1998-2000 Yamaha GP 800 Review and Specs [Video]
The 2-stroke Yamaha GP 800 and its brothers, including the high-end GP 1300R, are among the most important Yamaha PWCs ever built. They were built on race-intended GP hulls and featured high-performance 2-stroke engines.
The success story of Yamaha GPs started with these models and continues to this day.
If you find out more about the Yamaha GP800, this post is for you.
We have compiled the key specs and most important facts into this Yamaha GP800 review!
Additionally, you can also find out where can you can still find these amazing vintage WaveRunners.
If you are considering buying a more powerful GP, you may find our GP 1200, GP 1200R, as well as our GP1300R review useful.
Also, don’t forget that there are many drawbacks of owning a vintage 2-stroke WaveRunner. It’s worth getting to know them before you make your purchase!
Yamaha GP 800 Review
The Yamaha GP Series
In 1997, Yamaha launched its innovative GP line with the introduction of the GP 760 and the more powerful GP 1200.
In the following year, this family was expanded with a mid-range model, the GP 800.
As their name suggests, these skis were designed with competition and hardcore riding in mind. Their closest competitors were Sea-Doo’s XP 800 and the XP Limited 951.
Over the years, 2-stroke GP WaveRunners were upgraded several times, the most important models in this breed were as follows:
- 1997-2000 GP 760
- 1997-2000 GP 1200
- 1998-2000 GP 800
- 2001-2005 GP 800R
- 2001-2002 GP 1200R
- 2003-2008 GP 1300R
For a better understanding, we’ve compiled all of these models with their specs into this chart:
Model | Year | HP | Power to weight ratio |
---|---|---|---|
GP760 | 1997 | 90 | 0.19 |
GP1200 | 1997 | 135 | 0.26 |
GP800 | 1998 | 120 | 0.24 |
GP800R | 2002 | 120 | 0.20 |
GP1200R | 2000 | 155 | 0.23 |
GP1300R | 2003 | 165 | 0.25 |
GP1300R | 2005 | 170 | 0.26 |
GP1800R HO | 2017 | 180 | 0.33 |
GP1800R SVHO | 2017 | 250 | 0.24 |
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about the midrange GP 800 in detail!
Yamaha GP 800 Hull and Top Deck
As a rule of thumb, each first-generation Yamaha GP, including the GP 760, GP 800, and GP 1200, shared the same first-generation GP hull and top deck. This shell was made of SMC and featured a semi-V design.
Even though it shared some DNA with XLs, the GPs were designed for performance rather than comfort.
Regarding dimensions, the GP platform measured 112.6 inches in length, 44.1 inches in width, and 38.2 inches in height. This means that it was 11.4 inches shorter and 5.1 inches narrower than the XL platform.
What’s more, GPs were significantly lighter as well; the midrange GP 800 only weighed 498 pounds dry. In contrast, the 3-seater XL 800 weighed 698 pounds, which was a weight difference of 40 percent!
Thanks to its lower center of gravity and lightweight design, the GP was much sportier than its 3-seater relative.
In return, it came with significantly smaller capacities. The GP 800 was rated for two riders and could carry 13.2 gallons of fuel.
The overall storage capacity of the ski was 10.26-gallons, which was divided into a 4.4-gallon bow storage, a 5.6-gallon under-seat storage, and a 0.26-gallon glovebox.
In contrast, the 3-seater XL 800 could carry three people, 18.5 gallons of gas, and significantly more gear.
Yamaha GP 800 Engine
The power source of the GP 800 was a 2-stroke, 754cc, power-valved twin-cylinder engine rated at 120hp. This power mill debuted in the 1998 GP 800 and found its way into many later WaveRunners, including the GP 800R, XL 800, and XLT 800.
This power-valved Yamaha PWC engine enjoyed many advanced features, including:
- Digital CDI ignition
- Electric start
- Dual Mikuni BN44 carbs
- Oil injection system
- Open-loop cooling system
- NGK BR8ES spark plugs
The power-to-weight ratio of the GP 800 was 0.24 hp/pounds, while the GP 760 and GP 1200 offered 0.19 and 0.26 hp/pounds, respectively.
The propulsion system of the GP 800 was an industry-standard axial-flow, single-stage jet pump. It came standard with the innovative Quick Shift Trim System (QSTS) that could be operated with the left grip.
Sadly, it lacked a reverse system, which came standard on the XL series.
Yamaha GP 800 Top Speed and Performance
The GPs were some of the fastest PWCs around the Millennium, and the GP 800 was no exception. The top speed of this ski was roughly 55 mph, while its 1200 brother topped out at 58 mph.
At this speed, the GP 800 burned 12.9 gph so its 13.2-gallon fuel tank offered a cruising range of about 1 hour.
This machine was not only fast but it also offered a really fun ride and easy control due to its lightweight semi-V hull. Its adjustable, racing-style sponsons also contributed to its stability.
While it was really fun to ride on calm waters, it wasn’t great on a chop due to its flatter hull design.
Even if it wasn’t as sporty as a stand-up, an experienced rider could perform some really good tricks on this sit-down WaveRunner. According to many owners, wave jumping was always a lot of fun on these small GPs!
Riding issues?
Due to their design, GPs offered legal rides for 2 people. But let’s face it, riding with passengers on these PWCs is not very good. Why?
Because with two adult riders they easily become unstable and tippy due to their small, flatter hulls.
Being realistic, the GPs were fine for one adult and a little child. More load made them too unstable and uncomfortable.
It should also be mentioned that as the GP800 was powered with a relatively smaller engine, a passenger slowed them down significantly.
Because of these issues, the GP series wasn’t considered to be great family-WaveRunners.
Probably the biggest problem with the Yamaha GP800 was porpoising.
Porpoising is when the WaveRunner continuously bounces up and down in porpoise-like movements. This problem is actually caused by a design defect in the hull.
Although the GP series was equipped with Yamaha’s QSTS (Quick Shift Trim System), it could not completely eliminate this effect.
Because of this, many owners equipped their crafts with trim tabs, which usually made a huge difference.
Beyond trim tabs, aftermarket intake grates, ride plates, and sponsons may also help to eliminate porpoising on the Yamaha GP800.
But keep in mind, that even if these modifications help a lot, they cannot completely eliminate this problem.
Yamaha GP 800 Features
The Yamaha GP 800 came standard with many innovative features, which were as follows:
- Front storage compartment (4.4 US gal)
- Seat storage compartment (5.6 US gal)
- Glove compartment (0.26 US gal)
- Fire extinguisher container
- Quick shift trim system (QSTS)
- Deck mats
- Bow and stern eyes
- Adjustable rearview mirrors
- Engine cut-off switch
- Engine shut-off cord (safety lanyard)
- Programmable security system
- Adjustable steering
- Drain plugs
- Rope holes
- Rear grab handle
- Fuel cock knob
- Yamaha Adjustable Sponsons (Y.A.S.)
- Finger throttle lever
- Cooling water pilot outlet
- Visibility spout
The GP was designed with an advanced multifunction meter, of which the features were as follows:
- Digital speedometer
- Tachometer
- Fuel level meter
- Engine oil level meter
- Clock
- Hour meter
- Trip meter
- Trip timer
- Warning lamp (LED)
- Display for Programmable digital locking ignition (PADLOC)
- Warning indicators
Yamaha GP 800 Problems
Let’s be honest, every PWC has its strengths and weaknesses, and GPs are no exception. In a nutshell, the most common problems with this ski were as follows:
- Power valves: The power valves of the 800 motor often came loose and fell into the cylinders, causing severe engine damage. Because of this, the 800 engine was much less reliable than the non-power valved 760. To keep the valves in position, many owners installed aftermarket clips on them.
- Lack of a reverse: Unlike the 3-seater XLs, the GPs lacked a reverse system which scared off many customers.
- Hard-to-repair SMC hull: The GP’s hull and top deck were made of Sheet Moulding Compound (SMC), which was harder to repair than fiberglass.
- Aging oil system: The oil lines of the GP 800 were prone to aging and cracking or felling off, causing an engine seizure. Because of this, the oil system of these skis had to be maintained regularly. But keeping safety in mind, many owners eliminated the entire oil injection system on their 800 and switched to premix instead.
- Battery discharging: The battery of the GP 800 easily discharged itself. This issue could be prevented by connecting the negative battery lead and hooking up the battery to a trickle charger.
- Cold start issues: The 2-stroke engine of the GP 800 was sometimes difficult to start. To make starts easier, many owners sprayed some starter fluid into the air intake or just dripped a little premix into the spark plug holes.
- Porpoising: The GP 800 was known for its porpoising issues, which could have been derived from its improper weight distribution. The latter could be fixed by placing some weight into the body of the ski but installing an aftermarket intake grate or ride plate also helped reduce porpoising.
Yamaha GP 800 Specs Charts
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the 2000 Yamaha GP 800 into these charts:
Yamaha GP 800 Engine Specs
2000 Yamaha GP 800 | Engine Specs |
---|---|
Type | 2-stroke |
Number of cylinders | 2 |
Displacement | 784 cm³ (47.84 cu in.) |
Bore and Stroke | 80 × 78 mm (3.15 × 3.07 in) |
Compression Ratio | 6.6 |
Lubrication System | Oil injection |
Cooling System | Water-Cooled |
Starting System | Electric starter |
Ignition System | Digital CDI |
Spark Plug Gap | 0.6 ~ 0.7 mm (0.024 ~ 0.028 in) |
Spark Plugs Type | NGK BR8ES |
Battery Capacity | 12 V 19 Ah |
Charging system | Flywheel magneto |
Yamaha GP 800 Drive System
2000 Yamaha GP 800 | Drive System |
---|---|
Propulsion System | Jet pump |
Jet Pump Type | Axial flow, single stage |
Impeller Rotation | Counterclockwise (Rear view) |
Transmission | Direct drive from engine |
Steering (nozzle) angle | 23° + 23° |
Yamaha GP 800 Performance
2000 Yamaha GP 800 | Performance |
---|---|
Maximum Output | 120 HP (88.2 kW) @ 7,000 RPM |
Maximum Fuel Consumption | 12.9 US gal/h (49 L/h) |
Cruising Range (at full throttle) | 1.0 hours |
Yamaha GP 800 Dimensions
2000 Yamaha GP 800 | Dimensions |
---|---|
Overall Length | 112.6 in (2,860 mm) |
Overall Width | 44.1 in (1,120 mm) |
Overall Height | 38.2 in (970 mm) |
Dry Weight | 498 lb (226 kg) |
Vehicle capacity | 2 people/352 lb |
Yamaha GP 800 Fuel and Oil
2000 Yamaha GP 800 | Fuel and Oil |
---|---|
Recommended fuel | Regular Unleaded Gasoline |
Minimum fuel rating | 86 PON / 90 RON |
Recommended engine oil | Yamalube 2-W or equivalent TC-W3 certified outboard oil |
Fuel tank capacity | 13.2 US gal (50 L) |
Reverse capacity | 2.32 US gal (8.8 L) |
Oil tank capacity | 1.06 US gal (4.0 L) |
These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.
Yamaha GP Comparison Charts
Are you wondering what the differences are between the GP760, GP800, and GP800R?
First things first, the GP760 and the GP800 were the very first GP models. They shared the same hull with the GP1200, but had less powerful, 2-cylinder engines. (GP760: 90HP, GP800: 120HP)
In 2002, Yamaha released the GP800R. This model was powered with GP800’s 120HP engine, but shared the hull with the GP1200R.
Put simply, the GP1200R replaced the GP1200 in 2000, while two years later the GP800R replaced the GP800.
Just like their predecessors, both R model got the same hull and features, but with different engine options. If you would like to learn more about this hull design and the GP1200 in general, don’t miss our GP1200 and GP1200R posts!
Since Yamaha has released many different GP WaveRunners over the years, the variety of models may confuse you. For a better understanding, we’ve compiled all of these models with their specs into this chart:
Power to Weight Ratio Chart here
Don’t forget that the GP1800R HO was named as VXR in the first years. We can say that the performance of the GP WaveRunners improved greatly over time.
Let’s drill into these performance numbers deeper!
In this chart, you can compare these three entry-level GP WaveRunners.
Specs | GP760 | GP800 | GP800R |
---|---|---|---|
Year | 1997 | 1998 | 2002 |
Length (in) | 112.6 | 112.6 | 115.4 |
Width (in) | 44.1 | 44.1 | 45.3 |
Height (in) | 38.2 | 38.2 | 40.2 |
Dry Weight (lb) | 470 | 498 | 591 |
Performance (HP) | 90 | 120 | 120 |
Power-to-weight ratio | 0,19 | 0,24 | 0,20 |
Displacement (cc) | 754 | 784 | 784 |
Top speed (mph) | 54 | 55 | 55 |
Max fuel consumption (gal/h) | 10 | 12.9 | 12.9 |
Cylinders | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Engine stroke | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Fuel capacity (gal) | 13.2 | 13.2 | 15.9 |
Riders | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Load Capacity (lb) | 352 | 352 | 353 |
For a better comparison, we compiled all the GP WaveRunners ever built into one chart. (Sorry, we know that on mobile it’s quite huge. For a better view, we recommend looking at it on a PC!)
Specs | GP760 | GP800 | GP1200 | GP1200R | GP1300R | GP1300R | GP1800R HO | GP1800R SVHO |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Year | 1997 | 1998 | 1997 | 2000 | 2003 | 2005 | 2017 | 2017 |
Length (in) | 112.6 | 112.6 | 112.6 | 115.4 | 115.4 | 115.4 | 131.9 | 131.9 |
Width (in) | 44.1 | 44.1 | 44.1 | 45.3 | 45.3 | 45.3 | 48 | 48 |
Height (in) | 38.2 | 38.2 | 38.2 | 40.2 | 40.2 | 40.2 | 46.9 | 46.9 |
Dry Weight (lb) | 470 | 498 | 525 | 675 | 653 | 655 | 739 | 769 |
Performance (HP) | 90 | 120 | 135 | 155 | 165 | 170 | 180 | 250 |
Power-to-weight ratio | 0,19 | 0,24 | 0,26 | 0,23 | 0,25 | 0,26 | 0,24 | 0,33 |
Displacement (cc) | 754 | 784 | 1.131 | 1.176 | 1.297 | 1.297 | 1.812 | 1.812 |
Top speed (mph) | 54 | 55 | 58 | 65 | 67 | 69 | 67 | 67 |
Max fuel consumption (gal/h) | 10 | 12.9 | 14 | 16.9 | 16.6 | 15.1 | na | na |
Cylinders | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 |
Engine stroke | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 4 |
Fuel capacity (gal) | 13.2 | 13.2 | 13.2 | 15.9 | 15.9 | 15.9 | 18.5 | 18.5 |
Riders | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
Load Capacity (lb) | 352 | 352 | 352 | 353 | 353 | 353 | na | na |
The new GP series was introduced in 2007. These models come powered with 4-stroke engines and have convenient seating for 3 riders. The GP1800R HO is powered with a non-supercharged, 180HP engine, while the GP1800R SVHO features a more powerful, 250HP supercharged power plant.
Don’t hestiate to discover and compare these flagship GP WaveRunners to their competitor Sea-Doo and Kawasaki models!
Yamaha GP800 For Sale
Let’s face it, these vintage GP WaveRunner were in production from 1997-2008.
If you stick to these vintage 2-stroke PWCs, this means you are selecting from very aged models.
If you are looking for a GP800 to buy, you may want to know where you can still purchase one.
It would be best if you start your research in the fan groups on forums and social sites. You can find a lot of useful info on these models, and sometimes some good deals!
But if you don’t, you can still find many Yamaha GP800s for sale on Craigslist, PWCTrader, and other online ad sites.
Prices? They may surprise you!
Yamaha GP800 Prices
The Yamaha GP800 prices start from $2,000 and go up to $3,500, while a GP800R costs around $2,500-$4,000. The price strongly depends on their condition. If you find some at a much lower price, always be suspicious. If the craft is not water-ready, and the ad says that „it needs work,” it’s best if you walk away.
As you can see, these Yamaha GPs still have asking prices that are quite high. It seems they are like fine wines!
As 2-stroke sit-down WaveRunners have not been in production for a long time, there are fewer and fewer of them for sale. Moreover, many of these crafts are heavily modified to reduce porpoising or for better performance. And these mods all affect the asking price!
Another factor to consider is that many of these mods increase the PWC’s fuel consumption as well.
Are Yamaha GP800s Still Worth Buying?
Are GP760 and GP800 WaveRunners still worth buying? This is a typical question of many buyers, and the answer is that it depends.
If you are considering buying one of these PWCs, here are some factors to consider:
Capacities: As we discussed above, these crafts are mainly ideal for solo rides. This is because their small, flat hull becomes tipsy when it has a bigger load. They also have smaller storage and fuel capactities compared to a newer 4-stroke WaveRunner.
Porpoising: Don’t forget that all of these old GP WaveRunners are prone to porpoising. Although you can reduce this effect by installing aftermarket parts like trim tabs, ride plate and so on, they are not able to eliminate the issue completely.
Reliability and durability: Keep in mind that these old 2-stroke PWCs typically require more attention compared to the 4-strokes. If you don’t have mechanical skills, you may run into difficulties if you have to adjust the carburetor or fix other parts. Beware that these issues can happen more often than you think. Additionally, their engines are worn out, and if you have to repair or even rebuild them, it could be a big hassle.
Costs: Regarding costs, they are cheaper to buy, but more expensive to operate due to the repair costs and their high fuel consumption. You can also expect lower fuel mileage and if you ride hard you can even dry a GP’s fuel tank in an hour!
If you are still stuck on the vintage GPs, you must be wondering which one to choose.
When it comes to the Yamaha GP760 vs. GP800 vs. GP800R debate, we can say that the GP800R is the best pick. This is because this model is less prone to porpoising due to their new hull design.
It also features a bigger, 15.9-gallon fuel tank, which is 2.5 gallons more compared to its predecessors.
If you are looking for more power, the GP1200R could be a better deal. It offers a higher performance (155HP) thanks to its bigger 3-cylinder engine. However, it has much higher fuel consumption as well.
Before you make you purchase, never skip the water test and make sure you check the compression in the cylinders.
As a final word, we recommend that if you are a beginner, purchase a newer, 4-stroke, Rec-Lite or Recreation PWC. If you want to ride your craft more often than you work on it, these old 2-stroke WaveRunners are probably not for you.
But if you have mechanical skills and you like working on engines, fixing these vintage crafts can be part of the fun.
In the end, it’s up to you!
Takeaways
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Yamaha GP 800:
What is a Yamaha GP 800?
The GP 800 was a high-performance 2-stroke WaveRunner.
When did the Yamaha GP 800 Come Out?
The Yamaha GP 800 debuted in 1998.
What Years Did Yamaha Make the GP 800?
Yamaha marketed the GP 800 from 1998 through 2000.
What Size was a Yamaha GP 800?
The Yamaha GP 800 measured 112.6 inches in length, 44.1 inches in width, and 38.2 inches in height.
How Much Did a Yamaha GP 800 Weigh?
The dry weight of the Yamaha GP 800 was 498 pounds (2000 model).
How Many People Could Ride on a Yamaha GP 800?
The Yamaha GP 800 was rated for two riders.
What Kind of Engine was in the Yamaha GP 800?
The Yamaha GP 800 was powered by a 2-stroke, 784cc, twin-carb, twin-cylinder engine.
Was the Yamaha GP 800 Supercharged?
The Yamaha GP 800 utilized a naturally aspirated engine.
Was the Yamaha GP 800 a 2-stroke?
Yes, the Yamaha GP 800 was powered by a 2-stroke engine.
Was the Yamaha GP 800 Fuel Injected?
No, the Yamaha GP 800 featured two Mikuni BN44 carburetors.
How Much Horsepower Did a Yamaha GP 800 Have?
The Yamaha GP 800 delivered 120hp at 7,000 RPM.
How Much Oil Did a Yamaha GP 800 Hold?
The Yamaha GP 800 featured an oil injection system featuring a 1.06-gallon oil reservoir.
How Much Fuel Did a Yamaha GP 800 Hold?
The Yamaha GP 800 was equipped with a 13.2-gallon fuel tank.
How Much Gas Did a Yamaha GP 800 Use?
The claimed fuel consumption of the Yamaha GP 800 was 12.9 gph at WOT.
What was the Fuel Range of the Yamaha GP 800?
The cruising range of the Yamaha GP 800 was 1 hour at full throttle.
How Fast Did a Yamaha GP 800 Go?
The top speed of a Yamaha GP 800 was about 55 mph under ideal conditions.
Could the Yamaha GP 800 Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Due to its 2-seater saddle, the GP 800 could not be used for tow sports.
Did the Yamaha GP 800 Have a Reverse?
The Yamaha GP 800 came without a reverse system.
Did the Yamaha GP 800 Have a Brake?
The Yamaha GP 800 was manufactured without a brake system.
How Much Does a Yamaha GP 800 Cost?
The asking price of a used Yamaha GP 800 varies between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the year and its condition.