Choosing The Right PWC

When it comes to enjoying the sunshine and the open water, there are many exciting adventures calling your name. One of our favorites is the thrill of riding a personal watercraft (PWC). These amazing machines are ideal for leisurely cruising, learning new tricks, or hitting high speeds as you chase the next adrenaline rush. While there are many ways to have fun with a PWC, it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Loewer Powersports & Equipment has assembled this buying guide to help you get started.

For more information or to check out our inventory, be sure to visit our dealership. We’re conveniently located in Alexandria, VA near Lafayette, Shreveport, and Baton Rouge.

Seating Requirements

First and foremost, you’ll want to take a moment to think about your seating requirements. This will help you narrow down your options right out of the gate. No matter how many other benefits your PWC offers, you don’t want to overload it weight more weight than it’s built to handle. If you know for a fact you’ll frequently be riding with another passenger, you’ll want to choose a model that can accommodate the additional weight. Sure, these models might not be as great for hitting tight turns quickly and performing cool tricks, but it’s a safer, smarter choice and you’ll be less likely to damage your machine. These models are also great for beginners who aren’t as skilled behind the controls.

The sportier riders will probably want something that they can ride solo. It’s important to note that the awesome tricks you often see on TV and in moves are performed by professionals. You can land yourself in a dangerous situation by attempting tricks that aren’t on par with your skill level. You should always be safe and smart when riding your PWC. With that said, smaller models are best for hitting faster speeds and enjoying more thrills.

New Vs. Used

Another critical decision you’ll need to make is whether to buy a new or used personal watercraft. This choice often comes right down to budgets and what you’re able to afford. Obviously, a brand-new model is going to cost you more than a used one. Buying pre-owned doesn’t mean that your PWC won’t perform well. A bit of wear and tear is normal, but as long as you do your research and shop with a reputable seller, you should be on your way to purchasing a decent PWC at an affordable price.

New models are very appealing as they’re fresh out of the factory and less prone to sudden breakdowns. This means fewer trips to the service department. In order to decide whether new or used is right for you, start crunching the numbers and establishing what your budget limitations are. Remember to consider long-term expenses, too.

Stand Up Vs. Sit Down

Next, you’ll need to zero in on a specific type of personal watercraft. For example, some models are mainly controlled by sitting down and using the handlebars to steer. There are other models, which are often the smaller, sportier ones, that are controlled by a standing rider. This can be a bit more taxing on your body, though, so you should really only go with this option if you’re an experienced rider. These models will be much more agile and they often ride faster, too. Think about how you want your PWC to perform before choosing a model. You should also be factoring your riding skills into this decision.

Safety Considerations

Lastly, it’s much too easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new toy, so you don’t want to forget about safety consideration. This should always be a top priority when you’re behind the handlebars of this much power, especially out on the open water. Each model should come with a horn and lanyard. You’ll also want to confirm the hull and engine are in good condition. Think about additional safety gear you might need, like a life jacket. Other items include a first aid kit, signal flares, a dewatering device, emergency radio, and so on.

Ready to check out PWC for sale near Alexandria, LA? Stop by Loewer Powersports & Equipment today! We also proudly serve Lafayette, Shreveport, and Baton Rouge.