Are you considering buying a used Honda jet ski? Perhaps you’ve noticed that there are no current-year models of Honda watercraft available. You might be wondering what happened to Honda’s presence in the industry. Let’s delve into the fascinating story.
The Evolution of Honda Watercraft
In the past, numerous manufacturers produced jet skis, including Honda, Tigershark, Polaris, Sea-Doo, Yamaha, and Kawasaki. However, the landscape has changed significantly, and today, only Sea-Doo, Yamaha, and Kawasaki continue to release new watercraft.
While Honda did manufacture impressive, dependable jet skis, their timing proved to be their Achilles’ heel. Unfortunately, they entered the market a bit late, and their endeavors were further complicated by the economic recession of 2008/2009. In 2009, Honda ceased production of watercraft, leaving many dealers struggling to sell their remaining inventory. As a result, you may come across relatively “new-looking” Honda watercraft with low usage hours and even some abandoned by their owners, offering attractive deals to buyers.
Exploring Honda’s Missteps
Though timing played a role in Honda’s departure from the jet ski industry, their lack of innovation is arguably the primary reason for their setback. Honda’s business strategy has thrived on simplicity, reliability, and functionality, which works excellently for selling cars and lawnmowers. However, this approach failed to resonate within the dynamic jet ski market.
Innovation is the lifeblood of the jet ski industry. These recreational vehicles are meant to be exciting and captivating. If a jet ski lacks that wow factor, it faces an uphill battle in capturing enthusiasts’ attention. When Honda was stepping away in 2009, Sea-Doo was introducing groundbreaking technologies like braking (iBR). This constant drive for innovation is what has propelled Sea-Doo’s dominance, with Yamaha and Kawasaki following suit in their own ways.
Moreover, Honda limited its watercraft sales to four countries, restricting its reach to a few select dealerships. These self-imposed barriers hindered Honda’s potential expansion in the market.
Assessing the Value of Honda Jet Skis
This brings us to the question: Are Honda jet skis worth considering? The answer is both yes and no.
Undoubtedly, Honda watercrafts were known for their reliability. However, as time passes and we move further away from 2009, obtaining replacement parts becomes increasingly challenging. If you possess mechanical skills and are comfortable working on your machines, a Honda jet ski could be a viable option that you’ll adore.
However, it’s crucial to note that resale value might be affected due to the scarcity of available parts for Honda models. Numerous dealers struggled to sell brand-new Honda watercraft, even years after the company discontinued production. Nevertheless, it’s regrettable that Honda chose to exit the industry, as they had the potential to create exciting innovations in the later years.
If you’re considering purchasing a used Honda jet ski, I recommend consulting my comprehensive used jet ski guide, which offers valuable insights and tips to help you make an informed decision.
The Future of Honda Jet Skis
Will Honda make a comeback in the jet ski market? While rumors have circulated regarding possible prototypes and a potential return in 2020 amid booming watercraft sales, it remains uncertain. Many believe that Honda burnt bridges during their departure, and any potential return would likely involve a different approach.
If Honda were to re-enter the market, they might consider focusing on a more budget-friendly lineup, similar to the Spark and EX models. It was the innovation behind models like the Spark that sparked the revival of the jet ski industry. Instead of producing a racing model, Honda could attract attention by introducing a Rec-Lite model that would leave enthusiasts clamoring to own one.
If Honda’s representatives happen to stumble upon this article, I implore them to seriously consider rejoining the market. Healthy competition is always welcome, and Honda has a reputation for manufacturing exceptional products.
As for the current market options, I invite you to explore the latest 2023 Sea-Doo vs. Yamaha vs. Kawasaki comparison to discover the exciting choices available to jet ski enthusiasts.
Check out this East Coast Paddle Sports link for more information on jet ski adventures and products.
