The Yamaha GP1800 took the personal watercraft world by surprise with its release in 2017. It pushed the envelope within the racing community, and was even awarded Watercraft of the Year.
Since then, it has had no problems maintaining a reputation as the fastest Waverunner Yamaha has ever produced. However, many people are curious to see what Yamaha does next.
As the front runner of the industry’s best selling performance race series, the new Yamaha GP1800 has high standards to meet. It gained plenty of fans almost immediately, but can the new year model maintain expectations?
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YAMAHA GP1800 OVERVIEW
Currently the Yamaha GP1800 has a base price of just $13,999, making it one of the most affordable performance Waverunners they’ve ever made. It boasts impressive features such as a supercharged engine, an upgraded super lightweight hull, and an ergonomic racing seat.
As the next step up from the Yamaha VXR, the GP1800 is at the top of the line in Yamaha’s performance series. It’s widely considered to be the fastest, quickest, and most precise handling Waverunner that Yamaha has ever released.
Despite being one of the newest members of the Yamaha Waverunner line up, it has already carved out a fairly large fan base. This is most likely due to it’s blend of performance capabilities, along with a more than reasonable price tag.
DESIGN
At its core, the Yamaha GP1800 is designed specifically for closed course racing. Everything from its top speed to its precise handling was geared towards performance. It’s meant to accommodate all of the thrill seeking enthusiasts out there, but maintains a relatively low asking price.
HULL & DECK
One of the largest contributing factors to the renowned top speed and overall performance of the GP1800 is actually its ultra lightweight NanoXcel2 hull and deck.
By upgrading the hull from the already lightweight NanoXcel hull to an ultra lightweight NanoXcel2 hull, the overall dry weight was dramatically reduced. Not only does this lightweight hull affect how it handles, but it dramatically reduces weight as well. This results in a very responsive ride, with an excellent power to weight ratio.
The rear deck on the GP1800 is very small, which is generally to be expected on a performance watercraft. Even with that considered, it has no problem handling most common tow sports. On the back of the deck is a built in tow hook, and a convenient reboarding step that tucks away when not in use. It also has custom cut deck mats on the rear platform and inside footwells.
SEATING
A textured and bolstered racing inspired seat is outfitted on the GP1800. It allows for several riding positions, and even has knee padding extending up the sides. The ergonomic seat really shines in racing environments, but is great for simply cruising as well.
Up to 3 people can comfortably fit on the seat. It’s spacious enough that generally riders don’t feel too cramped, even on long distance rides. There’s also a grip handle surrounding the back of the seat to give passengers extra stability.
STORAGE & FUEL CAPACITY
A total of 24.6 gallons (93.1 liters) of storage is available on board. This includes watertight storage, as well as a small glove box with dual cup holders. The large storage capacity makes it an excellent model for tow sports, or even jet ski fishing.
The fuel tank has a capacity of 18.5 gallons (70 liters), which is much needed due to its supercharged engine. Despite not being the most fuel efficient Waverunner, the 18.5 gallon tank is usually enough to get through a solid day of riding. Some people may find a full tank can even last an entire weekend.
ENGINE
Where the Yamaha GP1800’s claim to fame really lies is in its engine. It’s fitted with an incredibly powerful supercharged 4 cylinder, 4 stroke, Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) Yamaha Marine Engine. This 1.8 liter engine has a total displacement of 1,812cc, which is the highest displacement in its class.
The Yamaha GP1800 has a top speed of 78 mph (125.5 kph), and can reach 0-30 in under 2 seconds. This is the fastest top speed out of the entire Yamaha line up.
Like with all Yamaha Waverunners, the GP1800 uses an open loop cooling system. Generally this is thought to be more reliable than closed loop systems.
NOTABLE FEATURES
The Yamaha GP1800 comes with tons of bells and whistles, but these are some of the more noteworthy features.
DUAL REMOTE TRANSMITTERS
Two small remote transmitters can be used to turn on Low RPM mode or Security mode.
The low RPM mode is a great way to limit the watercraft’s capabilities when an inexperienced rider is using it. In addition, it can also help increase fuel efficiency as well. By limiting the GP1800’s top speed and acceleration, it’s much safer for new riders, and it naturally consumes less fuel.
With the security mode, the transmitters can be used to disable the engine to prevent unauthorized start ups. This is a pretty basic security feature, but still useful nonetheless.
RIDE TECHNOLOGY
Yamaha’s RiDE technology is a built in intelligent braking and reverse system. When braking, RiDE technology slows down the watercraft smoothly to prevent riders from being thrown off. It also allows the watercraft to go in reverse, which makes docking a much easier process.
MULTIFUNCTION INFORMATION CENTER
On the dashboard of the Yamaha GP1800 is a digital display showing a wide range of information. It contains things like a speedometer, fuel level, check engine light, and other information that’s useful when riding.
FEATURE & FUNCTION SUMMARY
- Yamaha RiDE Technology
- NanoXcel2 Ultra Lightweight Hull and Deck
- Multifunction information center
- Security / Low RPM Mode Dual Remote Transmitters
- Electric Trim System
- Ergonomic 3 Person Racing Inspired Seat
- Watertight Storage
- Dual Mirrors
- Glove Box with Dual Cup Holders
- Convenient Fold Down Reboarding Step
- Custom Cut Deck Mats
- Tow Hook
- Automatic Bilge
- 1 Year Limited Factory Warranty
ADDITIONAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Length: 11′
- Width: 4′
- Height: 3′ 11″
- Dry Weight: 769 lbs
- Fuel Capacity: 18.5 Gallons
- Storage Capacity: 24.6 Gallons
- Supercharged 4 cylinder, 4 stroke, Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) Yamaha Marine Engine
- Pump Type: 160mm High Pressure
- Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded
- Available Colors: Team Yamaha Blue or Torch Red Metallic
- 1-3 person riding capacity
SUMMARY
The Yamaha GP1800 is arguably one of the best performance Waverunners ever manufactured. It has an incredible top speed, amazing handling, and several high end features built in. A lot of great things can be said about it, this isn’t the best watercraft for everyone.
Although it is an excellent watercraft for performance lovers, this may not be the best entry level Waverunner. As an extremely powerful performance watercraft, it can be very dangerous for inexperienced riders to operate. However, for any thrill seeking personal watercraft enthusiasts, there are very few reasons not to go with the GP1800.
Visit Yamaha’s official website for any additional information on the Yamaha GP1800.
I just bought the Yamaha GP 1800R SVHO wave runner. Does it need a separate “sea weed” intake filter to prevent clogging???