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Exercise 7: Planing speed operation
Objective:
This exercise teaches you how the watercraft feels and operates at higher speeds. It also
illustrates what happens when the watercraft slides or partially spins due to abrupt high
speed turning.
Skills:
Throttle control, turning, shifting weight, and sliding.
Directions:
Because of the high speeds involved, do this exercise in a very large area, in open, calm
water free of traffic or other obstacles.
Remember, you need throttle to steer.
Drill 1: Turning at planing speed
1. Accelerate to planing speed, and then make a turn.
2. Practice making ovals using right and left turns.
3. Repeat the drill, starting with gradual turns and slower speeds, and then working up as
your skill and confidence build.
You will notice how the watercraft no longer “carves” its turns as it did at sub-planing
speed.
The watercraft can only make so sharp a turn at any given planing speed.
When the handlebars are turned more than is necessary, the watercraft may start sliding
and may not turn any more sharply. This is because when the watercraft is sliding there is
less water going into the jet intake, and steering thrust is reduced because less water is dis-
charged from the jet thrust nozzle.
As a result, the watercraft starts to slow down and turns more gradually. Returning the
handlebars to a less extreme position allows the watercraft to resume normal turning.
E_F2M-10.fm Page 17 Thursday, July 15, 2010 11:15 AM
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