
The last three years has seen a 41 per cent increase in consumers purchasing Personal Watercraft (PWC) and after attending Sea-Doo’s 2007 model launch at Coolum in March, one can understand why.
Although they continue to receive negative press from some quarters, PWC’s are loads of fun and more consumer friendly than ever. Gone are the days when PWC riding was solely the domain of the cashed up, young adrenaline junkie tearing around your local waterway like a Crusty Demon on water. There’s something for everyone in PWC circa 2007 and this is highlighted by Sea-Doo’s extensive range that is made up of nine different models.
Sea-Doo divide their range into four segments: Performance, Luxury Performance, Recreation and Sport. There are improvements across each of these segments for 2007.
POWERSLAVE
Powerplants across the range have been refined. While the 215hp Rotax 1503 Series 4-Tec SCIC may no longer be the most powerful on the PWC market (Kawasaki’s 250hp takes this title), Sea-Doo still claim they are the fastest PWC on the water due to the lightweight nature of their craft. Both the 155hp and 130hp engines have also been improved. The company claims its Closed Loop Cooling System, which is standard on all 4-Tec engines, offers distinct advantages for skiers who want to ride in saltwater areas.
LUXURY
Craft in the luxury segment have undergone a total redesign to improve performance, practicality and functionality. Both the GTX and GTX Limited are significantly lighter than the 2006 versions. The ergonomics of the GTX range has been completely overhauled and now features a new touring seat as well as improved ergonomic design and a removable storage box.
PERFORMANCE
An RXP 155hp has been added to the performance segment to complement the big 215hp craft that have been the mainstays of this segment previously. The RXT, which has tasted success in the World Offshore Endurance Jet Championships over the past two years, now comes with adjustable handlebars.
SPORT
Perhaps the most interesting addition to the Sea-Doo range for 2007 is the Wake 215hp, the only PWC specifically designed for water sports. It includes a pop-up pylon, board rack, wide angle mirrors, storage tray and re-boarding step.
Sea-Doo claims more than 50 per cent market share in the PWC sector and, with more options than ever for the Sea-Doo enthusiast, this looks set to grow again in 2007.
We’ll feature an in-depth look at a couple of new models in the 2007 range in coming editions of TrailerBoat.