS – Adjustable Suspension: Suspension that utilizes a superior grade high-performance shock made by FOX with full preload and compression manual adjustability.

Closed Loop Cooling System (CLCS): Uses coolant to keep a Sea-Doo’s engine running at the ideal temperature, much like a car’s radiator. The CLCS also keeps out corrosive saltwater and debris.

D.E.S.S. Digitally Encoded Security System: The Industry’s first digitally encoded theft-deterrent system. This system prevents unauthorized use. Sea-Doo’s are embedded with a unique microchip that is engaged with the rider’s lanyard. This feature was singled out by the National Insurance Crime Bureau as one of the best theft deterrents available on a personal watercraft.[1]

D-Sea-Bel System: This system combines a series of resonators and vibration absorbing components to make Sea-Doo watercraft some of the quietest on the water.

ECO mode: The iTC function that automatically determines the most economical power delivery and sets the optimal RPM for greatest fuel economy.

Ergolock System: A combination of ergonomic features that allow amazing control while cornering with less upper body fatigue. It features a narrow racing seat with knee grab design, adjustable handlebars and angled footwells that allow riders to “lock” in when cornering hard. This results in faster turns and more time on the water.

High Performance VTS (Variable Trim System): Provides pre-set positions for quick settings VTS (Variable Trim System) when adjusting boat trim, maximizes acceleration and high-speed stability.

iBR – Intelligent Brake and Reverse: The world’s only on-water braking system. The iBR system lets riders stop up to 100 feet sooner than any other watercraft[2]. All with the squeeze of a lever. And with its electronic reverse, it gives riders a level of maneuverability that makes docking easier. Click here to view a video on Sea-Doo iBR.

iControl: The “Brain’’ that integrates and controls all systems to create the best possible ride. iControl includes iBR, iTC and S³.

iControl Learning Key: The programmable Learning Key allows riders to limit the performance of the PWC based on skill-level.

iS: Intelligent Suspension. 6 inches of adjustable suspension that automatically adapt to isolate the rider from the impact of rough water.

Impeller: A rotating component of a centrifugal pump, usually made of iron, steel, bronze, brass, aluminum or plastic, that transfers energy from the motor.

iTC – Intelligent Throttle Control: Sea-Doo’s intuitive Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) technology. Sea-Doo watercraft are the only watercraft to start in neutral, so the engine runs without propelling the craft forward – giving riders safer dockside starts and easy, stress-free maneuverability. The throttle responds to an electronic signal instead of a cable. This allows more precise engine calibration, resulting in better fuel economy and a lower operating cost. It also features an activity-specific cruise control, Touring/Sport mode and ECO™ mode that can all be set to accommodate riding styles.

Naturally Aspirated: The Sea-Doo air intake, like in a car, draws air into the engine that is then mixed with fuel to power the watercraft. In a Naturally Aspirated engine the engine breaths naturally without forced induction.

PWC: Personal Watercraft. A PWC is a recreational watercraft that the rider sits on, or stands on, rather than riding inside of a boat.  PWCs have an inboard engine fueled by a  jet pump with an impeller to create thrust for propulsion and steering.  Most are designed for two or three people. The United States Coast Guard defines a personal watercraft as a jet drive boat less than 13’ feet in length.

ROTAX 4-TEC Engine:  Each Sea-Doo watercraft comes equipped with a legendary Rotax 4-TEC engine specifically designed for marine use. Not only do riders get quicker acceleration and a higher top speed, Rotax engines also works hand in hand with iTC to provide more precise engine calibration. What this means is better fuel economy.

S3 hull: Stepped, stable & strong. Our S³ Hull is the first and only one of its kind. Its stepped design reduces drag while staying glued to the water for a stable and consistent ride. The material of the S³ Hull is up to 20% lighter than competitors *[3], yet the hull remains incredibly strong, due to its ribbed construction. This means better handling and fuel efficiency.

Seadooing: Riding a Sea-Doo on the water.

Speed Based Ski Mode: This advanced iControl feature allows the driver to adjust the intensity of the launch for different rider skill levels and tow sports while maintaining a constant speed. There are 5 acceleration profiles for the best possible tow sports experience.

Sponsons: Projections from the sides of the watercraft for buoyancy and stability to increase floatation and lift when underway

Supercharged: Extra power. The engine artificially force feeds air into the engine increasing performance.

Suspension (S): Adjustable Suspension: 5.5 inches (12.7 cm) of suspension manually adjustable with a regular wrench. Gives riders a smooth ride in all water conditions.

T3 Hull: Innovative multi-staged design with extreme hard and soft chines. Allows for more precise cornering, enhances lean-in, cuts water and tracks better; extremely responsive.

Touring or Sport mode: Offers a choice between two throttle responses for different riding styles. Touring mode is the default setting offering a more progressive acceleration curve for a more confident ride – ideal for cruising and 2-up riding. Sport mode can be easily activated using the Sport button. It provides all acceleration performance for a more aggressive throttle response.

Touring Seat: Plush, ergonomic design provides maximum comfort and support for the rider and passenger.

Trim Tabs: Limit bow rise and improve parallelism to water. Also increase tracking in rough water conditions.

Tubing: The act of pulling an inflatable tube behind a personal watercraft or boat across a body of water.

Wake:  (Nautical Term) The waves or track left by a vessel or other object moving through water. Wake Boarders and Wake Skaters have made a sport out of riding the wake.

Wake Boarding:  A surface watersport, which involves riding a wakeboard over the surface of a body of water. It was developed from a combination of waterskiing, snowboarding and surfing.  A wake board is buoyant and traditionally constructed of foam or honeycomb mixed with resin and coated with fiberglass. The rider is attached to the wake board with adjustable bindings. The rider is towed behind a motorized vehicle such as a Sea-Doo watercraft, a boat, winches or a closed-course cable system.

Wake Skating: An adaptation of wakeboarding that uses a similar board design but the rider is not bound to the board in any way. The board is constructed of wood or fiberglass and covered with grip tape or a soft, high-traction foam, usually referred to as EVA foam. Here is a link to our instructional WAKE series on YouTube.

Waterskiing: A sport in which a person is typically pulled behind a personal watercraft, boat or cable over a body of water.

Did we miss anything? Let us know and we will continue to add to this list.

 

 


[1] Powersports Business, June 2009

[2] Based on BRP internal testing. Traveling at 50 mph (80.47km/h).

[3] Based on BRP internal testing of the density of the S³ Hull material of the Yamaha NanoXcel SMC

 

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