2019 WaveRunner EX Series: Lighter, more powerful all-new EXR

Dave McMahonAugust 14, 2018

Here’s a closer look at the 2019 Yamaha EX WaveRunner Series, revealed at the dealer meeting tonight in San Diego.

Featuring the all-new high-performance EXR, which comes with the most powerful engine in the Rec Lite category; it is the first high performance, ultra lightweight watercraft of its kind.

The all-new and super-nimble 2019 Yamaha WaveRunner EXR was a blast on the waters of Lake Allatoona near Atlanta for Powersports Business editor in chief Dave McMahon earlier this summer.

Features the same high-performance NanoXcel 2 hull and deck material that comes with a Yamaha race-ready watercraft.
Pump extended to give EXR a quicker throttle response.
EXR equipped with Yamaha’s RiDE dual throttle system for exceptional maneuverability when operating in close quarters.

For 2019, Yamaha’s most affordable series of WaveRunner personal watercraft now includes the high-performance EXR that is more powerful, lighter, and with quicker throttle response than all other Rec Lite models on the water today.

The EXR satisfies consumer demand for an affordable, high-performance Rec Lite model, extending the EX Series’ popularity with first-time buyers.

Powering the EXR is Yamaha’s award-winning, three-cylinder TR-1 marine engine that comes with a modified engine control unit (ECU) that increases horsepower by 10 percent compared to the rest of the EX line. Also, the EXR includes a top-loader intake and a 40mm jet pump extension that increases acceleration response, adding to the thrills this new watercraft delivers.

In addition to the EXR’s class-leading performance, the EXR becomes the most affordable WaveRunner to feature Yamaha’s high-performance, super-lightweight NanoXcel 2 hull and deck material. The EXR weighs in at a mere 540 pounds, which is 60 pounds lighter than the EX Deluxe.

Completing the new EXR is Yamaha’s RiDE dual throttle system for exceptional maneuverability (also available on the EX Deluxe model), bold colors and graphics, and a two-tone cut and sewn bench seat.

Joining the new EXR is the EX Deluxe, the EX Sport and EX WaveRunners that return to the lineup boasting the highest first-time buyer rate in the PWC industry. In fact, 54 percent of EX customers are first-time buyers.

The EX Deluxe, EX Sport, and EX are powered by Yamaha’s TR-1 marine engine that is 17 percent more powerful than its Rec Lite competition. Feeding this award-winning motor is a 13-gallon fuel tank that is twice the capacity of its Rec Lite competitor.

Under the waterline is a performance hull design that is manufactured to precise tolerances. This lightweight SMC hull delivers excellent stability for two or three-up riding and towing, and provides precise responsiveness and predictability for thrilling one-up riding. Other than the EXR, there is not another hull in the Rec Lite category that offers as much fun, excitement, stability, and versatility.

On the handlebars, the EX Deluxe includes Yamaha’s RiDE system, the industry’s first dual handlebar throttle controls that deliver maximum maneuverability moving forward or in reverse.

RiDE is the most intuitive driving experience on the water. Squeeze the right handlebar lever to go forward. Squeeze the left lever for reverse. At speed, the left handlebar lever will also slow you down. Release both right and left levers and the watercraft is in neutral. No shifting. No gears. The only thing to think about is how much fun it is to RiDE.

Designed with the same quality and reliability that Yamaha’s more expensive WaveRunners are known for, the EX Series exemplifies affordability and durability in an exciting way.

EXR: