![2005-2010 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Specs and Review [Video]](https://www.jetdrift.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/review-and-specs-2.jpg)
2005-2010 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Specs and Review [Video]
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 was a 3-seater performance Sea-Doo marketed from 2005 through 2010. This innovative ski shared its hull with the GTX 4-TEC SC and GTX 155 but inherited its supercharged, 215 HP engine from the 2-seater RXP 215.
If you want to learn all about this popular Sea-Doo, you’ve come to the right place.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo RXT 215 review!
Sea-Doo RXT 215 Review
Sea-Doo has always been known for its large fleet of versatile PWCs.Its deservedly-popular performance series (including the XP/RXP, and HX models) offered extreme power and outstanding cornering abilities.
On the other hand, they were too nimble and had limited capacities. Riding with a passenger on these small Sea-Doos was often hard to impossible.
Besides these machines, 3-seater runabout Sea-Doos were popular among families, but they lacked the lively attitude of their performance brothers.
So, many buyers were looking for a ski with a high-performance engine/features and reasonable capacities.
Sea-Doo grabbed the opportunity and designed a “race-inspired” 3-seater runabout, the 2004 RXP 215 (a.k.a. RXP 4-TEC SC). To achieve the best of both worlds, this new ski was built on the stable and comfortable 3-seater GTX platform but utilized a supercharged 215 HP engine as well as many race-oriented features.
Therefore, it’s safe to say that the Sea-Doo RXT was actually a GTX on steroids! It was tuned for a sporty riding experience rather than comfort.
The RXT line is known for its rich history, as over the decades it underwent many different generations, including:- 2005 – 2010: RXT 215
- 2008 – 2009: RXT-X 255
- 2009: RXT-X iS 255
- 2010: RXT iS 260
- 2010 –2015: RXT-X 260
- 2010 – 2012: RXT iS 260
- 2011 – 2017: RXT 260
- 2012: RXT 260 RS
- 2011 – 2016: RXT-X aS 260
- 2012 – 2015: RXT 260
- 2015: RXT-X 260 RS
- 2017 – 2019: RXT 230
- 2016 – RXT-X 300
- 1494cc, 3 cylinder in-line
- Rotax Multipoint Fuel Injection
- Induction type: supercharger with intercooler
- 12 valves (4 valves per cylinder) – SOHC
- Dry sump oil injection system
- Closed-loop cooling system
- NGK DCPR8E spark plugs (x3)
- Electric starter
The shortened piston travel put less wear and tear on the engine’s internals, resulting in more durability and reliability.
The RXT shared this power source with the 2-seater RXP 215; both models produced an amazing 215 HP at 8,000 RPM.
The engine power was 30% greater than that of any of its rivals’, making these performance Sea-Doos the most powerful personal watercraft of that time.
Sea-Doo had borrowed the plastic engine cover from Honda AquaTraxs. This cover hid a large portion of the engine, ensuring a clean look.
The propulsion system of the RXT was the proven axial-flow, single-stage BRP Formula pump, featuring a full aluminum pump housing and a stainless-steel 4-blade impeller.This jet pump and engine were planted in a GTX hull, measuring 130 inches in length, 48 inches in width, and 44 inches in height. Yes, you read correctly; the RXT used exactly the same hull as the GTX line.
(The 2-seater RXP 215 was built on a modified GTI platform, which was only 121 inches long, 47 inches wide, and 41 inches high.)
This entirely new GTX/RXT platform was specifically engineered for the 4-stroke 1503 Rotax engine. It debuted on the 2002 GTX 4-TEC 155 and was carried over to many GTX, RXT, and WAKE models.
This all-new hull was 6 inches longer and offered much better stability than its predecessor. Also, it came with a deep-V design as its depth was increased to 22.5 degrees from 17.5 degrees.
The innovative top deck also featured eye-catching curved lines and other details. What’s more, it housed three storage compartments, including a glovebox, an under-seat storage box (with a spare spark plug holder), and a roomy bow storage.The total storage capacity of the RXP 215 was a whopping 52.5 gallons. In contrast, “old” GTX models came with a storage capacity of 13.2 gallons, while the RXP 215 offered only 10.7 gallons
The weight capacity of the ski was 600 pounds, so it could carry three riders safely and legally.
As far as features and accessories, the RXT shared many with the flagship GTX and RXP, including the 15.3-gallon fuel tank, closed-loop cooling system, D.E.S.S. security system, and O.P.A.S. steering assist.
To be more precise, the features of the 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 were as follows:
- Handlebar-mounted start/stop button
- Handlebar-mounted function buttons
- Large front storage
- Glove box
- Under-seat storage tray
- Electric start
- Tether cord
- 2 gauges (speedometer, tachometer)
- Fender cleats
- Off-Power Assisted Steering (OPAS)
- Overheating warning device
- Bow and stern eyes
- Ski tow eye
- Bilge drain plugs
- Sponsons
- Rear grab handle
- Manual reverse
- Reboarding step
- Large, 2-piece seat with a seat strap
- DESS security system
- Digital Tachometer: Indicates the revolution per minute (RPM) of the engine.
- Digital Speedometer: Indicates the speed of the watercraft in miles per hour (MPH) and kilometers per hour (km/h).
- Depth Gauge (if so equipped): It continuously displays the water depth under the hull within 0 to 50 meters (0 to 170 feet).
- Compass: Displays the cardinal points to indicate the orientation of the watercraft.
- Average Speed: The information center approximately calculates and displays the average speed (AV KM/H or AV MPH) of the watercraft since the last engine start.
- Distance: (KM or MILES) The information center approximately calculates the distance based on the operation time and the watercraft speed and displays the result in kilometers (KM) or miles (MILES).
- Hourmeter: Displays the time in hours of the watercraft usage (HOUR).
- Water Temperature: Displays the water temperature of the water surface (L TEMP) in degrees Celsius (C) or Fahrenheit (F).
- Exterior Temperature (if so equipped): Displays the exterior air temperature (E TEMP) in degrees Celsius (C) or Fahrenheit (F).
- Trip Hour Meter: (TRIPMTR) Allows to measure an interval of time in hours and minutes (hh:mm).
Thanks to its stable platform, the RXT 215 offered predictable and smooth rides even with passengers.
In the early 2000s, the RXT was arguably among the most stable 3-seater PWCs in the marketplace.
At the same time, it could easily reach a top speed of 68 mph in stock condition. With some performance modifications, its top speed could be increased up to 70-72 mph.
It also provided an arm-stretching acceleration as it could do the 0-30 mph run in 1.8 seconds and the 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds.
However, the large heavy RXT (869 lbs!) was less lively and nimble than the 2-seater RXP. While the latter shined on the racecourse, the RXT was great for thrilling adrenaline rushes and touring.
Its remarkable capacities made the RXT 215 instantly popular among buyers who didn’t want to compromise between performance and comfort.
The RXP 2015 offered both under one roof!
Sea-Doo RXT 215 Problems
Although it was an amazing watercraft in its time, the RXT 215 had some definite drawbacks. Let’s take a close look at each!Thumb Throttle
One of the few drawbacks of the Sea-Doo RXT 215 was its outdated thumb-throttle lever.
Unlike modern trigger levers, this thumb throttle was mounted in an awkward position offering zero comfort on long rides.
This is why the more advanced RXP-X and RXT-X models came already equipped with a finger throttle.
Lack of Trim System
What’s more, believe it or not, Sea-Doo marketed the RXT 215 without VTS (Variable Trim System).
This innovative feature was only available on flagship models like the GTX SC and the RXP 215.
Ceramic Supercharger Washers
The biggest problem with the RXT 215 was arguably its ceramic supercharger washers.
Like in any other supercharged Sea-Doo in the mid-2000s, the supercharger of the RXT 215 was manufactured with ceramic washers.
Unfortunately, these deflective washers were prone to breaking after a short period. The debris easily got into the engine, causing major damage to its internals.Due to this risk, these ceramic washers in the 2005-2008 RXT 215 models had to be replaced with metal ones.
Since early 2008, supercharged Sea-Doos have come with metal washers from the factory.
Despite this, every Sea-Doo supercharger required attention and periodic rebuilds, regardless of the production year.
RXT 215 O.P.A.S. Issues
Another common complaint against the RXT 215 was its O.P.A.S. (Off-Throttle Assisted Steering) issues.Although O.P.A.S. was a revolutionary idea, it automatically activated on choppy waters. This is because the fluctuating pressure in the pump often fouled its sensors.
Because of this, many owners removed the O.P.A.S. fins from their RXTs.
Sea-Doo RXT 215 SC Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 specifications into these charts!2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Dimensions
| 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 | Dimensions and Capacities |
|---|---|
| Number of passengers | 3 (refer to load limit) |
| Overall length | 331 cm (130 in) |
| Overall width | 122 cm (48 in) |
| Overall height | 113 cm (44 in) |
| Weight | 394 kg (869 lb) |
| Load limit | 272 kg (600 lb) |
| Fuel tank (including reserve) | 60 L (15.3 U.S. gal) |
| Fuel tank reserve (from low level signal) | 15 L (4 U.S. gal) |
| Cooling system (coolant) | 5.5 L (5 U.S. qrt) total |
| Engine oil | 3 L (2.7 U.S. qt) oil change w/filter - 4.5 L (4.1 U.S. qt) total |
2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Engine Specs
| 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 | Engine Specs |
|---|---|
| Engine type | BRP-Rotax 1503, 4-stroke, SOHC (Single Over Head Camshaft) liquid-cooled |
| Number of cylinder | 3 in line |
| Number of valve | 12 valves (4 per cylinder) with hydraulic lifters (no adjustment) |
| Exhaust system | Water cooled / water injected with regulator |
| Induction type | Mechanically driven supercharger with intercooler |
| Performance | 215 HP |
| Displacement | 1494 cm3 (91.2 in3) |
| Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Bore | 100 mm (3.9 in) |
| Stroke | 63.4 mm (2-1/2 in) |
| Rev limiter setting | 8000 RPM |
| Cooling Type | Liquid cooled. Closed circuit. (see also exhaust system) |
| Fuel injection | Rotax EMS (engine management system). Multipoint Fuel Injection. Single throttle body (52 mm (2.04 in)) |
| Lubrication type | Dry sump (2 oil pumps). Replaceable oil filter. Water-cooled oil cooler. |
2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Liquids
| 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 | Liquids |
|---|---|
| Fuel type - Recommended | Recommended: Premium unleaded gasoline. Inside North America: 91 octane (Ron + Mon)/2, Outside North America: 95 RON |
| Fuel type – Minimum allowed | Minimum allowed: Regular unleaded gasoline. Inside North America: 87 octane (Ron + Mon)/2, Outside North America: 91 RON |
| Coolant | Ethylene-glycol 50%/50% antifreeze/water. Coolant containing corrosion inhibitors for internal combustion aluminum engines |
2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Propulsion
| 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 | Propulsion |
|---|---|
| Propulsion system | BRP Formula pump |
| Jet pump type | Axial flow, single-stage. Greased bearings. |
| Transmission | Direct drive |
| Reverse system | Yes |
| O.P.A.S. system | Yes |
| Pivoting angle of direction (nozzle) | ~ 20° |
| Minimum required water level for jet pump | 90 cm (3 ft) underneath the lowest rear portion of hull |
2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Electrical Features
| 2005 Sea-Doo RXT 215 | Electrical Features |
|---|---|
| Magneto generator output | 360 W @ 6000 RPM |
| Ignition system type | Digital inductive type |
| Ignition timing | Non-adjustable |
| Spark plug - Quantity | 3 |
| Spark plug - Make and type | NGK, DCPR8E |
| Spark plug - Gap | 0.75 mm (.030 in) |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Battery | 12 V, 30 Ah, Electrolyte type |
Sea-Doo RXT 215 for Sale
If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a first-generation Sea-Doo RXT 215 for sale. As this model vanished from the market in 2010, it’s already a collectible item, so finding one is not an easy task!We recommend that you start your research on dedicated 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 some used Sea-Doo RXT 215s 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 Sea-Doo RXT 215!What is a Sea-Doo RXT 215?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 (a.k.a. RXT 4-TEC SC, or RXT 215 SC) was a high-performance 3-seater Sea-Doo runabout.
What Year did Sea-Doo Make the RXT 215?
Sea-Doo marketed the RXT 215 from 2005 through 2010, despite that a much more powerful RXT-X 255 debuted in 2008.
What Size Storage Compartment Did a Sea-Doo RXT 215 Have?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 featured a small glove box, a front bin, and an under-seat storage box with a total storage capacity of 10.7 gallons.
How Many People Could Ride a Sea-Doo RXT 215?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 was rated for three riders.
What Size was the Sea-Doo RXT 215?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 was 130 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 44 inches high.
How Much Did a Sea-Doo RXT 215 Weigh?
The dry weight of the Sea-Doo RXT 215 was 869 pounds.
What Kind of Engine Did the Sea-Doo RXT 215 Have?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 engine was a supercharged and intercooled 4-stroke -ROTAX 1503. This 1494cc, SOHC triple featured a closed-loop cooling system and a Multipoint Fuel Injection system.
How Much Horsepower Did a 2005-2010 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Have?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 provided 215 HP at 8,000 RPM.
Did the Sea-Doo RXT 215 Have Reverse?
Yes, the Sea-Doo RXT 215 was equipped with manual reverse.
How Much Weight Could a Sea-Doo RXT 215 Hold?
The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo RXT 215 was 600 pounds.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo RXT 215 Hold?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 utilized a 15.9-gallon (60 L) fuel tank.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo RXT 215 Use?
The fuel consumption of the Sea-Doo RXT 215 was about 16.4 GPH at WOT.
Could the Sea-Doo RXT 215 Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
No, the Sea-Doo RXT 215 was rated for three riders so that it could be used for tow sports.
How Fast Did a 2005-2010 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Go?
The top speed of a 2005-2010 Sea-Doo RXT 215 was about 68 mph under ideal conditions.
How Fast Did a Sea-Doo RXT 215 Go from 0 to 30?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 could reach 30 mph in under 1.8 seconds and 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds.
How Many cc was a Sea-Doo RXT 215?
The Sea-Doo RXT 215 featured a 1494 cc triple engine.
Was a Sea-Doo RXT 215 a 2-Stroke Ski?
No, the Sea-Doo RXT 215 utilized a 4-stroke engine.
Was the Sea-Doo RXT 215 Supercharged?
Yes, the RXT 215 was powered by a supercharged and intercooled Rotax engine.
How Much is a 2005-2010 Sea-Doo RXT 215 Worth?
It’s hard to tell the exact price of a first-generation Sea-Doo RXT 215, as it strongly depends on its year, condition, and location. But as a rule of thumb, the prices typically range from $6,000 up to $10,000.
