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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
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
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
- 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
- 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 SHO | Engine Specs |
---|---|
Type | 4-stroke, Liquid-cooled, DOHC |
Number of cylinders | 4 |
Displacement | 1812 cm³ |
Bore and Stroke | 86 × 78 mm (3.39 × 3.07 in) |
Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 |
Supercharged | Yes |
Lubrication system | Wet sump |
Cooling System | Water cooled |
Starting System | Electric starter |
Ignition System | T.C.I. |
Spark Plug Gap | 0.8-0.9 mm (0.031-0.035 in) |
Spark Plugs Type | LFR6A |
Battery Capacity | 12 V 19 Ah |
Charging system | Flywheel magneto |
Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Drive Unit
2013 FX Cruiser SHO | Drive System |
---|---|
Propulsion System | Jet pump |
Jet Pump Type | Axial flow, single stage |
Impeller Rotation | Counterclockwise |
Jet Thrust Nozzle Horizontal Angle | 24.0 + 24.0 ° |
Jet thrust nozzle trim angle: | -10, -5, 0, 5, 10 ° |
Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Performance
2013 FX Cruiser SHO | Performance |
---|---|
Maximum Output | 210hp (154.5 kW) @ 7500 RPM |
Maximum Fuel Consumption | 16.8 US gal/h (63.7 L/h) |
Cruising Range at full throttle | 1.10 hr. |
Trolling speed | 1250 +/- 100 r/min |
Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Dimensions
2013 FX Cruiser SHO | Dimensions |
---|---|
Overall Length | 140.2 in (3560 mm) |
Overall Width | 48.4 in (1230 mm) |
Overall Height | 48.4 in (1230 mm) |
Dry Weight | 853 lb (387 kg) |
Maximum capacity | 3 riders/530 lb |
Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Fuel and Oil
2013 FX Cruiser SHO | Fuel and Oil |
---|---|
Fuel | Regular Unleaded Gasoline |
Minimum Octane Rating | 86 PON /90 RON |
Recommended engine oil type | SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-40, 20W-50 |
Recommended engine oil grade | API SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL |
Fuel tank capacity | 18.5 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 Quantity | 4.55 US qt. (4.3 L) |
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.