The Official Rapid Craft Driver's Thread

[at100plus]

This thread was moved from another category. Let's discuss the art of driving the Rapid Craft Riot here.


There's not a ton of room between the front seats, but it's comfortable with two people in the front. They are 20' 1" so there are no hassles with cops on the power end of things and they are much easier to Insure because of that as well. Because of the long sponsons, they actually take rough water EXEPTIONALLY well. I think if you were to get a Mirage, and STV, and a Riot side by side, there'd be no comparison in rough water ride - the Riot is the best. It should be because it's longer for one thing also, it's the only one of the three with a V-pad and the outside sponsons are angled fairly heavily. All of that adds up to a nice rough water ride.

Speedwise, they stack up well to the Mirage and STV as well. I had 2 of them and we sold several more. With a stock 260 and a 29" Mazco RE3 (one of the best all around props on that boat), it would run to the 7600 RPM limiter at about 105. I ran mine in a 1 kilometer speed run and with a 30" Mercury cleaver and no rev-limiter, I ran 111.7 through a computerized speed trap from an off-plane start. That was a stock weight boat (weighed about 1525 pounds with me in it). I'd run as fast as 115 on radar with a 32" cleaver. I know Randy Mills has gone over 120 with his.

They're all Klegecell (no wood in the boat) and they're built very strong, but fairly light for their size.

I can second that claim. I've had Hydrostreams, STVs, been in Mirages and just about every mod tunnel and this is the best chop boat I've been in. I was very impressed with the rough water ride. amazing for such a flat looking boat. Cuts through chop like a knife, just have to watch the large swells, it will come right over the bow and in the boat even at 15 mph if you stab it straight on. When the swells get too big you have to take them at an angle and tack back and fourth, after I figured that out, it was much better.

There is enough space between the front seats to get your leg through to sit down, but the allison type buckets are very comfortable. I love the simplicity of the no wood no carpet situation, ya don't care then if it gets wet inside.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

105 mph after work today and 90mph as long as there is river to run. Beatiful boat. Check it out. A bit of a learning curve but after about 3 tanks of gas I'm getting the hang of it. Well worth the $$$

[hydrostream2]

Damn, you got it down now.I knew you would,but not that quick.There is
more in it -believe me-glad you had a safe trip home,Enjoy and be SAFE.

Greg

[at100plus]

Nice,

LOVE that back seat. Sorry I couldn't call you back tonight, my wife wants to watch a movie now, and tomorrow I'm going on a fishing trip. I'll try you tomorrow night.

Does it flatten out and get more comfortable once you get into the 90s?

[STVBOY]

105 mph after work today and 90mph as long as there is river to run. Beatiful boat. Check it out. A bit of a learning curve but after about 3 tanks of gas I'm getting the hang of it. Well worth the $$$

Hey Climatemaster what prop are u running? I have had mine for three years and still feel I have not mastered the boat. I run a yamaha 24p and twist it 9000rpm to get it to 100mph. Clean looking boat love the looks of the riot!
Here are some pics of mine!

[at100plus]

24? Is it a 260? Mine spins to the moon with a 26 four blade cleaver. I tried a 30 Lab cleaver too and it seemed to be in the right RPM range to keep it under 9000 at top speed but I only drove it two afternoons and I still can't get past 80 mph.

I'm getting anxious to try the 30 Performance Propellers semi cleaver I just ordered, I'm hoping it will tame the beast a little.

Another nice looking Riot.

Anyone know how many of them were built and how many might be left in existence?

[STVBOY]

Yeah I run a 24p because I like the acceleration don't really care about the big numbers 100mph is fast enough and besides who gets there first wins right!And yes it is a 260 with a a48 cip,SVS,g force tuner and cut heads.What rpm do you spin your 26p? The problem I have with my boat is in glass water I cannot get it to stop porpoising to save my life.I have tried many props and still does it. A little chop and the boat feels like it is on rails. Thinking about putting adjustable trim tabs on it to fix the problem and help the rough water ride.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I haven't changed a thing Hydrostream 2 had it set up great! Running a 27 SRX. With about a 6in mech. jack plate all the way up and motor all the way up on it. I trim it so about 3/4 to an inch of shiney metal is showing on the hydraulic ram. Seems to run better in moderate chop. I just get running down wind and open it up sometimes it rolls right thru the transition to 90, sometimes it hops and I slow down and look back at the trim get it back where I want it and get on it again. I have gotton comfortable with a little bounce when it doesn't transition smoothly. But I have been running Vee bottoms by the seat of my pants for many years. This thing runs on rails. At 100mph I am winding it up a mere 7000rpm. I am happy there. Longevity! Had it to 105 yesterday and again to 103. Not comfortable making river bends at 100+ yet. I slow to 70 on every bend. I like how quick I get to 90 and how fast I can stop it. Dropped my buddy off to back the trailer and put it into the wind and was running 90 by myself with just the foot in the water. Had to trim down and back out of that one. Forks looking a bit too high. You left steer drivers definately need to be running with a copilot to even out the boat. Mine feels heavy on the left with one. You have to be off balance by yourself. It will hop if its not trimmed up. I just hate the CCW circular walk it does going into the wind at 80 with 2 people in it. But with 4 people it runs smoothly and flat at 85 in moderate chop. With the full load there doesn't seem to be a transition. Had to break out my Panoptiks snowboarding sungoggles for this ride. They are the best well worth $160 to be able to see clearly at speed. Mike you need a jack plate BAD!....... STV boy sweet ride love the dash, wheel and gauges very clean looking!

[STVBOY]

Actually there is no handling issues with just me.It will porpoise more with a passenger. I think because the seats are so close to the center it does not lean one way or another they are very well balanced.What gears do you have in your boat?In my boat with a 28p at 7000rpm I am only going 93mph on gps with less than 10% slippage.My gears are 1.87.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I was informed the 27 SRX was been reworked to about 29.1 with 1.87 gearing. Headed out for an early morning run now!

[STVBOY]

You should check the tach out or are you going by a regular speedo? With a 29p and around 8% slippage you would have to twist it up to 7800rpm to run 105mph. 7000rpm is around 95mph. Keep us up to date.

[at100plus]

My tach was jumping around, (it has a bad connection or something), and my GPS got wet and died last weekend from a swell that came over the dash so I have no legitimate numbers to go by right now.....

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Just had to yank my foot. Gears locked up this morning. Fortunately I received a spare with the deal.

[riot280]

Flat / glass seems to be the hardest to drive on,,,,until it really loosens up. 6 to 8 in. tight chop is great.

I run with the prop shaft 1 to 2 in. above the pad, quite often i gotta drop that motor to get water psi, but it really,,really makes a difference in lettin her fly.

I can peg a 30 cleaver at 8250, but playin with the 26 4 blade is alot of fun. Nice to hear people talking about the riots on here, does not seem to be alot around, but i like them for that.

good luck with your new boats.
Kevin

[at100plus]

Just had to yank my foot. Blew out this am. Fortunately I received a spare with the deal.

Did it hook? I've never had a tunnel that would blow out but I heard this one will. What are the conditions that usually cause it?

The previous owner (who was scared of the boat) said he lowered my engine one notch from the top down to the 3rd hole up. He thought that would make it handle better. Should I go back up? I have no transom jack, bolted right to the transom and I just got a 14 1/2 x 30 Performance Propellers 4 blade semi cleaver. (it had a 14 x 26 4 blade cleaver from the previous owner)....????

[CLIMATEMASTER]

pics ...boat...normal trim......motor height

[at100plus]

It looks like your transom is cut down for a 15" or perhaps they built it that way. Mine is straight and there is a little 3 to 4" splash well between the transom and the hatch bulkhead....see the difference? Do you have the aluminum fins bolted to the bottom of your boat? I suppose they were for planing for drag racing... that's what my boat is set up for.

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/8945/transom1kw7.jpg

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Interesting. No I have no pad tabs. That opens up all sorts of possibilites. Looks like I can put a 15" on here. I get a shot of the shaft height for you today. Swapped the lower last nite. Too dark for a pic.

[at100plus]

There are tabs on my outer sponsons too but I don't have a pic of them here.

[STVBOY]

100plus my transom looks just like yours and infact I have only ever seen them look like that.Also I have never seen those tabs how do they work?I have been thinking about putting adjustable tabs over the tunnels.

[at100plus]

I'll bet adjustable tabs would help through the hop, but I'd bet they can get you into trouble too, like they do on a Skater. In fact, the hop zone reminds me of a Skater only it's at a higher speed. It seems the same thing helps through it on this boat, choppy water, and yanking the wheel to disrupt the air through the tunnel seem to be what helps to get past it. A Skater poropoises from 49 to 68 mph though so it's not as scary as this 75 to 85 mph porpoise that the Riot has.

[STVBOY]

What kind of trouble would you be talking about?My buddy has them on is 22 daytona and they made a world of difference in the rough water and it does get rid of the mid range hop.

[Sam Baker]

What's different between this boat and a 22' Daytona is that forcing the nose into the water by using tabs makes the problem worse, not better. It's a fine line, but you have to give the boat trim in the midrange to pack the tunnel with air. There's not much pinch in the tunnels on a Riot, so in the mid range when it's switching from running on hydraulic pressure to air pressure, it's looking for enough air to pack in there to keep it from falling back down. You'll get it eventually, but you just have to trim it a bit more in the midrange. When you get to about 70-75, you can start tapping the DOWN button and she'll flatten out as you go faster and faster and are getting more air down the chute so to speak. It's like riding a bicycle. It seems tough at first and takes a lot of practice to get it, but once you do, you don't ever really have to think about it again...you just start doing it.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Mine starts to hop about 75-80, been practicing alot. This evening was my fifth tank of gas since last Sunday. No problems solo. With one passenger I get it about every other time.

When it starts to hop I start bumping the trim up, magically the front drops and smoothes right out. Sam is right negative trim makes it worse. I do find it easier getting into it on a long wide right turn. I have a hop problem with three people but I think it might be a prop/ load issue.

Try making the transition slow. Get it to 70 then trim up slowly as you slowly accelerate. As soon as the front drops you can throttle into it. Once you get to 90 it should be super flat and smooth.

I ran 95 for about 4 miles this evening. Smooth as could be.

Try and go above 95 and you have to feather the trim. My trim down seems too sensitive. I barely bump it and it goes negative.

Every time you add a passenger you almost have to learn it all over because it handles so much differently than just 5 minutes before driving solo.

Let me know if you figure out any other tricks. Good luck

[STVBOY]

Yeah there is a learning curve.By myself really isnt that big of a problem but like climatemaster said with a a passenger totally different. I have tried to trim it up and got pretty high to where I could almost feel the back of the boat skipping out of the water.All I did was just keep tapping up slowly while it was hopping and that would happen but only in really glass like water.Any kind of chop the boat is awesome.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I still have not heard the timeline of the Riot.

Were there any built after 98 ?

My only worry is something will happen and it won't be replaceable.

[at100plus]

I didn't get to run yesterday, it was too damn windy and the bay had big rollers. Maybe today. Anxious to try my new prop.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Just came in. River white capping with 2 1/2 foot rollers every where. Ran fairly smooth but kept wanting to come out completely

[at100plus]

Just got back from trial run with my new Performance Propellers 14 1/2 x 30 four blade. I think I liked the 30 Cleaver last week better. My GPS got wet and died last week so I have no idea how fast I'm going but it easily turns 8000 RPMs and I was in moderate chop so it didn't hop too bad but going with the wind, I experienced what seemed like a blow out. It wasn't severe but the bow kinda layed down and hooked left ever so slightly. Now I'm afraid it will blow out at higher speeds. I think I may want this prop in a 31 pitch. Bow lift with me in the boat alone feels so high! This is a tough boat to get the hang of. I really wish I had my GPS, but I don't want to soak a new one, gotta figure out a safe place to mount it.

[STVBOY]

Was the propellor a chopper or a cleaver four blade? If it was a chopper the bow was probably really high thats to much bow lift. For a gps get the little yellow garmin its water proof and only like $100.

[riot280]

Post #45, yep,, that's all it.

What you guys really need is to have someone video tape how your driving the boat, it will look different then ya think. Too high and ,,,well you know that one, too low and your stuck to the water,,,no speed and porpoise also.

Its a blast when its right, you"ll even be able to slide around a corner on the pad pointing straight at 100

Really running fast and flat, in 6 to 8 in" chop,,,its not uncommon to feel the back tapping in and out out the water.

Gotta have the tape,,,,it"ll be your best friend



Kevin

[riot280]

couple of pics (1,2)

[riot280]

two more pics (3,4)

[at100plus]

Nice pics.

The Performance Propellers is a semi cleaver 4 blade, the shape of a Yamaha drag. It doesn't feel like the right prop. I think I liked the cleaver better. I think I'll pick up a GPS speedo. Had the wife on board today so no more attempts to surpass 80.

[STVBOY]

Riot280 I love pic3! Riots look awesome coming at you and the water looks perfect for the boat you make them dance in that kind of water!

[riot280]

It's really just something else the way it feels flying like that, I've got a 26 - 4 blade to play with also. can stand the boat almost straight up with it.

This is where i normally run the motor to the pad when she's flying.



Kevin

[at100plus]

Do you think I should put my motor up to the top notch? I believe it was there and the guy before me lowered it one notch.

Riot 280, looks like your are a good 1 and 1/2+n above the pad with the center of the bullet right? What prop are you running?

QUESTION: What is the safest prop on this boat?

[wardair]

Kevin is on the road for the week. I called him and said he runs the center of the bullet a 1.5 to 2" above the pad. He likes it a high as he can get it without losing water pressure. He is running a 14*30 spinelle cleaver to 8g 110mph on gps speedo (he got from Dan Weeden). Kevin says he would like to try a 14.25 or 14.5 by 32 cleaver. Good luck and he says becareful.

[at100plus]

Thanks,

Does raising the height increase the chance for blowout and hook? I felt a minor blowout feel yesterday and I didn't like it. Don't know how fast I was going, my GPS died. I do have a 14 1/2" diameter though.... I did see 8000 RPM briefly but I don't think I was doing over 100 which is what the prop calc comes to. Must have been alot of slip.

[at100plus]

We really ought to start a new thread for this, I'm going to see if the administrator can do that and add all the stuff unrelated to Climatemaster's 1998 Riot for sale ad....

[at100plus]

Hey, is it me, or is it not possible to access the center bilge pump in this boat? How are you supposed to service or replace it? Seems like the built the boat around it.....

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I was thinking the same thing yesterday. If we start a new thread in general discussion we may attract a few more Riot owners, as they may not all be shopping for a new 20" and under.

Too damn windy today, been 15 plus the last few days. Going to try my 26 Yammi drag copy tomorrow pending the weather. Want to check out the acceleration difference.

[captrex]

let me know when you start the need thread. I have 3 riots in my family. I will post some pics. thanks captrex

[at100plus]

Ok, the thread has been moved.

[at100plus]

Video of my maiden voyage.

http://home.comcast.net/~dmskater24/RC.wmv

[Cp]

They look like any other point and shoot tunnel hull, no? :D ;)

I think these are THE best looking Mod VP hulls out there. No detriment to the STV's, but these just look sharper to me from all angles. Anyone know who has the molds and whether they're being made again?

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I love the simplicity of the no wood no carpet situation, ya don't care then if it gets wet inside.

There is a thread on here about a Rapid Craft Hurricane with "Crotch rot of the transom" that says the transom is wood, not klegecell and it is pretty bad.

[Bennington]

As for what Sam said....he is very right....once you have it,it will never bother you again but when ya slow down racing someone and lose cause they can go while you gotta pack.

The more power you have the smaller the hump....also if ya just hammer down trin da**** outa it and then just hit the down all at the same time you will be at 105 by the end of your marina and be runnin....just ask my wife!!

You will have to trim more than any boat to get through the hump.
DO NOT BE GRADUAL WITH THE GAS!!
The riot is not a boat that you go 500 more rpm and then look around at the gauges and then move on another 500rpms......punch through the problem.....your either gonna go 60-70 and fly the hell out of it for a lincoln towncar ride where just the step skips the water or your gonna go fast....there is no reason to be inthe hump zone you either cruzin or kicking ass!! make up yo mind don't play in that zone or your gonna get wet or **** your pants!
As for water over the front.....only when your slow....I have been a 100 in two story cruzer wakes....ask Bill Gohr.I will go where others won't the boat will do it.....just stay in it and be going 95 plus and it will handle anything you throw at it.
Anything over 1/2 foot is REAL FUN!
Of course it has to be close together!
You can run in water no one else will want to.
Also don't be afraid the boat will hold together.....Check all fastners after you ride in the rough....I have had the steering come apart....that sucks.
Scare the **** outa ya!
Stay away from 4 blades....you don't need them!
All around I have liked the 28's they keep the rpms down just enough to keep yo mota longer.....26's and 24's are fun it just wears the motor out sooner....of course you all knew that!
Have been well over 100 with 3 in the boat and a full cooler. for miles...Ask Raptor,Rumble years ago!
Also did the carrolton to madison run at 100 non stop with 4 in the boat!
There and back!
Did those runs with 280 w/260elecs.
Remember trim higher than any other boat you ever been in then tap her down and it will act like it has a second gear!And take off again!
Oh and other said sliden her in corners is fun!!
Yes it is but look out the boat can run like a champ boat!
I have turned her around at 90 and ripped the other person right out of the floor so that the were looking at the sky! while still in the seat!
Ask Father Steve...did that at Nickfest beating an Ally across the lake and back!
Gotta work.....

[at100plus]

Whew! Thanks for the write up. Now I wish I hadn't bought the Performance Propellers 4 blade. I liked the 30 Cleaver I was running but didn't get over the hump with it for long. Should I look for a 29 SRX or what?

Did you guys see my video? It was pretty chop in the bay part of the run but the boat just cuts right through it. Smooth ride.

In the video I was running the 14 x 26 hump back 4 blade cleaver. That prop is a rocket but turns waay too many Rs.

[Bennington]

28 cleaver before ya write off the 30..it might need to be worked and thinned.
Is it an original unworked merc.30?
They are thick and heavy.

[at100plus]

It's a 4 blade Performance Propellers 30 semi cleaver type, kindal looks like a Lightning ET but 4 blade. It worked very well on my 21 Skater but feels a little like it wants to blow out on this boat. It accelerates well and I did see 8000 RPMs with it but don't know how fast that was, (GPS got wet and died).

I ran a borrowed 30 Lab Cleaver last week with 3 aboard and it seemed to perform very well, fastest I went while the GPS was working was about 83 with that prop. It was the only time I got through the hop, it was against the wind 3 aboard on a long wide left turn.

Amazingly, this boat seems to act alot like a 21 Skater, just a faster speed for the hop zone. As I was in that turn I kinda yanked the wheel back and fourth a little to get the air through the back. That's what I used to have to do in calm water with the 21 Skater.

[at100plus]

Hey,

My engine is on the transom, no jack. I have the lengthened Bobs coned CLE. Should I put it all the way up on the transom? The guy who bought the boat before me said he lowered it one notch. He was all freaked out by the boat, didn't know what to do with it he lowered it in hopes to reduce prop torque, apparently he never had anything but hydraulic steering.....

[beer30]

What prop are you bringing tomorrow? :) Chuck.

[Bennington]

MY mota is on the transom....run the mota high for big dia. props and for cruzin or top end.
Run the mota down for 14' dia props and for 750' or 1000' race tracks.

I stayed away from anything that lifted the bow for props.
Sam had good luck with srx's.....not me almost went over when I was a rookie in the boat with one in a big head wind.

Yes turning will help ya and so will chop....I also used to use boat wakes to help get the jump....I never tried turning back and forth?

[at100plus]

Ok so for my 14 1/2 I should be able to go all the way up. I think I'm going to get a 14 1/2 30 Cleaver too and then send this prop for the free rework.

Chuck, I don't think I'm in for tomorrow, this week is going to hell in a handbasket already....

I think you bought my SRX didn't you Kirk?

[Bennington]

I sold all my srx's as soon as I almost went over.
I bought two of every size right after I bought the boat.
If your about to go over turn the wheel hard and slam her on the rubrail...if ya at low enough speeds to react....saved me....of course the side I picked was the side I was on and slammed my head and shoulders inda water...then of course I was pointed at someones yard and had to quick turn left and just skim the shoreline....had ta put the boat on the lift and sit on the cart and have some coffee.....did that at 8 a.m. right in front of the marina with all the home owners coming out afterwards asking me if I needed new shorts after that or if I was selling the boat:) since I almost died they thought....amazing thatr was 5 years ago and seems like last fall....

[at100plus]

If your about to go over turn the wheel hard and slam her on the rubrail....

:eek: :eek: :eek: You just made me vomit!

[at100plus]

So what was your favorite (safest) prop. Not worried about top speed at all.

[Bennington]

Cleavers and ets and yammis anything that doesn't lift the front has been my experience....I have run props that have the lift cut out of them but why spend the money if ya can have it all from the beginning.
You will find the boat feels lite in the ass when running balls out with the cleavers....but the ets grip more and ya don't feel lite inda ass with the ets.
Yammis always feel neutral to me....
The 14 1/2 yammi copies have the best of the yammi with the speed of the ets.

[at100plus]

So a 14 1/2 x 30 Yami may be in order.

I didn't notice the light in the ass feel of the cleaver, is that at higher speeds? This Performance Propellers is light in the ass a little, feels like it wants to blow out at 80+

[AnthonySS]

Good comments regarding overcoming the bounce…we have to remember that MVP bottom like the riot has a dynamic C/G that starts near the stern and will eventually settle to more like the centre of the hull once you burp the air out the back of the tunnels…I agree with lots of throttle and trim to overcome the bounce and yes start tapping in after your over the hump zone…you should be able to fly right through the bounce and yes it will take seat time,

The other thing is fly-it into a head wind and that will help to….but watch out for gust patterns

[AnthonySS]

If the stern feels light, and like it wants to come-a-round...engine height may be to high for the cleaver...a 1/8" down can make a significant difference in the handling and yes Cleavers are more prone to this effect over an ET

[Bennington]

will also feel lite inda rear cause of the fact you are flying it right and the sponsons are not in the water or touching at all....
Check this photo...
http://forums.screamandfly.com/Gallery/showphoto.php/photo/1036/cat/515

Also check out the gallery for the lake kosh speed runs from a few years ago I tried 6 different props on the 1000' track there and tried 3 different trim heights for each prop...you are allowed 3 runs per 20.00 I paid 100.00
So there are alot of photos...
Also the ottawa races in the gallery section have photos of not just my Riot but another one from illinois running.

K.K.

[Sam Baker]

That picture is the perfect attitude for a Riot at speed. If you see some of KK flying it more, that's probably when he's going a little slower trying to blast through that mid range.

[Ron V]

There is a thread on here about a Rapid Craft Hurricane with "Crotch rot of the transom" that says the transom is wood, not klegecell and it is pretty bad.

Yep. I knew the two thin transom knees were wood since I got the boat, so I just kind of snickered at the "no wood whatsoever" comments that have been made along the way. But I did think the transom was composite because I believed what everyone including the brochure said. Big mistake. Not saying all the models were created equal, but I'd sure check any Rapid Craft thoroughly. He knows best who sees for himself. I've gone from snickering to rolling on the floor at the "no wood" comments since I had my transom checked with a moisture meter and it almost broke the needle. The layup in my boat is good and the rest of the boat checks out like new, apparently either no wood or the water didn't get it yet. There is nothing wrong with a wood transom, it's the best material out there. The problem is when the final assembly is done without any common freaking sense.

[Sam Baker]

The Riots and Twisters are 100% Klegecell. I never knew him to build a boat with a wood transom - and Ron said it...there's nothing wrong with wood. If it stays sealed in gelcoat and fiberglass, it'll theoretically stay dry.

The only wood you might find in the Riots and Twisters were behind the dash because klegecell isn't good material for mounting gauges, etc. Many Allisons are like that too.

[STVBOY]

In my riot the dash is klegecell! Was caught off guard when I was drilling a new whole for another guage!

[FWP3LCF]

My 94 riot 3 months after i sold it:( :( :eek: :eek:

[Bennington]

DOES THAT SUCK!
I have been told not if it will happen but WHEN!

I do not look forward to that day!

Sam you will have a response later today...sorry so long had to find out somethings to answer correctly.

K.K.

[AnthonySS]

BTW...great to see some quality posts on this thread....THANKS guys for maintaining the true spirit of SnF ;)

[STVBOY]

Hey FWP

Can you give us the details on what happened? Would really like to know!

[Sam Baker]

Looks like a case of over-trimitis.

[at100plus]

Over trim after getting over the hump right?

I'm about to order a Stainless Marine trim indicator.

[Bennington]

Boat doesn't sell real soon I will probably convert to single seat only which will mean redoing the entire dash....and I will lose the backseat completely.And then I will keep the boat til it won't float no more....
Gordie Miller gonna love that job:)

[Ron V]

The Riots and Twisters are 100% Klegecell. I never knew him to build a boat with a wood transom - and Ron said it...there's nothing wrong with wood. If it stays sealed in gelcoat and fiberglass, it'll theoretically stay dry.

The only wood you might find in the Riots and Twisters were behind the dash because klegecell isn't good material for mounting gauges, etc. Many Allisons are like that too.

Well, mine was "all Klegecell" too. :rolleyes: The dash is actually the one place in the boat that I know is Klegecell. Being the third owner who got it for a bargain and beat it up for almost 8 seasons, I'm just finding the humor in the whole thing and glad I didn't lose a good motor or get anyone hurt including myself. The genuinely funny part is that my uncle's 1971 Hustler was left in the water for 6-7 months per year for over 30 years, and last I checked it didn't have diahrrea running out of the bolt holes. It's still in service, probably just had a thin bead of caulk around the bolt holes too when he swapped motors in 1975.

Now, that aside, since this is the official Rapid Craft Driver's Thread, I can contribute with regards to driving the Hurricane if anyone wants to know.

[Little Jon]

OUCH FWP thats not a very good way to go!! what did they do?!

[at100plus]

FWP3LCF,

Is that the one that ended in the lawsuit that closed Rapid Craft down?

[at100plus]

Here's the planing tabs I was talking about. Anyone else have them? This boat was originally used for drag racing.

No one answered my question about the center bilge pump. It seems my boat was built around it, no way to get to it if it breaks but to get out a saw?????

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/7018/engineheight0028gt7.jpg

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/6562/engineheight0029na7.jpg

[at100plus]

Here's my engine height. I should be able to raise it a notch right? I have a 14 1/2 diameter prop.

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/4163/engineheight0030lj7.jpg

[northeastcat]

Mike, shoot a pic of the underneath from the front for me, I'm curious as to how deep the sponsons are.
Great looking boats guys !

[ricky king]

what is the date for the rally?
ricky

[at100plus]

Huh?:confused:

[STVBOY]

Here's the planing tabs I was talking about. Anyone else have them? This boat was originally used for drag racing.

No one answered my question about the center bilge pump. It seems my boat was built around it, no way to get to it if it breaks but to get out a saw?????

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/7018/engineheight0028gt7.jpg

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/6562/engineheight0029na7.jpg

Thats weird you have a center bilge because mine only has them on the outsides only must have been a add on!

[CLIMATEMASTER]

You will have to trim more than any boat to get through the hump.
DO NOT BE GRADUAL WITH THE GAS!!
The riot is not a boat that you go 500 more rpm and then look around at the gauges and then move on another 500rpms......punch through the problem.....your either gonna go 60-70 and fly the hell out of it for a lincoln towncar ride where just the step skips the water or your gonna go fast....there is no reason to be inthe hump zone you either cruzin or kicking ass!! make up yo mind don't play in that zone or your gonna get wet or **** your pants!


Little more confidence after reading this post. Hammered right on thru with two in the boat after work today. Cruised at 90+ for about 6 miles. Got the sliding round the corner thing going too. Feels cool.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Damn near lost my head this evening to a pair of low flying pelicans.

Last minute pull up on their part.

Things come at you quick at high speed.

Kinda curious, even if I had on a helmet, whether or not my head and helmet would'nt have just been bouncing down the river.

Can't imagine what hitting a 30lb bird at 85mph would result in.

[FWP3LCF]

NO that happend about two years ago he liked run motor high 2-3in above the bottom of boat said he hit some rollers and went over backwards

[Bennington]

can you measure the depth on those side tabs?
Do they go all the way in the step?
Whats the thickness of the plates?
Are they SS or Aluminum?
How are the secured to the hull?

I had 3 bilge pumps in mine originally.....
Had to take out the gas tank to get at the middle one.
I now run the one in the middle only....got rid of the other two too clean up the inside and throw out more weight:)
What kind of battery system are you all running?

K.K.

[at100plus]

KK, Those are my tabs.

They do go all the way in the step. They are bolted right through the bottom of the boat. I can give you a measurment later tonight. They are aluminum.

If you take the gas tank out is there an opening to get to the pump? It looks like I just have a hole big enough for the hose and elect. wires...

[AnthonySS]

CM,

My wife took a duck off the head at 90mph in our STV...Thankfully she did have a helmet on as it was gouged and it broke the face shield right off.;)

The Duck did not make it:(

[Ted Fraser]

I went to Illinois and bought Kirk Davis"s roit at Ron Bakers shop about 10 years ago. The problem I had with driving it was to learn to fly the front end when getting on plane and start trimming with gas. This will pop the rear end up and drop the front flat and you are gone. If you don't the outside sponsons will hook back and forth because they are not much higher than the center planning area. My boat was in readers ride in Hot Boat mag some years ago. It ran a 1995 2.4 offshore with nitrous . 103mph without 112 on the button.
What is so incredible about the boat is its turning ability. You can run in a cove at 30-40 mph and turn the wheel as hard as you can and it will almost throw you out off the boat. The best handling small tunnel in 2 footers I have ever been in.
Ron Baker Sr. drag raced one. Be very careful in the rough stuff as it will sneeze between the sponsons and take you eyes out if you don't wear goggles.
Great small tunnel but moved on to 28 skater!

Ted Fraser

[CLIMATEMASTER]

28 cleaver before ya write off the 30..it might need to be worked and thinned.
Is it an original unworked merc.30?
They are thick and heavy.

14 1/4 or 14 x 28 or 29. Cleaver, ET, or RE3?

Running 27 srx now; interested in another.

Don't want too many R's. Want my mota too last a while.

Would like to know what prop's best for solo, 2 people, and for 3-4 people

[riot280]

:eek:


Wow,,,, at lot happins when your gone for a week.


At100plus in that pic with the paddle, if that's where you still have the motor,,,yep, raise it to go faster.

There are pros and cons to the jack plate, but I myself like it. alot more versital ( sp ? )

Looks like theirs more of these around then I thought.


So.............who's hosting the Riot Gathering.:D




Kevin

[at100plus]

I was going to ask that, how many Riots were built, anyone know?

[RUDERIOT]

I always thought that there were about 200 built from 1994 to 1998. That kinda seems like alot though... hell I don't know!
I've had mine for almost 10 years & in that time I've done quite a few differant things to try to make it run hard & drive well. I have it to the point now that it leaves pretty hard, but not as flat as I would like. I know how to do this, but it's more work that I really don't want to do.
If anybody thinks they want to do any of these bottom mods I'll tell all about them later this weekend. This thing drives so well now that there's not really any challenge to it anymore.
As far as props go, they like cleavers, Yammis & very little else in my oppinion. Maybe an E.T. would be o.k. also.

[vishus]

back to the top

[STVBOY]

What gear case do most run on the riot? I just broke my CLE and I am thinking of getting a sportmaster instead.Has anyone tried both and how do they compare or different?

[at100plus]

I ran at Tanner yesterday.

First pass with me and two other 200+ lb. guys and dead calm bay, no wind ran right up to 91 with no porpoise at all. Once I hit 91 it did a cute little prop walk and a mild hook left that I easily recovered from, not a big deal, but I don't like that, I think it's this Performance Propellers that I have cause the cleaver I ran didn't do that. It always feels loose like it wants to crab right in the stern.

I made several passes with just one passenger after that and had a hard time with the porpoise. Got to mid 80s but then had to back out.

I had one awesome pass, but I don't know how fast I was going (GPS was not on), I do know I was past the porpoise zone for the first time well into the 90s and it was running nice and flat, felt great. I ordered a stainless marine indicator, I think part of the problem is I need to know where to trim.

I also ordered a 30 Cleaver today.

KK, I measured the tabs but forgot to post it, I'll get it tonight.

[at100plus]

Anyone running a Sportmaster on a Riot? I think it might be a real good idea. Probably minimize blowout and crabbing and much stronger skeg....

Thoughts???

[Bennington]

I have been running sportmasters......
Up too last year had 3 of them in the rack....
1:87
2:1
2.3:1
Have run sportys with those gears....ran different ones for different length tracks....

Let me know the size of those plates and if you can whats the hole pattern on how they were bolted up and what size hardware.....that will be my next setup step.
K.K.

[at100plus]

I'm working a double today but tomorrow night I'll try to take pics inside and out and post the measurements.

[at100plus]

[quote=Bennington]I have been running sportmasters......


Is the Sportmaster better than a lengthened CLE?

I'm beginning to think 15" mid, 4" Hyd. Gorilla Jack and a Sportmaster might be the way to go.......

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Glad this question came up. I have been wondering the same thing, since I trashed my CLE with the Bob's cone.

Running a stock 4 hole CLE now and the prop blow out always seems to catch me off guard. Though it only seems to happen when flying high above 90. Trimed flat above 90 doesn't seem a problem though.

I understand the Sporty's have a wider case which can slow you down in some circumstances. The thing with the SM is most are fat shaft, so you are selling all your props and buying new ones.

I'm buying a 14x30 merc cleaver hoping that will make a difference, with blow out, over the SRX. Lower my rpm's too!

No one seems interested in my CLE case so I will probably rebuild it this winter.

[at100plus]

There's lots of Sportmasters out there with small shaft.

I'm bought a 14 x 30 Cleaver too. I tried it one and it seemed very fast and predictable. I'm not worried about a little less top speed. I think I'll go with a Sportmaster unless someone with experience thinks its a bad idea.

[riot280]

Sportmaster and 14 x 30, and you should see 110.


Kevin

[at100plus]

I'm thinking about going 15" mid and a 4" Gorilla jack too!

[STVBOY]

Climatemaster

On my CLE I have a blowout ring that goes around the housing where the shaft comes out and I have had no problems ever with blow out.I also though run a yamaha 24p and an ET copy 28p and they both work great.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Can you upload a pic?

My CLE has a small ridge that I was taking for the factory ring.

Do you have an aftermarket ring?

[Little Jon]

I know lundy has a Sportmaster on his Riot 280.. But have no idea performance wise...

[at100plus]

KK, here's the pics and measurements on those tabs. The outer ones are 8" wide 17" long and 1/4" thick and they call all the way in to the foremost part of the step and bolt right through the bottom of the boat with 4 bolts.

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/1922/tabs0031hy1.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/516/tabs0039gj2.jpg

[at100plus]

What's the latest Climatemaster?

I haven't run mine since Tanner last Wed. I'm still waiting for my Stainless Marine trim indicator and my 30 cleaver. Hope to have both before the Mullica run on the 16th.

I was thinking of picking up a 15" mid but then I need a jack and what not and I started thinking, will the gains really be worth spending so much money. I think I'll just get a 20" Sportmaster and be done with it.

[Bennington]

the guys in the Finn Cell here at work have made me the side plates out of S.S. didn't have Aluminum (free) so went with S.S. am going to measure the inside for backing plates tonight then they will make those tomorrow....maybe try something new for the last race of the year! :)

Oh and what is that discoloration in your bilge?
Are those steel hardware instead of s.s.?

K.K.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I was out Saturday in the Charleston Harbor. This boat will really handle some big stuff with two 200lb plus riders and a full tank of gas. I chased down a 27' Contender with twin 2.5s in 1 1/2 to 2 foot chop and then blew on by. He didn't look too happy. On the way home we were running with less than 5 gallons. I couldn't keep it in the water. Ended up slowing down and sticking the bow in the sky and putting through it.

It rained most of Labor day. I was out anyway, running from the showers. Too glassy, just wanted to bounce. Kinda getting used to the 80mph hop. It's hard to get used to looking for chop. I spent my whole life looking for glass to wakeboard, ski, or kneeboard. Found a couple of spots rough enough to burp the air out. Made some good flat 90-95mph runs. I wont go any faster for fear of blow out. Had so many people motioning me to drop the hammer Monday. Came around one corner and caught some wind. Had to check my shorts.

I'm waiting on my 30 cleaver too. I hope it will even the boat out some. It is so wieght concious. Change passengers, full tank, empty tank. It's a different boat to drive everytime you change something. I finally got comfortable driving with two and I forgot how to drive it by myself. The SRX makes the stern dance all over the river when it's trimmed up.

My trailer is giving out on me. Picking up a new one form John with LPB at the Suwannee Rally in Fl. the end of the month.

[at100plus]

I'm waiting on my 30 cleaver too. I hope it will even the boat out some. It is so wieght concious. Change passengers, full tank, empty tank. It's a different boat to drive everytime you change something. I finally got comfortable driving with two and I forgot how to drive it by myself. The SRX makes the stern dance all over the river when it's trimmed up.

My trailer is giving out on me. Picking up a new one form John with LPB at the Suwannee Rally in Fl. the end of the month.

I couldn't have said that better myself. There are so many variables that change the handling of this boat. It's like no other boat I've ever had, but it's so fast and so good in the chop for it's size that I'm drawn to the challenges.

My trailer is on the way out too.

KK, I don't know, something must not be SS. I plan on cleaning that up and changing the hardware over the winter. It bugs me. I'm a perfectionist with that stuff.

I just got my Finney wind flaps. Those should give something to hide behind when the splashes come.

Climate, I think you'll like the cleaver, it was more predictable when I ran one. Hopefully mine will arrive very soon.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Just got home with my 30 cleaver. Pulled the SRX off and the inner splines looked off center. Looks like I need to rehub. Maybe that is the reason for the stern wiggle trimmed high.

I also have a 28 bravo one, never worked, for my Formula. Would it be a bad idea to try it on the Riot? Does the Bravo 1 have too much bow lift?

Let you know how the cleaver does later.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

With two people in the boat the cleaver is too much stern lift. Trim it up to get over the hump and the whole boat dances around almost uncontrolably. Way worse than the SRX.

With one person it is great; runs right up to 85 and flattens out great, but get into it without a Bob's cone and it blows out around 90. Can't go near as fast as with the worked 27 SRX.

Its great between 80-90 but thats it. Putting it for sale.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

You might want to try an SRX; seems to be a few available right now............ So far the best handling and fastest I've used so far with one to four people in the boat........ Well, still hadn't had anyone in the back over 125lbs.

Ran a 26 bravo 1 tonite, super quick out the hole 0 to 70 in 3 sec maybe. Had my 10 y.o. son so couldn't really try it out on the top end. Besides ran out of daylight.

I am going to try a RE3 29 on Sam Bakers recommendation.

I may keep the 30 cleaver and try adjusting the hieght of the motor. Might have to get a hyd. jack plate.

Got my 26 yammi fixed today might try it out tommorow.

Everyone wants me to try their prop around here. This boat gets so much attention. One guy has a 14.5x32 cleaver another guy has a 30 spinelli.

Tied up at California Dreaming to eat, drink and watch the game. Steady crowd the entire time hovering around the boat.

Can't go out with out being flagged down by someone. Got stopped by a guy in a Scarab this evening and later ran a 20' Hydrostream Venus.

[at100plus]

I only ran the borrowed 30 cleaver with two 200 lb. guys in the front and one 120 lb kid in the back that day. It seemed very well mannered. I wouldn't give up on that prop yet. It almost seems like you need a different prop for every load!

I just bought a Sportmaster with a cracked carrier pretty cheap. I have to replace that carrier, then I'm anxious to see how that will handle. It's an offshore so it has not torque tab.

[Airboater]

I know lundy has a Sportmaster on his Riot 280.. But have no idea performance wise...
Last I rember he had a cle ,but he could have got one and I just dont remember .With his current setup he runs 106 with a 31 cleaver on the limiter @7550rpms .He wants to try a bigger wheel but new house comes first .

[Stray Kat]

I ran a RE29 on my RIOT - too much bow lift - could never get it to run well for me. I ran a RE27 for several years 100+ with no problem. Still felt it had too much bow lift. After finally seeing a good video that a friend took for me I was definately convinced that I needed a cleaver. Got a great deal on a new Merc Lab Cleaver 28 - best prop I ever ran on the boat -- 106-108 mph, boat handled fantastic with this prop in all conditions. I think a 30 Lab might be a great prop with the right set-up.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Ran a 26 Yammi copy today good hole shot and very smooth transition but still not the top end of the worked 27 SRX.

The 26 bravo is definately impressive 0-70.

I think next step is the hyd jack plate. I can't be wrenching this thing up and down all the time.

The cleaver is made to be a surface piercing prop I don't see how lowering it would help.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Let's see your Riot! post some pics

[RUDERIOT]

Here ya go

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Got very lucky. Could have been much worse!

[john ring]

has anyone ever run one of these with a 225pm,i am in between boats and see a few of these for sale.i was curious how one would run with my promax on it.

[RUDERIOT]

If the promax is currently on the H.S.T. in your avitar it'll run a bunch better on a Riot.

[at100plus]

John's boat is a Virage, in fact it was once my Virage. John, you should get a 300 for that boat instead. You have much more room inside, and the Virage is much easier to drive. If it's a rough water ride your after though, the Rapid Craft is better and much faster.



Kirk, I'm taking these aluminum planing tabs off if you want them, just pay shipping to get them to you. The original owner of my boat called me today and suggested I take them off. He only used the boat for drag racing, that's why he put them on there. He said, he got to thinking, and they probably aren't helping drivability any for pleasure use and suggested i take them off. I was thinking the same thing, plus they may make it more likely to trip and stuff...

Going out to put my windflaps on now.

[RUDERIOT]

I sure wish all us Riot owners lived closer. I'd like to show you what one can drive like with a little work.

[john ring]

the virage is going to a new home on long island this weekend comming and in a couple of weeks i will be shopping for a replacement.i am after a longer boat for rough water,and now there are a couple of these up for sale.i was wondering if my promax would be a suitable engine,i'm not looking to break 100 just get out of the 80's

[at100plus]

John, these Rapid Crafts set up right can probably do 100 with your Pro Max. They are just a little tricky to learn to drive and probably alot less forgiving than the streams. Rough water though is amazing for it's size but big swells will get you wet or killed. So I guess I'll be seeing my old Virage around here again. Who bought it?

[CLIMATEMASTER]

My understanding is they run pretty good with an EFI Bridgeport. They are about 240hp stock. Hadn't seen one with less HP than that.
The Riots are fast and handle the rough stuff like a dream. I go looking for rough water now. The Riots do like power, most of us run 260's, several run 280's, a few run more HP than that.

I'd try it. You could probably bump up your PM if you thought it was under powered.

Ruderiots is set up driver friendly. $5k I think.

[at100plus]

225 Pro Max IS about 240 hp. The only concern maybe is that it wouldn't have the power to get through the porpoise fast enough?

[at100plus]

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/4118/riotwindflaps0144cd6.jpg

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I blew thru the porpoise today with the 26 yammi and still had plenty of pedal

[at100plus]

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/186/riotwindflaps0145xy7.jpg

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I was thinking about windshield this week. I wondered if one off a Daytona might bolt right on???

[at100plus]

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/6071/riotwindflaps0147if0.jpg

[RUDERIOT]

Ahhhh... Another lefthand steer Riot. That works fine for a blowboat (wich of course is what they used to be) but it aint worth a **** for an outboard. The boat will drive better if you steer from the right. I changed mine....

[at100plus]

Yea it's a little off balance when I'm solo. How much better is RH steering? What did you do with the big hole? Got any pics of your dash now?

[RUDERIOT]

Send me rour email & I'll send some

[john ring]

the guys name is Brian Majisto,he goes by( want a boat) on the board.he is friends with the guy who has Helmuts' old virage.i think the promax will have power enough to do the job,ive got a brucato pcu on it and 34cc heads

[at100plus]

shu94@comcast.net

I'll post em up for you if you want.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

how are those wind flaps working?

[Propster]

Does a right hand gearcase torque that boat to the right or left? If to the left, you could always run a counter gearcase to get it going the other way.

[at100plus]

We had the Mullica Run today. Was a beautiful day. Boat ran great. Taking those planing tabs off I think was a good move. I now have figured out the feel for getting through the hop and I'm really beginning to enjoy this boat. Saw 96.6 mph today at about 8500 RPMs with the 30 Performance Propellers 4 blade. It really runs nicely once you get past the hop. Had alot of fun with it today. Windflaps are good too.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I have still not figured out the hop in light chop. 8"-12"+ chop no problem. I look for rough water to run fast. Then there is the wind to think about.

[at100plus]

I've got the feel for it now, I still have trouble sometimes in dead calm water but I usually get it. I had a 225+ lb guy in the back and his 12 yr old son in the front and couldn't get it to work at all, but with the 12 year old and I or just by myself I get through it all the time now. Now I really love this boat.

When I get my trim indicator installed I think it will be really nice to know exactly what number to put the trim on and get right through it. Right now I can do it most of the time by feel though, just trim it up in the 70s and suddenly you feel the air go through and start tapping it down then she lays down and goes like mad.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

What is everyone using for steering? My dual rack cable is getting tight. Anyone using Latham hyd. ram? Do I have room to mount the helm unit?

[at100plus]

I have dual cable rack and my elbows hurt today. I'm looking for a rear wingplate steering now, either a Latham, IMCO or Marine Machine. A helm will fit.

[at100plus]

http://forums.screamandfly.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=115275&d=1158792986

[Mrs Riot 280]

BEAUTIFUL! Now we just need to hear some engine when looking at that!

[STVBOY]

I am sure those wind deflectors work good and you did a nice job intalling but i am way to anal to put anything like that on my boat! Just doesn't look fast or have that cool factor!:D

[at100plus]

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/1725/013ab4.jpg

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Nice pics!

Ran my new Mazco 29 RE3 last nite. It had been about 10 days since my last outing. Every new prop is like starting over.

Anyway, it flies pretty darn high. Got up to 89 and ran out of straight river. Had plenty throtle left. Just felt so darn light in the front. I didn't want to take the bend feeling that loose. Tried tapping in, but it was either high and fast or flat and slow.

I also had 20+mph winds (Helene just offshore) to deal with too, so running that high in the oposite direction wasn't an option.

Need some seat time with this one. But I like it better than the cleaver.

Need to get a video to see how high I really am.

It wasn't running near as flat as the SRX or the Yammi. The RE3 makes it through the hop was much easier.

I still need to drop my motor; getting some paddle wheel effect crabbing.

What a difference a Bob's cone makes. Got to get one back on here.

[Sam Baker]

Video is always good - or somebody who is very knowledgeable that can watch. Don't be afraid to throw a 25 pound bag of shot in front to help you drive it. That can make a huge difference to help you hold it on the higher side without it feeling too flighty. Things happen a lot slower. The farther forward you put it, the less weight you need too. Sounds like you're making headway.

Kirk (Rapid Craft's Builder) had tested some really trick automatic wind deflectors in a Twister but I don't think he ever built a boat with them in there. Touch a button and they would appear out of the top right where yours are. Slick. Yours look good too. You do get some wind in these boats - like you do with virtually every high perf boat.

[sho305]

I think the windshields look cool, kind of reminds me of an old sports car like a Cord, or maybe a 50-60s European race car. I hate boats without them anyway, I know you guys laugh but there are times I boat when I need to hide behind something.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Panoptx

They work great!

I can't even hear my 2.5 scream for my ears flapping though.

[at100plus]

There's some running shots of mine in this video. First running shot is 2 min 56 sec. Another pass is at 3 min 10 sec.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpPhbU-lTDc

I just got a 32 Mazco Cleaver. Don't know when I'll have time to try it though.

I love the long roosters these boats make!

[at100plus]

http://home.comcast.net/~dmcskater24/mr.wmv

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Love the onboard video.

Is Mullica part of the Intercoastal up there? Looks like alot of saltmarsh.

Nice area reminds me of down here.

[at100plus]

No, it branches off of the bay. It's about 20 miles long the first 15 from the bay is brackish and then after the small draw bridges it becomes mostly fresh/cedar water.. It's a great river. Not too populated either.

[Airboater]

Few from today ,ran 105 on the limiter 31 cleaver ,first pic was at 105

[at100plus]

Looks awesome. How long have you had it?

[Airboater]

Looks awesome. How long have you had it?
Not mine ,good buddys ,think hes had it 11 years

[at100plus]

What's his limiter?

[Airboater]

What's his limiter?
I think he said 7500 on this 280,

[vishus]

interesting stuff, don't let the post die...

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Headed to Suwannee after work today with boat in tow on its' new trailer. Should be fun.

Ran the 29RE3 again Sunday evening with some wieght in the bow. Easiest transition. But not as fast as I would like. Been playing with engine hieght a bit. Less wiggle in the rear.

Stopping on the way down in Saint Marys GA to take Dad for a few high speed runs. He's excited.

[at100plus]

I'm rewiring the electricals in my whole boat right now and I have half of my Mayfair steering system, still trying to find a tilt pin and helm.

Where did you get your trailer? Did you have to mod the bunks? I really need a new trailer or I have to do some work on mine. I was thinking about welding all the openings and filling it with oil to prevent future rust. Then I need to paint it too, so I'm not sure if it will be more cost effective to just get a new one....????

[vishus]

what does a decent trailer cost? used/new?

thx.sid

[at100plus]

I think you can get a new one for under $2000

[Airboater]

How high are you guys running the bullet up from the bottom .

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I took off my winch, then took my old trailer to the scrap yard. They lifted it up with a forklift so I could get my spare wheels off, then gave me $24.00 for the steel or should I say rust.

Got my trailer from John at LPB. The only problem is it came with a winch set up for a CC fishing boat. I have the strap run under the cross member holding the bow secure.........Under $1900.00.....He is supposed to be sending me some Aluminum and hardware to fix the problem. I'll need to adjust the hieght on the bunks some more but I gave John the bunk length and centers.

For now it is much safer than the old one, I had tied the old trailer together with some rope just to keep the rear support from scrapping pavement.

My shaft is now about 1-1.5 inches above the bottom. Been steady lowering it since grinding the gears in my Bobs lower. I was close to 2.5" above the bottom. A CLE won't run as high.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

You and your buddy need to head over to Suwanee Saturday for the run. It would be nice to see another Riot there.

[STVBOY]

So what kind of performance numbers is everyone seeing and with what setup? I have a 260 with 30cc heads, SVS and a48 chip and see 100mph with a 24p yamaha at 9000rpm.I have not tried any big props I just like the acceleration to 100mph. I have shocked alot people with my riot setup like this especially some vdrives!

[Airboater]

You and your buddy need to head over to Suwanee Saturday for the run. It would be nice to see another Riot there.
I think he is suppose to be there if he didnt cancil

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Suwanee was a blast. A beautiful river. I felt so in control of my Riot. No wind to think about. Just enough boat traffic to chop the water up slightly. Had the bow flying super high. Never a hop problem. Had the best time. The lack of gas at the station on the river cut things short. Just as well; about a mile from the landing I managed to sling #1 rod. Anyone have a 260 block and crank they are willing to part with?

[at100plus]

Oooh that's ugly! What do you thing caused it? What kinda Rs you spinning?

I have a block and front half. Give me a call tomorrow.

I also have complete Sportmaster internals if you want to rebuild that CLE.

I just got done rewiring my entire boat. It came out great. Nice to know where everything is, and I like having a fuse panel and relays on the fuel pump and the three bilge pumps.

I'll post pics tomorrow.

[Bennington]

I sold my Boat guys.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I sold my Boat guys.


DId it go to someone on this site? They need to jump on this thread.

[Bennington]

I believe he has never heard of the website til he saw a sticker on the trailer.

I don't think you will here from him but ya never know....I may be wrong as usual!

The boat as of now is being riged with a 200 OMC.
But he said ya never know he might sell it later....

K.K.

[RUDERIOT]

Hey K.K. What ya gonna get now? I sold mine too. If I'da known they were gonna put it on the S.F. Racing shirt I'da probibly kept it!! Not really. It's time for something differant.:D

[vishus]

ONE more for sale. I am slowing down and going fishing...

http://www.rapidcraft.itgo.com/

[CLIMATEMASTER]

pics below

[CLIMATEMASTER]

A better shot of the Suwanee taken at Rock Bluff...................note the little black specs all over the boat................Lovebugs......they were everywhere

[at100plus]

Charles your seat and hatch are completely different from mine or any other Riot I ever saw. I'm looking for an electric hatch ram that will at least lift it enough so the engine will clear the air deflector in shallow water. Anyone have any ideas?

[at100plus]

I hear there's a new Riot owner in the northeast. John Ring post those pictures when you get it home!

Here's pics of my recent complete rewire. On board trickle charger, main shutoff switch, three new bilge pumps, all new wires and connectors, a fuse panel with 10 gauge main and relays on the fuel pump and keyswitch to keep the little ignition wire and bilge pump switch from having all that load on it. New optima battery and Stainless Marine trim indicator will take the guess work out of getting through the porpoise zone.

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/693/rapidcraftrewire0237zi6.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/2417/rapidcraftrewire0238ju1.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/6462/rapidcraftrewire0239il9.jpg




http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/6396/rapidcraftrewire0243wn2.jpg

[STVBOY]

That looks very clean 100plus! Was that your stock battery location or did you move it to the side? Mine sits on the tunnel in the very back right by the rear bulk head.

[Bennington]

the battery in the center pod as far forward as possible in the back.
For drag racing mount it instead of the passenger seat or as far forward in the center against the forward bulk head.

That worked the fastest for me after trying 6 different locations for both top end and et's

[at100plus]

There's two places for batteries, that one is right next to the passenger seat. The other one is next to the back seat in from of the aftmost cross bulkead. I keep my toolbox there. I keep the weight on the passenger side as balast. I still have a little tidying to do, the purple wires were there already, need to get some purple wire and lengthen them to run with the rest. Getting ready to install Mayfair hydraulic steering next.

[at100plus]

Your boat was RH steer right Kirk? Probably don't need as much passenger side ballast in RH steering.

I'm looking for a larger plastic tank that will fit right into the place of my current 19 gal. aluminum tank but taller. Can't seem to find one that will fit. Would like to have at least 25 gallons....

[john ring]

i will get some pictures up soon,did you put on a jackplate yet or are you still bolted to the transom?also that wiring job looks great

[at100plus]

Thanks. Right on the transom all the way up. I really don't think it needs a jack.

[RUDERIOT]

Your boat was RH steer right Kirk? Probably don't need as much passenger side ballast in RH steering.

I'm looking for a larger plastic tank that will fit right into the place of my current 19 gal. aluminum tank but taller. Can't seem to find one that will fit. Would like to have at least 25 gallons....

I've got the tank that came out of the Q- Shot T3-R. It's 17'' wide as I remember & I think it holds 28 gal. It's brand new. Make me an offer if it'll work.

[RUDERIOT]

Thanks. Right on the transom all the way up. I really don't think it needs a jack.

You may not need a jack but you do need a setback. I took my 4'' off & ran it for awhile then put a 6'' back on. An 8'' would have worked well also, maybe better.

[Bennington]

never ran a jack or a setback.
But they do work.
Mine was rh steering.

[at100plus]

Well maybe I'll have to try one.

[STVBOY]

Mine came with the factory 35g tank. The boat also came with the 19g but I sold it off.

[at100plus]

Can you post a picture.

My center pod is only 14" wide I don't think that 17" tank will fit Kirk. Did you have it in your boat?

[john ring]

here are a few pics

[john ring]

this one has a thirty five gallon tank

[Rich Owen]

Very nice John ! Too bad you couldn't bring it down for the CT Run it would have been 2 cool to see 2 Riots after not having any at previous Runs .

[nelsoncat]

Was that KK's

[john ring]

Lundey Fleishman has had it for 10 years

[nelsoncat]

just curious

[Bennington]

what Ring has is the same tank I started with.But it was a lil shorter in length in the back cause a battery would fit forward of it.
Also I didn't have welded in hold down straps.....
Now look at Rings photo of the tank....where the step down is on the forward part of the tank....Weld in a wall and internally put a pickup drawing from the rear portion first then the front tank, put in a fuel fill in the first tank and now you have two tanks.
You leave the back one empty just fill the front one and now you have 6 gallons of fuel more forward to help with holeshots for racing.
The rear tank you fill with 12 when ya lake running so My tanks went down to holding only 18 gallons total.
Next forward of the tank you put in a plastic group 24 battery box.
Then put in 2 Nascar Napa garden tractor batteries they will fit in sideways together...now you can have 24 volt trim and also 24 volt start.
also after cutting the tank to do that there was room between the battery box and the tank for a soft sided tool bag:) all keeping in mind of putting more weight forward and in the middle for balance and the elusive faster top end and et's.

Also move trim pump forward to the bulkhead you can see on the port side just forward of the back seat...dis puts more weight forward.
Next holesaw two holes between the bucket seats and 3m in two of those cool powder coated cup holders....gotta have a cold one:) of course in a color matching your gauges.
Take the carpet out.....wear sandals all the time screw the carpet just more maint.:)
Put the fuel pump on the port side rear knee opposite side of the gas tank .....still off setting my potbellied ass.
Put the seperator on the inside of the back knee on the starbord side.
Take out two of the three bilge pumps to save on weight......wanna go faster right....plus offset the weight of the cupholders I installed......see how nuts dis stuff gets when ya think like this:)

Gotta work later.....
K.K.

[riot280]

Just figured out how to post a video link, ( I think ):) . It took 3 hrs to do it on dial-up. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwybpEetYvk



Kevin

Riot280

[at100plus]

Looks like a nice one John. Good luck with it. That's exactly what I had in mind for a tank. I guess I'll have to have mine custom made because I doubt they make a plastic tank like that.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

My Riot came with eggcrate foam glued to the seat backs. It keeps the seats very full as far as the vinyl goes. Also very comfortable.

[STVBOY]

Nice vid 280! What kind of speeds were you running? Looks like the conditions were perfect for the boat!

[at100plus]

Just figured out how to post a video link, ( I think ):) . It took 3 hrs to do it on dial-up. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwybpEetYvk



Kevin

Riot280

Nice video Kevin. How long have you had the boat? Looks like you have it mastered.

John you're going to love the ride compared to the Virage, however, there's a tradeoff, it's fussy with different weight in the boat and has a little learning curve. I'm sure you'll be fine, you had that Virage looking good in no time.

[at100plus]

Hey Climatemaster, could you give me a photo of the entire hatch ram. What are the specs? How far does the ram throw? Who makes it?

[at100plus]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/2282/riotriggingwell0334ou5.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3851/riotriggingwell0335ox7.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3718/riotriggingwell0336wf5.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/5825/riotriggingwell0339cc1.jpg

[at100plus]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/7255/riotriggingwell0340ag1.jpg

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Hey Climatemaster, could you give me a photo of the entire hatch ram. What are the specs? How far does the ram throw? Who makes it?


I need to pick up a couple of relays to get it working again. I seem to get so much water coming in over the back when in reverse it shorted the up and down relays out.

There is a name on the motor but no name on the lift assembly. Once I get the relays replace I can tell you the throw.

Makes me want to think mine was one the last Riots made, if not the last, with all the differences.

Been thinking about popping a mold of the back seat. The twin buckets are comfortable.

Do your back seats hinge forward?

I've also been looking at putting oh sh*t handles, VW Bug style, under the back seat hinges on the floor.

The back seat riders always tell me they feel like they will just blow right out the back.

Mine came with a 28 gallon tank. Lasts about 2 hrs high speed cruising.

Riot280, Kevin those are some nice runs. Speed? Must be mid 90's at least.

Going to be cruising the Formula this weekend. Its crazy how it feels like a such a yacht after driving the Riot.

[Mrs Riot 280]

Makes me want to think mine was one the last Riots made, if not the last, with all the differences.

I've also been looking at putting oh sh*t handles, VW Bug style, under the back seat hinges on the floor.

The back seat riders always tell me they feel like they will just blow right out the back.

Mine came with a 28 gallon tank. Lasts about 2 hrs high speed cruising.

Riot280, Kevin those are some nice runs. Speed? Must be mid 90's at least.

Going to be cruising the Formula this weekend. Its crazy how it feels like a such a yacht after driving the Riot.

Yeah....we've often wondered about ours being one of the last ones made too. It would be nice to know what the production numbers were that year.

We get the same comments about the back seat!!! We just tell them to hang on!!!

[Sam Baker]

Climatemasters was definitely one of the last ones because he has the two bucket rear bench with the side opening rear lid. Kirk at Rapid Craft e-mailed me those pictures when they were building it and there wasn't much built after that. It's the only one I've seen with those features. I never saw any more pictures of Riots after that.

[CLIMATEMASTER]

Climatemasters was definitely one of the last ones because he has the two bucket rear bench with the side opening rear lid. Kirk at Rapid Craft e-mailed me those pictures when they were building it and there wasn't much built after that. It's the only one I've seen with those features. I never saw any more pictures of Riots after that.


Sam, can you post the production line pics of my Riot or email them to me when you get a chance.

[riot280]

Just got home, all the clips in the videowere between 100 and 110 mph. If the water is good enough to launch,,,, its going to see atleast 100 before it comes out.

I bought the boat in 2000 from out in MN. brought it home and put the 280 on it. rebuilt it once, and it runs perfect. continually see's 8000 rev's.

Took awhile to really learn to fly it. Some of the guys up here have alot better video of it.

My fuel tank is the same as at100plus ( even the sticker ).

This is at Jasper last week. pic by diamond-back.:)



Kevin

[john ring]

how many of these were built?

[CLIMATEMASTER]

I always thought that there were about 200 built from 1994 to 1998. That kinda seems like alot though... hell I don't know!


I hadn't heard any different but would love to know myself.

[Sam Baker]

No, not even close. I would say the number is closer to 50 at the most total. They never built more than 20-30 boats in any one year and that was the first year of the Twister which was their biggest year. I'll have to call him and ask.

I'll scan in the pictures of what I have and post them.

Sam

[Sam Baker]

Here are some pictures of the plug. The boat started out as my Eliminator Scorpion. My Dad was VP of Engineering at Eliminator in Shawano, WI. He had redesigned the bottom of the Scorpion (the California boat had a different bottom than the WI boat - the WI boat would turn better so we could run it in Mod VP). The problem with the Scorpion was that it was designed for an inboard/jet package so with an outboard, it didn't have enough air pinch and tended to porpoise badly. So, my Dad moved the dash back about 10". As you all know, it didn't get rid of the porpoise, but made it similar to other tunnels and livable at least.

Then, they rounded up the deck and added some strength from design and away they went. The first boat out of the mold was an all Red one that went to my Dad. He rigged a stock 225 Evinrude on it and it was light...I mean LIGHT! We had to run the motor tucked all the way in on top end. The boat liked the heavier motor too. It would run 96-98 on Radar with the stock 225 Carb motor.

[riot280]

Took this pic a couple hrs ago. last time out this year, maybe. Gotta replace the divider gasket again, and things are startin to get chilly.

Kevin

[riot280]

Sam,


Nice pics, Thanks.

Kevin

[at100plus]

I love old pics like that. Thanks Sam.

A guy at the CT River Run had a Scorpion with a 300X, he's a heavy guy too, he said he can't get through the porpoise. Maybe he needs to move his seat back or something.

I have no trouble with the porpoise at all now that I took those drag racing planing tabs off the back of the boat. Made a few quick passes yesterday and ran 98.2 with my 4 blade 30. I only saw like 7200 on the new Livorsi tach and it was still accelerating.

[at100plus]

Someone told me he just saw an article about Rapid Craft in this most recent issue of Hot Boat. I asked him to send me a copy. Anyone see it yet?

[Sam Baker]

Hadn't seen it yet either. I'll be honest, I don't subscribe to it anymore. Here are some more pictures of other boats.

Check out the detail in the gel work on the 21' Tornado. That was a LOT of tape work to get all those little lines.

The Teal Riot is my old boat. That was the first Riot to get a short shaft. We had to put an 8" jack plate on it in order for the trim lines to clear. Later boats had cut down transoms because the boat ran better with the motor closer to the hull.

[Sam Baker]

More pictures. Side view of my riot and a couple of pictures of the open bow. AVERT YOUR EYES FROM THE PINK BOAT. It's like looking at Medusa. You'll turn to stone if you stare at it too long....

[Sam Baker]

Finally a couple pictures of Twisters. The White boat was Twister number 1. We tested it with twin 225 ProMaxes. I drove the boat sitting on a captains chair with four screws in the floor. We had two 6 gallon gas tanks and basic controls. It only weighed about 850 pounds. To say that it accellerated like a banshee would be a huge understatement. The most incredible feeling in a boat ever....would hit 90 mph in the blink of an eye and just SLAM the limiters with 28 Cleavers.

The other Twister was originally owned by Randy Mills. MR. RAPID CRAFT HIMSELF. He's owned several of them over the years. He currently owns a Riot with a special drag bottom and a drag motor (boat weighed 385 lbs. out of the mold hull and deck). He also owns a 20' V-Bottom with a 260 on it. I think both boats are for sale....he says they are, but he doesn't try super hard to sell them.

[RUDERIOT]

Finally a couple pictures of Twisters. The White boat was Twister number 1. We tested it with twin 225 ProMaxes. I drove the boat sitting on a captains chair with four screws in the floor. We had two 6 gallon gas tanks and basic controls. It only weighed about 850 pounds. To say that it accellerated like a banshee would be a huge understatement. The most incredible feeling in a boat ever....would hit 90 mph in the blink of an eye and just SLAM the limiters with 28 Cleavers.

The other Twister was originally owned by Randy Mills. MR. RAPID CRAFT HIMSELF. He's owned several of them over the years. He currently owns a Riot with a special drag bottom and a drag motor (boat weighed 385 lbs. out of the mold hull and deck). He also owns a 20' V-Bottom with a 260 on it. I think both boats are for sale....he says they are, but he doesn't try super hard to sell them.

Randy just got a big o Nitrox kit for the Drag motor. He's a very competitive guy.
Rob Decker ran right beside him & Wild Bill did also when he could keep the Alley on the pad. The last time I ran him he was beatin' me by 2 lengths or so in 700'' & that was before the 6'' setback on my Riot. It made alot of differance on my boat, he heard about it & decided he needed the insureance of the N2O to be sure I didn't outrun him, & as an edge against Rob & Bill.
He'll have to wait till next year now but I will show him the back of the JohnRude,,, with or without Mr. Goodmans help!:D

[Sam Baker]

If anybody can beat him - it's you for sure. You're right though...he is pretty competitive.

[P man]

For anyone that hasnt seenit, there is a pretty cool clip of Kevin (Riot280) at jasper.

check out the 3:40 minute mark for a pretty fast turn :o

http://media.putfile.com/Jasper-River-Run

[at100plus]

That Twister with twins looks so cool. Thanks for the pics Sam. More More More!

[at100plus]

That Riot280 turn was cool too! I love the way you can tell a Riot by the shape of the rooster. Long and powerful almost jetboat like.

[wideglide55]

I see Mike is starting to like them tunnels with a center pod like me.

[at100plus]

Yea I always liked mod tunnels but this is the first one I've ever had that rides pretty well in chop. Now I want a Twister :rolleyes:

[nelsoncat]

What is a Twister based off of?

[scorpion300x]

I love old pics like that. Thanks Sam.

A guy at the CT River Run had a Scorpion with a 300X, he's a heavy guy too, he said he can't get through the porpoise. Maybe he needs to move his seat back or something.

I have no trouble with the porpoise at all now that I took those drag racing planing tabs off the back of the boat. Made a few quick passes yesterday and ran 98.2 with my 4 blade 30. I only saw like 7200 on the new Livorsi tach and it was still accelerating.

Hi Mike thanks for the posting on the Scorpion, Sam Baker,I tried to put more set back on the Scorpion that didnt work, everyone is saying that there should be no set back on it or at least just a jack plate, at the Ct River run last weekend Helmut took a look at it and said somthing about running tunnel tabs on the back with a cleaver, that the tunnel is to straight back. Mikes rapid Riot is simmular to my scorpion in the front but different in the rear of the boat. Sam Baker if you have some input please chime in, I want to keep the hull im sure there are ways to over come this purposing issue.It seems that i cant get enough air packed underneath to hold the bow up from stop porpoising.



thanks

Steve Cardillo

[at100plus]

Hey Steve,

Sam had a Scorpion, that's what the Rapid Craft deck was based on, so maybe he can offers some insight as to what would work with the heavier 300X on the back.

I don't know about tabs, my boat had tabs on it (you can see pics if you look at earier posts on this thread), and they were causing the problem. Since I've removed them, I've had no problem getting past the porpoise. In fact at the CT River Run (end of the day) I did several passes and I was like "what porpoise?"

[Sam Baker]

It depends on the year and where it was built. The later Scorpions built in WI had the same bottom as the Riot. The earlier Scorpions (I'm not 100% sure on the year) and all of the boats built in CA had the original Eliminator bottom.

Even those drove OK going straight - they just didn't turn sharp enough to run in ModVP. The 300 on the back should help it. Running the after planes behind the tunnels usually makes them run goofier, but every situation is different. Most of the porpoise is just getting experience with driving it and learning how to trim it out to pack air to get through that transition, then trimming down as you get going faster. The Chine walk that some people complain about many times is caused by being under trimmed as well, but like I said, every boat is a little different based on how it's rigged, what prop you're running, gearcase, etc.

[at100plus]

Steve's Scorpion bottom is the same as my Riot except it has no stepping at all aft. The center pod and sponsons go all the way to the transom.

[BrentShaw]

I think is my the boat owned by my brother very nice boat. That thing took a huge beating by the first owner, but it cleaned up real nice and gets wet about 2 times a year.

Brent

[at100plus]

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/6139/ctriverrun20060362bf0.jpg

[HANS O LUEDTKE]

I was there working at Baker Marine. When Ron and Sam and Jeff designed these boats!!! These guys did a Awsome job as you can see, 10 years Later and I have to say I have clocked Sam at over 112 on rader with a 280 Merc over. I think 3 foot chop? Sam, RON and Jeff always drove harder
then anyone I know!!! Crazy Dudes!!!!
THESE ARE GREAT BOATS!!!!!!

I drove the red one in this thread
AWSOME!!!!!!!!:)