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Steve Robinson and Sandy Riley at Ski Pimp are producing some of the hottest custom graphics for personal watercraft that we’ve seen in a long time. The Hull-based company sells standard ‘off the peg’ graphics as well as some awesome custom ones. They will even take on whole race team graphics. Sue Baggaley needed to know more…
 Q: How did you get involved in the business of custom graphics?
Steve: I started wrapping graphics onto Formula 1 cars some 25 years ago. I have wrapped cars for Christian Fittipaldi and Gianni Morbidelli. I started riding personal watercraft five years ago and couldn’t believe there was such a gap in the market for this kind of customisation. We have been wrapping skis now for about three years.
Q: How does the production process work?
Steve: First off we design them on a computer in Photoshop and then print them out here in our workshop. After the graphics are applied to the craft using a special heat process another laminate layer is added which is what gives the graphics their durability. The 3D imagery in available in both matt and gloss finishes, and it’s the laminate that determines that.
Q: How many staff do you have at Ski Pimp?
Steve: Six at present. We have a few skis in progress right now. One is for Jack Moule, we are just waiting for him to decide on his boat for the new season, and are also designing a wrap for Paul Attiwell’s Blaster at Nitrojet.
Q: Have you designed graphics for any of the racers yet?
Steve: Yes. Our newest rider is Luke “Showtime” Stocks. We are very interested in supporting the sport and have sponsored a class in the JSRA winter championships.
Q: Surely it must be expensive and complicated to repair a wrap?
Steve: Not at all. It is a perfect alternative to paint because if you damage or scuff your ski, we just peel and re-apply. If your ski was airbrushed it would be a big job to repair it.
Q: How much does a wrap cost?
Steve: We have some stock wraps at £190 but it cost up to £1500 for a large ski such as an RXP with complicated imagery.
Q: Where do you all ride?
Steve: At Fosse Hill and Rother Valley Both families are involved in the sport and my son and I are riders in the JSRA championships.
www.ski-pimp.co.uk
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Snowboard legends, Burton, bring you this tasty hoodie for winter. Made from a lightweight pique fleece (75% Cotton, 25% Acrylic), the outside kind of feels like a polo shirt. The horizontal ‘Mountain Stripes’ wrap all the way round and then go diagonal on the hood. Also features a small metal logo on the left pocket and a logo patch on the left cuff. Relaxed Slim Fit and relaxed cool look. £75
This technical manual should be in every Waverunner owner’s garage. A practical guide perfect for consulting should any problems arise with your Yamaha watercraft. Covering general information, troubleshooting, lubrication, maintenance and tune-up. Plus, it has detailed advice about the engine, with everything from removal and installation to engine break in. The drive system and jet pump, fuel system, exhaust and cooling system, electrical system, bilge pump, steering, helm and controls are all also covered. Essential reading for Waverunner riders. Models covered: Yamaha FX and Cruiser (2005 – 2008), Yamaha FX Cruiser High Output and Cruiser(2004 – 2008), Yamaha FX140 and Cruiser (2002-2004), Yamaha VX – Cruiser, Sport, and Deluxe (2005 – 2009). Does not cover 1800cc models. £35
The Mini-B wraps up a full scuba kit in one handy backpack, overcoming nearly all the issues of space and weight that go with conventional diving equipment. The Mini-B offers a quicker and more convenient alternative to setting up your full kit when you need to get in the water quickly and don’t plan to stay there too long – ideal for personal watercraft users.
Easy to install Engine Breather Upgrade Kit eliminates power-robbing crankcase emissions from your engine's air intake. Increases horsepower by removing the engine's requirement to burn relatively non-combustible oil. Also improves intercooler efficiency by preventing the oil sludge coating that lowers thermal efficiency. Easy installation retains highly efficient OEM air/oil separator system. Kit includes pre-formed hose with attached K&N filter along with all necessary hardware and instructions. £50