2023 Kawasaki SX-R 160
As the pioneer of personal watercraft and the creator of the original mass-produced stand-up model, Newcastle Jetski Centre is pleased to present the Kawasaki JET SKI SX-R, a long-awaited model sure to redefine the standard for stand-up power and handling.
Powered by a 1,498 cm³ 4-stroke In-Line Four, the SX-R has twice as much power as its 2-stroke predecessor, the JET SKI 800 SX-R, and a broad spread of power that delivers strong acceleration from any RPM. This massive power is harnessed in a newly designed hull that allows riders to use their whole body as they skilfully control this exciting new model. The 4-stroke JET SKI SX-R breathes new life into the standup category. Its combination of big, yet manageable power and agile, rider-active handling offers a wide range of riders an unprecedented riding experience.
Rider Active Hull
The stand-up hull offers the best of both worlds: agile handling and superb stability. This combination ensures the high performance required for racing while offering recreational riders a package they can handle with confidence. The development of the hull incorporated racing feedback.
Its agile handling, complemented by great stability and increased power, allows high cornering speed. The corner grip of the well-balanced machine exceeds that of the predecessor model, 800 SX-R. Sitting high in the water when stopped, the hull facilitates boarding.
4-Stroke In-Line Four
DOHC, 16-valve, fuel-injected, 4-stroke In-Line Four engine displaces 1,498 cm³ and has a bore/stroke ratio of 83.0 x 69.2 mm. Compression is 10.6:1. Electronic fuel injection system delivers hard-hitting throttle response. Coolant water is force-fed from the jet pump. Filter at the inlet prevents debris from entering the system.
Sound absorbing box inside the water muffler contributes to low exhaust noise. The intake manifold was designed with feedback from ULTRA 310 Series. Models contribute to low-RPM acceleration and response. The JET SKI SX-R is fitted with a low emission 4-stroke engine which meets Australian and overseas regulations on exhaust emissions.
Water intake is via a special low-resistance stainless steel intake grate. Its design, although slightly longer, was based on the highly efficient grate of the preceding model, 800 SX-R.
The 148 mm diameter, oval-edged, 3-blade, cast stainless-steel impeller delivers strong acceleration, high efficiency and low cavitation. The jet pump drive-line features a large rubber damper to absorb shock loads from the powerful engine, and to reduce drive-line noise. Strong drive shaft complements the engine power; the drive shaft is supported by a sealed bearing.
The JET SKI SX-R offers double the power of Kawasaki’s last stand-up model, a top speed 25% quicker than the JET SKI 800 SX-R. The SX-R delivers the impressive performance that racers crave: acceleration is overwhelmingly strong, and slalom course times are quick. The broad range of 4-stroke power offered by the SX-R is very manageable, facilitating control.
Injection-moulded sponsons contribute to overall stability as well as sharp, clean turning performance and a very solid feel when banking.
Commensurate with its large hull, the deck features a large, wide floor area (especially at the front), offering greater freedom of movement. Deck has a forward slant, making it easier for riders to brace against the SX-R’s strong acceleration. The high side deck fins are a point of leverage for the legs. Pads on the inside of the deck fins assist with grip.
The handle pole is a reinforced version of that from the 800 SX-R, to ensure the durability to match the increased power and higher top speed. Its pivot was positioned to reduce the amount of forward/backward movement at the grips, to minimise rider fatigue, particularly during long races.
Combined with the efficient 4-stroke engine, the 23-litre fuel tank offers a great range. The indent beneath the handle pole offers convenient storage for small items like ropes and flares. Items are secured with a handy rubber net.
The MX-style handlebar features a sporty pad that enhances the ride performance. The handlebar is made from stainless steel ensures corrosion resistance. Engine and fuel warning lamps built into the handle pole pad provide at-a-glance information.
The key-operated magnetic ignition switch discourages theft. The wrist lanyard connected to the engine stop switch automatically stops the engine should the operator fall overboard.
The SX-R’s sleek and sharp styling followed the design essence from the rich heritage of Kawasaki jetskis. Its lines were carefully crafted to give the new machine a distinct Kawasaki look, especially from the front, while contributing to a compact-looking package. The reshaped engine hood not only looks great, but it also gives easy access to the engine compartment.
Bilge drain plugs in the hull facilitate after-use draining. Integrated flotation cells make the SX-R resistant to sinking.
