Bonzi RC Boats: Gas Racing Hulls, Zenoah Engines and Parts
Bonzi Sports is a US company that designs and builds performance gas RC boats with custom paint, and sells Zenoah engines, modified engine packages, clutches, race pipes, props and boat hardware. Its range includes hulls from around 46–51 inches (such as the Edge and Baja Hybrid) up to 60–64 inch boats like the Epic, Skater Cat and Fountain, and an 84-inch Classic. Many are powered by Zenoah engines such as the G260PUM or G290PUM with Bonzi clutches and pipes.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Range
| Boat | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Edge, Bonzi | 50 in | Monos, Zenoah-powered |
| Baja Hybrid | 51 in | Zenoah G290PUM option |
| Fountain | 54 in, 64 in | Scale offshore style |
| Epic, Skater Cat | 60 in | Larger mono and catamaran |
| Classic | 84 in | Very large boat |
From Bonzi Sports listings; check current models and kit levels.
Engines and parts
Bonzi is known for Zenoah engine packages, from stock engines to modified versions with ported cylinders, pipes and clutches, plus drives, props and hardware. Engine details are covered in Zenoah boat engines. Buying an engine and boat from the same supplier helps ensure parts fit together.
Who they suit
Bonzi boats suit gas boat enthusiasts who want large, fast, good-looking boats with the sound of a two-stroke engine. Big gas boats need big water, transport and engine know-how. Large boats in general are covered in large-scale RC boats for sale.
Setup tips
- Check engine mounts and flex shaft alignment.
- Confirm water cooling flow through the head and pipe.
- Test the kill switch and failsafe.
- Break in the engine gently.
- Start with the recommended prop, then tune.
Care
- Grease the flex shaft after every run.
- Dry the hull and radio box.
- Check props and drive for damage.
- Use fresh fuel and clean filters.
- Inspect fibreglass for cracks.
Safety
A large gas boat is heavy and fast. Run only where permitted, away from swimmers and wildlife, and keep a retrieval plan. Store fuel safely and refuel away from heat sources.
Hull-only vs complete boats
Bonzi sells some boats as hulls only, for builders who want to choose their own engine, drive and radio, and others as more complete packages with engine and hardware installed. Hull-only boats suit experienced builders and racers; complete boats save time and ensure everything fits. Ask exactly what’s included and what’s still needed before ordering.
Racing and fun running
Gas boats like Bonzi’s are run in racing classes and also simply for fun on big lakes. Racing classes set limits on engine size and hull type, so check your club’s rules if you plan to race. For fun running, the long run times of gas engines and the realistic sound are a big part of the appeal.
Transport
Boats of 50–84 inches need a large vehicle, a padded stand and often two people to carry and launch. Plan this before buying, along with fuel storage and tools.
Gas boats also need regular engine care: clean air filters, fresh fuel at the correct oil ratio, spark plug checks and after-run attention to prevent corrosion. Bonzi and other Zenoah specialists sell rebuild parts and upgrades, which keeps engines running for many seasons.
Ask the dealer for recommended props and settings for your boat and engine, since proven combinations save a lot of testing time.
FAQ
What does Bonzi Sports sell?
Gas RC boats, Zenoah engines, modified engine packages and boat hardware.
What engines do Bonzi boats use?
Mostly Zenoah engines like the G260PUM and G290PUM.
How big are Bonzi boats?
From about 46 in to 84 in.
Are they for beginners?
They suit experienced gas boaters.
More on this topic: the complete RC Boats guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
