Thrasher 27 Jet Boat: Streamline RC XP and LR Explained
The Thrasher is a 27-inch RC jet boat made by Streamline RC, built for running rivers, shallow water and rocky streams where a propeller boat would break. It uses Streamline’s patented jet drive (water is pumped out the back, so nothing hangs under the hull), self-rights after a flip, has a continuous-duty bilge pump and a hull made of separately replaceable parts. The 2026 G2 range includes the XP for 6S power (about $1,040–1,100) and the LR for 4S and long run times. Here’s what each version offers and how to run one.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20264 min read
Thrasher versions
| Version | Battery | Aimed at | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thrasher G2 XP | 6S | Aggressive river running and bashing | Delivered assembled; add batteries and the provided radio; about $1,039–1,099 (2026) |
| Thrasher G2 LR | 4S | Long run times on lakes, rivers and rocky streams | For 2026 uses the same ESC and motor as the XP |
| Earlier V1–V3 boats | 2S–6S formats | – | Spare parts still listed by Streamline |
From Streamline RC, checked October 2026. Retailers such as RC Nation also list the Thrasher 27.
Why a jet boat?
A propeller boat has a prop, shaft and rudder below the hull, which hit rocks, weeds and the bottom in shallow water. A jet boat draws water in through an intake under the hull and pushes it out of a steerable nozzle at the back. With nothing protruding, it can run in water a few centimetres deep, slide over gravel bars and run rapids. The trade-off: jets are less efficient than propellers at top speed, and the intake can suck in weeds and debris that must be cleared.
Key features
- Jet drive with about 3:1 thrust-to-weight (maker’s figure): strong acceleration and the ability to climb out of holes.
- Self-righting: the hull shape rolls it back upright after a flip, important on rivers where you can’t retrieve it easily.
- Continuous bilge pump: removes water that gets in.
- Adjustable trim with a single screw.
- Multi-piece hull: hull, deck and lid are replaceable separately; bow armour and a stainless “ExoKeel” protect against rocks.
Running tips
- Check the intake grate before every run; clear weeds and grit.
- Run 4S or 6S packs as specified and use a LiPo alarm; don’t run the packs flat.
- Start in calm water to learn steering at speed; jets steer only with throttle applied.
- On rivers, run upstream first so the boat drifts back to you if it stops.
- After running, open the hatch, dry the inside and let it air out.
- Rinse after salt or muddy water and check the impeller and wear ring.
Maintenance and spare parts
The jet pump’s impeller and wear ring wear over time, especially with sand. Streamline sells replacement parts (inlets, hull decks, ESCs, bow armour, ExoKeel) for current and older boats. Seals and waterproofing should be checked regularly: a leaking receiver box is the most common cause of mid-run failures on any RC boat. Waterproofing steps are in how to wire an RC boat.
Is the Thrasher right for you?
| You want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Rivers, shallow water, rocks | A jet boat like the Thrasher |
| Top speed on flat water | A prop-driven mono or catamaran |
| Oval racing | An outrigger or hydro (outrigger kits) |
| A lower budget | Smaller RTR jet or prop boats from mainstream brands |
FAQ
Who makes the Thrasher 27 jet boat?
Streamline RC, which designs RC jet boats with patented jet drives.
What battery does the Thrasher use?
The 2026 XP runs on 6S, the LR on 4S. Older versions supported 2S–6S formats.
Can the Thrasher run in shallow water?
Yes, that’s what jet boats are for; keep the intake clear of gravel and weeds.
Is the Thrasher self-righting?
Yes, Streamline’s hull is designed to roll upright after a flip.
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
