IJSBA is pleased to release the draft of new language created for the approved changes to the 2023 Competition Rule Book for peer review.  The following post provides, for each rule changed, the previous language and the expected new language.  Please review this post carefully and send any questions or comments, by email, to info@ijsba.com.

 

 

2023 Tentative Language From Rule Change Results:

 

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA allow the use of an aftermarket fuel tank in Sport GP and Sport Spec using the same standards as Ski GP?

Answer:  YES

Rule Changes:

Sport Spec:

The fuel tank shall not be restricted to the original equipment, as supplied by the manufacturer, so long as the replacement is an unmodified tank from another homologated PWC and the tank fits securely in the watercraft without causing a hazard. Original equipment fuel filler and relief valve must be used and cannot be modified. Aftermarket fuel tanks not coming from another homologated PWC may be allowed by the race director so long as it is demonstrated that the aftermarket fuel tanks meet or exceed the strengths and safety standards of an OEM fuel tank.

 

Changes to

 

Original equipment fuel filler and relief valve must be used and cannot be modified. Aftermarket fuel tanks recognized by IJSBA may be used.

 

Sport GP:

SPGP.6.5 The entire fuel system is a closed system. The watercraft must not vent or spill fuel at any attitude with or without the engine running. The fuel tank shall not be restricted to the original equipment, as supplied by the manufacturer, so long as the replacement is an unmodified tank from another homologated PWC and the tank fits securely in the watercraft without causing a hazard. Original equipment fuel filler and relief valve must be used and cannot be modified. The fuel pickup, fuel filter and fuel petcock may be removed and/or aftermarket parts may be used. Additional fuel filters may be used and fuel cell foam may be added to the original equipment fuel tank. Fuel tank filler cap may be modified or aftermarket provided a hazard is not created.

 

Changes to

 

SPGP.6.5 The entire fuel system is a closed system. The watercraft must not vent or spill fuel at any attitude with or without the engine running. Aftermarket fuel tanks recognized by IJSBA may be used in place of the OEM fuel tank.   Original equipment fuel filler and relief valve must be used and cannot be modified. The fuel pickup, fuel filter and fuel petcock may be removed and/or aftermarket parts may be used. Additional fuel filters may be used and fuel cell foam may be added to the original equipment fuel tank. Fuel tank filler cap may be modified or aftermarket provided a hazard is not created.

 

SPGP.7.4 The entire fuel system is a closed system. The watercraft must not vent or spill fuel at any attitude with or without the engine running. The fuel tank shall not be restricted to the original equipment, as supplied by the manufacturer, so long as the replacement is an unmodified tank from another homologated PWC and the tank fits securely in the watercraft without causing a hazard. Original equipment fuel filler and relief valve must be used and cannot be modified. The fuel pickup, fuel filter and fuel petcock may be removed and/or aftermarket parts may be used. Additional fuel filters may be used and fuel cell foam may be added to the original equipment fuel tank. Fuel tank filler cap may be modified or aftermarket provided a hazard is not created. Aftermarket fuel tanks not coming from another homologated PWC may be allowed by the race director so long as it is demonstrated that the aftermarket fuel tanks meet or exceed the strengths and safety standards of an OEM fuel tank.

 

Changes to:

 

SPGP.7.4 The entire fuel system is a closed system. The watercraft must not vent or spill fuel at any attitude with or without the engine running. The fuel tank shall not be restricted to the original equipment, as supplied by the manufacturer, so long as the replacement is an unmodified tank from another homologated PWC and the tank fits securely in the watercraft without causing a hazard. Original equipment fuel filler and relief valve must be used and cannot be modified. The fuel pickup, fuel filter and fuel petcock may be removed and/or aftermarket parts may be used. Additional fuel filters may be used and fuel cell foam may be added to the original equipment fuel tank. Fuel tank filler cap may be modified or aftermarket provided a hazard is not created. Aftermarket fuel tanks recognized by IJSBA may be used in place of the OEM fuel tank.

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA increase the minimum age for Veterans Ski to 40 while allowing 35 in 2023 to continue?

Answer: YES

New rule:

Veterans Ski Class is for competitors who have reached the age of 40 years old.  In addition, persons born in the following years may compete in Veterans Ski Class in the corresponding years:

Year Born                                        Year Allowed To Compete After Birthday

1988                                                 2023

1989                                                 2024

1990                                                 2025

1991                                                 2026

1992                                                 2027

Beginning 2028, all persons competing must be 40 years old.

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA require the use of eye protection at all times?

Answer:  YES, Exception for Vintage

 

AND

 

  1. Shall IJSBA require a fluorescent coating on helmets?

Answer: (YES) Modified to IJSBA and organizers shall maintain a supply of refective tape or other material to require competitors to apply to their helmet if the race director determines that that competitor’s helmet is of a color that would be difficult to see if the competitor is a downed rider.

 

3&4:

GEN.7.3 At all IJSBA- and IJSBA affiliate-sanctioned events, a properly fitting, full-coverage helmet with chin and mouth protection meeting local requirements often including internationally recognized DOT and Snell Foundation motorized vehicle standards will be worn by all competitors at all times when on the water. Helmets with bolt-on chin guards are not allowed. Full face shields shall be allowed providing the shield is pivoting with no locking mechanism. A quick release capability is acceptable in lieu of a pivoting mechanism. Exception: Helmets are not required for freestyle competitors when engaged in freestyle competition. All helmets must be in sound condition and must be approved during pre-race technical inspection. No plastic, bicycle-type, BMX, or similarly designed headgear will be allowed.

Changes to

GEN.7.3 At all IJSBA- and IJSBA affiliate-sanctioned events, a properly fitting, full-coverage helmet with chin and mouth protection meeting local requirements often including internationally recognized DOT and Snell Foundation motorized vehicle standards will be worn by all competitors at all times when on the water. Helmets with bolt-on chin guards are not allowed. Full face shields shall be allowed providing the shield is pivoting with no locking mechanism. A quick release capability is acceptable in lieu of a pivoting mechanism. Exception: Helmets are not required for freestyle competitors when engaged in freestyle competition. All helmets must be in sound condition and must be approved during pre-race technical inspection. No plastic, bicycle-type, BMX, or similarly designed headgear will be allowed.

If the race director determines that the color of a rider’s helmet poses a hazard in that if the rider is displaced from his/her watercraft the helmet cannot be clearly seen in the water then the race director may require that a fluorescent type of tape or similar material will be added to the helmet.  The organizer must carry a sufficient supply of tape for competitors.

Eye protection shall be worn by competitors at all times during competition and practice with the exception of Freestyle events.  Organizers may make exceptions for Vintage Classes.

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA require additional “ballistic” protection for Endurance Racing?

Answer: YES.  To be developed in 2023 and mandatory in 2024.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA require additional “ballistic” protection for Drag Racing?

Answer: YES.  To be developed in 2023 and mandatory in 2024.

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA allow modifications to the OEM SuperJet nozzle to allow for adjusting the angle in Ski Lites?

Answer: YES

 

And

 

  1. Shall IJSBA allow nozzle boring for Kawasaki 800 watercraft in Ski Lites?

Answer: YES

 

SKL.6.2 No internal modifications of any kind, including grinding, surfacing, polishing, machining, shot peening, etc., will be allowed on any driveline components (e.g., pump stator, reduction nozzle, etc.).  Kawasaki SX-R 800 watercraft may have utilized bored venturi nozzles and bored steering nozzles.

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA create a Ski Competition division with aftermarket hulls but Stock Class engine allowances for 1500cc engines?  Shall IJSBA evolve this class to be the dominant aftermarket hull based class for Ski division (Veterans, Masters, etc.) and streamline GP into one single experimental class?

 

Answer: YES

 

            See Modified Class Draft.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA specifically restrict or prohibit appendages on the upper deck of Ski Watercraft whether in aftermarket or OEM form?

Answer: YES

AND

 

  1. Shall IJSBA allow spray deflectors above the bond line?

Answer:  YES

              AND

  1. Shall IJSBA allow for spray deflectors to be rigid?

Answer: YES

             

9-12

SKGP.2.2 The top deck may be modified or aftermarket, providing the following: Aftermarket hulls and top decks must be approved by IJSBA through the Aftermarket Hull Homologation Process. The top deck must resemble the generic look of existing homologated Ski watercraft. The generic look may include legal aftermarket components which are integrated into the deck (i.e., rail caps and foot holds). The 2017-2018 Kawasaki SX-R may not utilize an aftermarket top deck. All watercraft in the Ski Modified Class, regardless of displacement, may utilize an aftermarket hood.

Changes to:

NOTE THIS IS A CONCEPTUAL DRAFT AND SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN AS A FINAL RULE

SKGP.2.2 The top deck may be modified or aftermarket, providing the following: Aftermarket hulls and top decks must be approved by IJSBA through the Aftermarket Hull Homologation Process. The top deck must resemble the generic look of existing homologated Ski watercraft. The generic look may include legal aftermarket components which are integrated into the deck (i.e., rail caps and foot holds). The 2017-2018 Kawasaki SX-R may not utilize an aftermarket top deck. All watercraft in the Ski Modified Class, regardless of displacement, may utilize an aftermarket hood.

Aftermarket top decks may utilize, or have integrated, a feature which deflects spray and stabilizes handling.  These features must be approved by IJSBA and must conform to the following guidelines:

  1. No part of the feature may protrude over the bond line by more than .75 inches.
  2. If any part of the feature protrudes over the bond line the protrusion shall be very slight with no more than slight contours protruding.
  3. Enlarged bumpers must be used in sections where the feature protrudes over the bond line sufficient to be flush with the protrusion.  
  4. No part of the feature may create a channel or opening larger than one inch.
  5. The featured must have all edges radiused.
  6. Features must be unbreakable or of a soft flexible material that will not splinter or fragment.

The decision of the race director as to whether a feature is compliant is final.

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA increase sponson allowance size for 1500cc SXR watercraft?  If so, to what size?

Answer: YES, 90 Inches.

SSK.2.3 All watercraft may be equipped with a maximum of four sponsons. Original equipment sponsons may be modified, aftermarket, repositioned or removed. Sponsons shall not protrude from the side of the hull by more than 100.00mm (3.94 in.) when measured in a level horizontal plane. The vertical channel created by the underside of the sponson shall not exceed 63.5mm (2.50in). No part of the sponson shall extend downward below the point at which the side of the hull intersects the bottom surface of the hull by more than 38.00mm (1.50 in.). Aftermarket or modified sponsons must exceed 6mm (0.24 in.) in thickness. All leading edges must be radiused so as not to create a hazard. Sponsons may not be attached to the planing surfaces of the hull. Fins, rudders, skegs and other appendages that may create a hazard will not be allowed. (See diagrams in Appendix.) Sponsons may be attached to the inside of the bond flange, but no part of the sponson may extend more than 38.00mm (1.500 in.) below the lower part of the bond flange (bumper removed). Sponsons attached to the inside of the bond flange shall not protrude outside the bond flange (bumper removed) when measured in a level horizontal plane. The total sponson length shall be limited to 1,524 mm (60 in) in a single or two sponson configuration. The decision of the Technical Director and/or Race Director regarding modifications will be final. Any question regarding the legality of modifications should be directed to the IJSBA or IJSBA affiliate prior to use in competition.

Changes to

 

SSK.2.3 All watercraft may be equipped with a maximum of four sponsons. Original equipment sponsons may be modified, aftermarket, repositioned or removed. Sponsons shall not protrude from the side of the hull by more than 100.00mm (3.94 in.) when measured in a level horizontal plane. The vertical channel created by the underside of the sponson shall not exceed 63.5mm (2.50in). No part of the sponson shall extend downward below the point at which the side of the hull intersects the bottom surface of the hull by more than 38.00mm (1.50 in.). Aftermarket or modified sponsons must exceed 6mm (0.24 in.) in thickness. All leading edges must be radiused so as not to create a hazard. Sponsons may not be attached to the planing surfaces of the hull. Fins, rudders, skegs and other appendages that may create a hazard will not be allowed. (See diagrams in Appendix.) Sponsons may be attached to the inside of the bond flange, but no part of the sponson may extend more than 38.00mm (1.500 in.) below the lower part of the bond flange (bumper removed). Sponsons attached to the inside of the bond flange shall not protrude outside the bond flange (bumper removed) when measured in a level horizontal plane. The total sponson length shall be limited to 2,286 mm (90 in) in a single or two sponson configuration. The decision of the Technical Director and/or Race Director regarding modifications will be final. Any question regarding the legality of modifications should be directed to the IJSBA or IJSBA affiliate prior to use in competition.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA allow a second set of sponsons for the Four Stroke 2021MY+ based Superjet?

Answer: YES

FSKL.2.3 All watercraft may be equipped with a maximum of two sponsons. Original equipment sponsons may be modified, aftermarket, repositioned or removed. Overall length of each sponson shall not exceed 91.45cm (36.00 in.). Sponsons shall not protrude from the side of the hull by more than 100.00mm (3.94 in.) when measured in a level horizontal plane. The vertical channel created by the underside of the sponson shall not exceed 63.5mm (2.50in). No part of the sponson shall extend downward below the point at which the side of the hull intersects the bottom surface of the hull by more than 38.00mm (1.50 in.). Aftermarket or modified sponsons must exceed 6mm (0.24 in.) in thickness. All leading edges must be radiused so as not to create a hazard. Sponsons may not be attached to the planing surfaces of the hull. Fins, rudders, skegs and other appendages that may create a hazard will not be allowed. (See diagrams in Appendix.) Sponsons may be attached to the inside of the bond flange, but no part of the sponson may extend more than 38.00mm (1.500 in.) below the lower part of the bond flange (bumper removed). Sponsons attached to the inside of the bond flange shall not protrude outside the bond flange (bumper removed) when measured in a level horizontal plane.

Changes to

 

FSKL.2.3 All watercraft may be equipped with a maximum of four sponsons. Original equipment sponsons may be modified, aftermarket, repositioned or removed. Overall combined length of single or dual sponsons shall not exceed 1,524 mm (60.00 in.). Sponsons shall not protrude from the side of the hull by more than 100.00mm (3.94 in.) when measured in a level horizontal plane. The vertical channel created by the underside of the sponson shall not exceed 63.5mm (2.50in). No part of the sponson shall extend downward below the point at which the side of the hull intersects the bottom surface of the hull by more than 38.00mm (1.50 in.). Aftermarket or modified sponsons must exceed 6mm (0.24 in.) in thickness. All leading edges must be radiused so as not to create a hazard. Sponsons may not be attached to the planing surfaces of the hull. Fins, rudders, skegs and other appendages that may create a hazard will not be allowed. (See diagrams in Appendix.) Sponsons may be attached to the inside of the bond flange, but no part of the sponson may extend more than 38.00mm (1.500 in.) below the lower part of the bond flange (bumper removed). Sponsons attached to the inside of the bond flange shall not protrude outside the bond flange (bumper removed) when measured in a level horizontal plane.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA allow Sea-Doo  X4 type hulls to use aftermarket hoods in any category where these type of watercraft are eligible to compete?

Answer: YES

RAL.2.14 Engine compartment ventilation tubes may be modified, aftermarket, relocated on the original equipment ducting, or removed. Inlet and outlet openings may not be enlarged (i.e., when the tube is removed, the opening may not be larger than stock). Vents may be shielded or plugged. No other modifications to the hood will be allowed (covers and cowlings are included in this restriction).

Changes to

 

RAL.2.14 Engine compartment ventilation tubes may be modified, aftermarket, relocated on the original equipment ducting, or removed. Inlet and outlet openings may not be enlarged (i.e., when the tube is removed, the opening may not be larger than stock). Vents may be shielded or plugged. No other modifications to the hood will be allowed (covers and cowlings are included in this restriction).  Sea-Doo models using the X4 Hull may utilize aftermarket hoods.

  1. Shall IJSBA allow durability upgrades to Sea-Doo parts such as welding the supercharger shaft in Runabout Stock Class?

Answer: YES

 

RAS.9.2. Supercharger shafts, and other components, may be welded or reinforced for safety purposes. Supercharger clutches, belts, and internal replacement parts will not be restricted to OEM so long as the replacement parts are approved by IJSBA. OEM gear rations must be maintained.

RAS.9.2 does not change. However, this rule is no longer based on temporary maintenance needs or supply chain problems.  This rule is considered permanent. 

 

 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA specifically allow driveline couplers and dampeners in Runabout Stock Class?

Answer: YES

RAS.10.2 No internal modifications of any kind, including grinding, surfacing, polishing, machining, shot peening, etc., will be allowed on any driveline components (e.g., pump stator, reduction nozzle, etc.).

 

Changes to

 

RAS.10.2 No internal modifications of any kind, including grinding, surfacing, polishing, machining, shot peening, etc., will be allowed on any driveline components (e.g., pump stator, reduction nozzle, etc.).  Aftermarket driveline couples and dampeners may be used.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA specifically allow for fuel test sensor mounts to remain on watercraft, during racing, so long as the sensor is removed?

Answer: YES

RAS.5.3 Fuel injectors and fuel pump must remain stock as furnished by the manufacturer.

Changes to

RAS.5.3 Fuel injectors and fuel pump must remain stock as furnished by the manufacturer.  Fuel test sensor mounts may remain on watercraft during competition so long as the sensor is removed.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA clarify Rule RAS.5.1  to make clear that the ribbon delete is allowed regardless of what claims the part manufacturer makes about the qualities of the product (in other words, if a product manufacturer claims performance gains on a product that is otherwise allowed in the rules but the claim of performance gain conflicts with the rules, should the part be prohibited)?

Answer: YES

RAS.5.1 Electronic fuel-injection systems: Flame arresters that meet USCG, UL-1111 or SAE J-1928 Marine backfire flame arrester test standards must be installed. If not equipped with an airflow sensor, the ducting between the flame arrester and throttle body may be modified or aftermarket. If originally equipped with an airflow sensor, the ducting may be modified or aftermarket between the flame arrestor and airflow sensor. Modifications to the airflow downstream of the airflow sensor are not allowed. All portions of the intake manifold must remain as originally equipped. Units where a ribbon system is employed as the OEM flame arresting device may have the ribbon removed so long as airflow is not increased and sufficient flame suppression is achieved by the air filter. An aftermarket part may be used to retain OEM airflow specifications. No modifications to the turbocharger and supercharger system, if applicable, are allowed.

Changes to

RAS.5.1 Electronic fuel-injection systems: Flame arresters that meet USCG, UL-1111 or SAE J-1928 Marine backfire flame arrester test standards must be installed. If not equipped with an airflow sensor, the ducting between the flame arrester and throttle body may be modified or aftermarket. If originally equipped with an airflow sensor, the ducting may be modified or aftermarket between the flame arrestor and airflow sensor. Modifications to the airflow downstream of the airflow sensor are not allowed. All portions of the intake manifold must remain as originally equipped. Units where a ribbon system is employed as the OEM flame arresting device may have the ribbon removed so long as airflow passage is not increased and sufficient flame suppression is achieved by the air filter. An aftermarket part may be used to retain OEM airflow specifications. The allowance for this provision is not negated if any sales literature or product description defines the part or kit as performance enhancing.   No modifications to the turbocharger and supercharger system, if applicable, are allowed.

 

  1. Shall IJSBA abandon a 900cc/1200cc division between Amateur Freestyle and Pro Freestyle by having a 1200cc displacement only?

Answer: YES, effective January 1, 2024

FREST.3 ENGINE —TWO-STROKE Engines may be bored. Aftermarket piston assemblies are allowed. The maximum displacement for Ski type PWC in Pro freestyle competition is 1200cc. The maximum displacement for Ski Type PWC in the Amateur Freestyle classes is 900cc.

Changes to

FREST.3 ENGINE —TWO-STROKE Engines may be bored. Aftermarket piston assemblies are allowed. The maximum displacement for Ski type PWC in Freestyle competition is 1200cc.  Amateur classes shall be subjected to the following restrictions if the engine displacement is greater than 900cc:

TO BE DEVELOPED 

 

  1. Shall IJSBA change Vintage X2 Rules to mirror Modified Rules?      

 

Answer: YES

 

VX2.2.2 The hull and top deck must remain as originally furnished by the manufacturer

Changes to

VX2.2.2 The hull top deck must remain as originally furnished by the manufacturer.  Hulls may be modified or aftermarket.  Hull length cannot exceed the length of the top deck.