Laser Jet PJS Thunder Jet

Skis

By Splash Magazine

Title: Sneak Peak
Subject: 1992 Thunder Jet
Location: San Pedro, CA
Rider: Terry Beatty, Doug Silverstein
Photos: Tom Kerker

Ever wonder why manufacturers insist on building relatively tame personal watercraft for the masses? Don't they know most of us immediately rip through the engine, porting and milling, replacing the whimpy OEM-performance with some lightning-fast stuff. Or is that thunder-fast?

WHAT'S A THUNDER JET?

Or more importantly, why does the Thunder Jet exist? After extensive research, designing and testing, Laser Jet Performance (LJP) is proud to announce the latest in high performance personal watercraft. LJP's prime goal was to simply manufacture a PWC not for the entry level rider, but for the person who demands style, performance and bottom line speed!

The Thunder Jet is available in three different models, the F-14 comes with a 550cc twin-cylinder, reed-induction, single carburetor engine, and produces a claimed 50-horsepower.

The F-15 also uses the same 550cc based twin-cylinder reed engine, but uses dual carburetors, thanks to the much higher port timing configurations, the F-15 is rated at a claimed 70-horsepower!

F15 THUNDER JET: THE FUTURE

Are you ready for this? The F-16 comes equipped with a 700cc hi-torque, twin-cylinder (reed-valve), dual carb engine which makes a claimed 70-horse-power and produces an impressive amount of torque at lower rpm. All three models are powered by the all new Performance Jet Systems Viper engines (a division of PJS). Performance Jet Ski, along with their superb line of performance parts, has now entered an entirely different market and is starting to manufacture engines and pumps for different PWC and small boat manufacturers applications.

RIGHT - What's this? It's not a Kawasaki or a Yamaha! It just happens to be the first-ever Thunder Jet, manufactured by Laser Jet Performance. The ever-sneaky Eb Kreb snapped off this spy photo on his way to the hog-calling finals.

LEFT - Test riders Terry Beatty and Doug Silverstein play a little game of cat-and-mouse on board the latest stand-up craft from Laser Jet Performance. Both riders agreed that the handling, maneuverability and performance were exceptional.

RIGHT - All three models use an axial-flow single stage pump, combined with a stainless steel wear ring for longevity. Impeller combinations vary on each model, depending on the performance level. Note: although the bottom looks similar to a Jet Ski, LJP claims the added dual channels help improve cornering and handling.

LEFT - Even with its sleek, lightweight design, the manufacturer felt it necessary to add a handle pole spring to reduce lower back fatigue for riding comfort. The hood is secured at two points that are easy to use and access.

The F-15 uses the same basic engine, but is designed for much greater top-speed. Over 50 mph is what Eb confirmed, (while looking over the R&D mechanic's shoulder with a radar gun) and they didn't have very good water conditions. The twin 38mm carburetors and advanced port timings give the F-15 the extra added performance PSC speed freaks just might be looking for!

The sleek appearance of the F-15 makes it look fast, even while sitting on shore. LJP's Exclusive Hydro-V hull design is curved to offer both high-speed stability and handling. The unique riding tray area is fully padded, offers easy re-entry and more room for larger riders. A rubber bumper surrounds the entire rail, which minimizes scrapes and nicks.

LJP has incorporated the latest in solar charging technology into the handlepole. When the craft is running, it basically has two sources for charging. Laser Jet felt it would be necessary to add a solar charger just to help maintain a full charge at all times, especially when the boat is not being operated.

A handy storage area has been built into the hood section and is secured with a stainless-steel, flush mounted latch. Air is drawn in through a series of openings that face towards the rear. This minimizes water intake into the engine compartment.

Twin rear exhaust is standard equipment on all models. This system provides high performance, but is super quiet. Both outlets have a flapper system to prevent water from entering back into the exhaust. An aluminum steering nozzle is used instead of plastic for strength and durability.

The rear tray of the Thunder Jet is unlike any other; it's slightly wider than most of the other popular stand-ups. This wider area will give you greater turning leverage and flexibility. The sides are covered with a smooth vinyl that's stylish, yet durable. The center mat is made of a non-skid material for superior traction.