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Superb performance at an entry level price. Based on the popular Kawasaki Jet Ski® STX®-15F, the new Jet Ski STX watercraft offers the advantages of Kawasaki’s JET SKI® and Ninja® performance know-how in an affordable vehicle that’s destined to please operators who keep an eye on the bottom line. That means it’ll deliver all the waterborne excitement expected from a JET SKI watercraft and do so with minimum impact to operating costs.
Designed to offer introductory model cost savings without sacrificing power and handling, the new STX uses the same responsive engine and lightweight hull as the STX-15F, but only retains the necessities. It’s a cost-efficient purpose-built runabout that can easily out-perform its rivals.
Being a Kawasaki, the STX’s high-performance matches its high build quality and proud environmentally friendly four-stroke heritage. The clean running STX meets strict 2008 CARB emissions standards, is three-star certified for ultra-low emissions and continues to shine with features like EVAPO compliant fuel and filler hose material.
A healthy part of the STX’s effortless control and lasting good times come from the smooth, broad spread of power delivered by its clean-running, long-stroke, 1,498cc engine. Dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, fuel injection and electronic engine control (ECU) - to harmonize the fuel and ignition systems - provide maximum performance and reliability.
A sophisticated ECU-controlled, four-injector FI system combined with a large 60mm throttle body delivers quick response. The STX’s four-stroke engine is rubber-mounted and features a large-capacity airbox and a water-jacketed, performance-tuned exhaust to keep things quiet.
Thrust is handled by a direct drive axial-flow jet pump driving an oval-edge, stainless steel, three-blade impeller and an 82mm jet pump nozzle for powerful acceleration. Tuned to produce its peak power at a relatively low rpm, the STX’s engine rpm matches the impeller’s peak efficiency range ideally, to provide an impressive, yet rider-friendly experience. This direct drive arrangement eliminates any need for a complex gear reduction unit, offers improved durability and increased fuel economy with less vibration and noise.
The STX features Kawasaki’s innovative electronic Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode. Accessible directly on the instrument panel, SLO mode can be selected to place a limit on maximum engine speed so novice riders can be offered reduced power levels and speed, while they master proper riding techniques.
Aggressive turning and high-speed stability are key performance attributes of the STX. Its specifically designed injection-molded sponsons feature a special lip for increased cornering grip and high-speed stability. The STX also gets electronic turning assistance via the Kawasaki Smart Steering® (KSS®) system. KSS features an on-board microprocessor that is electronically linked to a steering sensor. When the handlebar is fully turned and the engine rpm is below a designated point - like when the throttle is released at speed - the microprocessor activates the system, which raises engine rpm to provide additional thrust to help initiate a turn.
Additionally a molded-in Kawasaki Splash Deflector (KSD) is incorporated into the hull design to help minimize spray on the rider. The muscular and aggressive looking STX may be lighter and more compact than the competition, but it’s well endowed with a roomy riding position that makes aggressive performance riding easier and suits a wider range of rider sizes.
The spacious rear deck of the STX makes it easy to slip into water skis or a wakeboard. There is no shortage of space on the STX watercraft. The rear deck can accommodate most items needed for a day on the water, along with a water-resistant storage space, an easily accessible glove box and additional room for storing gear under the seat. Like the rest of the STX’s high-quality styling, the hatch cover is sleek ABS plastic and uses a hands-free hydraulic damper to hold it open, allowing unobstructed access until the rider chooses to close it.
A generous 16.4 gallon fuel capacity allows plenty of riding time between fill-ups. Simplified from the STX-15F, the STX’s cockpit still has plenty of rider-friendly features, including an LCD instrument panel with fuel level, speed, engine rpm, trip distance and time readouts, plus warning lamps to alert the rider of a low fuel level or high engine temperature, along with a magnetic keyed ignition switch that helps deter unauthorized operation.
Authentic Kawasaki Accessories are available through Kawasaki dealers.
1,498CC Engine
Four-stroke engine provides incredibly strong low and mid-range torque
Dual overhead cams (DOHC) are light and compact to reduce inertial mass in the valve train
Large valves provide better intake and exhaust flow to improve torque and power
Intake and exhaust valve lift as well as timing are optimized to reduce exhaust emissions
Large capacity airbox cuts down engine noise and provides good air intake flow
Intake tract designed for maximum performance
Digital fuel injection provides great throttle response, smooth engine performance, quick acceleration, easy starting and excellent fuel economy
Three-blade oval-edge stainless steel impeller pitch provides maximum efficiency and incredible durability
Exhaust system now features one water muffler instead of two for reduced weight while maintaining engine output
Breather case removed
Secondary air system removed and the head cover was revised accordingly for improved appearance
Safety and Reliability
Tip-over protection shuts engine off if craft tilts more than 61°
Waterproofed ECU and ignition coils protects the ignition system from electrical shorts
Unique semi-dry sump oil system lowers the crankshaft in the engine, eliminates the need for scavenging pumps, and keeps the oil from flooding the crankcase if the craft is capsized
Kawasaki’s patented oil separator provides fail-safe venting for the crankcase and prevents oil from flowing into the intake tract if the craft is capsized
Shielded jet propulsion system offers greater protection from damage
Steering System
Kawasaki Smart Steering® (KSS®) monitors steering input and engine speed and, when certain conditions are met, raises rpm to help initiate a turn
Hull
Hull size is optimized for a sporty, nimble ride
Injection-molded sponsons deliver ultra-responsive turning, while enhancing stability
Kawasaki Splash Deflector (KSD) helps keep spray off the operator and passenger
Large capacity fuel tank reduces number of refueling breaks during a day on the water
Deck
Stylish hatch cover keeps with muscular look
Steering handle position makes aggressive “stand-up” riding easier and provides ample room for a wide range of riders
Comfortable and low maintenance, one-piece seat
Spacious, close-to-the-water open rear deck provides plenty of spacious area for putting on skis or a wakeboard and easy deep water boarding
Intake System:Intake and exhaust valve lift as well as timing are optimized to reduce exhaust emissions Valve Train:Dual overhead cams (DOHC) Propulsion System:Jet pump, axial-flow single stage Impeller:Three-blade, oval-edge stainless steel Starter:Electric Hull:Hull size is optimized for a sporty, nimble ride