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Yamaha Waverunner FX140 Rolls Off Assembly Line
Yamaha completes first production run of world’s first four-stroke PWC

MEDIA CONTACT:
Bob Gonsalves or Kari Miyamoto
ICBM Communications
(909) 778-9160

KENNESAW, GA — Yamaha WaterCraft Group Company announced today the completion of the pilot production of the Yamaha WaveRunner® FX140™, the world’s first four-stroke personal watercraft. This first group of FX140s will be displayed at the upcoming consumer boat shows as well as used for future Yamaha promotions.

"The introduction of four-stroke personal watercraft technology creates an exciting time for Yamaha and the entire industry, " said Yamaha WaterCraft Group Company president Mark Speaks. "The FX140 is the culmination of Yamaha’s 46 years experience as one of the most prolific engine manufacturers in the world. As the world leader in the development of efficient, high-powered, four-stroke motors, we are proud to lead the industry in this new direction."

Manufactured in the United States at Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America in Newnan, Georgia, the three-person Yamaha FX140 utilizes leading edge four-stroke technology that delivers exceptional power per displacement, provides excellent fuel economy, and due to its four-stroke design, produces low exhaust emissions.

Four-stroke technology is important to the personal watercraft industry because it is the best long-term solution to many of the issues posed by industry critics citing emissions and noise. The FX140 is more than 80% cleaner than conventional two-stroke engines, surpassing the most stringent federal and state exhaust emissions requirements currently on the books, while saving consumers up to $1,000 or more annually on fuel and oil costs. In addition, the FX140 may be the quietest watercraft ever designed, reducing sound intensity levels by 70% at cruising speed and more than 80% at idle compared to one of the quietest two-stroke direct injection models available.

Since the FX140’s introduction in late July, consumers have rushed to Yamaha dealerships across the United States to reserve their own FX140. The company is on track for a consumer release in late Winter/early Spring 2002.

The Yamaha FX140 has received a number of accolades from magazines across the country. Most recently, the FX140 was named "Best of What's New" in the recreational products category by Popular Science magazine and was the winner of the 2002 Design & Engineering Award by Popular Mechanics magazine.

"The FX140 is the ultimate example of Yamaha’s commitment to quality, fit and finish," said Speaks.