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2012-2013 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Review and Specs [Video]

2012-2013 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Review and Specs [Video]

Released as the more advanced version of the FX SHO, the FX Cruiser SHO was the flagship PWC in the WaveRunner fleet from 2012 through 2013. These skis shared the refreshed FX platform and the supercharged, 1812cc, 210hp SHO Yamaha marine engine. But unlike its base sibling, the Cruiser came standard with a multifunction display, bolstered theater-style saddle, tow hook, pop-up cleats, and more.

If you want to find out more about this high-end Yamaha WaveRunner, this post is for you.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know under one roof!

2012-2013 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Review

Hull and Top Deck

Yamaha manufactured its FX WaveRunners with the same, first-generation FX hull until 2011.

Unlike the hull, the FX top deck was refreshed in 2008 when the Japanese manufacturer revealed its supercharged FX SHOs. This upgraded deck design found its way onto lower-positioned FX models in the 2009 season.

In 2012, the body of the FX series was completely redesigned and enlarged. The key differences of the 2012 FX platform compared to its predecessor were as follows:

  • Revamped, 7.5 inches longer hull
  • Longer rear platform
  • Deeper footwells with more legroom
  • More spacious seat
  • Relocated control buttons
  • Higher handlebars
  • Redesigned reverse lever with a neutral position
  • Two rear grab handles
  • Redesiged, larger reboarding step
  • Stern storage compartment
  • Larger bow stroage
This shell was used in every FX WaveRunner from 2012 onwards, including the FX SHO, FX Cruiser SHO, and non-supercharged FX models.

As far as dimensions go, it measured 140.1 inches in length, 48.4 inches in width, and 48.4 inches in height.

One of the key advantages of the new deck design was the extended swim platform, which was lengthened by 4.5 inches. The seating area was also expanded by 3 inches and accommodated a redesigned “theater-style” Cruiser saddle.

This enraged two-piece seat could finally accommodate three adult riders comfortably.

It featured high bolsters and top-quality materials for maximum comfort. In contrast, the FX SHO had a flatter, less comfortable seat that offers less traction.

The enlarged top deck also accommodated five storage units with overall increase in capacity from 23.7 to a whopping 33.2 gallons.

The capacity increase of each storage unit was as follows:

  • Bow storage (17.4 to 23.8 gal)
  • Glovebox (1.6 to 1.8 US gal)
  • Stern storage (New – 4.5 gal)
  • Watertight seat storage (4.0 to 2.4 gal)
  • Watertight top deck storage (0.7 gal)

Engine

The engine of the FX Cruiser SHO was a supercharged configuration of the 4-stroke, 1812cc, DOHC, inline-4 engine. Often referred to as the SHO Yamaha engine, this purpose-built PWC power source cranked out 210hp at 7500 RPM.

This engine debuted on the 2008 FX SHO/Cruiser SHO and was carried over unchanged to the refreshed 2012-2013 models.

While in 2008 the 1812cc Yamaha engine was only available in a supercharged “SHO” version, from 2009 its naturally-aspirated “HO” variant became more prevalent in the entire FX line.

The propulsion system of these skis was the standard 155mm jet pump featuring a stainless-steel housing and impeller. It was also equipped with a quick-shift trim system that was controlled by the left twist grip.

Even though the manual reverse of the ski was completed with a neutral function, it still remained in the shadow of Sea-Doo’s innovative iBR brake and reverse system.

(Yamaha released its RiDE electric brake and reverse in 2014.)

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Features

As the name suggests, this ski enjoyed the “Cruiser package,” which was only available on high-end Cruiser models.

In a nutshell, the elements of the Cruiser package are as follows:

  • Highly bolstered touring seat for 3
  • Pull-up cleats
  • Ski hook
  • Multifunction display
  • Unique color scheme
(While the raised handlebars were part of the Cruiser package until 2011, from the 2012 season on it became a standard feature on all FX WaveRunners.)

In addition to the above, the standard features of the FX Cruiser SHO included:

  • Yamaha Security System
  • Remote control transmitter (With L-Mode)
  • Dual rearview mirrors
  • Fire extinguisher container
  • Tool kit
  • Deck mats
  • Bow and stern eyes
  • Engine cut-off switch
  • Safety lanyard
  • Tilt steering system
  • Drain plugs
  • Rope holes
  • Rear grab handle
  • Sponsons
  • Reboarding step
  • Finger throttle lever
  • Cooling water pilot outlet
  • Two-piece saddle for 3
  • Visibility spout
  • Manual reverse with neutral
The ski also utilized an advanced information display designed to show the following information:
  • Analog tachometer/speedometer
  • Digital speedometer
  • Hour meter/Voltmeter
  • Fuel level meter
  • Fuel Indicator
  • Check engine warning indicator
  • Oil pressure warning indicator
  • Fuel level warning indicator
  • Engine overheat warning indicator
  • UNLOCK indicator light
  • SECURITY indicator light
  • L-Mode indicator light
As part of the Cruiser package, this dashboard housed an additional multifunction display on its right side, which had some extra functions, including:
  • Compass
  • Average Speed
  • Tripmeter
  • Fuel consumption per hour
  • Fuel consumption per km/mile
  • Water temperature
  • Air temperature

Top Speed and Performance

FX WaveRunners were known for their outstanding stability and comfort, and the Cruiser SHO was no exception.

Its redesigned and enlarged FX touring platform remained stable even at lower speeds. It also sat deeper in the water since it was noticeably heavier than its predecessor.

This translated to better cornering abilities, greater predictability, and smoother overall handling.

Under ideal conditions, the FX Cruiser SHO topped out at 65-67 mph and its 0-30 mph time was 1.8 seconds.

At this speed, the engine burned 16.8 gph while getting 4 mpg. Cruising at an economical speed of 35 mph, the mileage could be increased up to 5-6 mpg.

Even though the ski could be used for aggressive riding it was not a racing PWC. Compared to the smaller VX or FZ series, the FX was bulkier, heavier, and much less lively.

In return, it could be used for many different activities like touring, towing, and PWC fishing.

Featuring the model-specific bolstered saddle, this ski offered plenty of seat room for three adult riders while its sizeable storage compartments could accommodate plenty of gear.

Yamaha marketed the FX Cruiser SHO from 2008 through 2011 with the first-generation FX platform, and from 2012 through 2013 with the second-generation shell.

In 2014, it was upgraded with the SVHO engine option and was rebranded as the FX Cruiser SVHO.

Problems

Based on our research, the most common problem of the Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO was its defective supercharger.

The supercharger clutch in the SHO Yamaha engine tended to explode, spraying metal debris into the block. As you may assume, these issues resulted in costly repair bills.

To reduce the risk, many owners rebuilt their supercharger clutch before the disaster could have happened. Some of them also installed a blow-off valve to relieve the stress from the supercharger.

This clutch issue was fixed in the SVHO engine that replaced the outdated SHO in 2014.

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Specs Charts

For your convenience, we’ve listed the main specifications of the 2013 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO in these charts:(Please note that the specs may vary by the model year.)

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Engine Specs

2013 FX Cruiser SHOEngine Specs
Type4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC
Number of cylinders4
Displacement1812 cm³
Bore and Stroke86 × 78 mm (3.39 × 3.07 in)
Compression Ratio8.6:1
SuperchargedYes
Lubrication systemWet sump
Cooling SystemWater cooled
Starting SystemElectric starter
Ignition SystemT.C.I.
Spark Plug Gap0.8-0.9 mm (0.031-0.035 in)
Spark Plugs TypeLFR6A
Battery Capacity12 V 19 Ah
Charging systemFlywheel magneto

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Drive Unit

2013 FX Cruiser SHODrive System
Propulsion SystemJet pump
Jet Pump TypeAxial flow, single stage
Impeller RotationCounterclockwise
Jet Thrust Nozzle Horizontal Angle24.0 + 24.0 °
Jet thrust nozzle trim angle:-10, -5, 0, 5, 10 °

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Performance

2013 FX Cruiser SHOPerformance
Maximum Output210hp (154.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM
Maximum Fuel Consumption16.8 US gal/h (63.7 L/h)
Cruising Range at full throttle1.10 hr.
Trolling speed1250 +/- 100 r/min

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Dimensions

2013 FX Cruiser SHODimensions
Overall Length140.2 in (3560 mm)
Overall Width48.4 in (1230 mm)
Overall Height48.4 in (1230 mm)
Dry Weight853 lb (387 kg)
Maximum capacity3 riders/530 lb

Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Fuel and Oil

2013 FX Cruiser SHOFuel and Oil
FuelRegular Unleaded Gasoline
Minimum Octane Rating86 PON /90 RON
Recommended engine oil typeSAE 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-40, 20W-50
Recommended engine oil gradeAPI SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL
Fuel tank capacity18.5 US gal (70 L)
Engine oil quantity (w/ oil filter replacement)3.28 US qt. (3.1 L)
Engine oil quantity (w/o oil filter replacement)3.17 US qt. (3.0 L)
Engine Oil Total Quantity4.55 US qt. (4.3 L)
These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.

Takeaways

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the ’12-’13 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO:

What is a Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO?

The FX Cruiser SHO was a supercharged luxury Yamaha WaveRunner built on the touring FX platform.

What Size was a Yamaha ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO?

The ‘12-’13 FX Cruiser SHO measured 140.2 inches in length, 48.4 inches in width, and 48.4 inches in height.

How Much Did a ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO Weigh?

The dry weight of the ’12-’13 FX Cruiser SHO was 853 pounds.

What Kind of Engine was in the ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO?

The ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO was powered by an 1812cc, SHO Yamaha Marine engine.

How Much HP Did a ’12-’13 FX Cruiser SHO Have?

This high-performance WaveRunner cranked out 210hp at 7500 RPM.

How Much Fuel Did a ’12-’13 FX Cruiser SHO Hold?

The fuel capacity of this ski was an 18.5-gallon fuel tank.

How Much Fuel Did a ’12-’13 FX Cruiser SHO Use?

The claimed fuel consumption of this WaveRunner was 16.8 gph at WOT.

What was the Cruising Range of the ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO?

The cruising range of the ski was 1.1 hours at full speed.

How Fast Did a ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO Go?

The top speed of a ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO was 65-67 mph in stock condition.

Did the ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO Have a Trim System?    

The FX Cruiser SHO had a 5-position “quick-shift” manual trim system.

Did the ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO Have a Reverse?             

The FX Cruiser SHO had a manual reverse system with neutral.

Did the ’12-‘13 FX Cruiser SHO Have a Brake?  

This WaveRunner was marketed without a brake system.

How Much Does a Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Cost?

The asking price of a used Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO varies between $6,000 and $13,000 depending on the year and its condition.