SPLASH Magazine    February 1997

Calvin's TS
by Robert Hallstrom
photos by Jeff Ames

I doubt I would get much of an argument if I were to say the only activities suitable for Kawasaki's TS are sittin' and fishin', however, that's not to say it's not an enjoyable craft. Just ask Blowsion Kolors proprietor Johnny Dady. He and his long-time friend Dale Brown of Portland, Oregon use the TS on a regular basis.

Though no speed demon on the water, the boat's stability makes it an ideal cruiser. The guys primarily find it useful as a tow vehicle if problems arise while riding their stand-ups in the surf.

Purchased a few years back from Randy Jungwirth of Watercraft Connection - the Kawi was in decent shape, but they had a brand new look in store for it.   Beginning with the paint and graphics, Dady figured an organic green scheme mixed with granite marble effects would suit the TS to a tee. Fitting, especially after being dubbed the Platypus because of its long, flat nose.

Blowsion Signature Logo
Every amount of attention to detail was paid, right down to Blowsion's Signature logo.

With countless hours of prep work out of the way, the ski received its new col- ors as well as holographic stars, lime green accents, company logo and registration numbers. Additional paint and graphics include pearl blue coated emerald green with gold sequin flakes.

Just prior to applying the final coats of PPG High Solids Concept clear, the finishing touches were added in the form of Calvin (of Calvin & Hobbes) across the hood and down the back.

Stock 650 Powerplant
The stock Kawasaki 650 powerplant was fitted with a milled head, Ocean Pro intake manifold, taper bored 44mm Mikuni and an Ocean Pro Vortex, just to name a few.

Wrapping up the aesthetics, the craft sports some Bitchin' Stitchin' courtesy of Gary Hart of Jettrim. Other fashionable mods include lengthened, lime-green handlebars, SE finger throttle, new gray bumper molding and aluminum bow eyes just to name a few.

 

 

Calvin and Hobbes Ts
A close-up of the tail section reveals a comedic depiction of Calvin (of the Calvin and Hobbes cartoon series).

Though it's true the TS is not a boat known for its high speed, this bad boy was equipped with a mdified 650 and has since outrun many coastal tubes!  With the help of the guys at Watercraft Connection, the stock powerplant uses a milled head, Ocean Pro intake manifold and a taper bored Mikuni 44mm carb with an Ocean Pro Vortex.  Spent exhaust exits via a Coffman's pipe and waterbox for better-than-stock performance.

Lastly, to enhance the boat's hadling charachteristics, an updated '96 model TS trim package was installed in addition to a Skat-Trak 15-degree impeller, Mariner rideplate and Jet Dynamics grate.

"It's truly amazing what a little creativity and aftermarket accessories can do to an aging old friend - speaking of the TS, of course," stated Dady.  With what we've seen of the TS, we think he's got a point.

1990 Kawasaki TS
The TS in all its glory, is adorned with an assortment
of afternoon accessories and nicely done from top
to bottom.

 

Splash Magazine
February 1993,  March 1994,  March 1994 (2),

August 1994,  February 1995,  February 1995 (2),
April 1995,  December 1995,  February 1997,

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