Getting waaay ahead of professional speculators, Kawasaki Motor Corp. USA just issued a press release officially announcing (a partial look – more on that in a second) of its 2023 JetSki model lineup, specifically the three tiers of Ultra 310 JetSkis as well as the trio of STX 160 models, as well as a newly renamed SX-R. While no major changes were announced in the press release (included below), Kawasaki did supply the public with projected MSRP’s for each model as well as new colorways.

All three supercharged Ultras will remain identical in color and trim as their 2022 predecessors, seeing price increases for all three: Ultra 310X $17,999, Ultra 310LX-S $18,999 and Ultra 310LX $19,999. For the STX lineup, no changes to trim, features or accessories were announced (sorry, no brakes) but color liveries and prices were changed: STX 160 in Crystal White/Pearl Neon Yellow for $11,199, STX 160X in Ebony/Lime Green for $11,799 and STX 160LX in Ebony/Neon Red at $13,499.

Additionally, Kawasaki renamed the standup SX-R to “SX-R 160” (most folks have been referring to the 4-stroke variant as “SX-R 1500” since 2017) with a new MSRP of $11,399. But what of the absent Ultra LX? The naturally aspirated LX is expected to undergo two changes: an update to the new deck/seating that debuted on the 310 models last year, and a minor name change. To stave off confusion, Kawasaki’s marketing is considering changing the “LX” moniker to “LS”, “LC” or something else. Expect that announcement around October.

Here’s the original press release:
Kawasaki continues to offer a wide range of personal watercraft that evoke fun on the water, with the 2023 Kawasaki Jet Ski® SX-R™ 160 four-stroke stand-up personal watercraft, premium Jet Ski Ultra® 310 series and world-renowned Jet Ski® STX® 160 series watercraft.

JET SKI® SX-R™ 160
Whether out for some weekend fun or racing competitively, the Jet Ski 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 beginning riders. The 2023 Jet Ski SX-R 160 stand-up watercraft is available with an Ebony/Lime Green colorway and an MSRP of $11,399.

JET SKI® ULTRA® 310 SERIES
The Kawasaki Jet Ski 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 their riding conditions or skill level. Its race-inspired hull allows the Jet Ski 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 2023 3-passenger supercharged Jet Ski® Ultra® 310X comes in an Ebony/Metallic Electric Turquoise colorway with an MSRP of $17,999.

The Jet Ski® Ultra® 310LX-S includes all of the great features offered on the Ultra 310 series as well as 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 Jet Ski. The 3-passenger supercharged Jet Ski Ultra 310LX-S is offered in an Ebony/Lime Green colorway with an MSRP of $18,999.

The Jet Ski® 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-posiiton 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 3-passenger supercharged Jet Ski Ultra 310LX is available in an Ebony/Metallic Shadow Gold colorway with an MSRP of $19,999.

JET SKI® STX® 160 SERIES
The Jet Ski® 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 2023 3-passenger Jet Ski STX 160 is available in Crystal White/Pearl Neon Yellow with an MSRP of $11,199.

In addition to the STX 160’s standard features, the Jet Ski® 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 2023 3-passenger Jet Ski STX 160X is available in Ebony/Lime Green with an MSRP of $11,799.

Finally, the Jet Ski® 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 STX160X, 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 2023 Jet Ski STX 160LX is available in Ebony/Neon Red with an MSRP of $13,499.

We were looking for news when we found this Facebook post from Bopenski Watersports. Looking for the perfect Father’s Day gift for your jet skiing dad? Well look no more and score ten dollars off a Bopenski Kickback Chair using the coupon code “Dadsrock” and get free shipping in the continental US. The chairs are currently marked down to $169.00, which is great deal.

Grab one now for $159.00 and the next time dad heads out, he can take a nice break and relax on the back of the ski. It makes it nice too because they can look at each other while hanging out on the water. The chair only takes a minute to setup and fits most 3-seater jet skis with a tow-eye or pylon. It supports up to 225 pounds and has two cupholders and a storage pocket. It makes for a great spot to relax and kickback, especially if you’ve been riding hard on the water and need to give your back a break.

The Kickback Chair is built to last in saltwater or freshwater, thanks to the anodized aluminum and stainless-steel parts.  Bopenski Watersports has a compatibility  strap available for the 2020-2022 Sea-Doo models that do not have the tow pylon accessory. Riders can now kickback in comfort on their new Sea-Doo’s. Head over to the Bopenski Watersports website and order a Bopenski Kickback Chair now!

Don’t forget to use the “Dadsrock” coupon to claim your $10 off! Happy Father’s Day!

Sea-Doo has three pillars of riding that lead to a safe and respectful time on the water. These are safety, environment, and etiquette. Safety begins with understanding the proper way to ride and wearing the essential safety gear.

A proper fitting life jacket is the number piece of gear that must not be overlooked. A PFD is required by law for both operator and passengers. This piece may save your life if you’re in an accident or simply fall off the ski.

One item that is often overlooked is neoprene shorts. These can protect your private parts from a painful enema type accident that can cause internal injury. No one wants to have to go to the hospital for something like that. You’ll also want to attach your key tether to the D-ring on your life jacket or around your wrist to shut down the engine if you fall off.

As a responsible rider, you want to be aware of your surroundings like other jet skiers and boaters on the water.

Keep a safe distance when jetting around and if you’re close to the shore, ride at the appropriate speed and scan the area constantly. Keeping the noise down and being a conscientious rider are part of good riding etiquette and will be appreciated out there.

We can go to super cool places on our watercraft and as responsible riders, it is important to know the rules wherever we go.

Some areas prohibit jet skis due fragile ecosystems, or they may be marine sanctuaries. Sea-Doo implores us to be aware and to respect these areas, to do no harm to the sea life.

Coral reefs and shallow water are two places you want to keep a safe distance and be extra careful. You never know when an unsuspecting sea creature like a manatee might be lumbering just under the surface.

Slow down and take it easy and you might have a friendly encounter with a sea cow or a dolphin. Have fun and be safe out there!

Big announcements are coming out of BRP as the company aims to transform the recreational boating industry and provide customers with a superior boating experience. Karim Donnez was recently appointed president of the BRP Marine Group.

Donnez’s appointment comes as BRP moves forward with its plans to build an even more resilient company and to bring long-term value. He has been with BRP for over seven years and was named Senior VP of the BRP Marine Group in 2018. Several other executive appointments were announced during the leadership restructuring and these changes are effective immediately.

Read the complete press release below:
BRP Inc. announces today executive appointments to support future growth plans, build an even more resilient company and deliver lasting value. This evolution of the leadership structure will allow BRP to continue focusing on its long-term goals and achieve its ambitious targets. All these internal promotions are effective immediately.

“In the past five years alone, our revenues increased by 80%, and our employee base more than doubled. Our business also grew in complexity, including from a technology and product standpoint. I am excited to announce these changes and promotions that will play a critical role in achieving our strategic priorities and positioning our business for long-term growth,” said José Boisjoli, President and CEO.

Chief Technology Officer
Thomas Uhr has been appointed to the newly created role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Mr. Uhr and his team will look to the future, spearheading all new product and manufacturing technologies used across the Powersports and Marine businesses, including the EV program. He will also continue to lead the development of new manufacturing systems, as well as oversee BRP-Rotax in Austria, which represents a technology pole for the Company.

President, Powersports Group
Sandy Scullion has been appointed President, Powersports Group. In addition to keeping his current retail, sales and consumer experience responsibilities, Mr. Scullion will now oversee all manufacturing operations for Powersports in Canada, Mexico and Finland. Having a dedicated leader at the helm of Powersports will further align production and commercial activities while maximizing day-to-day results.

President, Marine Group
Karim Donnez has been appointed President, Marine Group. With the acquisition of three boat companies since 2018, BRP has ambitious plans to transform the recreational boating industry and offer customers a superior boating experience.

BRP aims to become a key player in this industry, which is as large as the powersports industry. This is therefore a significant growth opportunity for the Company.

Senior Vice-President, Corporate Strategy & Development
Minh Thanh Tran has been promoted to Senior Vice-President, Corporate Strategy and Development. Mr. Tran remains responsible for the development of the corporate strategy. In addition, he will increase his focus on the Company’s growth projects both organically and via M&A activities, namely to reinforce BRP’s know-how in EV and increase its competitive advantage through business innovation.

Chief Information Officer
A new position of Chief Information Officer (CIO) has been created. The Company is actively looking for a seasoned leader to head its information technologies and evolve its systems to support the business transformation and vision.

These new positions, combined with strong retail demand across all product lines and key capital investments, will allow BRP to further position itself to continue driving solid results.

Brett Barley loves to surf, and he has carved out an awesome life for himself and his family as a professional surfer. He lives in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, which picks up some of the heaviest swells on the east coast. A whole new world opened for him when he scored his first Sea-Doo in 2020. He got a Sea-Doo GTI SE and has enjoyed every moment on it in the waters of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.

One of the first things he did when he got the ski was give Ben Gravy a call. Gravy is another well-known surfer on the east coast and he’s a lot of fun. He has surfed all 50 states! The two of them decided to catch the waves coming off one of the ferries. Conditions were perfect and their timing couldn’t have better. They got out there right on time and caught tons of perfect peeling waves. The guys had a blast.

After their great day, Barley recommends taking the time to learn how your jet ski operates before launching. They got lucky and everything worked out. He said things could have gone better had he known how to operate the Variable Trim System and how to properly maneuver in reverse using the Sea-Doo Intelligent Brake and Reverse technology. Watch the guys score perfect little peeling waves in Brett’s first ride video.