Personal watercraft allow you to explore the open water with speed and agility. Two popular options for water enthusiasts are the Hobie Evolve and Bixpy water jets.
These portable electric-powered watercraft give you the freedom to cruise lakes, rivers, and oceans without the noise and hassles of a motorboat.
But with different features and performance specs, how do you choose between the Hobie Evolve and Bixpy? This guide examines the key factors to help you decide which personal watercraft best matches your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs | Hobie Evolve | Bixpy Jet Models |
| Propulsion | 13 hp custom electric jet drive | Replaceable jet cartridges from 2.5 hp equivalent (Sport) to 6.0 hp (J-2) |
| Top Speed | 13 mph | 4 mph (Sport) to 20 mph (J-2) |
| Battery Run Time | 60-90 minutes | 30-60 minutes (standard) <br> 60-120 minutes (extended) |
| Recharge Time | 4-5 hours | 2-4 hours |
| Weight | 106 lbs | 55-77 lbs |
| Dimensions | 12′ 7″ length | 10′ (Sport) to 11′ length (J-2) |
| Rider Capacity | 1 person up to 240 lbs | 1 person up to 240 lbs |
| Price | $8,000 | $1,700 (Sport) to $5,000 (J-2) |
Overview of the Hobie Evolve and Bixpy Water Jets
The Hobie Evolve and Bixpy are lightweight, battery-powered water jets designed for one rider.
They allow easy launching from shore and maneuverability in shallow water.
Both feature an electric jet drive you control with a handheld throttle.
Twist the throttle to go, release to slow down or stop.
While the overall concept is similar, there are notable differences between the two models:
- Propulsion: The Evolve has a 13 hp custom electric jet drive. Bixpy offers jet drive options from 2.5 hp equivalent up to the 6.0 hp equivalent Bixpy J-2 model.
- Top Speed: The Evolve tops out around 13 mph. Bixpy’s range goes from 4 mph (Bixpy Sport) up to 20 mph (Bixpy J-2).
- Run Time: Evolve run time is about 60-90 minutes. Bixpy run times range from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the model.
- Price: Evolve retails around $8,000. Bixpy ranges from $1,700 (Sport model) to $5,000 (J-2).
Keep reading for a more in-depth look at each watercraft’s specs, features, performance and cost.
Hobie Evolve Overview
Hobie has long been known for pedal kayaks and sailboats. The Evolve represents their first foray into the battery-powered water jet market. This sleek one-person craft combines high performance with stability and agile handling.
- Propulsion: The Evolve’s custom-designed 13 hp electric jet drive can propel the craft to 13 mph. The jet intake is mounted forward for excellent maneuverability. Reverse thrust makes docking easy.
- Battery Life: The proven lithium battery powers up to 90 minutes of continuous ride time. It recharges in 4-5 hours.
- Design: At 12′ 7″ long, the Evolve combines a sit-down kayak-style cockpit with a modified trimaran hull. The wider beam and dual outrigger skis provide enhanced stability at high speeds or in choppy water.
- Capacity: Designed for a single rider up to 240 pounds. The seat is comfortable with padded backrest and thigh support.
- Features: Bluetooth-enabled display integrates speedometer, battery gauge, and GPS. Cargo hatches with bungee tie-downs provide storage. Carrying handles allow easy transport.
- Cost: The Evolve retails for around $8,000.
Bixpy Water Jet Overview
Bixpy offers a range of personal watercraft models to match both budgets and desired speed. Their goal is to deliver an accessible, environmentally friendly motor-free watercraft experience.
- Propulsion: Bixpy uses an electric jet drive system with replaceable jet cartridges from their parent company Onean. Jets range from 2.5 hp equivalent for the Bixpy Sport up to 6.0 hp equivalent for the high-performance Bixpy J-2.
- Battery Options: Lithium batteries give 30-60 minutes of ride time depending on the model. An accessory double battery pack doubles runtimes. Batteries recharge in 2-4 hours.
- Design: Bixpy models have a stand-up paddleboard style design with wider, more stable boards. The smallest Sport model is 10′ long and 30″ wide. The J-2 measures 11′ long by 34″ wide. All models support up to 240 pounds.
- Capacity: While designed for one person, the wider Bixpy boards offer the option for a child to ride along. Accessory seat attachments are available.
- Features: An integrated display shows battery level, speed, and distance. The Bixpy controller is waterproof and floatable. Storage bungee cords secure belongings.
- Cost: Bixpy ranges from $1,700 for the Sport to $5,000 for the J-2. Accessory batteries, seats, and trailers are also available.
Comparing Performance and Experience
Evaluating criteria like speed, battery runtime, and stability can help you choose the best watercraft for your needs. Here’s how the Hobie Evolve and Bixpy models stack up.
- Speed
Hobie Evolve: With its powerful 13 hp jet drive, the Evolve tops out around 13 mph.
This makes it one of the fastest single-rider portable watercraft.
It can keep pace with multi-passenger recreational jet boats.
Bixpy: Speed ranges from 4 mph on the entry-level Sport model up to 20 mph on the Bixpy J-2.
The fast acceleration and top speed of the J-2 rivals gas-powered personal watercraft.
Winner: Bixpy J-2 for sheer top speed.
- Battery Run Time
Hobie Evolve: The 60-90 minutes of run time balances power with range. Most riders can explore a lake or coastline for an hour before needing to recharge.
Bixpy: Bixpy keeps it simple with 30 or 60 minute lithium batteries depending on the model. Run an hour with normal use. Go for 30 minutes at top speed. Extended life optional batteries offer up to 120 minutes.
Winner: Tie. Both offer sufficient battery life for most outings.
- Stability
Hobie Evolve: The trimaran shape and dual pontoons keep the Evolve stable even at higher speeds. Stay balanced through turns and waves.
Bixpy: The wider standing platform of Bixpy equals inherent stability. Despite the upright riding stance, the board platform keeps your footing secure.
Winner: Bixpy has a slight edge for stability thanks to its standing paddleboard design.
- Portability
Hobie Evolve: At 106 pounds, the Evolve is transportable but bulky. The skis and trimaran shape mean it takes up space on top of a car. Carts or trailers simplify launch and retrieval.
Bixpy: From 55-77 pounds, Bixpy boards are easy to throw into a car and carry a short distance to the water. Larger models like the J-2 benefit from using a cart or dolly.
Winner: Bixpy takes the portability crown thanks to compact, carry-friendly boards.
- Price
Hobie Evolve: This premium watercraft comes with an $8,000 price tag. You’re paying for high performance and quality construction.
Bixpy: Prices start at $1,700 for the Sport and reach $5,000 for the J-2. Bixpy focuses on delivering powerful electric jet drives at affordable price points.
Winner: Bixpy offers the most economical way to get into electric personal watercraft.
Which Is Better For You?
After comparing the specs, which model looks like the best choice? Consider these key factors:
- Budget – Bixpy models give you more jet drive bang for your buck. The Sport and One models deliver capable performance below $2,500.
- Top Speed – If going as fast as possible is your priority, the Bixpy J-2 is the clear winner with speeds up to 20 mph.
- Comfort – Some riders may prefer the sit-down kayak-style cockpit of the Evolve over Bixpy’s stand-up configuration.
- Portability – For easy transportation and storage, Bixpy takes the prize with lighter boards.
- Range – Both offer about an hour of ride time to covering longer distances. Upgrade to extended batteries if you need more.
Your riding style and priorities will determine whether the Evolve or Bixpy is a better fit. Both let you enjoy the throttle-free electric jet drive experience. One may align more closely with the performance and features you want.
Pros and Cons of Hobie Evolve and Bixpy
This breakdown summarizes the stand-out positives and negatives of each watercraft:
Hobie Evolve
Pros
- Powerful 13 hp jet drive delivers 13 mph top speed
- Maneuverable performance
- Comfortable sit-down riding position
- Stable trimaran hull shape
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- High price tag
- Heavy, bulky design
- Limited accessories or customization
Bixpy
Pros
- Affordable pricing starting at $1,700
- Easy to transport and store
- Options for speed from 4-20 mph
- Accessory batteries extend runtime
- Stable stand-up paddleboard platform
Cons
- Limited 1 hour battery life (standard model)
- exposed standing may feel less secure for some
- Slowest model (Sport) lacks performance
Also Read: Comparison of ATX And Axis Boats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main alternative to Bixpy is the Hobie Evolve. Other competitors in the portable electric jet drive space include Onean, Fliteboard, and Lampuga. Models from other brands like Sea-Doo also exist at higher price points.
The fastest Bixpy model currently available is the Bixpy J-2. It can reach top speeds of 20 mph thanks to its high-output 6.0 hp equivalent jet drive system.
Battery life depends on the Bixpy model. The standard batteries give you about 30-60 minutes of ride time. You can double that to 60-120 minutes by adding the optional extended life battery. Using maximum throttle the whole time will decrease the runtime.
With its powerful jet motor, the Bixpy J-2 model can reach speeds up to 20 mph. This makes it one of the fastest single-rider battery-powered watercraft available. It provides a thrilling experience comparable to a small gas-powered jet ski.
Get Out and Ride
Hobie Evolve or Bixpy – whichever water jet you choose, the thrill of cruising across the water under portable electric power awaits. These watercraft make experiencing the freedom of speed and exploration accessible and eco-friendly.
Hopefully this overview gives you a feel for the performance, features, and value offered by the Evolve and Bixpy models. Finding the right match comes down to your budget and priorities.
Both allow you to enjoy a day on the water away from engine noise and hassles. With an hour of ride time, you can cover plenty of distance before needing to recharge.
The personal watercraft realm promises continued innovation in electric propulsion. Expect to see ever-increasing speeds and extended runtimes.
For now, the Evolve and Bixpy represent the pinnacle for battery-powered portability and performance. Get out on the water and see what an electric jet drive can do for your days on the lake or coast!
