If you’re looking at a used jet ski from the 1990s—the ones that look like plastic walruses—don’t expect much. Those old 650cc engines puttered along at 35 to 40 mph.
But hey, that’s still fast enough to splash your friend who’s being annoying. And the 1990s models are cheap, reliable, and honestly, more fun because you feel every wave.
Modern skis are smooth like a luxury car. Old skis are like riding a bucking bronco. Both have their charm.
What About Racing?
Oh, you want to get serious? Professional jet ski racers on closed courses routinely hit 70-75 mph in the straightaways. But they’re turning in the corners.
Those guys are nuts. They lean into turns at 60 mph, their knees almost touching the water. One wrong move and they’re doing a faceplant into the lake.
But the speeds? Insane. The Yamaha GP1800R is a beast that dominates racing. It’s built for it—light, aggressive, and terrifyingly fast.
