original template by Ray Lam, Fall 97

web page by Alissa Clarke

Micaila Donovan English Nov.20,1997

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT

A recent and popular addition to summertime fun in the United States is the personal watercraft (PWC). People of all ages enjoy this fast-paced excitment on the water without the worry of a full sized boat. The original model was the stand up version, with a powerful 400cc engine and handlebar steering, allowed a person to water ski without the need of a boat. Staying aboard this vehicle was a challenge, especially in choppy water; so far for some years, despite improvements in control and stability. A more recent development was of the two person watercraft in a sit-down style with much comfort. These PWCÕs were more stable and safe,than trier predecessors.

The inventer of both major types of PWC is Clayton Jacobsen ll of Arizona, originally a motor cross enthusiast. The public was introduced to such vehicles with mass-marketing of KawaskiÕs Ski® in 1973. The two person sit down style was developed in the late 80Õs. By the early 90Õs, further improvements in technology , from cockpit and hull design to engine and exhaust efficiency, had made sit down personal watercraft easy to use. Their popularity grew to the point that the Sea-Doo® a sit-down PWC made by Bombardier , Inc., became the largest-selling in the world. Today, there are PWCÕs capable of carrying three persons and reaching speeds of 60 miles per hour . The racing of souped models, stand-up and sit- down, is an organized sport supported by competitions throughout the U.S. Being thrilling but safe, and easily accessible through rental as well as purchase, PWCÕs will continue to become more popular every year.