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2007-2022 Kawasaki Ultra LX Specs and Review [Video]
The Kawasaki Ultra LX was the only naturally-aspirated, full-sized jet ski in the Kawasaki fleet for 15 years. It was revealed in 2007 and remained in production until 2022, but there are rumors that it will make a comeback in 2024.
If you want to find out more about this ski, you’ve come to the right place.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Kawasaki Ultra LX review!
2007-2022 Kawasaki Ultra LX Review
Kawasaki Ultra LX Hull and Top Deck
Believe it or not, the Kawasaki Ultra LX had been manufactured for 15 years without any significant changes.
It was launched in 2007 along with its supercharged equivalent, the Kawasaki Ultra 250X. The latter was the most powerful jet ski at that time, thanks to its high-performance, 250 HP engine.
These models shared the same platform and most features, but the Ultra LX was more fuel efficient and reliable.
Regarding dimensions, the hull of the Ultra LX measured 132.7 inches in length, 47 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height, while its curb weight was 932.7 pounds.
This platform was significantly larger and heavier than competitor skis had and featured a deep-V design, which did a good job on the chop.
Its robust top deck ensured industry-leading capacities, including a 20.6-gallon fuel tank and an impressive 60-gallon storage capacity. The latter was split into a roomy front storage bin, a glovebox, and an under-seat storage case.
Its deck also housed a roomy 2-piece seat rated for three riders. The load limit of the ski was 498 pounds.
Kawasaki Ultra LX Engine and Propulsion
The power source of the Ultra LX was a 4-stroke, 1498cc, inline 4-cylinder Kawasaki marine engine rated at 160 HP.
This engine was derived from the ZX-R Ninja motorcycle family but was heavily redesigned for marine use.
It featured an industry-standard open-loop cooling, semi-dry-sump lubrication system, digital fuel injection, electric start, and a direct drive system.Engine power was delivered to a 155mm, axial-flow, single-stage jet pump, housing a 3-blade, stainless steel, oval-edge impeller.This advanced propulsion system produced a remarkable 957 pounds of thrust.
Kawasaki Ultra LX Features
The standard features of the Kawasaki Ultra LX were as follows:
- Large LCD dashboard
- Kawasaki Smart Steering® system
- 5-way adjustable handlebar
- Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode
- Mechanical reverse
- 20.6-gallon fuel tank
- Front storage compartment
- Glovebox
- Under-seat storage case
- LXury 3-rider seat
- Tool kit (stored in the back of the rear seat)
- Reboarding step
- Mooring cleats
- Tow hook
- Sponsons
- Deck mat
While its competitors have been using advanced brake and reverse systems for many years, (Sea-Doo iBR: 2009, Yamaha RiDE: 2015), even flagship Kawasaki jet skis still used a mechanical reverse until 2022.
Although this outdated, cable-controlled reverse did the job, it offered less safety and comfort than their electric brothers. Also, it wasn’t intended to be used for braking.
On top of that, the Ultra LX lacked electric trim, and cruise control, and featured a regular cable throttle while its competitors were already using more advanced throttle-by-wire systems.
Kawasaki Ultra LX Performance Handling
Enjoying the full-size platform and “LXury” seat of its supercharged brothers, the Ultra LX offered comfortable rides.
Its heavy and deep-V hull ensured great maneuverability and remained stable and predictable even in rough waters. This was no surprise since its deep keel cut through the chop like a knife.
Besides its great offshore reputation, the LX performed very well on smooth waters. Even though it wasn’t as agile as smaller Recreation and Rec-Lite models, it could lean aggressively into the corners, ensuring tight turns.
It could also carry three adult riders along with plenty of gear.
The top speed of the Ultra LX was a moderate 54-55 mph on the GPS which was more than enough for the average rider. Sure, it offered a far more moderate acceleration than the supercharged Ultras.
Due to its stable hull and large swim platform, the LX could be used for various activities including fishing and touring.
It could also tow wakeboarders, skiers, and tubers with ease while its slower-response cable throttle ensured smooth starts.
Unlike the supercharged models, the Ultra LX had much better fuel economy, since it got 11.9 GPH at full throttle.
The riding position could be tailored to the operator with the five-way adjustable handlebar.
Novice riders appreciated the Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode and the Kawasaki Smart Steering system, which assisted in handling off-throttle situations.
The History of the Kawasaki Ultra LX
Although the Ultra LX was in production for 15 years, the ski underwent very few changes.
In a nutshell, the brief history of the Ultra LX is as follows:
- 2007: Kawasaki launched the Ultra LX and its supercharged brother, the Ultra 250X
- 2008: Just color and cosmetic changes
- 2009: The Ultra LX got a bolstered seat
- 2010: Just color and cosmetic changes (e.g. two-tone seat wrap)
- 2011: Just color and cosmetic changes
- 2012: New top deck design including a redesigned hood, and a new display
- 2013: The propulsion system of the LX got a “pump wedge” to reduce porpoising
- 2014-2022: Just color and cosmetic changes
- 2022: Kawasaki discontinued the Ultra LX
Kawasaki Ultra LX Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the 2022 Kawasaki Ultra LX into these charts:Kawasaki Ultra LX Dimensions and Capacities
| Kawasaki Ultra LX | Dimensions and Capacities |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 3 370 mm (132.7 in.) |
| Overall Width | 1 195 mm (47.0 in.) |
| Overall Height | 1 150 mm (45.3 in.) |
| Curb Mass | 423 - 442 kg (933 - 975 lb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L (20.6 US gal) |
| Number of passenger (driver incl.) | 3 persons (1 operator and 2 passengers) |
| Load limit | 225 kg (496 lb) |
Kawasaki Ultra LX Engine Specs
| Kawasaki Ultra LX | Engine Specs |
|---|---|
| Type | 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-cylinder, 4-valve, water cooled |
| Displacement | 1 498 cm³ (91.4 cu in.) |
| Bore and Stroke | 83 × 69.2 mm (3.27 × 2.72 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.6 : 1 |
| Ignition System | Digital transistor |
| Lubrication System | Semi-dry sump |
| Fuel System | Digital fuel injection |
| Antiknock Index (RON+MON)/2 | Minimum Rating 87 |
| Starting System | Electric starter |
| Battery | 12 V 18 Ah (10 HR) |
Kawasaki Ultra LX Engine Oil
| Kawasaki Ultra LX | Engine Oil |
|---|---|
| Type | API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2 |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-40 |
| Capacity - when filter is not removed | 4.0 L (4.2 US qt) |
| Capacity - when filter is removed | 4.2 L (4.4 US qt) |
| Capacity - when engine is completely dry | 5.0 L (5.3 US qt) |
Kawasaki Ultra LX Tuning Specifications
| Kawasaki Ultra LX | Tuning Specifications |
|---|---|
| Spark Plug Type | NGK CR9EKB |
| Spark Plug Gap | 0.7 ∼ 0.8 mm (0.028 ∼ 0.031 in.) |
| Ignition Timing | 3° ATDC @1 300 r/min ∼ 32° BTDC @3 000 r/min (rpm) |
| Idle Speed - in water | 1 300 ±100 r/min (rpm) |
| Idle Speed - out of water | 1 300 ±100 r/min (rpm) |
Kawasaki Ultra LX Drive System
| Kawasaki Ultra LX | Drive System |
|---|---|
| Coupling | Direct drive from engine |
| Jet Pump Type | Axial flow single stage |
| Jet Pump Thrust | 4 250 N (434 kgf, 955 lb) |
| Steering | Steerable nozzle |
| Braking | Water drag |
Kawasaki Ultra LX Performance Specs
| Kawasaki Ultra LX | Performance |
|---|---|
| Minimum Turning Radius | 4.0 m (13.1 ft) |
| Fuel Consumption | 45 L/h (11.9 US gal/h) @full throttle |
| Cruising Range (1) | 133 km (82.6 mile) @full throttle |
| Cruising Range (2) | 1 hour and 38 minutes |
| Maximum Horsepower | 118 kW (160 PS) @7 500 r/min (rpm) |
| Maximum Torque | 152 N·m (15.5 kgf·m, 112.1 ft·lb) @7 250 r/min (rpm) |
Takeaways
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Kawasaki Ultra LX! (2022 model)What is a Kawasaki Ultra LX?
The Ultra LX was a naturally-aspirated, 3-seater sit-down jet ski manufactured by Kawasaki.
When did the Ultra LX Come Out?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX debuted in late 2006 for the 2007 model year.
What Years Did Kawasaki Make the Ultra LX?
Kawasaki marketed the Ultra LX from 2007 through 2022.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra LX Good?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX was known as a good solid jet ski.
Compared to rival skis in its class, the Ultra LX was a much simpler machine with an outdated design and features. On the other hand, it offered great stability and rough-water performance, plus it had industry-leading capacities.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra LX Reliable?
Although the Kawasaki Ultra LX was more reliable than the supercharged Ultras, it couldn’t reach the reliability of the competitor Yamaha WaveRunners.
What Size was a Kawasaki Ultra LX?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX measured 132.7 inches in length, 47 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height, while its maximum draft was 13.9 inches.
How Much Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Weigh?
The dry weight of the Kawasaki Ultra LX was 795 pounds, while its curb weight was 932.7 pounds.
How Much Weight Could a Kawasaki Ultra LX Carry?
The load capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra LX was 496 pounds including riders and cargo.
What Size Storage Compartment Did the Ultra LX Have?
The total storage capacity of the Ultra LX was 60 gallons, split into a front storage, a glovebox, and a storage case under the rear seat.
How Many People Could Ride on a Kawasaki Ultra LX?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX could carry 3 adult riders with ease.
What Kind of Engine was in the Kawasaki Ultra LX?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX was powered by a 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder Kawasaki engine.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra LX Supercharged?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX utilized a non-supercharged (naturally-aspirated) engine.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra LX a 4-stroke?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra LX was powered by a 4-stroke engine.
How Much Horsepower Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Have?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX produced a remarkable 160 HP.
What Oil Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Use?
According to the owner’s manual, the Kawasaki Ultra LX used SAE10W-40 engine oil (API SG, SH, SJ, SL, or SM with JASO MA, MA1, or MA2).
How Much Oil Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Hold?
The oil capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra LX was 5.3 US quarts (5.0 L).
How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Hold?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX was equipped with a 20.6-gallon fuel tank.
How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Use?
The fuel consumption of the Kawasaki Ultra LX was about 11.9 GPH at WOT.
What was the Fuel Range of the Kawasaki Ultra LX?
The claimed cruising range of the Ultra LX was about 82.6 miles at full throttle, which equals to 1 hour and 38 minutes of riding time.
How Fast Did a Kawasaki Ultra LX Go?
The top speed of a Kawasaki Ultra LX was about 54-55 mph on the GPS.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra LX Have a Reverse?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra LX came with a mechanical reverse.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra LX Have a Brake?
No, the Kawasaki Ultra LX was manufactured without a brake system.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra LX Have Speakers?
The Kawasaki Ultra LX was marketed without speakers.
Could the Kawasaki Ultra LX Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra LX could tow a wakeboarder or skier with ease.
Did the 2022 Kawasaki Ultra LX Have a Cruise Control?
No, the Kawasaki Ultra LX was marketed without cruise control.
How Much Does a Kawasaki Ultra LX Cost?
The asking price of used Kawasaki Ultra LXs varies between $4,000 and $12,000 depending on the year and its condition.
