Sea-Doo GTR 230 vs. Yamaha GP1800R HO Comparison [Video]

The Sea-Doo GTR 230 and the Yamaha GP1800R HO are the two most affordable performance jet skis in the marketplace. The latter gained its reputation for reliability and durability, while the GTR 230 is known for its high-performance, supercharged engine.

If you want to compare these skis head-to-head, you’ve come to the right place.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this GTR 230 vs. GP1800R HO comparison post!

Sea-Doo GTR 230 vs. Yamaha GP1800R HO

By the Numbers

It’s safe to say that the main difference between the GTR 230 and the GP1800R HO is that the former is powered by a supercharged engine.

This power mill is a 4-stroke, 1630cc, fuel-injected, supercharged Rotax triple rated at 230 HP.In contrast, the GP1800R HO has only 180 HP since it houses a naturally-aspirated, 4-stroke, 1812cc, fuel-injected, Yamaha HO marine engine. Although this ski has fewer ponies than its competitor, this lower performance translates to higher reliability and cheaper maintenance.

In terms of hull dimensions, the two models have a lot in common.

The GTR 230 is built on the Sea-Doo-exclusive GTI hull measuring 130.6 inches in length, 49.2 inches in width, and 44.8 inches in height.

This platform is used by many popular Sea-Doos including the GTI family, the Wake 170, and the Fish Pro Scout.

Compared to the GTI platform, the Yamaha is slightly longer since it measures 131.9 inches in length, 48.8 inches in width, and 47.2 inches in height.

What’s more, the GP is 57-pound lighter than the GTR! Its net weight is only 717 pounds, which translates to a curb weight of 843 pounds, while the Sea-Doo weighs 774 pounds dry, and 882 pounds fully loaded.

The GTR 230 has a 15.9-gallon fuel capacity and a remarkable 42.5-gallon storage space split into a roomy front storage and a standard glovebox. The latter features a dry box specifically designed for smartphones.The GP can carry more fuel (15.9 gal.) but its overall storage capacity is only 28.4 gallons.

Features

Both skis feature an advanced electronic brake and reverse system as standard, which is named RiDE on the Yamaha and iBR on the Sea-Doo. Except for some small differences, these systems are almost identical.

They are also equipped with a 2-piece seat rated for three riders.

Both the Sea-Doo and the Yamaha come with a wide range of innovative features as standard, including:

Electric brake and reverse
LinQ / RecDeck connection cleats
Sponsons
Bow storage compartment
Riding modes
Glovebox
Dual mirrors
Tow hook
Mooring cleats
Reboarding step
Adjustable trim system
And more

Performance and Handling

Built on the GTI hull, the GTR is easy to operate and offers predictable rides even for beginners.

Its unique platform is made of Polytec, which is lighter and more scratch-resistant than regular fiberglass.

The claimed 0-60mph time of the GTR is 5.29 seconds while its top speed is limited to 67 mph.

Like its bigger brothers, the GTR also enjoys the benefits of the revolutionary Ergolock system, which is intended to “lock” you into your seat on the machine. Thanks to this system, riding the GTR requires less bodywork, which results in less fatigue and more fun on the water.

Riding the GP you have to work harder and use more upper body strength to stay in the saddle. On the other hand, it feels more stable and more predictable in rough water conditions.The top speed of the GP1800R HO is also electronically limited to 67 mph by the factory.

GTR 230 vs. GP1800R HO Comparison Chart

For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of these skis into this GTR 230 vs. GP1800R HO comparison chart:

Specs	GP1800R HO	GTR 230
Brand	Yamaha	Sea-Doo
Category	Performance	Performance
Displacement (cc)	1812	1630
Cylinders	4	3
Supercharged	No	No
Brake & Reverse	Yes	Yes
HP	180	230
Length (in)	131.9	130.6
Width (in)	48.8	49.2
Dry Weight (lbs)	717	774
Curb Weight (lbs)	843	882
Fuel Capacity (gal)	18.5	15.9
Storage Capacity (gal)	28.4	42.5
Weight Capacity (lbs)	na	600
Rider capacity	3	3

This chart is for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to factory manuals.

Conclusion

The Sea-Doo GTR 230 is virtually a supercharged Sea-Doo GTI with some race-inspired features. This model is the cheapest performance jet ski in the marketplace right now, yet it comes standard with a supercharged, 230 HP engine option.

If you are looking for the cheapest performance Yamaha WaveRunner, you should take a look at the GP1800R HO, which is a naturally-aspirated configuration of the flagship SVHO.

Both the GTR 230 and the GP1800R HO have their pros and cons, which are as follows:Pros of the Yamaha GP1800R HO: