When we previewed the 2013 Yamaha FZS a year ago, the spec sheet left us quite impressed. Well, guess what? The machine returns for 2014 with an all-new, more powerful engine and high-performance jet jump that will push it further up in the Super Sport segment of the personal watercraft industry.

Photo: Yamaha

Discover the 2014 Yamaha FZS
The new, purpose-built Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) engine increases power and torque by 20% compared to the SHO engine, reaching unprecedented levels in Yamaha WaveRunner history. This makes sense since Kawasaki and Sea-Doo also renewed their commitment to winning the power war. At 1,812cc, this supercharged and intercooled, four-stroke, 4-cylinder engine still boasts the largest displacement in the biz. There's a penalty at the pump, however, because premium fuel is now required.

The SVHO's output is sent to a brand new 160mm, high-performance jet pump. Together, these two upgrades easily justify the slightly higher price of the 2014 Yamaha FZS ($16,924) versus the outgoing model ($16,273).

Moreover, the Yamaha Engine Management System (YEMS) governs Off-Throttle Steering (OTS), which activates when the operator releases the throttle lever and attempts to steer, effectively making cornering manoeuvres easier when the watercraft is decelerating.

Other 2014 Yamaha FZS highlights
Last year, Yamaha launched the industry's first telescopic handlebars. Exclusive to the FZ Series, this three-position steering column gives you the option to ride seated or standing. It comes with the Quick Shift Trim System that can be easily adjusted to suit the rider’s preferences and water conditions (24 settings available).

The ultra-lightweight NanoXcel hull that wraps the 2014 Yamaha FZS is designed for superior agility and tight cornering ability, with a dihedral-shaped keel that also allows riders to achieve a higher top speed. Meanwhile, the aggressively styled, sport-textured seat is ergonomically designed and contoured for added support during extreme riding conditions. It can sit up to three people.

There are other great features on the 2014 Yamaha FZS to tell you about, such as the rally car-inspired gauges that reflect its championship racing heritage, the slant detection switch that will stop the engine and oil pumps immediately if the watercraft overturns, and the remote controlled transmitter that can activate or deactivate the digital security system and Low-RPM mode from up to 30 feet away.

Colour choices include Velocity Yellow and Lava Metallic (red), the latter replacing Deep Blue.