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2008-2009 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Specs and Review [Video]
Sea-Doo introduced the supercharged RXT-X 255 for the 2008 season. It shared its platform and many features with the RXT 215, but utilized a more powerful 255 HP engine option. The RXT-X 255 was offered from 2008 through 2009 but was replaced by the revamped RXT-X 260 for 2010.
If you want to learn all about this 3-seater performance Sea-Doo, this post is for you.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 review!
Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Review
The Sea-Doo RXT Family
Sea-Doo introduced its high-performance 3-seater RXT series for 2004. Since then, this family has undergone many different generations, including:
- 2005 – 2010: RXT 215
- 2008 – 2009: RXT-X 255
- 2009: RXT iS 255
- 2010 – 2012: RXT iS 260
- 2010 – 2015: RXT-X 260
- 2011 – 2016: RXT-X aS 260
- 2011 – 2017: RXT 260
- 2016 – RXT-X: 300
As a rule of thumb, each RXT model was built on a GTX hull but was tuned more for performance than comfort. Therefore, it’s safe to say that the RXT was a GTX on steroids!
The first model in this series was the RXT 215, released in 2005, a year later than the 2-seater RXP 215 made its debut.
By 2008, both models returned with the “X-package,” and the more advanced, 255 HP engine.
Often referred to as the Sea-Doo “X Series,” the RXT-X 255 and RXP-X 255 seriously raised the standard in the performance watercraft category.
Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Hull and Engine
Unlike the smaller RXP-X, the larger RXT-X 255 was known for its stability and large capacities.
Its GTX-based Fiberglass Reinforced Composite (FRC) hull measured 130 inches in length, 48 inches in width, and 46.5 inches in height, while the dry weight of the ski was 818 pounds.
Although they shared the same hull, the RXT-X featured a different top deck design than the GTX family.
The weight capacity of the RXT-X was 600 pounds, and its overall storage capacity was 32.5 gallons. In contrast, the RXP-X could only carry 399 pounds and only had 10.7 gallons of storage.
As the name suggests, the RXP-X 255 utilized the most powerful 255 HP engine option. The key features of this power source were as follows:
- 1494cc, 3 cylinder in-line
- Rotax Multipoint Fuel Injection
- Induction type: supercharger with external 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 key improvements of the 255 HP Rotax 1503 were as follows:
- Revised Vortex supercharger (with a larger intake tube)
- Larger aluminum intercooler
- Forged pistons
- More advanced fuel injectors
- Remapped ignition system
- Metal supercharger clutch washers
- Other crucial changes to the engine for increased durability and reliability
Engine power was delivered to an axial-flow, single-stage aluminum jet pump featuring a stainless steel impeller.
This pump was moved about 18 inches towards the rear end of the ski and utilized a special ride plate and a revamped intake grate.The main idea behind this design was to increase the size of the water intake to feed the impeller with more water.
On top of that, the electric VTS (trim) system was also redesigned for a smoother and faster operation. Unlike its predecessor, this new-generation VTS allowed riders to preset upper and lower trim positions.
Thanks to this programmable design, you didn’t have to constantly keep your eyes on the VTS gauge.
Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Features
Besides its high-end power source and pump, the other distinguishing feature of the RXT-X was its unique appearance.
Its hull was dressed in black with grey decals and an orange Sea-Doo logo. It was also equipped with many industry-standard features, including a pair of sponsons, drain plugs, and mooring cleats.
The top deck had a three-tone color scheme of great contrasting colors. The deck and the front hood had a light grey paint job, but the latter also had some orange and chrome elements.
This aggressive design also incorporated the “X-package,” including X-traction deck mats, a 2-piece race-style seat, and adjustable X-handlebars.
The latter were uniquely tapered aluminum handlebars with a slightly wider design than their regular counterparts. They sit on an adjustable aluminum bar riser allowing you to set their angle and height with a simple Allen wrench.
The handlebars were also equipped with a billet aluminum finger-throttle with a steel cable housing.
Unlike the outdated thumb throttle lever, this finger throttle ensured a convenient operation and didn’t cause your hand to get tired and sore.
The riding position was also moved slightly forward, resulting in a more aggressive attitude, while the special X-racing seat allowed you to move quickly from side-to-side.
The old-fashioned slippery deck mats were also upgraded with new X-traction mats. These were great design elements and ensured a much better grip.
Standard features of the 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 were as follows:
- X-traction footwell carpet and deck pad
- X-racing seat
- X-handlebars
- Adjustable handlebar riser
- Billet finger throttle
- High-performance VTS
- Speedometer
- Tachometer
- Fuel gauge
- Information Center (20 functions)
- D.E.S.S.™
- O.P.A.S.™ system
- Sea-Doo Learning Key™ (LK1 or LK2)
- Mirrors
- Double density comfort hand grips
- Removable engine hatch
- Handlebar-mounted start/stop button
- Handlebar-mounted function buttons
- Front storage
- Glove box
- Electric start
- Safety lanyard
- Mooring cleats
- Overheating warning device
- Bow and stern eyes
- Ski tow eye
- Bilge drain plugs
- Flushing connector
- Side vanes
- Sponsons
- Rear grab handle
- Manual reverse
Riding Experience
It’s safe to say that the RXT-X 255 was the fastest 3-seater personal watercraft during the late 2000s.
Thanks to its high-performance engine, the top speed of the RXT-X 255 was about 67 mph in stock condition. With some performance mods, it could be pushed beyond the 70 mph limit.
What’s more, it could also do the 0-30 mph run in an amazing 1.5 seconds!
Since the top speed of stock PWCs was restricted by the U.S. Coast Guard, manufacturers started to focus on acceleration over top speed. This makes sense since these arm-stretching starts can greatly contribute to an outstanding riding experience.
Beyond the numbers, the RXT-X offered smooth and predictable handling without any skidding or sliding issues.
Thanks to the carefully designed semi-V hull and sponsons, the machine turned like it was on rails. Its handlebars were positioned slightly higher than regular 3-seaters, allowing you to operate the ski with confidence.
Drawbacks?
Since the RXT-X 255 was designed for performance over comfort, it offered fairly stiff rides on rough waters. This is because the steering system was extremely responsive, making the ski a little jerky on the chop.
Also, it lacked some convenience features like a reboarding step and an under-seat storage tray.
Its 15.9-gallon fuel tank was also undersized for its thirsty engine. Cruising at 50 mph, the RXT-X 255 got 11.5 GPH while it burned 20.9 GPH at full speed.
If you hammered the throttle, you could drain its fuel tank in just 45 minutes!
Last but not least, don’t forget that the RXT-X 255 was marketed at an eye-popping $13,299 in 2008.
Despite its extreme fuel consumption and hefty price tag, the 3-seater RXT-X 255 became popular among performance-minded riders.
In 2009, the base RXT-X 255 returned without any remarkable changes, but the more advanced RXT-X iS 255 also made its debut. The latter was a special model equipped with the Sea-Doo-exclusive Intelligent Suspension system.
By 2010, these models were replaced by the more advanced RXT-X 260 and RXT-X iS 260.
2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Specs Chart
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 specifications into these charts!2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Dimensions
| 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 | 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 | 116 cm (46.5 in) |
| Dry Weight | 372 kg (818 lb) |
| Load limit | 273 kg (600 lb) |
| Storage capacity | 123 L (32.5 U.S. gal) |
| Fuel tank (including reserve) | 60 L (15.9 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 |
2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Engine Specs
| 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 | Engine Specs |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Rotax® 4-TEC®. Single Over Head Camshaft (SOHC) |
| 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 |
| Intake system | Supercharger with external intercooler |
| Throttle body | 52 mm |
| Performance | 255 HP |
| Displacement | 1494 cm3 (91.2 in3) |
| Bore | 100 mm (3.9 in) |
| Stroke | 63.4 mm (2-1/2 in) |
| Compression ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Cooling Type | Closed-loop cooling |
| 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. |
2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Liquids
| 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 | Liquids |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Unleaded gasoline - Inside North America: 91 (R + M)/2, Outside North America: 95 RON |
| Coolant | Ethylene-glycol 50%/50% antifreeze/water. Coolant containing corrosion inhibitors for internal combustion aluminum engines |
2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Propulsion
| 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 | Propulsion |
|---|---|
| Propulsion system | Sea-Doo® direct drive |
| Jet pump type | Axial flow, single stage. Large hub with 10-vane stator |
| Jet pump material | Aluminum |
| Transmission type | Direct drive, forward/neutral/reverse |
| Trim system | Electric VTS (Variable Trim System) |
| Impeller | Stainless steel |
| Minimum required water level for jet pump | 90 cm (3 ft) underneath the lowest rear portion of the hull |
2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Electrical Features
| 2008 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 | Electrical Features |
|---|---|
| Ignition system type | Digital inductive |
| 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-X 255 for Sale
If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 for sale.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-X 255s 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-X 255!What is a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was a supercharged 3-seater “musclecraft” jet ski.
What Year did Sea-Doo Make the RXT-X 255?
Sea-Doo marketed the RXT-X 255 from 2008 through 2009.
How Many People Could Ride a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was rated for three riders.
What Size Storage Compartment Did a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Have?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 featured a small glove box, and a large front storage with a total storage capacity of 32.5 gallons.
Was the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Supercharged?
Yes, the RXT-X 255 was powered by a supercharged Rotax engine.
What Size was the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was 130 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 46.5 inches high.
How Much Did a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Weigh?
The dry weight of the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was 818 pounds.
What Kind of Engine Did the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Have?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 engine was a supercharged and intercooled 4-stroke ROTAX 1503. This 1494 cc, SOHC triple featured a closed-loop cooling system and a Multipoint Fuel Injection.
How Much Horsepower Did a 2008-2009 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Have?
The 2008-2009 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 provided 255 HP.
How Many cc Was a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 featured a 1494 cc triple engine.
Was a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 a 4-Stroke Ski?
Yes, the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 utilized a 4-stroke engine.
Did the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Have Reverse?
Yes, the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was equipped with manual reverse.
How Much Weight Could a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Hold?
The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was 600 pounds.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Hold?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 utilized a 15.9-gallon (60 L) fuel tank.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Use?
The fuel consumption of the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was about 20.5 GPH at WOT.
Could the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Yes, the Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was rated for three riders, so it was recommended for tow sports.
How Fast Did a 2008-2009 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Go?
The top speed of a 2008-2009 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 was 67 mph in stock condition.
How Fast Did a Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Go from 0 to 30?
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 could go from 0 to 30 mph in 1.5 seconds.
How Much is a 2008-2009 Sea-Doo RXT-X 255 Worth?
It’s hard to tell the exact price of a first-generation Sea-Doo RXT-X 255, as it strongly depends on its year, condition, and location. But as a rule of thumb, the prices typically range from $5,000 up to $9,000.
