2007-2014 Yamaha VX Cruiser Review and Specs [Video]
The 2007-2014 Yamaha VX Cruiser was the top-of-the-line model in the first-generation VX WaveRunner series. This model was almost equivalent to the VX Deluxe except for its luxury bolstered seat and unique graphics. These skis shared their first-generation VX hull and big-bore, 1052cc, 102hp MR1 Marine engine with the base VX Sport.
If you want to find out more about this high-end Recreation WaveRunner, you’ve come to the right place.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Yamaha VX Cruiser review!
2007-2014 Yamaha VX Cruiser Review
The Yamaha VX Line
The first Yamaha VX models were the 2005-2006 VX110 Sport and Deluxe.
They were designed with the revvy big-bore 4-stroke MR1 engine and an all-new VX hull.
In 2007, these models were renamed as VX and completed with the high-end VX Cruiser.
Four years later, this line was expanded with the more powerful VXS and VXR, featuring the new 1812cc engine.
In summary, first-generation VX Yamaha PWCs were as follows:
- 2005-2006 VX110 Sport
- 2005-2006 VX110 Deluxe
- 2007-2014 VX Sport
- 2007-2014 VX Deluxe
- 2007-2014 VX Cruiser
- 2011-2014 VXR
- 2011-2014 VXS
Yamaha VX Cruiser Hull and Top Deck
Just like its more affordable siblings, the 2007-2014 VX Cruiser was built on the first-generation VX platform. This mid-sized Yamaha PWC hull was designed for the Recreation VX series.
It measured 126.8 inches in length, 46.1 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height. Thanks to its impressive dimensions it could accommodate the 4-stroke MR1 engine with ease.
The dry weight of the 2007 VX Cruiser was 712 pounds, which increased up to 750 pounds for the 2013 season. For the next model year, the weight of the ski dropped to 686 pounds, thanks to the new NanoXcel1 material.
This 64-pound weight loss increased the power-to-weight ratio of the ski from 0.136 to 0.149 hp/lb. This translated to a faster acceleration and greater fuel mileage.
Just like its siblings, the VX Cruiser was rated for three riders and its overall weight capacity was 530 pounds.
Its top deck housed a 1.4-gallon glovebox, a 16.4-gallon bow storage, and a 15.9-gallon fuel tank. (The latter was enlarged to 18.5 gallons for the 2014 model year.)
After the 2014 season, this model was phased out by the revamped, second-generation VX Cruiser.
Yamaha VX Cruiser Engine
The power source of the Yamaha VX Cruiser was a 4-stroke, 1052cc, DOHC, inline-3 powerhouse that offered a restricted performance of 102hp at 8000 RPM. This unit was commonly known as the big-bore MR1 engine since its small-bore variant displaced at 998cc.
Both of these engines were marinized configurations of the high-performing Yamaha R1 motorcycle engine.
This is why they revved so high and were labeled as M(arine)R1.
In a nutshell, the key specs of the big-bore (1052cc) MR1 engine were as follows:
- 4-stroke, Inline-3 architecture
- Bore x stroke: 76 x 58 mm
- Compression ratio: 11.4:1
- Dry sump lubrication
- DOHC
- TCI ignition system
- Fuel injection system
- Electric start
- Open-loop cooling system
- NGK CR9EB spark plugs
In VXs, its power was restricted to 102hp at 8000 RPM, which translated to outstanding reliability and durability.
Yamaha VX Cruiser Features
There’s no question that the VX Cruiser was the most luxuriously equipped VX WaveRunner of its time. It was equipped with all the bells that the Deluxe comes with but enjoyed the more comfortable Cruiser seat.
The model-exclusive features of the VX Cruiser (and VX Deluxe) included:
- Yamaha Security System (VX Deluxe/VX Cruiser)
- Remote key fob (VX Deluxe/VX Cruiser)
- Dual mirrors (VX Deluxe/VX Cruiser)
- Removable beverage holder (VX Deluxe/VX Cruiser)
- Cruiser seat (VX Cruiser)
- Front storage compartment (16.4 US gal)
- Glovebox (1.4 US gal)
- Fire extinguisher container
- Tool kit
- Deck mats
- Bow and stern eyes
- Engine cut-off switch
- Engine shut-off cord (safety lanyard)
- Tilt steering
- Drain plugs
- Rope holes
- Rear grab handle
- One-piece saddle
- Fuel cock knob
- Ski tow eye
- Sponsons
- Finger throttle lever
- Cooling water pilot outlet
- Visibility spout
- Speedometer
- Tachometer
- Fuel level meter
- Hour meter/Voltmeter
- Check engine warning indicator
- Fuel warning indicator
- Oil pressure warning indicator
- Engine overheat warning indicator
- “WARNING” light
- “SECURITY” indicator (VX Deluxe/VX Cruiser)
- L-Mode (VX Deluxe/VX Cruiser)
Yamaha VX Cruiser Top Speed and Performance
The top speed of the VX Cruiser was roughly 52-54 mph on radar or GPS. Riding at WOT the ski burned 7.4-8 gph, which converted to a cruising range of 2.14-2.3 hours.
As reported by Yamaha, the 2014 VX Cruiser could cover 155 miles on one tank of gas. Sure, this model was designed with the larger 18.5-gallon fuel tank and the 64-pound-lighter NanoXcel platform.
Thanks to its low running costs and predictable riding experience, the VX Cruiser instantly became popular among recreational PWC riders.
Besides families, novice riders also appreciated its easy handling, luxury features, and great capacities.
Therefore, it is not surprising that the VXs became the best-selling models on the PWC market in a short time.
Yamaha VX Cruiser Problems
Even though the first-generation VX Cruiser built its reputation on its legendary durability, it had some common problems, including:
- Spark plug corrosion: The spark plugs of the MR1 engine rusted easily and were prone to breaking into the cylinder head. This could be prevented by coating the plug threads with some anti-seize grease.
- Weak throttle cable: The throttle cable of VX WaveRunners was prone to cracking or bending, which didn’t allow you to completely close the throttle. Keeping safety in mind, this cable had to be inspected regularly.
- Defective mirrors: The mirrors on this ski were quite useless since they were mounted in the wrong position. On top of that, they often broke with time.
Yamaha VX Cruiser Specs Charts
For your convenience, we’ve listed the main specifications of the 2007 Yamaha VX Cruiser in these charts:(Please note the specs may vary by the model year.)Yamaha VX Cruiser Engine Specs
2007 Yamaha VX Cruiser | Engine Specs |
---|---|
Type | 4-stroke |
Number of cylinders | 3 |
Displacement | 1052 cm³ (64.2 cu in.) |
Bore and Stroke | 76 × 58 mm (2.99 × 2.28 in) |
Compression Ratio | 11.4:1 |
Lubrication system | Dry sump |
Cooling System | Water cooled |
Starting System | Electric starter |
Ignition System | T.C.I. |
Spark Plug Gap | 0.7-0.8 mm (0.028-0.031 in) |
Spark Plugs Type | NGK CR9EB |
Battery Capacity | 12 V 19 Ah |
Charging system | Flywheel magneto |
Yamaha VX Cruiser Drive Unit
2007 Yamaha VX Cruiser | Drive System |
---|---|
Propulsion System | Jet pump |
Jet Pump Type | Axial flow, single stage |
Impeller Rotation | Counterclockwise |
Jet Thrust Nozzle Horizontal Angle | 24 + 24 degree |
Yamaha VX Cruiser Performance
2007 Yamaha VX Cruiser | Performance |
---|---|
Maximum Output | 102hp (75.0 kW) @ 8,000 RPM |
Maximum Fuel Consumption | 7.4 US gal/h (28 L/h) |
Cruising Range at full throttle | 2.14 hr. |
Trolling speed | 1,650 +/-50 r/min |
Yamaha VX Cruiser Dimensions
2007 Yamaha VX Cruiser | Dimensions |
---|---|
Overall Length | 126.8 in (3,220 mm) |
Overall Width | 46.1 in (1,170 mm) |
Overall Height | 45.3 in (1,150 mm) |
Dry Weight | 711 lb (323 kg) |
Maximum capacity | 3 riders/530 lb |
Yamaha VX Cruiser Fuel and Oil
2007 Yamaha VX Cruiser | Fuel and Oil |
---|---|
Fuel | Regular Unleaded Gasoline |
Minimum Octane Rating | 86 PON /90 RON |
Recommended engine oil | SAE 10W-30, 20W-40, 20W-50, API SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL |
Fuel tank capacity | 15.9 US gal (60 L) |
Engine oil quantity (w/ oil filter) | 2.33 US qt. (2.2 L) |
Engine oil quantity (w/o oil filter) | 2.11 US qt. (2.0 L) |
Total Amount | 4.55 US qt. (4.3 L) |
Takeaways
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Yamaha VX Cruiser:What is a Yamaha VX Cruiser?
The VX Cruiser was a top-of-the-line Recreation Yamaha WaveRunner.
When did the Yamaha VX Cruiser Come Out?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser was revealed in 2007.
What Years Did Yamaha Manufacture the VX Cruiser?
Yamaha marketed the VX Cruiser from 2007 through 2014 with the Gen1 VX hull.
What Size was a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser measured 126.8 inches in length, 46.1 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height.
How Much Did a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Weigh?
The dry weight of the Yamaha VX Cruiser was 686-750 pounds depending on the model year.
How Many People Could Ride on a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser was rated for three riders.
What Kind of Engine was in the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser had a 4-stroke, 1052cc, fuel-injected, inline-3, big-bore MR1 Yamaha Marine engine.
Was the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Supercharged?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser utilized a naturally aspirated engine configuration.
Was the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser a 2-stroke?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser was powered by a 4-stroke engine.
Was the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Fuel Injected?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser featured a fuel injection system.
How Much HP Did a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Have?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser cranked out 75kW (102hp) at 8,000 RPM.
How Much Oil Did a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Hold?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser held 4.5 quarts of engine oil, of which 2.3 quarts were replaceable (w/ filter).
How Much Fuel Did a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Hold?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser was designed with a 15.9-gallon fuel tank (18.5-gallon in 2014).
How Much Fuel Did a ’07 – ’14 VX Cruiser Use?
The claimed fuel consumption of the Yamaha VX Cruiser was 7.4-8.0 gph at WOT.
What was the Cruising Range of the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser?
The cruising range of the Yamaha VX Cruiser was 2.14-2.33 hours at full throttle.
How Fast Did a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Go?
The top speed of a Yamaha VX Cruiser was about 57-58 mph on the speedo or 52-54 mph on the radar/GPS.
Could the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Thanks to its three-seater saddle, the VX Cruiser could legally tow a wakeboarder or skier.
Did the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Have a Trim System?
The VX Cruiser was engineered without a manual trim.
Did the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Have a Reverse?
The VX Cruiser had a manual reverse system.
Did the ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Have a Brake?
The Yamaha VX Cruiser was designed without a brake system.
How Much Does a ’07 – ‘14 VX Cruiser Cost?
The asking price of a used 2007-2014 Yamaha VX Cruiser varies between $2,000 and $7,500 depending on the year and its condition.