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1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Specs and Review [Video]
It’s safe to say that the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited is the rarest model in the legendary XP series. Since it was built for racing purposes, it was sold in very limited quantities. This model shared its X-4 hull with the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 720, but it was powered by a “big bore” Rotax 787 R.A.V.E. engine rated at 110 HP.
If you want to find out more about this unique machine, this post is for you.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited review!
1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Review
History of the Sea-Doo XP
The history of the Sea-Doo XP line started in 1991 with the introduction of the XP 587. This family underwent a number of major changes over the years, resulting in nine different models:
- 1991-1992 Sea-Doo XP 580 (587) – 1st GEN
- 1993 Sea-Doo XP 650 (657) – 2nd GEN
- 1994 Sea-Doo XP 657x (657x)- 2nd GEN
- 1995 Sea-Doo XP 720 (717) – 3rd GEN
- 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited (787x) – 3rd GEN
- 1996 Sea-Doo XP 800 (787) – 3rd GEN
- 1997 Sea-Doo XP 800 (787) – 4th GEN
- 1998-2002 Sea-Doo XP Limited (951) – 4th GEN
- 2003-2004 Sea-Doo XP DI (951) – 4th GEN
You can learn about all the other models by following the links above!
Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Review
The lesser-known Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was introduced for the 1995 model year.
It shared its hull and most of its features with the standard ‘95 XP 720 but had the more powerful, purpose-built Rotax 787x R.A.V.E. engine. This unique power mill came with the 1st oversized pistons from the factory.
Why?
The main idea behind this modification was that the standard Rotax 787 (782.4cc) engine wasn’t eligible for the 1200 racing class. To compete with Yamaha in this class, Sea-Doo built a more powerful XP with a larger engine.
This all-new power mill was inherited from Ski-Doo snowmobiles and was called the Rotax 787x R.A.V.E. (Rotax Automatic Variable Exhaust).
As the name suggests, this engine came with pressure-operated variable exhaust valves. Other features included dual Mikuni carburetors and a tuned exhaust system with a water-injected expansion chamber.
The cylinders of this engine were bored 0.25mm over to increase the displacement beyond the 786cc limit. Thanks to this trick, the XP 800 Limited was allowed to race in the 1200cc class in the 1995 season.
This lively 2-stroke twin produced 110 HP at 7,200 RPM and was known as the “slant” Rotax engine, as the cylinders were canted in the hull to move the center of gravity down. (In most jet skis, the cylinders are in a vertical position.)
Engine power was delivered towards the axial-flow, single-stage jet pump, equipped with a 4-inch spacer on the front. This spacer was intended to increase the pump’s volume flow, ensuring a higher top speed.
Unfortunately, this modified pump offered a worse performance on rough waters, as it needed more time to pick up water after unhooking.
Nevertheless, the top speed of the ‘95 XP 800 Limited was about 56-58 mph, which could easily be increased to 60+ mph with some aftermarket modifications.
Like the base XP 717, this machine was also built on the race-inspired X-4 hull, measuring 100 inches in length, 41.5 inches in width, and 36.2 inches in height. Although it was the same size as the 1994 XP hull, it offered a far better riding experience.
This was not a coincidence since Sea-Doo designed this new platform in cooperation with Bullit Marine for closed-course racing. Thanks to this amazing platform, the XP 800 Limited was very successful on racecourses, but it was also quite popular among performance-minded riders.
The hull was narrowed at the bow and extended towards the rear side for better handling characteristics. It also featured a special “tuneable” ride plate, and sponsons.
The XP 800 Limited also utilized a different driveshaft, steering cables, and a “hump seat.”
Unlike its little brother in the white-based dress, the XP 800 Limited had a yellow color scheme with some pink decals.
Another distinguishing feature of this model was its more basic front hood. Instead of the large batwing-fairing-like hood of the XP 717, the Limited got a much simpler hood with a single built-in gauge and no mirrors.
The ski also utilizes a multifunction LCD gauge installed into the main dashboard. This unit was equipped with many different functions, including:
- Digital bar-graph fuel level gauge
- Low battery voltage warning light
- Engine overheating warning light
- Low oil level warning light
- Low fuel level warning light
To the disappointment of performance-minded buyers, this ski was manufactured without a speedometer since this gauge was only available on the flagship GTX line.
Keeping safety in mind, the Sea-Doo developed a unique security system for their skis, known as D.E.S.S. (Digitally Encoded Security System). This system featured a special key programmed to the Sea-Doo’s main computer (MPEM).
The standard features on the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited were as follows:
- Watertight front storage
- Safety lanyard
- Rear grab handle
- Integrated vents
- Electric trim system (VTS)
- Tow hook
- Front and rear eyes
- Trim indicator gauge
- Multifunction gauge
- Overheating beeper
- Bilge drain plug
- Tool kit
- Hump seat
- D.E.S.S. key
Riding experience?
It’s safe to say that the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited with the X-4 hull offered excellent handling and cornering ability.
This racing machine required the rider to aggressively lean out in corners, as it could make sharper turns than any competitor sit-down model (except for sport class).
The ski also provided outstanding acceleration, especially on glassy water. Proper riding required some experience as it was prone to sliding out in inexperienced hands.
Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited: Is it Still Worth Buying?
If you are considering buying a vintage Sea-Doo XP, it’s recommended that you steer clear of this model.
Since the XP 800 Limited was intended for racing purposes, only a few thousand of these machines were sold in the U.S. (In contrast, the 1996 XP 800 was sold by the tens of thousands.)
Due to its rarity, this XP 800 Limited is not considered a good buy.
Its unique 787x engine doesn’t offer any noticeable differences from the base 787 engine, but it can’t be bored any further. Therefore, you may want to invest in a 1996 XP with a standard bore Rotax 787 engine.
Be careful, as the engines were often swapped from ski to ski, so the big-bore 787x engine may also appear on some other vintage models. How do you identify this unit?
Just take a look at the tag on the MAG housing; if you see “787x” you can be sure that it’s the limited edition engine option.
1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited specifications into these charts!
Dimensions
| 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited | Dimensions and Capacities |
|---|---|
| Number of passengers | 1 operator and 1 passenger |
| Overall length | 254 cm (100 in) |
| Overall width | 105 cm (41.5 in) |
| Overall height | 92 cm (36.2 in) |
| Weight | 197 kg (434 lb) |
| Load limit | 160 kg (352 lb) |
| Hull Material | Composite (fiberglass) |
| Fuel tank | 34 L (9 US gal) |
| Impeller shaft reservoir - Capacity | 90 mL (3 US oz) |
| Impeller shaft reservoir - Oil level height | up to plug |
| Injection oil reservoir | 4.5 L (153 US fl oz, 1.2 U.S. gal)) |
Engine Specs
| 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited | Engine Specs |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Rotax 2-stroke, type 787x RAVE |
| Induction type | Rotary valve |
| Exhaust system | Water cooled/water injected |
| Exhaust valve | R.A.V.E. |
| Lubrication - type | Oil injection |
| Lubrication - oil type | Formula XP-S Synthetic Injection Oil |
| Number of cylinders | 2 |
| Displacement | 786+ cm3 |
| Maximum Power (approximately) | 110 HP |
| RPM Limiter Operation @ | 7200 RPM ± 50 |
| Cooling Type | Water cooled, total loss type - Direct flow from propulsion unit |
| Fuel - type | Regular unleaded gasoline |
| Carburetor - type and number | BN 40I Diaphragm - Quantity : 2 |
| Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank without reserve | ~ 36 min |
| Cruising time at full throttle - Fuel tank reserve | ~ 7 minutes |
Propulsion
| 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited | Propulsion |
|---|---|
| Propulsion system | Bombardier Formula pump |
| Jet pump type | Axial flow, single stage |
| Impeller Rotation (seen from rear) | na |
| Transmission | Direct drive |
| Coupling Type | na |
| Impeller shaft reservoir oil type | Sea-Doo synthetic polyolester oil 75W90 GL5 |
| Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle) | ~ 26° |
| Pivoting angle of variable trim system | ~ 8° |
| Minimum required water level for jet pump | 90 cm (3 ft) |
| Impeller Diameter | na |
Electrical Features
| 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited | Electrical Features |
|---|---|
| Magneto generator output | 180 W @ 6000 RPM |
| Ignition system type | DC-CDI |
| Spark plug - Make and type | NGK BR8ES |
| Spark plug - Gap | 0.5 - 0.6 mm (0.020-0.024 in) |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Ignition timing - BTDC | na |
| Ignition timing - Note | na |
| Battery | 12 V, 19 A |
| Starting system Fuse | 5 A |
| Charging system Fuse | 2 x 15 A |
| Gauges Fuse | na |
| Fuse - VTS system | 7.5 A |
| Fuse - Holder relay | 5 A |
These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.
Sea-Doo XP Comparison Chart
We’ve also compared the key specs of the different Sea-Doo XP models head-to-head in one chart:
| Gen. | Name | Year | Engine | cc | HP | Top Speed (mph) | Weigth (lbs) | Hull Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | XP 580 | 1991 | "Yellow" 587 | 580 | 55 | 45 | 365 | I gen. SP |
| I | XP 580 | 1992 | "White" 587 | 580 | 56 | 45 | 365 | I gen. SP |
| II | XP 650 | 1993 | 657 | 650 | 70 | 45 | 373 | II gen. SP |
| II | XP 650x | 1994 | 657x | 650 | 80 | 50 | 412 | II gen. SP |
| III | XP 720 | 1995 | 717 | 718 | 85 | 50 | 412 | X-4 |
| III | XP Limited 800 | 1995 | 787x RAVE | 786+ | 110 | 56 | 434 | X-4 |
| III | XP 800 | 1996 | 787 RAVE | 781 | 110 | 56 | 434 | X-4 |
| IV | XP 800 | 1997 | 787 RAVE | 782 | 110 | 56 | 525 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP Limited | 1998 | 947 RAVE | 951 | 130 | 60 | 551 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP Limited | 1999 | 947 RAVE | 951 | 130 | 60 | 551 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP Limited | 2000 | 947 RAVE | 951 | 130 | 60 | 561 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP Limited | 2001 | 947 RAVE | 951 | 130 | 60 | 561 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP Limited | 2002 | 947 RAVE | 951 | 130 | 60 | 561 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP DI | 2003 | 947 DI | 951 | 130 | 60 | 561 | Parabolic |
| IV | XP DI | 2004 | 947 DI | 951 | 130 | 60 | 605 | Parabolic |
Vintage Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited For Sale
If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited for sale. As this model vanished from the market in 1995, it’s already a collectible item, so finding one is not an easy task!
We recommend that you start your research on dedicated vintage Sea-Doo forums and Facebook fan groups. Aside from some good deals, you may find some valuable info there about this ski.
Besides these sources, you may also find a used Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited for sale on Craigslist, PWC Trader, and other dedicated jet ski swap sites.
Takeaway
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited!
What is a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited?
The 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was a limited edition racing jet ski manufactured by Bombardier.
What Year did Bombardier Make the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited?
The Canadian manufacturer marketed the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited in the 1995 model year.
What Kind of Engine Did the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Have?
The engine of the 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was a 2-stroke Rotax 787x R.A.V.E. twin. This unique power source was bored to 786+cc and featured dual Mikuni carbs.
How Much Horsepower Did a 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Have?
The 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited provided 110 HP at 7,200 RPM.
How Many People Could Ride a 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited?
The tiny Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was rated for two riders, but it was virtually a solo machine.
How Much Weight Could a 1995 Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Hold?
The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was 352 pounds.
What Size was the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited?
The Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was 100 inches long, 41.5 inches wide, and 36.2 inches high.
How Much Did a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Weigh?
The dry weight of the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was only 434 pounds.
Did the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Have Reverse?
No, the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was manufactured without reverse.
Was a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited a 2-Stroke Ski?
Yes, the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited utilized a 2-stroke Rotax engine.
What Size Storage Compartment Did a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Have?
The Sea-Doo XP 800 featured only a small front storage compartment.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Hold?
The Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited utilized a 9-gallon fuel tank and a 1.2-gallon oil reservoir.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Use?
The Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited’s fuel consumption was about 11 GPH at WOT.
How Fast Did a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Go?
The top speed of a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was 56 mph under ideal conditions.
Could the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Although it was equipped with a tow eye, the Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited was not recommended for tow sports.
How Much is a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited Worth?
It’s hard to tell the exact price of a Sea-Doo XP 800 Limited, as it strongly depends on its year, condition, and location. But as a rule of thumb, the prices typically range from $300 up to $3,000.
