Essential Things To Consider When Purchasing a Watercraft
Personal watercraft (PWC) is a perfect active leisure solution for enthusiasts of summer outdoor activities. Jet skis come in various models and sizes, ready to satisfy as many people’s needs as possible. You can find stand-up models for professional rides alone or tourist seacraft that accommodate up to three people and are perfect for family time together.
When buying a new means of transport, especially the one that needs special maintenance due to it being designed to use on water, it is vital to get as much information as possible. If you are looking to buy a new seacraft, you need to decide how you want to use it in the first place. It will allow you to narrow down the number of models to consider.
Here are some essential tips to take into account if you want to make the best possible choice.
Do Your Research
If you want to buy a seacraft, it is imperative to study the subject before picking one. Another thing is that learning about a seacraft’s technical characteristics and descriptions is not enough. You should dive deeper and get the full impression of owning a particular model that you liked.
First of all, it would be beneficial to hear what other people have to say about their experience with a particular aqua bike. Hence, if you’re thinking about acquiring a Sea-Doo, watch different YouTube tutorials and find Sea-Doo dealers near you that offer to test it before buying. If you consider getting a Honda, look for Honda jet ski reviews online and read opinions on water crafting forums. Remember to check out a particular model, not the brand’s overall offer. Such an approach will also allow you to identify any possible issues in the nearest future and determine a PWC’s character (and if it suits you).
Secondly, some dealers offer to take jet skis on a water test, which is an excellent opportunity to evaluate the watercraft’s condition and maneuvering, as well as your own skills. You can visit Globo Surf to find reviews about water sports articles.
Consider Buying a Used Jet Ski
Simply put, you have two options: to buy a new jet ski or to decide on a used one. The latter solution has its advantages, including lower seacraft prices and the opportunity to find models that are already comprehensively equipped.
However, it is crucial to find a reputable dealership and check legitimate offers, and maybe even bring a specialist to help you avoid buying a troublesome aqua bike. You should know what to pay attention to, as used jet skis may have some issues. For example, signs of rust should be considered a red flag.
Remember About Additional Equipment
Before you can test-drive your freshly bought personal watercraft on the water for the very first time, you will have to acquire some essential equipment (meaning additional expenses) in order to make your jet skiing experience safe.
Life jackets should always be your priority. The number of jackets should be equal to the number of expected passengers who will be on the aqua bike at the same time. Saving on them will not be worth it, as, at a dangerous moment, they may deflate and burst. A reliable life jacket should be comfortably cut and firmly sewn, without flaws and fine threads.
Another thing is acquiring a trailer for moving with your PWC and storing it in the offseason or finding a place that offers to store jet skis in colder months.
Include Maintenance Costs
When buying a new or used jet ski, it is crucial to consider the purchase price itself and think through additional maintenance costs, i.e., how much a personal watercraft will cost you per year or season. Such regular but necessary expenses include:
- Oil. It is crucial to change the oil in your jet ski regularly, and usually, it all depends on the operating mode and the brand of your jet ski, so make sure to do it according to a manufacturer’s requirements. For example, Sea-Doo only accepts Rotax-Bombardier oil, but the brands like Yamaha and Kawasaki recommend using TC-W3. Neglecting such needs may result in reduced performance and unpleasant problems with your jet ski in the future.
- Spark plugs. Their purpose is to save your aqua bike when it randomly sips water, but they must be specially made for jet skis, branded, and high-quality. Replacing the spark plugs will fix the situation in most cases, so make sure to keep them in reserve.
- Anti-corrosion sprays or lubricants. It is a universal remedy for protecting your jet ski from rust or corrosion. Its unique anti-corrosion composition prevents the engine from rusting and saves it from seawater’s harmful effects, which is an overly aggressive environment for any metal.
It is crucial to keep in mind such things before buying a personal watercraft and regularly sticking to them to prolong the PWC’s service and minimize its wear and tear.
Conclusion
Looking for the right personal watercraft may be confusing and time-consuming, as there are many different models on the market. When buying a seacraft, it is crucial to rely on your personal expectations towards the jet skiing experience and the functions you want it to have.
Whether you opt for a new or used jet ski, check out both positive and negative reviews in order to determine any possible issues or special maintenance requirements. Remember to evaluate your financial capacity by taking into account the aqua bike’s price, its maintenance, and any additional costs. Such an approach will allow you to prepare for the unexpected and have a good ride every day!
