This year marks 50 years since Kawasaki first introduced the world to the standup personal watercraft, of what we have come to ubiquitously call “jet skis.” Yes, Kawasaki branded its watercraft the “JetSki” and competitor brands have named their machines differently, but similar to Q-tips and Kleenex, the world has more or less adopted jet ski (lowercase “j” and “s” with a space between) as the ubiquitous name. That, as they say, speaks volumes.
While today’s announcement comes much in the shadow of some other bigger revelations for the brand, the rolling out of new liveries for the SX-R, two supercharged 310-models, and two Recreation segment machines is also worth heralding. Of course, Kawasaki’s early unveiling of its naturally-aspirated full-sized Ultra 160LX-S and 160LX gives customers of all stripes a machine to gravitate towards – which has been a market segment in need of some attention.
For 2024, Kawasaki celebrates the 50th anniversary of JetSki with fresh repaints and colorings of its JetSki SX-R 160 four-stroke stand-up, as well as Kawasaki’s top tier JetSki Ultra 310LX and 310X; as well as its STX 160 and STX 160X watercraft. Below we’ve included the official press release from Kawasaki broken into each model segment. These are Kawasaki’s words and claims as provided to The Watercraft Journal.
JETSKI SX-R 160
Whether out for some weekend fun or racing competitively, the JetSki SX-R 160 personal watercraft features powerful thrust and agile rider-active handling from the V-shape hull and produces plenty of low-to-mid-range torque from its 1498cc 4-stroke engine. This makes the stand-up personal watercraft fun and accessible to many riders thanks to the hull which is long and wide, providing stability for novice riders. The 2024 JetSki SX-R 160 stand-up watercraft is available with an Ebony/Ice Gray colorway and an MSRP of $11,599.
JETSKI ULTRA 310 SERIES
The Kawasaki JetSki Ultra 310 series boasts a liquid-cooled, supercharged, in-line 4-cylinder, 1,498cc engine and digital fuel injection. Riders can select from four power modes (full, middle, low and SLO) to suit riding conditions or skill level. Its race-inspired hull allows the JetSki Ultra 310 to be handled with accuracy and precision.
Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM) offers two modes to benefit acceleration, while Kawasaki Smart Reverse with Deceleration (KSRD) allows for reverse assist options when navigating tight spots. A 7” TFT instrumentation adorns the dash of the Ultra 310 series and features Bluetooth connectivity as well as multiple display modes. The large-capacity 32.8 gallon front storage area and 10.6 gallons of storage on both the left and right side of the unit offer plenty of space to store items.
The JetSki Ultra 310LX-S includes an exclusive ULTRA Deck with an extended rear deck and 7.9 inches of additional staging platform for water play and storing gear. Two multi-mount rails are built into the ULTRA Deck to accommodate additional accessory slide mounts and provide accessible tie-down points.
It also comes equipped with a rearview camera that can be monitored on the instrument panel when in use and stylish LED accent lights that have been added to the front of the JetSki. The 2024 3-passenger supercharged JetSki Ultra 310LX-S is offered in an Ebony/Lime Green colorway with an MSRP of $19,299.
The JetSki Ultra 310LX takes luxury and style to the next level, featuring all of the great performance and convenience of the Ultra 310X and Ultra 310LX-S while adding an incomparable seat and sound system. The industry-first 3-position ERGO-FIT adjustable LXury seat is designed for comfortable cruising for up to three people.
JETSOUND 4s is a highlight of the Ultra 310LX, making it the first standard-equipment 4-speaker integrated audio system feature with jog-dial control and Bluetooth connectivity featured on a personal watercraft. The 2024 3-passenger supercharged JetSki Ultra 310LX is available in an Ebony/Metallic Gold Sparkle Deep Green colorway with an MSRP of $20,299.
JETSKI STX 160 SERIES
The JetSki STX 160 series is powered by a DOHC, 16-valve, parallel 4-cylinder and 1498cc engine. It utilizes a balanced hull, ergonomic riding position, large fuel tank and storage compartment, along with several easy-to-use rider aid functions to create a comfortable and exciting three-seat personal watercraft that appeals to a wide range of riders. The 2024 3-passenger JetSki STX 160 is available in Crystal White/Vibrant Blue with an MSRP of 11,399.
In addition to the STX 160’s standard features, the JetSki STX 160X features adjustable electronic cruise control speed, which can be set with the UP/DOWN buttons located on the handlebar. It also features a comfort handle grip that tapers outward, making it easier to hold on when riding in a straight line and a premium painted deck. The 2024 3-passenger JetSki STX 160X is available in Crystal White/Ebony with an MSRP of $11,999.
Finally, the JetSki STX 160LX flagship model includes the JETSOUND integrated audio system with Bluetooth as standard equipment. The system consists of an amplifier, an audio controller built into the handle, and two speakers placed under the mirrors. It also features a two-tone dedicated deck mat and LXury seat designed to ergonomically fit the rider’s body to further improve comfort.
Similar to the STX 160X, it comes equipped with a comfort handle grip, adjustable cruise control speed via the UP/DOWN buttons, and a premium painted deck with full graphics. The 3-passenger 2024 JetSki STX 160LX is available in Ebony/Neon Red with an MSRP of $13,699.
