​2023 Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S
The 2023 Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S are new models that were released in the middle of the season. They are identical to the high-end Ultra 310LX and LX-S, except that they come with a naturally-aspirated, 1498cc, 160 HP engine and a slightly smaller jet pump. This makes them slightly lighter than the Ultra 310 models.

The power source of both models is a 4-stroke, inline-4 cylinder Kawasaki marine engine. This engine is much more fuel efficient and tends to be more reliable than the supercharged engine found in the Ultra 310 models.

The key features of this power mill are as follows:

• Displacement: 1,498cc
• Engine type: 4-stroke
• Cylinders: Inline-4
• Bore x stroke: 83.0 x 69.2mm
• Compression ratio: 10.6:1
• Valves: 16 valves with hydraulic lifters
• DOHC – Dual Overhead Camshaft
• Fuel system: Electronically controlled fuel injection: ∅60 mm × 1
• Ignition: Digital
• Starting System: Electric
• Performance: 160 HP
• Open-loop water cooling system
• Electronic fuel injection system

The engine delivers power to a 155mm, axial-flow jet pump, featuring a stainless steel, 3-blade, oval-edge impeller. In contrast, the supercharged equivalent of this ski has a slightly larger, 160mm jet pump.

The Ultra 160LX inherited its innovative deep-V hull, top deck, and color scheme from the Ultra 310LX. This platform was released for the 2022 model year, replacing the outdated ’14-’21 Ultra 310 models.

In a nutshell, the key features of this full-size Kawasaki jet ski platform include:

• Deep-V hull design
• 5-degree deadrise
• FMC fiberglass material
• Reinforced bow
• Length: 140.9 in
• Width: 47.0 in
• Height: 48.8 in

​The Ultra 160LX and LX-S are a great option for riders who want a full-size jet ski with a naturally-aspirated engine. They offer excellent performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability.

Looking for a thrilling ride on the water? Look no further than the 2023 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX, the latest model from the iconic personal watercraft manufacturer. With an array of new features and upgrades, this model promises to be a hit among water sports fans of all kinds.

So what makes the Ultra 310LX stand out from its predecessors? For starters, it boasts improved fuel efficiency, thanks to a more streamlined design that enhances stability and maneuverability on the water. Additionally, the new model features a larger and more advanced touchscreen display, offering unparalleled control and visuals while in operation.

But the Ultra 310LX is more than just a pretty face. With a 1,498 cc inline four-cylinder engine, it packs a punch and can handle even the roughest waters with ease. It also comes equipped with a range of amenities, such as intelligent steering assist, smartphone connectivity options, and a top-notch sound system, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for all.

But let's talk performance. The Ultra 310LX boasts a powerful 1,498cc supercharged engine capable of delivering 310 horsepower, making it one of the most influential personal watercraft models on the market. With a 160mm jet pump, axial flow, single-stage impeller, and maximum boost of 16.8 psi, the Ultra 310LX has the potential to reach speeds of up to 67 mph, depending on rider weight and water conditions.

And it's not just about speed. The Ultra 310LX also features an electronic trim system that allows riders to adjust the trim angle while in motion, improving handling and stability in various water situations. Plus, with a fuel range of around 100-110 miles, this model is built to keep you going for longer.
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So whether you're a novice or an expert rider, the 2023 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310LX is sure to impress with its remarkable acceleration, peak speed capabilities, and enhanced handling characteristics. Ready to dive in and experience the thrill for yourself? Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Bobby Boop
​Impellers.com

​Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. is honoring the golden anniversary of its iconic Jet Ski® personal watercraft (PWC) products with the 50 years of exhilaration celebration.

​When the original Jet Ski watercraft debuted in 1973, it created a whole new lifestyle of having fun on the water. What began with a liquid-cooled 400cc two-stroke twin engine, pivoting handlepole system and ability to slice turns and skim over waves has evolved to a supercharged 1,498cc inline four-stroke marine engine.  Despite the technological evolutions, the soul of a Jet Ski remains recreating the feeling of riding a motorcycle on the water.
“For 50 years, Kawasaki Jet Ski has been synonomous with Good Times on the water,” said Bob O’Brien, Director of Marketing. “As an early leader in the PWC category, Kawasaki and Jet Ski developed a fun-loving lifestyle centered around the exhilaration of combining speed with control.”
Bringing the stand-up Jet Ski watercraft to market in the early 1970s was among the first projects of the new Kawasaki R&D department in Southern California. After creating several prototypes, both flat-hull and V-hull stand-up models were launched on a trial basis. Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., U.S.A. in Lincoln, Nebraska later started full production of the Jet Ski watercraft in 1975.
Kawasaki continued to innovate in 1986 and introduced the first mass-produced “sit-down”: the Kawasaki X2. This two-passenger watercraft led the way for the Kawasaki Jet Ski® Ultra® and Jet Ski® STX® lineups of three-passenger runabouts.  Development continued as Kawasaki engineers tweaked hull design and engine displacement to produce the greatest amount of smiles per gallon.
For the 2007 model year, Kawasaki introduced its first supercharged personal watercraft, the Jet Ski® Ultra® 250X. This Jet Ski was built with Kawasaki Ninja® heritage as the engine was derived from the 1498cc powerplant of the Ninja® ZX™-14.
In 2017, Kawasaki went back to its stand-up roots, introducing the Jet Ski® SX-R™, its first four-stroke stand-up Jet Ski, powered by the same naturally aspirated 1498cc engine used in its runabout models. The introduction of the Jet Ski SX-R continued to show Kawasaki’s dedication to the PWC category as they are continuously updating and innovating their full lineup of Jet Ski products, including class-leading Jet Ski® Ultra® 160 and Ultra® 310 models.
About KawasakiKawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. is committed to maintaining and furthering these strengths which will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and JET SKI® watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,700 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. Kawasaki and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 260 of them located at Kawasaki’s Foothill Ranch, California headquarters.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.

​The PWC horsepower wars are back and Kawasaki has returned with its most powerful contender, the Ultra 260 LX. After being outdone by Sea-Doo in 2008, Kawasaki has boosted the power of its flagship model with some subtle tweaks. The compression ratio has been raised, the camshafts redesigned, the ignition timing altered and the impeller fine-tuned, all while stiffening the hull. The result? The supercharged 1498cc engine now produces a realistic 260 horsepower, making the Ultra 260 LX the PWC horsepower king once again.

But it's not just about speed. The Ultra 260 LX has a touring seat with a bolstered saddle, providing comfort and additional back support for long-distance rides. The seat is tiered, offering a raised perch for passengers to look over the driver's shoulder. The LX has a mature and sophisticated color scheme, featuring a rich silver metallic finish, as opposed to the standard Ultra's bold hues.

What hasn't changed is just as important. The Ultra 260 LX retains its supremely confident ride on the straightaway while sacrificing some cornering ability, which makes it ideal for big lakes and coastal areas. The hull design provides an extremely dry ride thanks to the well-designed spray rail around the bow. With chart-topping capacities, the Ultra 260 LX is also excellent for touring, featuring 53 gallons of stowage and a 20.6-gallon fuel tank that blow away the class averages.

Bonus Tip: To best avoid dings at the dock, center your craft beside a cleat and run a line from the bow or handlebars to the cleat and then back to the aft grab handle.

Notable Features: • SLO Mode: A second magnetic key activates a speed-limiting mode for less-experienced riders. • Stand or Sit: Five-position adjustable handlebars allow riders to find their most comfortable setting. • Lean-In Style: The deep-V hull banks into turns, allowing riders to employ a natural lean-in, motorcycle-like riding style. • Performance: Expect a true top speed of over 65 mph and a 0-30 acceleration in less than two seconds.
Technical Specs: • Length: 132.7" • Beam: 47" • Dry Weight: 1062.8 lb. • Engine: 1498CC, Supercharged/Intercooled 4-cylinder, 4-stroke • Fuel Capacity: 20.6 gal. • Storage Capacity: 53 gal. • MSRP: $12,299

The Kawasaki Ultra 260 LX is the ideal touring cruiser for riders looking for a powerful and comfortable ride on the water. With its powerful engine, chart-topping capacities, and lean-in style, it is sure to impress.

Bobby Boop
​Impellers.com

​Introducing the Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300X - the champion in the horsepower supremacy battle. With a new Eaton supercharger, the Ultra 300X delivers a more continuous flow of air and boost pressure of 17.3 psi, which is higher than its predecessor, the Ultra 260's 11 psi. The Ultra 300X boasts a 160 mm (6.3-inch) pump and a slightly reduced jet nozzle, combined with a new impeller, top-loading scoop grate, and a lighter hull. All these features contribute to the Ultra 300X reaching a top speed of 65 mph and delivering an exhilarating acceleration experience.

But that's not all. The Ultra 300X's handling capabilities have also improved drastically. Unlike previous models that tended to drift through sharp turns, the Ultra 300X now turns aggressively, thanks to its electric trim feature. The driver can now drop the bow and carve sharper turns with ease. Additionally, the steering nozzle is 20 mm (3/4-inch) shorter, which enhances the craft's reaction time.

The Ultra 300X has also upped its game in terms of features. It now boasts electronic-throttle capabilities similar to its competitors, such as Yamaha's FX SHO. It has both no-wake and cruise-control modes, which are easy to control via handlebar buttons. The cruise mode can be adjusted throughout the entire power band, and the new "eco" mode reduces fuel consumption by up to 15%. But unlike other eco-minded solutions, it maintains a surprisingly strong power delivery during tests.

Furthermore, the Ultra 300X's design improvements include a redesigned reverse lever that offers better control in tight quarters and a new information display with large mode buttons that are easy to manipulate even with gloved fingers. For a more luxurious experience, the Ultra 300LX model offers a more bolstered, supportive seat and a GPS socket for handheld navigators. It also features a more spiffy chrome scheme that adds to its overall aesthetic appeal.
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In summary, the Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300X is a powerhouse on the water that delivers an unmatched acceleration experience, improved handling, and a host of features that make it stand out from its competitors. If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping ride on the water, the Ultra 300X is the perfect choice for you. Check out Impellers.com for more information and to make your purchase today!

​The Jet Ski's lifting handlepole and uniquely designed hull were instrumental in its early, albeit limited, success. The same hull design was responsible for an entire generation of machines as the trend caught on and spread beyond the shores of sunny Southern California. Kawasaki introduced the more practical, larger displacement Jet Ski 440 in 1977, followed by the 550 in the early '80s, considered a truly "big bore" machine for the time. Kawasaki even experimented briefly with a single-cylinder, under-300cc design, all housed within the same fiberglass form that symbolizes an entirely new sport.

​While others eventually joined the bandwagon, this stand-up craft forever defined them, with the trademark "jet ski" becoming synonymous with personal watercraft. The original Jet Ski hull is long gone, now a relic preserved by collectors, enthusiasts, and the occasional overgrown lawn. Today's stand-up hulls are bigger, more maneuverable, and better suited to a wider range of buyers. However, the original version will always possess "soul," an inherent quality that enticed an entire generation of riders onto the water, opened the doors, and stood guard for a longer period of this sport's history than any other.
That one green hull, now put out to pasture, made everything possible.

Bobby Boop
Impellers.com

​The Kawasaki STX-12F Jet Ski is a three-seat beauty that delivers an exciting ride with plenty of power and acceleration. We took it for a spin along the Atlantic Coast near Key West in four-foot seas, and the boat handled the torture without creaks, groans, or cracks.
One of the standout features of this watercraft is its torque and acceleration, which is best enjoyed while standing up, flexing knees and elbows to absorb the shock. With this approach, we were able to reach mid-40s, goosing the throttle at the crest of each wave to enjoy the exhilarating hang time as we glided over the troughs.
While many boaters have been trained to think four-stroke marine engines are heavy and sluggish, the STX-12F proves them wrong. This model was one of the quickest in the fleet at the 2003 Kawasaki press introduction, nearly as quick as comparable two-stroke DI models.

Not only does the STX-12F offer great performance, but it also has a number of notable features that set it apart from the competition. First, it is the least expensive "green" four-stroke watercraft on the market at $8,499. Second, it is the lightest watercraft on the market, which allows it to exceed 55 mph with a modest 125 horsepower engine. Third, it earns the CARB three-star emissions rating, the highest possible, meaning it will be welcome on Lake Tahoe and other emissions-sensitive western waters.

The technology in the STX-12F is impressive. Kawasaki makes the hull in one solid piece, laminating stringers, engine mounts, and strengthening features into the hull rather than gluing in a stringer assembly – a third component in most watercraft hulls. Additionally, the water-jacketed exhaust system cools and quiets the engine, making this watercraft one of the quietest on the water. A direct crankshaft-to-impeller connection with no gear reduction increases torque to the impeller while keeping rpms well within redline level.
The STX-12F also boasts Smart Steering, which assists greenhorn drivers in avoidance maneuvers. The engine's electronic brain monitors both throttle position and steering position, and when it senses a sudden reduction in RPM along with a steering change, the system feeds in enough throttle to turn the craft away from danger.

Finally, the STX-12F has full instrumentation integrated into a stylish LCD panel in the dash with clear readouts and reliable waterproof construction.
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Overall, the Kawasaki STX-12F Jet Ski is an excellent watercraft that is perfect for pulling water sports. With great acceleration, top speed of 55.4 mph, walk-around stability, and a flip-up ladder that is standard, this watercraft is sure to provide a great ride.