Sea-Doo is offering their Black Friday deals until November 30th, 2022. Save some bucks and get 30% off all life jackets, apparel, and items designed to enhance your experience on the water. These are in the water fun category and include bodyboards, floats, towing accessories, and tubes, and much more! The sale includes 25% off all XPS care for keeping your Sea-Doo looking good.
Selected accessories for your Jet Ski are 20% off. These include items like tie downs, fenders, and audio systems. Wetsuits, rashguards, and other riding accessories have a spot in the deal too. There are plenty of items under $100 too. Black Friday deals are offered online and at your local dealership.
You can also have items shipped to your local dealer as well and do an in-store pickup. That’s one way to save on shipping fees. This is a good time to do some more Christmas shopping or even wrap it up with some killer deals from Sea-Doo. There’s something for everyone during this sale and you don’t have to ride a Sea-Doo to sport the logo.
They have youth graphic T-shirts for $13.99 and hoodies for less than $40. A number of different types of gloves are on sale and they make great stocking stuffers. Get them with or without fingers starting at $20.99. Maybe you know someone who has wardrobe malfunctions when changing in the parking lot. They might appreciate a Sea-Doo Quick-Dry Changing Poncho! These fun changing ponchos are marked down to $55.99. With that and time running out, we’ll let you get your shopping on! Head over to the Sea-Doo website and check out the goods.
Hailing from Scottsdale, AZ, sixteen-year-old Reese Giese is one of Yamaha’s top Rising Stars. She is a talented young rider who crushed it on the closed course at the 2022 IJSBA World Finals. Racing her Yamaha SuperJet, Giese finished second overall in the Four-Stroke Lites Class. She had some epic battles on her way to obtaining that second-place finish. She went on to place fourth overall in Women’s Lites.
Giese said she learned a lot from racing with the women from all over the world and she was super stoked to get the holeshot in moto one. She ended up snagging the third in 4-Stroke Slalom and thrilled to round out her weekend with that finish. Racing against world class riders from overseas will push Giese to go harder. Though she experienced some ups and downs at the 2022 World Finals, she’s happy and healthy and ready to welcome the 2023 season. She is super grateful for everyone who has helped her get to this level of competition.
Giese will only get better and gain confidence as she hones her skills and continues to go all in and remains teachable. She puts in the work to get the good results and for a racer who has been competing for only a few years, she is a stellar performer. At 15 years old, she claimed a World Title in the Junior 13–15 year old division for the Yamaha SuperJet four-stroke class at the 2021 IJSBA World Finals. She was the first to pull off a world title in the four-stroke. Giese has the drive to win numerous world titles and with her great attitude and willingness to go the distance, we know she has the goods!
Book your next Sea-Doo outdoor adventure with Uncharted Society. That’s what these two families did. They set up a family trip with an Uncharted Society guide out of Salty’s Water Sports in Fort Pierce, FL. It was their first time on a Sea-Doo adventure. They wanted to do something different that everyone could participate in and get outside. Trips with Uncharted Society are geared toward riders of all levels, so no one gets left out.
Whether you’re an old salt or just want to try out a Sea-Doo watercraft, they have something for you. Their outfitters are pros and enjoy getting people of all abilities outside and on the water. The crew with Uncharted know there’s much to see while cruising the Florida waterways and they want you to take part.
Jared Wells was just the guide to take them on the tour. He was born and raised in Fort Pierce, FL and knows the local waters in the area. He knew where to take the family to snorkel, ride with dolphins, and get up close to manatees.
The families felt safe and comfortable, and Wells enjoyed seeing them with big smiles and having fun! Everyone had a great time riding Sea-Doos, traversing the waterways, playing in the water, and going snorkeling. It was a stress-free day away from TV and the internet. Let Sea-Doo and Uncharted Society take you on your next family adventure.
Andrew Hill, born in New Zealand, grew up in and on the water. From a young age he became “hooked” on fishing, always wanting to do more. Years ago, PWC’s were utilized primarily for watersports and recreation, but Hill thought, “why not have a go at fishing off of it?”
After lots of real-world testing (and plenty of lost gear), Andrew perfected his fishing setup. Through his experiences, he also developed a variety of products designed around PWC fishing. As the sport grew in popularity, so did the potential to take his ideas to the next level.
It was then that Andrew was contacted by Sea-Doo, who was in the process of designing the new Sea-Doo FishPro line of watercraft. Despite experiencing heart problems as the result of a hereditary disease, Hill was cleared to join the Sea-Doo team- and the rest is history.
Hill recognized Sea-Doo as an innovator and leader in the PWC industry, and knew that BRP had the resources to develop and deliver the first purpose-based fishing PWC. And Sea-Doo did exactly that. In the years since the FishPro’s introduction, Sea-Doo has continually looked for ways to expand and improve the platform.
Read the official press release below: The 15 year journey to get to this point is a huge honour and I am so grateful to have such good people in my life who believed in me, after all, this project all started in my garage at home!
My introduction to PWCs (Personal Watercraft’s) was for fun and recreation, and quickly transformed into the coolest job which I still love today.
My true passion still continues to be sharing my fishing adventures to inspire people to experience the same enjoyment which I do all around the world… this determination helped make no challenge to big!
This was enhanced after the support from the Global team at Sea-Doo and was the point the sport of PWC fishing went to the next level with the introduction of the FISH PRO, which made my dream reality with more people enjoying what I do!
Enjoy watching this powerful and true story.
I look forward to reading your comments. For those in NZ this is a cool ‘Kiwi feel-good’ story. It proves never give up on your goals.
Thanks again to all the people who took time to feature and help create our story of why we love PWC Fishing!
BRP is happy to announce that Manitou pontoon boats received awards in three categories during the 2022 Boat Builder Awards on November 16th. The show was hosted by the International Boat Industry and Ray Marine. During the awards ceremony, Manitou won in the Innovative On-Board Design Solution and Rising Star categories. The team scored an Honorable Mention in the Retail Marketing Initiative category.
Check out the full press release below: BRP is thrilled to announce that Manitou was recognized in a total of three categories during the 2022 Boat Builder Awards, hosted by International Boat Industry (IBI) and Raymarine, at the METSTRADE Show in Amsterdam. Manitou showed up strong at the premier Boat Builder Awards ceremony and won in the Innovative On-Board Design Solution and Rising Star categories, while getting an honorable mention in the Retail Marketing Initiative category.
In August, BRP shook up the boating industry with the launch of fully redesigned Manitou pontoon boats, featuring the all-new Rotax S. The new generation of Manitou was built to rise above in every way and elevate the on-water experience to a whole new level. The result is a truly integrated boat that frees up valuable space for boaters and their families, while pushing the design to a stunning new height.
“We set out to shake up the industry and break away from traditional pontoon and outboard engine experiences with the launch of the new generation of Manitou,” says Karim Donnez, President, Marine Group at BRP. “Collectively, BRP design and engineering teams worked on reimagining the boating experience with a forward-thinking design and a focus on consumers’ needs. We are honored to be recognized by industry experts for the efforts and collaboration of our innovative teams and Rising Star, Garrett Koschak, who brought this new experience to the industry. The brand marketing team also set new standards with the Manitou launch campaign by creating unique content to engage consumers along their journey.“
Winner – Innovative On-Board Design Solution The sleek new MAX Deck platform, unique and exclusive to Manitou, was incorporated into the timeless design of the boat, enabling the transom to better fit consumer needs and maximize usable space. The MAX Deck unlocks 38 square feet of additional functional space at the stern and is made possible when paired with the all-new outboard engine Rotax S featuring Stealth Technology.
With the new design, Manitou has paved the way for the complete integration of the MAX Deck, removing visible hoses and wiring seen with a traditional outboard engine. This design creates a new stern experience meaning more comfort, and more possibilities for recreation that can only be found on the all-new Manitou Cruise and Explore models.
For Model Year 2023, Manitou introduced the all-new Sport Bimini that is standard on Explore models. The Sport Bimini features a forward angle to compliment the new design of walls and opens rearward, elevating the visual appearance and design of the boat. Also, the new design allows to keep the bimini up when cruising up to 55 MPH, allowing boaters to benefit from more shade throughout the day for the ultimate onboard experience.
The all-new Trifold Bench, available exclusively on the Manitou Explore models, creates three unique seating arrangements in one space, allowing for flexibility throughout an entire day on the water. Arrangements include a full length bench, face to face seating, or a face to face dinette table, effectively offering the functionality of three boats in one. The Trifold Bench is a true testament of engineering integration, forward-thinking design and a focus on consumer needs.
Winner – Rising Star: Garrett Koschak, Global Product Strategy Manager, Manitou The Rising Star category acknowledges those aged 35 or under, working in the marine industry who have made an impact and influence through their work. “I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition. Although I am being recognized for my accomplishments, being part of the BRP family and having access to its expertise contributed to my success,“ said Garrett Koschak, Global Product Strategy Manager, Manitou.
Garrett has been fully engaged in the BRP Marine Group mission since he began his career straight out of university 12 years ago. He is a critical member of the new product development team and works in close collaboration with the design, engineering, and finance teams to ensure successful completion of the New Product Development process. Garrett possesses an in-depth understanding of the marine industry and the competitive landscape and maintains strong relationships with sales teams and the expanding Manitou dealer network.
Honorable Mention – Retail Marketing Initiative The Marine Brand Marketing team developed engaging and fresh content to inspire consumers along their journey and have them discover the new boating experience they can enjoy with Manitou. The campaign clearly stands out by elevating Manitou pontoon boats via a sleek, modern visual treatment, reaching audiences in unexpected and unconventional ways, and creating aspirational partnerships to bring Manitou into a class of its own.
“As we prepared for our launch, we observed that all recreational boat advertising currently looks the same,” said Julie Tourville, Director, Global Marketing, Sea-Doo and Marine Group at BRP. “To breakout from the sea-of-sameness, with the new creative direction and intent to elevate Manitou in an aspirational way, we developed a 360 comprehensive, multi-channel launch plan that included activation and strong influencer campaigns.“
Unlimited Personal Watercraft Performance Products has a great looking 2.5mm chloroprene jacket that is not only functional, but it also looks sharp. The black Expedition Coat is a great addition to your winter riding gear. It is versatile enough to use for other water sports as well. With its high neck and integrated hood, you’ll be protected from the wind, cold, and splash.
The jacket is waist length when sitting, so it won’t hamper your riding. It has a chest zip pocket where you can stash your phone and front slash pockets. The Expedition Coat is built to fit close to your body but stretchy enough, so it won’t restrict movement. The wrists are secured with Velcro, which will keep the sleeves from interfering with throttle use.
Wear the coat with the Rush Wetsuit John, or Rush Wet Pants to complete your winter riding look. The Rush Long John is available in Black with Gray accents or black with red accents. The John is made with Flex neoprene, which is super stretchy so you can move without restriction. The lightweight material and fit are ideal for a more comfortable ride. The zippered ankles and Velcro on the left shoulder make the suit easy to pull on and off.
The Rush Wet pants also have the zippered ankles. The pants are made of the Flex Neoprene as well and they have the X Riding Protectors on the knees and shins. These are comprised of firm thick cushions to absorb impact and wear. The pants area available in red or gray and they look good. Make a statement on the water in Unlimited PWC riding gear. Look fast, go fast!
BRP is breaking free of manufacturing challenges due pandemic times and ongoing supply chain issues. The company had to innovate and make drastic changes in production strategies to get Sea-Doo’s delivered and reach normal inventory levels.
As a result, nearly all 2022 personal watercraft have been delivered and beginning this month, 2023 pre-ordered models will ship to dealers. The Switch Pontoon Boats are also being delivered. With this news comes a new incentive for you to begin the Sea-Doo Life or use it as a good time to purchase a new Sea-Doo. Sea-Doo is offering financing as low as 0% for 60 months on all 2022 Sea-Doo PWC and 2-year coverage on select 2022 Sea-Doo Switch models.
The offer is only good in the USA and will run until January 4th, 2023. No payment for 6 months is also being offered with financing as low as 1.99% for 60 months for PWC only. We haven’t seen incentives like this in several years. It is definitely a good time to purchase a new2022 Sea-Doo and have it ready and available to ride by next spring.
Nine Switch models are available for purchase, and you can get in one of these for as low as $23,999. You can get a Spark starting at $5,699, a great little watercraft for getting out and having a good time on something that won’t break the bank. Head over to the Sea-Doo site and get your quote and place your order!
On November 9th at the EICMA Motorcycle Show, Kawasaki Motors announced a new commitment to cutting edge carbon-neutral technologies while unveiling an experimental engine that runs on compressed gaseous hydrogen and direct injection.
Based on the Ninja H2’s 998cc 4-cylinder two speed centrifugally-supercharged powerplant producing 310-horsepower @ 14,000rpm, this new hydrogen engine was conceptualized on the Ninja H2 and Teryx KRX 1000 side-by-side platforms.
Mr. Hiroshi Ito, the President of Kawasaki Motors, also revealed a new HEV or hybrid electric vehicle prototype which will be able to run on both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor. Kawasaki also unveiled a Ninja-styled BEV or battery electric vehicle that is planned to hit the US market in late 2023.
While no specific announcements were made about Kawasaki’s watercraft division, these carbon-neutral technologies give watercraft enthusiast a glimpse of what might be in store for the future line of Kawasaki of JetSkis.
Read the full press release below: Foothill Ranch, Calif. (November 9, 2022) – During the 2022 EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, President of Kawasaki Motors Corporation, Mr. Hiroshi Ito, unveiled a range of pre-production and prototype Kawasaki models and announced Kawasaki’s company-wide vision focused on Carbon Neutrality.
Earlier this year, Kawasaki announced its first electric model with the Kawasaki Elektrode™ electric balance bike for kids aged 3-8, which are arriving in dealerships this month. The next battery electric Z family machine was first shown as a prototype at Intermot, only for Mr. Ito to unveil a Ninja style machine with the same dual battery power. Both Z and Ninja battery electric vehicles (BEV) will look to be available later next year in the US market.
Highlighting Kawasaki research and development into other innovative vehicle types, Mr. Ito also previewed Kawasaki’s first ever Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) in prototype form. The HEV motorcycle will be able to quickly and easily switch between its internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric power, the HEV machine is currently set to be available in 2024.
Demonstrating Kawasaki’s full breadth of carbon neutral models, an experimental hydrogen powered display engine based on the Supercharged Ninja H2® using direct injection and compressed gaseous hydrogen was shown. This hydrogen engine has been shown as a concept Ninja H2 platform as well as shown inserted into the chassis of a Teryx KRX® 1000 side x side.
While underlining Kawasaki’s commitment to internal combustion engines and research into future fuel types, Mr. Ito also unveiled a new symbol headlining the new Go with Green Power initiative with its goal of achieving carbon neutrality for Kawasaki within a strategic timeframe.
Amidst so many attention-grabbing prototype and pre-production models, Mr. Ito additionally clarified that across the next two model years 2024 to 2025, Kawasaki plans to also introduce approximately 30 internal combustion engine motorcycle models globally.
The sentiment that Mr. Ito left the media audience with at EICMA was that Kawasaki will continue to provide products and services that meet the needs of its customers and society by harnessing advances in current vehicle technology and via new, environmentally friendly products that are carbon neutral.
Tory Snyder was crowned P1 AquaX world champion at the three-day Bahamas World Championship which was held from November 4-6 2022, in Nassau and marked the climax of the P1 AquaX personal watercraft race season.
“In April I went to the Cayman Islands and won a leading endurance race and I’ve now won here in The Bahamas,” said Tory. The 19-year-old racer from Bradenton, FL finished the opening two races in second place, but clinched the title by winning the last race
“The Caribbean waters have been good to me this year and hopefully I can come back next year and do the same thing. I had mechanical issues on the last lap in some races this season, so it feels good to end the year with a win and I’m happy.”
Jimmy Wilson of North Carolina was this year’s Pro Enduro Champion, finishing ahead of Christian Daly. Chris MacClugage nabbed 4th place after experiencing mechanical issues with his Yamaha GP1800 during the final round.
17-year-old Jay Finlinson from Indiana took home the Amateur International Cup, while Trey Williams and Jason Williams took podium places, and Cline Glidden from the Cayman Islands took fourth place.
Deven Farthing won The Pro Rookie of the Year award after a strong first season of Enduro racing, and Broward Motorsports received the 2022 Team of the Year trophy.
This year, P1 AquaX introduced the ‘Eagle’ Trophy in memory of Eris Francis, the 2019 AquaX world champion who passed away earlier this year. Chris Landis was presented with the trophy by Eric’s widow, Sophie.
“Eric brought Chris into the sport and Chris received the trophy for being an outstanding ambassador for P1 AquaX and for his valuable help with the logistical planning for The Bahamas event” according to a P1 AquaX press release.
It’s not often we get our hands on two of the industry’s leading machines but these past few months have allowed us exclusive access to the two most well-equipped luxury performance runabouts: the 2022 Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300 and the newly redesigned 2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX JetSki.
With both machines making 300-plus horsepower, it was an obvious comparison – until we started stacking up the two machines against each other. As The Watercraft Journal has already published detailed reviews of each units, we encourage you to peruse our Reviews section for the respective evaluations.
That $900 difference can make-or-break a sale, giving the Sea-Doo a slight edge. Yet, the Kawasaki offers a handful of features that cannot be found on the Sea-Doo, justifying a large portion of that price jump: most notably the Ultra 310LX includes the Ultra Deck platform extension, offering several square feet of added cargo space at the transom.
The Ultra Deck includes teak-colored matting and slide-rail attachment points for Kawasaki’s new accessory racks. Sea-Doo’s LinQ system – a proprietary accessory attachment system – also offers the customer a wide array of accessories (much more than Kawasaki presently), so there’s that to consider.
At the rear, the Kawasaki includes its Rearward Facing Camera, offering three zoom-angles for the driver to watch on the TFT screen while underway; useful for keeping an eye on the wakeboarder or raft you may be towing (although this does not absolve you from USCG law, which requires a spotter at all times).
Additionally, the Kawasaki includes its dual LED visibility lights up front for greater visibility for oncoming boat traffic; although they do not cast a beam in the dark and do not qualify the JetSki for nighttime riding. All other offerings are somewhat similar and worth mentioning:
Both machines offer premium sound systems that tether via Bluetooth to your device. Sea-Doo’s BRP Premium Audio is now integrated into BRP’s “Tech Package” which includes the new 7.8-inch full color screen. Per Sea-Doo, a rider can pair their device to the speakers via Bluetooth, or do so using the BRP GO! application when properly plugged into the USB port in the glove box.
When connected, this is supposed to present the current track and all other information on the dash’s split screen, even while at speed, pumping out tunes through two 50 watts speakers. Kawasaki doubles the output with a quartet of speakers blaring out 200 watts whether tethered by a USB cord or Bluetooth as well.
Operating the Kawasaki’s Jetsounds 4S system requires two Bluetooth sign-ins; one to the TFT dashboard and the other through the LED-illuminated jog dial located just below the dashboard (often identified with the sign-ins “Ultra 310” and “Kawasaki” respectively).
In our review process, we found the Kawasaki slightly less cumbersome than the absolutely infuriating BRP GO! application integration. We could sync to the Kawasaki rather quickly and play our music without much trouble, although the jog dial will often misread commands (skipping tracks when adjusting the volume, and no “pause” feature).
Conversely, we struggled to even get our iPhone to pair with the GTX. You cannot listen to music via Bluetooth if you’re plugged into the USB, meaning you’ll drain your phone’s battery. If plugged in, the dashboard will insist on using the BRP GO! app, which if you don’t have a strong enough signal, won’t pair.
We did enjoy the app’s GPS function and found it incredibly useful when we could get the two to connect; again, you’ll need a strong enough signal to access the app and an overpriced Apple Inc. brand cord if you’ve got an iPhone. (Thankfully, Samsung phones aren’t nearly as picky.)
In regards to clarity, the Jetsounds 4S pummels the Sea-Doo particularly above 55-60mph. In our testing, we found ourselves needing to max out the BRP Premium Audio while needing to turn down the volume on the 4S. Let that be a first: the Jetsounds 4S was often too loud.
Both the Kawasaki and Sea-Doo offer full color digital dashboards. While we preferred the squared 7-inch TFT over the short-and-wide split screen 7.8-inch BRP dash, the Sea-Doo is far easier to navigate while underway. The Kawasaki locks out the crotch-level jog dial at speed, while Sea-Doo allows some adjustment through the right-hand thumb pad.
Equally, Sea-Doo made selecting Launch Control much like a video game (press the “up” and “down” on the VTS pad simultaneously until a prompt appears) unlike the Kawasaki, which needs to be retrieved from 3-levels down the dash’s prompt page.
We also found the GTX’s “Speed Control” preferable over the Ultra’s “Cruise Control” as the Sea-Doo allows the driver to ease off of the throttle without losing their setting compared to the JetSki which will abruptly cancel out if the throttle is eased back.
Sea-Doo’s controls are nominally second nature and all within reach on the handlebars themselves. Kawasaki’s new buttons are far more responsive and give a satisfying affirmative “click” but require a bit of a stretch for most hands to activate.
Of course, the biggest news for 2022 was Kawasaki’s addition of a true braking/reverse system. Kawasaki Smart Reverse With Deceleration (KSRD) is a right-handed thumb trigger that deploys the reverse bucket similar to Sea-Doo’s Intelligent Brake & Reverse (iBR) but doesn’t slam on the brakes as forcefully as the GTX. Although the ease of use is appreciated, the iBR really does a fantastic job of bringing the ski to a stop in a panic situation.
Adjusting acceleration modes (Full, Medium, Low & SLO on the Kawasaki, and Sport, Touring and Eco on the Sea-Doo) require decelerating to an idle, which we hate with a seething passion but both are guilty of this, so no points lost or gained here either. Let us swap maps on the fly, guys. It can’t be that hard.
We would’ve liked to have seen a better live trip data screen (MPG, MTE, miles ridden, etc.) from both vehicles as well. The GTX offers a depth sounder and water temperature, while the Kawasaki gives both water and air temperatures but no depth. All of this data should be available on such high tier machines.
Both runabouts offer variations of dashboard coloring and layout, which is a nice bit of customization but sacrifices some live data or at least, prioritizes some readouts over others, making it a bit of a Sophie’s Choice on what information you need more than others. More often than not, we chose white-faced gauges over black.
The Kawasaki’s boost gauge was easily the most welcomed dash feature; indicating when the JetSki’s 1,498cc TVS supercharged 310-horsepower, open-loop 4-cylinder was inhaling gobs of positive atmosphere is both helpful for the fuel miserly as well as the performance enthusiast wanting to see that bar ramp all the way up.
The GTX’s 1,630cc 300-horsepower, closed-loop 3-cylinder makes much more low-end grunt (ie. torque) without needing the assistance of its centrifugal supercharger earning it far, far better fuel consumption numbers. Despite its smaller 18.5-gallon fuel cell, the Sea-Doo often returned home with plenty of 91-octane left in the tank compared to the Kawasaki’s 21.1-gallon cell that we routinely drained.
Ergonomically, Kawasaki made massive efforts to improve on the Ultra’s cockpit. The narrowed saddle, deep knee coves and Ergofit bench seat adjustable to 3-inches back – paired with the 5-way tilt steering – offered a variety of comfortable positions for many different riders.
Interestingly, Sea-Doo managed to get it right the first time in 2018. Ergolock still remains one of the brand’s best innovations and gives even a full-sized ST3 runabout a small, sporty feel that’s comfortable for youthful, healthy riders or those with injuries to their backs and/or hips alike.
This feature also lends itself to storage access, which is a hotly contested topic. Sea-Doo eliminated the bow storage compartment, opting for a 23-5-gallon central storage tub. The GTX Limited package includes a mesh storage divider among other accessories. Above it is a frustratingly small glove box that struggles to accommodate most contemporary smart phones and little else.
Kawasaki took its industry-leading 60-gallons of storage and inexplicably reduced it by 25%, dropping the Ultra’s total storage to 44.5-gallons. This cargo room is broken up into a small rear pocket (ideal for dock line and tow ropes), an innovative dual-access center storage hidden behind gull wing-style hinges and a front stowage.
While 10-gallons of center storage replaces a traditional glove box, there is a waterproof cubby with dual USB ports on the port side. Forward of the dashboard is the bow storage and fuel cap. Kawasaki dramatically reduced the opening making it difficult to insert and remove backpacks or dry bags, as well as impossible to bring a cooler or extra gas can.
Two deep-set cup holders have been molded into the Kawasaki’s center console for easy access. There’s no place to keep a drink or bottle of sunscreen on the GTX; you’ll have to stow it under the center storage lid and pull up the whole top just to take a drink. Not exactly convenient.
Albeit these two watercraft vary in large ways from one to another, the biggest differences have yet to be addressed: How much bigger is the Kawasaki against the Sea-Doo? You’ll be surprised.
As they stand, the Ultra totals 140.9-inches in overall length, due primarily to the addition of the Ultra deck, placing it a true 5-inches longer than the GTX (at 135.9 inches long) and stands slightly taller due to the air-diffusing meter visor.
Surprisingly, the Ultra is a scant 47-inches wide compared to the GTX who comes in at 49.4-inches. This of course, ends the debate whether two Kawasakis on a trailer will rub versus two Sea-Doos. Yet, the biggest factor to hurdle is weight.
As noted in other articles and videos that we produce, Kawasaki lists curb weight over dry weight. By corporate’s definition, curb weight includes a full tank of gas, oil and battery – meaning the Ultra’s curb weight of 1089.3-pounds totals a comparative dry weight of 950-pounds. Compare that to the GTX’s advertised dry weight of 849-pounds and calculate for a battery, coolant, oil and fuel and its a curb weight of 974-pounds.
And yes, while that’s still a difference of 115.3-pounds, which is still substantial; consider the added weight of two extra speakers, the Ultra’s second waterbox and the Ultra Deck and it makes more sense. Then you must consider that the Kawasaki is made entirely of SMC fiberglass and gel coat, a far heavier, denser material compared to the GTX’s proprietary CM-Tech acrylic-and-liquefied fiberglass construction.
All of this leads to how each watercraft rides. Again, the GTX benefits from stellar seating comfort and due to the ST3’s hull wide design, unmatched low speed stability. Yet, this is where the Sea-Doo’s advantages end. The ST3 struggles to track a straight line in anything other than unbroken glass conditions. The runabout wanders – often erratically – with every ripple, wake and wave of the surface.
It’s flat midships and rear attributes to the hull’s ability to achieve higher speeds when modified, but in a stock-to-stock comparison, also means that the tail can “wash out” or immediately loose traction in a corner. This is a trait desired in smaller, more playful models but not in a full-sized, supercharged machine.
Conversely, the Ultra’s true Deep-V hull displaces water like a larger vessel, absorbing bumps, bangs and jolts far better than any other full-sized hull on the market. Albeit a comfortable ride, it’s nowhere near as a dry ride as the GTX. Rather, the Kawasaki shines best in rougher conditions as it sluices through waves and chop with ease. Yet, due to its deep draft, the Ultra ultimately is much slower than the Sea-Doo.
Acceleration testing revealed a half-second gap in favor of the Sea-Doo, reaching 5-to-60mph in 4.15-seconds versus the Kawasaki’s 4.64-seconds. Top speed wasn’t useful as the Kawasaki’s stonewall speed limiter stopped the Ultra dead at exactly 67mph while the GTX ticked 70.4mph before throttling back down to 68mph.
In regards to sporty riding, the GTX’s flat tail broke free in each corner, its sponsons offering little to any traction. The Ultra’s newfound lowered center of gravity unlocked the JetSki’s ability to roll into a corner effortlessly and snap a hairpin like a watercraft half of its size.
In all, the newly minted 2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX beat out the Sea-Doo in most categories either by a considerable leap or just by a squeak. Sea-Doo fared better in speed numbers, superior fuel consumption, offering a drier, more comfortable ride and a lower price entry for sure. The center storage is convenient but fails to provide a serviceable glove box or drink holder. And then there’s the hull design, something which we’ve critiqued heavily elsewhere.
While the final results were close, we have to award the win to Ultra. The ride is just superior in nearly every imaginable metric. Ergonomically, Kawasaki made huge strides in the right direction while trying to do something unique, which we can appreciate. Innovations, unique takes on existing features and trying to offer the customer a luxurious experience puts the Ultra 310LX at the top of our list for 2022.
