2021 Yamaha VX Limited HO: The Watercraft Journal, EP. 76

[FYI, only the 2021 GP models have tilt steering. The VX models DO NOT. Apologies for the error.]
The Watercraft Journal reviews the all-new 2021 Yamaha VX Limited High Output (HO) WaveRunner, the most feature and accessory-equipped Recreation-segment PWC in the industry. Read the whole review HERE:
watercraftjournal.com/gallery...
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[@davidnunn1163]

Just bought the last one my local dealer has reserved... just waiting for delivery. As a first time buyer, this video was very helpful and informative.

[@watercraftjournal]

Glad to hear it!

[@cameroncattery8064]

Awesome review! I've been waiting for this one haha. Thanks so much for helping me w/ my decision!!

[@watercraftjournal]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@ethanmittler3682]

Been waiting nearly 5 months for this exact jet ski and still don’t know when I’ll be getting it

[@aaron-fauth]

@@ethanmittler3682 you probably won’t be getting it any time soon

[@ethanmittler3682]

@@aaron-fauth got it months ago

[@aaron-fauth]

@@ethanmittler3682 shoot I was told July

[@TheRealHeavyG]

Got a 2022 VX Cruiser HO last week. I'm enjoying the heck out of it so far. Originally wanted an FX HO, but I decided to take what they had available so I could be riding next spring. Boy, it didn't disappoint. Plenty of speed and handles really well. I'm sure I would also like the FX, but no regrets so far!

[@watercraftjournal]

That's awesome! Glad you're enjoying it.

[@jaythirty30]

Great in depth look at the ski I’ve had my eye on I can’t wait to get mine, sucks that I’ll b looking at it in the garage till warm weather comes back around...

[@watercraftjournal]

Dang! Sorry to hear that!

[@captainjocassee]

Bro come down south you can ride year round. Take a couple days off and let’s roll lol

[@RaulGarcia-sq3px]

Awesome work as always! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@watercraftjournal]

Thanks again!

[@LifeBeginsOnTheWater]

Great job Kevin, I enjoyed the review. Have a few friends waiting on this model to hit the dealers doorsteps. Billy D

[@watercraftjournal]

Yeah, they're on their way.

[@ParrotHead1980]

Nice review kevin. I can't believe it's the #1 selling pwc in the world. That's crazy considering seadoo sell more jetskis to most riders in the US. Yamaha should be very proud of that. That is why I ride a VXR, great gas mileage and dependability 👍👍

[@watercraftjournal]

I agree 100% And Sea-Doo's marketshare lead is by only 4%. Not a whole heck of a lot.

[@jstone1211]

I put a deposit down on a VX Cruiser HO in October 2020, I hope I can take delivery in the spring. I cant wait to get this puppy on the water....

[@watercraftjournal]

They're trying to get them out as quick as the outside-sourced parts come in.

[@tariqueh4708]

Great review 🙌🏿

[@watercraftjournal]

Thank you!! 😊

[@elijahroman6764]

Put my deposit on one in August. Patiently waiting for mine... This video made me happier with my decision

[@watercraftjournal]

Glad to hear it.

[@elijahroman6764]

@@watercraftjournal Any idea when they might hit Florida dealers?

[@watercraftjournal]

Currently

[@cameroncattery8064]

@@watercraftjournal I've heard either early or mid November :)

[@elijahroman6764]

@@cameroncattery8064 I hope that is accurate 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@brianbelson7537]

I have been looking at the FX SVHO Limited, but after seeing this review I am considering this instead. Kevin - in your opinion which one would you prefer? I live on Lake Ontario in New York and it is often rougher water. I have 2 girls (6 and 10) that would be riding a lot with me.

[@watercraftjournal]

Go with FX High Output - save the money and put it towards accessories.

[@froilanavilla59]

Awesome! Have to buy one soon!🙏😇😍

[@watercraftjournal]

Please do! And let us know if you do!

[@danielchoi6477]

Enjoy your channel, one question, I am planning to pull knee board, wake board, please provide what you recommend between VX and GP. Thanks.

[@watercraftjournal]

VX Cruiser HO. You don't want a supercharger, go naturally aspirated.

[@ADD_50]

I have heard you can override the the factory speed limiter. If this is possible could we expect low 70's?

[@watercraftjournal]

On this? LOL, no way. There's no limiter on the High Outputs, only the SVHOs.

[@rosscollier3992]

Hey bro, bit late to the party but just wondering how much wider/deeper the foot wells are on the new model? I have bad hip problems and find the 2019 model to be far too wide and really uncomfortable. I’m 6ft3 also. Wondering if the new ones would be comfier and along the lines of a seadoo gti which have much better foot wells. Unfortunately due to a shortage there are non to try out!

[@watercraftjournal]

On the VX? Not very much at all.

[@donaldwest9103]

I didn't think it came with tilt steering? Yamahas features discription doesn't list this feature. Comprehensive review as always. Thanks.

[@jasonbourne3448]

I noticed that too. I don't think it has tilt steering.

[@watercraftjournal]

RATS! Yes, you found a mistake. No, it DOES NOT have tilt steering, only the GP models do. The article has been corrected. Unfortunately, we can't fix the audio once it's been published. -K

[@christophercameron1517]

Kevin, how do you think this particular model would handle in the ocean for island hopping/fishing?

[@watercraftjournal]

Woof. It'll be rough. You won't feel it as much as a GP, but she's still a small vessel.

[@paulcastanon9668]

I’m thinking about getting the VX Cruiser HO because I’m on a budget. I’m 52 years old and wanting to use it for longer touring rides but I like to take it out and play around too. Would this be a good choice? Also what kind of upgrades would be good to improve handling and maybe get a little more performance out of this NA engine?

[@watercraftjournal]

Certainly! The Limited provides all of the accessories for a family, but the Cruiser HO is basically the same model without all the toys.

[@alhit007]

Another great video Kevin, your knees look like they are around ears🤙, are they very small for Big guys?? I am 6.2

[@watercraftjournal]

Not so at all, but after riding the SuperJet all that morning, I was enjoying sitting back and relaxing a little on this one. -K

[@chrisedward7575]

Buy a Sea Doo. They have a better seating position for tall people.

[@youtubergrouper3428]

Loved the review, as always. Which do you think would be faster (not just top speed) this model or the new 2021 GTR 230? Since the Yamaha has the bigger engine but the sea-doo has a bit more HP.

[@watercraftjournal]

It's not about a "bigger engine" or even horsepower, but hull design, shape and material. And under those guidelines, the VX is a superior hull.

[@youtubergrouper3428]

@@watercraftjournal thank you!

[@ParrotHead1980]

@@watercraftjournal So true kevin and Yamaha has great build quality. Plus the seadoo 230 is supercharged which means more maintenance less reliability.

[@centerlineproducts31]

That is one awesome machine

[@watercraftjournal]

Yeah, it's a lot of fun!

[@guerraf117]

That's a nice machine ! a little expensive but I think it's worth it because of the extras, hey Kevin but I don't think it comes with steering adjustment

[@watercraftjournal]

You're correct - and we noted in the written article - the tilt steering is only available on the GP models. (And all FX models of course.)

[@kelvinjimenez5767]

Can you do a 2023 review VX limited?

[@user1456]

Doesn't look like there is much engine access with the seat removed. Do you need to remove the plastic seat support surround to change the spark plugs?

[@watercraftjournal]

The plugs? No. You can reach them quite easily.

[@asmckellar]

Hi Kevin ... wondering if you are hearing anything about excessive water hull accumulation in these new VX models. I have a 21 VX Cruiser HO and I am routinely having to wet vac out a liter or so after the first 5 rides. Plus water is getting all in the front bow storage area. Is this normal? I have my 10 hour initial service coming up and I will certainly mention it. I also have a 21 FX SVHO and that hull is bone dry everywhere inside thus far after much more aggressive riding (at least for me). Any thoughts? The stark difference between my 2 units is the only reason I ask. Thanks.

[@watercraftjournal]

Define "excessive." How much water is in the base of the hull after each ride? And where are you riding? If you'r'e riding in big conditions, you might just be experiencing some water intrusion (the hood latch is easily adjusted).

[@asmckellar]

@@watercraftjournal Maybe an inch or so, but I suspect I don’t have enough experience to know what “excessive”constitutes. Predominantly open lake and sound riding with some chop. I suspect water intrusion too and will adjust the hood latch and keep an eye on it. The VX otherwise is running great, though I prefer the FX. Thank you for dealing with us newbies.

[@watercraftjournal]

Our pleasure! An inch isn't sooo bad, but it's still not great. Just make sure to pull your drain plugs and when possible, raise the nose of your trailer a foot or two to let it drain out properly. And yes, there's zero harm in readjusting your hood latch for a tighter seal.

[@jasonmekush5280]

great vid ty

[@watercraftjournal]

You betcha!

[@Christopherthomas123]

Thanks Kevin. Between the VX Cruiser and VX Cruiser HO. Not concerned about top speed, mainly family use. Will I regret not stepping up to the HO? Any reliability/mx considerations with the HO vs the base? Thank you!

[@watercraftjournal]

Both are great machines; we prefer the 180HP over the 125HP because of the ski's responsiveness when fully laden (fuel, passengers, etc.).

[@Christopherthomas123]

@@watercraftjournal Helpful as always, thanks!

[@codysmith7045]

Does the VX HO have the hull issues with the nanoexcel hull?

[@3680kpknj]

Great review. Put down a down payment on a VX cruiser HO in New Jersey, wasn't really interested in the speakers or the towable. Are you hearing anything on the release date? Dealer doesn't have a timetable. Do they release to dealers based on climate?

[@watercraftjournal]

They're showing up in major markets right now. You'll have to ask your dealer.

[@jchu5276]

Just bought the Limited and Cruiser right off the delivery truck inventory dealer said by May.

[@juantinoco3641]

Kevin, I was hoping to hear some input about the sound quality of the integrated speakers since nobody has reviewed them, did you have a chance to play with them? I know that is not why we buy these machines but just curious about that aspect. I have a deposit on one and really looking forward to getting it in the next couple of months. Thanks!

[@gfox731]

Saving it for another video hopefully. Another good video. Shame I bought the 2020 version of the VX!

[@cameroncattery8064]

From listening to them myself at a waverunner showcase a couple months ago, I feel as if they're very comparable to sea doos brp audio system

[@watercraftjournal]

Juan, thanks for the question. It's hard to capture the audio quality on-camera - not just because all you'll hear is wind noise, but KZbin won't let me play any songs that I didn't write myself! In ranking the 3 OE's factory-installed sound systems on clarity at 50mph, it'd be Sea-Doo, Yamaha and Kawasaki.

[@stevecordina]

@@watercraftjournal I am planning to get the 2021 FXHO cruiser but now am rethinking it due to the integrated speakers in the VX. Is it worth the change in mind or is the FX still the better choice overall?

[@tonyh5579]

@@watercraftjournal I am having issues on both my 2021 VX and 2021 GP 1800 with audio where by battery gets drained in 1-2 weeks of not riding the ski. It actually damaged both batteries and required replacement... Has this issue been reviewed/discussed, is a solution available?

[@JW-hd]

Very cool. Do the speakers feel like they are in the way of your feet at times?

[@watercraftjournal]

No, they're far enough ahead that they don't cut off your foot room.

[@JW-hd]

Thanks for the review I found one at a dealer in San Antonio I think this will make the perfect second ski for the family.

[@carsonknott9884]

We just ordered one of these and I’m worried about the speakers. Do they sound good while going fast or does the wind and sound of riding drown it out?

[@watercraftjournal]

They drown out at around 55mph.

[@carsonknott9884]

@@watercraftjournal thank you!

[@denniszaluzhny4120]

Will you be able to get your hands on a 2021 VX Deluxe? It is so hard this year you can't even see them in person right now!

[@watercraftjournal]

To do a review? Unlikely. The VX Limited HO was an easy "get" but the TR-1 powered Deluxe will likely be "called for" before I can review it.

[@denniszaluzhny4120]

@@watercraftjournal Gotcha, thanks!

[@ParrotHead1980]

Great review kevin👍, too bad the new VX is 27 pounds heavier than the 2020 GP1800R HO. And it's about 4 mph slower from your previous tested GP1800R HO. I believe the VXR and GP1800R HO both have trim which does make a difference in top speed compared to the VX's which don't. Either way the VX limited is the best bang for the buck with all the accessories it comes with.🤘

[@watercraftjournal]

You're forgetting the single most important difference, WEIGHT. The VX Limited HO is made with NanoXcel. The VXR/GP1800R HO are made with NanoXcel2 - shaving off considerable weight. Not apples-to-apples to compare the two.

[@ParrotHead1980]

@@watercraftjournal Well the 2018 VX HO and VXR models only had Nano Xcel hulls. It wasn't until 2019 I believed and up that they came with Nano 2. But either way you are correct, weight makes a huge difference. 🙂actually correction only the 2019 VXR models and up began nanoxcell2 hulls. The VX series have never had Nanoxcell 2 hulls. My bad. 😁

[@arthurkubrick949]

Amazing ! This ski seems close to perfection. I particulary appreciate your comparisons with GP 1800Ho. However there is an info that i cant find with precision: The fuel consumption beetween those 2. I eared about the GP was a big fuel consumer, which suprised me because of it light weight and natural aspiration motor. Any idea of those 2 skis fuel consumption ? :)

[@watercraftjournal]

We saw 6.5mpg @WOT

[@ms.sandrarollinsketchpel3484]

Kevin, some questions that I've been unable to answer: 1) Is the VX HO's gas tank moved back in the hull in the 2021 MY, as the GP 1800R's is? I'm interested in the center of gravity improvements with the change. 2) How tall are you/how long are your arms? I have short arms, and I'm afraid that standing up while riding will be a problem, since the VX doesn't come with adjustable steering. 3) Given the VX HO is a little bit longer and 60 lbs heavier than the GP 1800R, you note that it handles bumps a bit better. HOW MUCH better for an experienced rider? I don't mind power, but I do mind uncomfortable porpoising at higher speeds... I'm trying to decide if the GP is a better choice due to adjustable steering height and ride plate/pump hookup, or if the VX HO makes more sense due to comfort..... Thanks for the reviews, always fun to watch!

[@watercraftjournal]

1. Yes, we understood it to be so. 2. The VX and GP are the same length. 3. The GP is absolutely not for you. It is designed for RACING. Casual riders come to hate it.

[@ms.sandrarollinsketchpel3484]

@@watercraftjournal Yamaha's site says that the VXHO is 132.7" long, and the GP is 131.9, FYI. Not a casual rider; live on the water, and have been riding for 25 years.

[@pghdoug5927]

Good luck getting repair parts if you would need something. Still waiting for parts for my 2020 FX .

[@watercraftjournal]

Sadly, that's the same across the board for all brands. You're not alone.

[@armandoruiz2089]

What. Broke. And. Why. Thx

[@pghdoug5927]

@@armandoruiz2089 A buddy ran over a tow rope on the 4th of July and it damaged the pump. Lost the entire season waiting for parts. Yamaha customer service blamed supply line delays due to Covid. Looking forward to an early spring.

[@ethanmittler3682]

Been waiting nearly 5 months for this exact jet ski and still don’t know when I’ll be getting it

[@watercraftjournal]

Please see Kevin's Live Session he did discussing the reasons behind the delay.

[@justthisguy1948]

Took me a day to find one

[@ethanmittler3682]

@@justthisguy1948 well yeah lol they’re common now

[@justthisguy1948]

@@ethanmittler3682 yea right try it

[@ethanmittler3682]

@@justthisguy1948 yeah I got mine about 3 months ago

[@dchampagne1000]

How does this compare to a gtr230 and will it be okay for use on the ocean?

[@watercraftjournal]

This is a superior hull design for open ocean riding, but Sea-Doo has preferable ergonomics.

[@dchampagne1000]

@@watercraftjournal awesome thank you! Can’t wait to get rid of the GTR, always bounces on the waves on the ocean rather than attempting to cut through them

[@landonwade99]

Have you ever been to lake Cumberland in KY?

[@watercraftjournal]

You betcha!

[@landonwade99]

@@watercraftjournal awesome!! That’s where I live!!

[@NMBSUMMER]

Who makes the best dual PWC trailers for highway speeds?

[@watercraftjournal]

Triton or Magic Tilt

[@NMBSUMMER]

​@@watercraftjournal thanks! can you run these 75-80 on interstate, pulling with full sized truck

[@watercraftjournal]

You should never tow a trailer about 70. Please research tongue weights and weight distribution to see what happens at these speeds.

[@Rommelev]

Hello from Russia, Stalingrad! is the exhaust sound of gp1800r ho different from vx1800 ho?

[@watercraftjournal]

Not much, it's all the same parts. It's just the hull is thinner and has less sound absorption.

[@Rommelev]

@@watercraftjournal which one would you advise to buy vx1800 ho or gp1800r ho with arguments? Which material is better than Nanoxcel or Nanoxcel2?

[@watercraftjournal]

All of these questions have been answered in previous videos. Please check our archives.

[@denniszaluzhny4120]

Any ideas when shipped to New York?

[@watercraftjournal]

No clue. Models are currently shipping now.

[@denniszaluzhny4120]

@@watercraftjournal Called my dealer, it was delivered back in late September. Just FYI!

[@jc9601]

Kevin, I have a 2019 fx ho, my top speed is 58 mph, can you offer any reason why the Vk is faster. Tks Jeff

[@watercraftjournal]

You mean the VX? A couple of reasons: 1. lighter weight; 2. ideal conditions; 3. the FX naturally nose-plows. Trim that ski almost all the way up, you'll pick up some MPH. That, or get the RIVA ride plate. Same effect.

[@adrenalinefilmspr]

Im definitely buying the limited vx one they arrive.

[@cameroncattery8064]

@@adrenalinefilmspr I know for many dealership many people already have a lot reserved lol

[@raymondbordonaro7408]

its heavier or it can be because of the computer

[@adrenalinefilmspr]

@@cameroncattery8064 im in Puerto Rico. And there is only 1 dealership.

[@Mad-i134]

Just got mine this past Monday, same color . My question is do you recommend taking it out to the ocean? Will be my first time taking it out this coming Sunday. Can you give us the up and downs? Thanks man!

[@watercraftjournal]

Of course, just make sure to properly flush it afterward (watch our "Saltwater" video).

[@Mad-i134]

@@watercraftjournal thanks! Exited! Taking out the family on our new toy to Long Beach,CA

[@watercraftjournal]

That’s a pretty grueling ride out of Queensgate, especially for a first time. Try to keep inside of the breakwater.

[@Mad-i134]

@@watercraftjournal wait, where is queensgate?

[@watercraftjournal]

You’ll want to Google Map the area.

[@ArtyDiaz117]

I bought mine but got the vx 1.8 Ho black and green sexy.

[@watercraftjournal]

Very cool!

[@patrickmorel477]

Wich one in the series are the more stable and confortable on the water?

[@watercraftjournal]

All of the VX models are identical in hull and shape.

[@patrickmorel477]

@@watercraftjournal well then if I would like a 3 seater no sound system the longest one and not supercharged if its possible to save gas....lol otherwise i'll take supercharged if thats the only model that has 3 seater... what should I get? What do you suggest?

[@watercraftjournal]

VX High Output Cruiser or VX High Output are your best options.

[@patrickmorel477]

@@watercraftjournal thanks for the infos for the vx yamaha ! by brp I would take gtx 170 and by kawasaki are you familiar with these produkts? I'm hesitating between those 3! 3 seat non supercharged ... what kawa has to offer?

[@watercraftjournal]

We're familiar with ALL OF THEM. Our suggestion still stands.

[@andrewfreeman88]

Just wish there was a way to remove that water spitter on the back...

[@watercraftjournal]

It's a single hose clamp. Jeez. Unthread that and pull the hose off and let it spray backwards like the jet pump.

[@andrewfreeman88]

@@watercraftjournal Gotcha thanks

[@SuperHemi2011]

Are you able to tell us anything on when they plan on shipping the vx's? Yamaha doesn't like to answer their social media lol

[@watercraftjournal]

Literally happening right now. Talk to a DEALER!

[@SuperHemi2011]

@@watercraftjournal I have a deposit on the vx cruiser ho already. Was just seeing if I was going to be waiting much longer... living in Florida we have year round ski season lol

[@watercraftjournal]

It all depends on your dealer.

[@seafarerboy7984]

Love the Seadoo color scheme lol

[@watercraftjournal]

Everyone takes from each other from year to year.

[@boydlakecrew772]

Yellow is classic Yamaha.

[@watercraftjournal]

Yeah, but this is definitely not what you'd call "classic yellow."