How to Select a Jet Ski

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

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There are several different kinds of jet skis, although they all function in the same basic manner. Here is how to select a jet ski type based on your needs, level of experience and budget.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Define your budget before you start looking at jet skis. Some crafts can be bought at a bargain, but expect to invest several thousand dollars. Look into options for financing your new jet ski, like a small bank loan.

Step2

Look into seated jet skis if you are interested in taking passengers. It is fairly common to select a seated craft for a first jet ski since they are often easier to maintain and handle. These larger personal watercrafts (PWCs) can also have more power if you are interested in towing skiers.

Step3

Check out standing jet skis if you are more interested in doing tricks and stunts. These PWCs are often only capable of carrying one person, but pay attention to the weight limit. Even if a standing jet ski can support the weight of two people it can be uncomfortable and often dangerous if there is more than one rider.

Step4

Shop around for used jet skis if you want to save money on your purchase. Always look at the hull and level of the seat before you consider having the engine checked out. If the seat is still raised and the hull isn't beaten up and cracked, then there is a good chance that the engine is in good shape.

Step5

Pay attention to the weight of the jet ski that you select. Be sure that your vehicle will be able to support both the weight of the trailer and the PWC. Remember that some driver's licenses restrict the load that the driver is able to tow.

Step6

Compare the full consumption of jet skis before you make a decision. Remember that a cheaper PWC with a higher yearly maintenance bill can end up costing you much more than the sticker price.

Tips & Warnings

If you plan to take your jet ski into the ocean, be sure to select one that has an engine size of at least 800cc.
When looking at used jet skis, always check for corrosion that can result from use in salt water. Also, be sure that you see how many hours the PWC has on it and do a compression check on the engine.
Kawasaki owns the Jet Ski name, so all other brands will be listed as personal watercrafts.