The 2014 Yamaha VX Cruiser, the top version in the VX Series has a major technical change this year, NanoXcel, which brought the dry weight down to 686 lbs. (311 kg). NanoXcel, which has been used in the FX and FZ Series for years, is a combination of material and process we will cover in this report. we also take a detailed look at the ride and comfort, from the ergonomics of the seat to the handling of the hull. Priced at $9,799 the VX Cruiser is not short on power and is tested at over 50 MPH.

Mission

The team at Yamaha designed the VX Cruiser to be a three-rider WaveRunner that virtually any family can afford, yet also offering the features, performance, handling and reliability expected of more expensive vehicles.

Overview

A large focus was placed on the overall looks and performance of the VX with the use of NanoXcel playing a major part. By manufacturing the hull from NanoXcel they were able to reduce the overall weight from 750 lbs. down to 686 lbs. (311 kg).

There were two clear results from this in our testing: the first of which was a higher top speed of over 50 mph. The second was the feeling of power in the lower speed range with passengers on board. With a target market new-to-PWC buyers and families, the VX Cruiser is an excellent machine for this mission.

NanoXcel

The NanoXcel is both a material and a process. Technology is not just found in the engines and electronics on watercraft these days. The materials are used in the deck and hulls, and are evolving to meet many needs. The hull of the VX Cruiser is made from such a technology.

So What is It? NanoXcel is a process that utilizes thermosetting resign, polyester resign, and nano-clay particle additives in the manufacturing of the hull. The process relies on the material's very small molecules and aligning them more tightly than can be done with conventional materials. The result of which is a hull, and in other models the decks as well, that is much denser and stronger.

This means that the builder can use less material and reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, while having precise fit-and-finish.

Repair? When it comes to the questions of strength and repair we can offer some insight. We know of Yamaha PWC owners who have struck rocks, and in all cases, either a scratch or a gouge were easily sanded out.

Power Package

The VX Cruiser is powered by the purpose-designed-and-built Yamaha 1052cc engine. This is a 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, electronically fuel injected and optimized to run on regular unleaded fuel. This engine has been around for several years and has been tested by BoatTEST.com many times. From our own experience and feedback from rental dealers, we can confidently say this is an extremely reliable engine.

The engine is connected via direct drive to a 155 mm high-pressure jet pump unit. Direct drive means that there is no transmission involved and the output drive shaft from the engine connects with the impeller on it in the jet pump unit. The impeller itself is a three-blade design made from stainless steel. All the components of the jet pump unit are manufactured from an aluminum alloy which provides excellent anti-corrosion protection in salt water.

Maintenance

Maintenance is a distinguishing feature. Yamaha Watercraft has enjoyed a well-deserved reputation for reliability and very low maintenance over the years. The engine itself is very easy to work on with the oil filter positioned with plenty of room to remove and replace it. The air filter is up out of the way and a snap to change. The only maintenance outside of the obvious oil changes, really comes down to just a visual check of the components from year to year.

Distinguishing Features

Seat Design

In addition to the NanoXcel hull, the VX Cruisers has a seat design that deserves some attention. The scalloped back for the driver and the width and angle of the seat were well thought out by the Yamaha team. It allows the driver to be comfortable as well as providing an ergonomic way for the riders' legs to help hold in place in the turns.

Remote Transmitter

Just like an electronic car key, the Yamaha remote transmitter can electronically lock a VX Cruiser when left on the beach or at the dock, preventing anyone from being able to start it. It can also be used to engage Low RPM Mode. This limits the engine from revving over a certain RPM setting which will come in handy with new riders. It can even be used to help conserve fuel.

Storage

In lower priced models of PWCs, storage is usually the first thing to disappear, but not in the VX Cruiser. There is a total of 15.1 gallons of storage and the forward compartment is the largest, capable of holding several PFDs, line and other items.

Yamaha's Engine Management System, is an integrated, computerized management system that controls and adjusts such functions as ignition timing, fuel injection mapping and engine diagnostics.

The Ride

The ride of the VX Cruiser is smooth and controlled with plenty of kick off the line. Turns are precise and forgiving. For that reason it's hard to get in trouble. The hull throws the spray low and out to the sides, even in wind. At speed the ride is firm and not loose in any way. We cruised along at 30-32 mph most of the time which was right around 6000 rpm. At that setting we burning 3.2 gph which means at least 5.5 hours of running time, calculated with a 10% reserve.

Speed was a plus on the new VX Cruiser with all of our runs averaging 53 mph, which is more then respectable for a 1052cc engine. For those wondering if there is enough power, the answer is yes. Newcomers to the sport will not have that feeling that they should have gone bigger.

Fit-And-Finish

The VX Cruiser after all is a Yamaha, a company that is hyper-obsessed with details, and this is evident in all parts of this PWC. All components are high-quality and hardware is aircraft grade aluminum or stainless. Something not widely known is that all Yamaha WaveRunners are painted, not gelcoat; they utilize a premium automotive paint for shine, durability and fade protection.

Observations

The VX Cruiser hits the mark when it comes to an affordable PWC that offers a family a balance between features and performance. It is well built and offers a state of the art engine with proven reliability. I would rate the ride comfort at a 9 out of a 10 and the overall quality is hard to beat.