Teaching Stand up PWC

Some background info:

Currently available to buy:

Kawasaki SX-R 1498cc

Kawasaki made a re-entry into the UK market in 2020. The models available include a four stroke SX-R

Yamaha Superjet 1049cc

This four stroke superjet was first introduced in 2021.

Aside to this stand up now being a 4-stroke (which means it's not restricted to competition use), it also has a wider hull, learner mode and fuel gauge.

Benelli Extreme & Dynamic

Currently available

Dynamic - 135hp 4-stroke

Extreme - 180hp

Examples of previous models that can be purchased second hand:

Kawasaki SX-R 800cc

A wider ride stance than the Superjet, therefore easier for beginners & larger riders.

Yamaha Superjet 700cc

Sold until 2020

Seadoo 3D 951cc/ 130hp

Sold until 2006

Top tips for learners:

Speed = stability
Blip throttle
Stay loose, (arms & chest) bars are for steering not leaning on
No stability under 10mph
Like learning to ride a bike, go slow & you’ll wobble!
Keep the boat under you at all times when steering.

Stance:

General Stance = slight crouch, knees bent (shock absorbers), low centre of gravity, arms relaxed.

Surf Stance = 1 foot forward, 1 foot back.

Regular = Left foot forward

Goofy = Right foot forward

Some riders will remain the same stance, others change their lead foot according to the turn direction.

Freestyle Stance = Both feet at the back of the tray

Common Faults of the learner:

Porpoising / bucking = weight too far back in tray, put front foot forward in tray & apply pressure to it
Falling on a turn = get low in the tray & keep the throttle on. Remember to use the handlebars to turn before you start leaning into it. Steer then lean.
Falling to the inside of the turn = turn hard to the inside & get your weight low
Falling to the outside of the turn = turn hard to the outside & get your weight low fast.
Struggling to get going (deep water start) = ensure upper body is out of the water (put elbows on top side of tray), otherwise you will be unable to hang on due to drag, if you come up too early you will lose your balance.

Killcords (the exception to the rule?):

Manufacturers stand up kill cords are generally only just long enough to allow you to attach the killcord to your buoyancy aid, therefore whilst deep water boarding etc you will often find the kill cord gets pulled out inadvertantly.

Therefore, wearing the killcord on your wrist in this scenario may be required but ONLY IF it is designed for this purpose! Velcro attachements are best for a secure hold.

Pull fasten types have been known to loosen whilst riding & slip off the wrist during a fall therefore being ineffective.

Boarding:

Teaching tips for Deep water boarding:

Ensure your students elbows are on the gunwhales surrounding the tray and their torso is as far up the tray as possible, this will help with stability.

Get them to push off their elbows to get into the kneeling position, if the PW is porposing/bucking at this stage get them to adjust their weight further forward in the tray.

Beach launching:

Risks = Sand / rocks/ Debris being ingressed

This should only be attempted by students who have managed to stand up from a deep water start.