Yamaha WaveRunner Terminology: WaveRunner Acronyms Explained
Since Yamaha WaveRunners are very complex machines, they have their own terminology.
Are you familiar with SHO, SVHO, RiDE, YPVS, and NanoXcel? These acronyms can be confusing, especially if you are a beginner!If you have a WaveRunner (or just thinking of buying one), you probably want to learn these basic terms in order to understand these vessels better.
If you want to learn more about Yamaha WaveRunners, this post is for you.
For your convenience, we at JetDrift have compiled the most important terms and acronyms in connection with WaveRunners under one roof.
If you want to learn the basics of PWCs, you may also find our post useful with the basics of PWC terms and parts!
WaveRunner Terms and Acronyms
What Does SVHO Mean?
SVHO means Super Vortex High Output. This acronym refers to Yamaha’s supercharged and intercooled engines that are built specially for WaveRunners. These 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, 1,812cc marine engines offer an amazing 250 HP.
What Does SHO Mean?
SHO means Super High Output. Yamaha’s SHO engines produced 210 HP and were the predecessor of the new SVHO engines. The first WaveRunners with SVHO engines were released in 2014.
What is NanoXcel?
NanoXcel is the material the hulls and decks of Yamaha WaveRunners are made of. The main advantage of this material is its durability and low weight. It translates into great power-to-weight ratios. In 2014, Yamaha introduced the second-generation NanoXcel2, which was 18% lighter than the predecessor NanoXcel.
Thanks to this new material, both the hulls and decks of WaveRunners are the lightest in their class!
What is NanoXcel Made of?
NanoXcel is a special nanocomposite material developed by Yamaha. It’s an alternative to the regular fiberglass composite used in the PWC industry. NanoXcel features nano clay plus glass microbubbles, which make this material lightweight but still strong.
What is YEMS?
YEMS is the Yamaha Engine Management System, which is the “brain” of the WaveRunner. It’s a computerized and integrated system that controls the fuel injection, the ignition, the OTS (off-throttle steering system), and the complete engine diagnostics.
What is Yamaha RiDE?
Yamaha RiDE stands for Reverse with Intuitive Deceleration Electronics. Simply put, this is the WaveRunner’s brake and reverse system. Moreover, RiDE does a very good job when you have to maneuver around docks or in tight spaces. You can control this system with the left handlebar, also known as the RiDE handlebar.
What does Yamaha YPVS Stand for?
Simply put, on Yamaha vehicles and vessels, YPVS stands for Yamaha Power Valve System.As the name suggests, this system is a unique exhaust control system intended to control the exhaust gas flow with power valves. The main idea behind this system is to increase engine power, especially in the low-RPM range.
The patented YPVS has been commonly used on 2-stroke Yamaha engines since the late ‘70s.
What does Yamaha RecDeck Mean?
Yamaha RecDeck is an innovative and versatile rear platform that is available on flagship FX WaveRunners. This platform can be mounted onto the regular swim platform in just a few seconds using easy-access connectors.
The RecDeck platform houses an integrated reboarding ladder and can accommodate various accessories like a rear rack with PWC fishing accessories, lounge seat, and even tow sports gear.
What are the Things on the Side of a WaveRunner Called?
The features on the side of a WaveRunner are called sponsons designed to ensure proper control and traction in the turns. Without sponsons, the hull would “slide out” from the turns more easily, resulting in handling issues.
What does HO Mean on Yamaha WaveRunners?
The acronym HO on Yamaha WaveRunners stands for High Output, referring to the naturally-aspirated 1.8L engine option.
What is the Difference Between SVHO and HO?
The HO Yamaha WaveRunners come with a naturally-aspirated 1.8L engine rated at 180 HP. In contrast, SVHO models have the more powerful, supercharged 1.8L engine option, which puts out 250 HP.
These engines are basically the same, except the SVHO configuration is equipped with a supercharger and an intercooler and also produces an extra 70 HP.
What does GP Stand for in Yamaha?
On Yamaha powersport vehicles and WaveRunners the GP stands for “Grand Prix.” This term comes from Grand Prix motorcycle racing, but it has found its way to the WaveRunner family.
Therefore, the most successful performance WaveRunner series is labeled as “GP.”
What is Low RPM Mode on Yamaha WaveRunners?
The Low RPM mode on Yamaha WaveRunners is a riding mode that restricts engine performance and top speed.
This is actually a safety feature that offers slower rides for younger and novice operators, and it is commonly used on rental jet skis.
What does L-Mode Mean on a WaveRunner?
Simply put, the L-Mode on Yamaha WaveRunners is the Low RPM mode.
What is TDE on a Yamaha WaveRunner?
On Yamaha WaveRunners, the term “TDE” stands for Thrust Directional Enhancement. TDE is a unique system designed to make docking and low-speed maneuvering easier.
When the engine is in neutral, the TDE system can be controlled by the trim arrows. Pressing these buttons gives you very little forward or reverse thrust without you having to touch the main control levers.
What is Reverse Assist on a Yamaha WaveRunner?
Besides TDE, another innovative feature on Yamaha WaveRunners is the Reverse Assist. This system is intended to give you a little extra boost while backing the machine up.
Reverse Assist does a good job when launching the ski from a trailer, shore rails, or a floating PWC dock.
What is Yamaha WaveRunner No Wake Mode?
As the name suggests, the No Wake mode on Yamaha WaveRunners is a special riding mode that maintains a limited speed for no-wake zones.
No Wake mode can be set by the Cruise Assist and offers three different speeds based on your needs and the local restrictions.
