2012 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Personal Water Craft Review

Boat Reviews

Reviewed by Aaron Wasylyk

In the world of personal watercraft bigger doesn’t always mean better, but in the case of Yamaha’s 2012 FX Cruiser SHO it definitely does. The new FX models are 19.1 cms (7.5 inches) longer than the previous year models, making them a total of 356.1 cms (140.2 inches) in length. This increased length, combined with Yamaha’s exclusive new “NanoXcel” hull and deck design really help tame the 1.8L, supercharged and intercooled Super High Output 1812cc marine engine that lurks beneath the hull of the FX Cruiser SHO.

The one constant in Yamaha watercraft over the years has been their rock solid reliable engine performance. Now in 2012, the overall design and styling is finally catching up with their mechanical expertise. This FX Cruiser SHO features a very distinctive new hull design, punctuated by an overall more aggressive and angular look. It’s a look that works well for Yamaha and sets them apart from their competitors.

The “NanoXcel” technology isn’t just style over substance. Each hull is created in Yamaha’s closed molded process resulting in smooth, flawless, and exact hulls, decks and liners every time, which Yamaha claims, significantly reduces overall weight, while increasing strength and improving fuel economy. The new hull design features a full keel and also includes full-length outside chines. During testing, the advantages of these features were very obvious, resulting in excellent straightline tracking and solid stability when executing high speed turns and cornering. The new hull kept this craft on track and eliminated any slipping or skidding while turning.

The Super High Output engine powering this watercraft definitely lives up to it’s name and reputation, with a tested top speed of just over 106 km/h (66 mph) and a 0-48 km/h (0-30 mph) time of 1.7 seconds. This is one fast watercraft, rated at 210-hp, that according to Yamaha, has actually been de-tuned below it’s full capacity. Access to the engine is achieved by removing the forward seat section. In such a large watercraft it was not surprising to see that there is a lot of room to work in and around the engine compartment, which is certainly appreciated when it comes time to perform regular maintenance.

At the helm on the FX Cruiser SHO you will find a single gauge with digital multi-function display screens on either side of it. These displays allow the driver to monitor information regarding fuel consumption, water temperature and other various performance related specs. The performance of this craft can be further controlled using the “Cruise Assist” and “No Wake Mode” buttons located on the steering controls. The “Cruise Assist” feature allows a driver to maintain a set speed and can be regulated up and down using the corresponding buttons. Similarly, when the “No Wake Mode” button is pressed and held, three beeps will sound and the overall speed of the craft will be reduced to approximately 8-11 km/h (5-7 mph). Trim can be adjusted on the port side of the handlebar simply by depressing a lever and twisting either up or down to adjust the jet pump nozzle accordingly.

The function of the reverse lever on the 2012 FX Cruiser SHO has been redesigned. To move the lever into the reverse position, simply depress a safety latch and pull up and back. Pushing the lever forward will lock it into the neutral position, as indicated by a green “N” that appears in a small window on the lever. When this machine was put into neutral it performed exactly as advertised and didn’t creep forward or backwards at all.

Storage aboard the SHO is plentiful and conveniently accessed. There is a large watertight storage compartment located in the bow, as well as a separate storage compartment situated abaft of the helm, containing a removable insert that also serves as a cup holder. The rear half of the seat is removable, allowing access to another waterproof storage area, which also features a fully removable waterproof container. There is a wet storage compartment located in the rear of the craft, which features a newly designed hatch with a cut out at the top, allowing a tow-line to remain attached while the compartment is closed.

The 2012 FX Cruiser SHO boasts a new larger stern along with a newly designed, and larger re-boarding step that extends deeper into the water than most other watercraft. In addition to the newly designed stern, the seating also received an overhaul. The seats are tiered, allowing the riders a better line of site by placing them a little higher than the driver. Additionally each seat has a contoured back providing extra support and comfort.

As the flagship model of Yamaha’s WaveRunner lineup, the 2012 FX Cruiser SHO lives up to it’s title. It’s a powerful watercraft that performs well and with the available Yacht Blue or Carbon Metallic paint jobs, it looks good doing it.

2012 Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO Photo Gallery

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