Kawasaki introduces stand-up Jet Ski SX-R for 2017

Kawasaki is introducing a four-stroke stand-up personal watercraft, the Jet Ski SX-R for 2017.

Equipped with Kawasaki’s 1498cc four-stroke marine engine, the Jet Ski SX-R personal watercraft produces twice the power of Kawasaki’s previous stand-up model while also delivering plenty of low-to-mid-range torque. The V-shaped hull is designed to allow for sharp cornering and the Kawasaki Splash Deflector (KSD) helps reduce the amount of unwanted splash over the front. Also, the rectangular shaped rider tray puts the rider in a more natural riding position.

The Kawasaki Jet Ski SX-R watercraft’s engine carries the Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle heritage as it was derived from the Ninja ZX-14R power plant and has been proven in Kawasaki’s naturally aspirated Jet Ski watercraft lineup. The four-stroke engine allows this stand-up model to meet U.S. EPA emissions as well as providing a linear torque curve. Digital fuel injection allows for easier starting and includes a 60mm mechanical throttle body mated to a resin-type intake manifold. To allow for a moderate hull size, the water muffler is slimmer and more compact than the Jet Ski STX-15F model.

Propulsion is handled by a direct drive axial-flow jet pump driving an oval-edge, stainless steel, three-blade 148mm impeller for powerful acceleration. The intake grate is based off of the Jet Ski 800 SX-R model design but the length was increased to provide more efficient water intake. The steering nozzle has a 102mm nozzle length and 87mm nozzle diameter to provider the rider with smooth, easy operation.

Designed to accommodate the bigger four-stroke engine, the hull measures 106 inches long by 30 inches wide, greatly increasing the footprint on the water. Aft mounted sponsons contribute to the performance of the ride. The V-shape hull was designed using data collected from Kawasaki watercraft racing activities to provide the best platform for cornering. The hull also is more buoyant, sitting higher on the water line than Kawasaki’s previous stand-up models.

The Jet Ski SX-R is the first stand-up watercraft to feature a Kawasaki Splash Deflector, which reduces the amount of unwanted splash coming over the bow of the vehicle. Equipped with a six-gallon fuel tank, the Jet Ski SX-R has a longer cruising range than its predecessor.

The rider tray of the Jet Ski SX-R watercraft was enlarged with the overall hull size. The tray features a forward slanted design that makes it easier for riders to brace against the machine while riding and also the rectangular shape allows for a more natural riding position. The deck fins have a rounded edge and feature padding on the inside that is the same material as the floor padding, making it easier for riders to brace against the vehicle.

The Jet Ski SX-R watercraft features the same handle pole as the Jet Ski 800 SX-R model, but with additional reinforcements. The sporty motocross-style handlebars are more resistant to corrosion, while the slim handlebar pad contributes to the racy look and feel. The handle pole features fuel and engine warning lights to inform the rider when the vehicle is low on fuel or if there is a problem with the engine.

A magnetic ignition switch allows the rider to check the fuel warning light when turned to the “ON” position for added convenience and also helps deter theft. Non-waterproof storage is located under the handle pole, and is large enough to store rope, emergency flares, or other items underneath a mesh-style rubber cover.