2014-2021 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Review and Specs [Video]
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was an upgraded configuration of the popular 310X, featuring a bolstered luxury seat, a sound system, and a unique color scheme. Except for these minor differences and their unique design, these skis were basically identical. The Ultra 310LX was completely revamped for 2022, so it returned with many innovative features.
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 310LX review!
2014-2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Review
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Hull and Top Deck
Kawasaki released the Ultra 310 line in 2014 as the successor to the proven Ultra 300 series.
This family consisted of three members, the 310X, 310R, and the high-end 310LX. The latter was marketed as the flagship Kawasaki Jet Ski from 2014 through 2021.
These machines shared their platform with the non-supercharged Ultra LX, which measured 132.7 inches in length, and 47 inches in width. There were only slight differences in their heights.
This deep-V-shaped hull was fairly heavy and had a 22.5-degree deadrise, so it offered great rough water handling and outstanding stability.
The roomy top deck of the Ultras had a 20.6-gallon fuel tank and a 56-gallon overall storage capacity, split into a bow storage, a smaller under-seat storage bin, and a standard glovebox.
With a curb weight of 1074 pounds, the Ultra LX was the heaviest Kawasaki Jet Ski in the fleet.
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Engine and Propulsion
The Ultra 310LX shared its 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, 4-valve, inline 4-cylinder engine with its 310 brothers. This high-performance, supercharged, 310 HP power mill was derived from the ZX-R 14 Ninja motorcycle.
The key features of this powerhouse were as follows:
- 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC configuration
- Semi-dry-sump lubrication system
- Eaton Twin Vortices Series (TVS) supercharger
- Air-to-water intercooler
- Open-loop cooling
- Digital fuel injection
- Ignition: Digital transistor
- Electric start
This proven supercharged powerhouse underwent several performance upgrades over the years, which translated to significant power increases:
- 2007: 250 HP
- 2009: 260 HP
- 2011: 300 HP
- 2014: 310 HP
- New heat-resistant plastic intake manifold is reshaped for improved low-mid range power
- New cast pistons feature additional ring land V-grooves for better oil retention
- Hardened nickel 33.4mm intake and 28.3mm exhaust valves offer superior reliability
- Two-layer oil cooler offers efficient cooling
- Large cam chain increases reliability in a supercharged engine application
- Reinforced crankcase adds to engine’s durability and reliability
- New Fuel pump provides greater fuel flow volume for increased power and better fuel efficiency
- New Thicker water jackets improve cooling performance
- Check valve system between the cylinder jacket and water muffler that shuts water flow off above 2,000 rpm, to keep the cooling water inside the cylinder jacket for optimum cooling performance
- New Piston cooling oil jets increased from one jet per piston to two jets per piston for increased piston cooling
- New Oil pan features additional baffle plates to prevent oil slosh during tight turns or extreme acceleration/deceleration
- New Crankcase oil return holes are enlarged for quicker oil return to the oil pan
- Second waterbox for lower decibels
It housed an upgraded 3-blade, stainless steel impeller featuring a longer nose and oval edges for a smoother water flow.
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Features
The standard features of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX were as follows:
- LCD instrumentation
- JetSound Audio System
- Kawasaki Smart Steering system (KSS)
- Kawasaki Splash Deflectors (KSD)
- Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode
- Mechanical reverse
- 20.6-gallon fuel tank
- Front storage compartment
- Glovebox
- Under-seat storage case
- Adjustable handlebar mount
- Bolstered luxury PWC seat
- Variable trim system
- Tool kit
- Rear grab handle
- Reboarding step
- Mooring cleats
- Tow hook
- Sponsons
- Deck mat
While rival manufacturers released their brake systems in the 2010s, (Sea-Doo iBR: 2009, Yamaha RiDE: 2015), Kawasaki Ultras were marketed with an outdated, cable-controlled reverse gate.
This outdated mechanism could only move the ski backward and wasn’t intended to be used for braking.
Consequently, it offered less safety and comfort than the electrically-controlled brake and reverse systems of its competitors.
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Performance Handling
Thanks to its heavy weight and deep-V hull, the Ultra 310LX offered excellent stability, precise cornering performance, and outstanding straight-line tracking.
Its deep keel cut through the chop with ease, so it did a very good job on rough waters as well.
The position of the handlebars could be adjusted for both forward/reverse and height positions. This feature was a game changer for tall riders who could set the handlebars higher for a more comfortable standing position when riding.
In terms of performance numbers, the Ultra 310LX topped out at 67 mph. The fuel consumption of the ski was 24 GPH at full throttle, so its 20.6-gallon fuel tank offered a cruising range of 54 miles or 49 minutes of fun.
Due to its stable hull and the large rear platform, the Ultra 310LX was recommended for various activities like fishing, touring, and even tow sports.Beginner riders appreciated the safety of the Kawasaki Smart Steering (KSS) system and the Smart Learning Operation (SLO) key.
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was manufactured from 2014 through 2021 without any significant changes, but was completely redesigned for the 2022 model year.
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX vs. 310X vs. 310R
What were the differences between the Kawasaki 310LX, 310X, and 310R? – we get this question more often than not.
In a nutshell, the 310LX was considered the flagship model in this breed, featuring a bolstered luxury seat, adjustable handlebars, and a JetSound sound system.
In contrast, the 310R came with motorcycle-like non-adjustable handlebars, a sport seat, and a race-inspired Kawasaki-green color scheme.
The most affordable model in the 310 series was the base 310X, which also came standard with adjustable handlebars but featured a flat, bench-like seat and a simpler design.
To be more precise, the key differences between these models were as follows:
Specs | 310R | 310X | 310LX |
---|---|---|---|
Curb Weight (lbs) | 1052 | 1047 | 1074 |
Height (in) | 45.3 | 45.5 | 49.4 |
Air Draft (in) | 33.9 | 34.1 | 38 |
Adjustable Handlebars | No | Yes | Yes |
Sound System | No | No | Yes |
Seat | Sport | Basic | Luxury |
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Specs Charts
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the 2018 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX into these charts:Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Engine Specs
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX | Engine Specs |
---|---|
Type | 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve, water-cooled, supercharged |
Displacement | 1 498 cm³ (91.4 cu in.) |
Bore and Stroke | 83 × 69.2 mm (3.27 × 2.72 in.) |
Compression Ratio | 8.2 : 1 |
Ignition System | Digital transistor |
Lubrication System | Semi-dry sump |
Fuel System | Digital fuel injection |
Antiknock Index (RON+MON)/2 | Minimum Rating 90 |
Starting System | Electric starter |
Battery | 12 V 18 Ah |
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Tuning Specifications
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX | Tuning Specifications |
---|---|
Spark Plug Type | NGK PMR9B |
Spark Plug Gap | 0.6 ∼ 0.7 mm (0.024 ∼ 0.028 in.) |
Spark Plug Terminal | Solid post terminal |
Ignition Timing | 0° ATDC @1 300 r/min ∼ 17° 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 310LX Drive System
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX | Drive System |
---|---|
Coupling | Direct drive from engine |
Jet Pump Type | Axial-flow, single-stage |
Jet Pump Thrust | 8 407 N (858 kgf, 1890 lb) |
Steering | Steerable nozzle |
Braking | Water drag |
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Performance
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX | Performance |
---|---|
Minimum Turning Radius | 4.0 m (13.1 ft) |
Fuel Consumption | 91 L/h (24 US gal/h) @full throttle |
Cruising Range (1) | 86.2 km (53.6 miles) @full throttle |
Cruising Range (2) | 49 minutes |
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Dimensions and Capacities
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX | Dimensions and Capacities |
---|---|
Overall Length | 3 370 mm (132.7 in.) |
Overall Width | 1 195 mm (47.0 in.) |
Overall Height | 1 155 mm (49.4 in.) |
Curb Mass | 475 kg (1074 lb) |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L (20.6 US gal) |
Number of passengers (driver incl.) | 3 persons (1 operator and 2 passengers) |
Load limit | 225 kg (496 lb) |
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Engine Oil
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX | Engine Oil |
---|---|
Type | API SG, SH, SJ, SL, or SM with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2 |
Viscosity | SAE 10W-40 |
Oil Capacity | 5.5 L (5.8 US qt) |
Takeaways
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the 2014-2021 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX!What is a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX?
The Ultra 310LX was a supercharged luxury sit-down Jet Ski manufactured by Kawasaki.
When did the Ultra 310LX Come Out?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX debuted for the 2014 model year.
What Years Did Kawasaki Make the Ultra 310LX?
Kawasaki marketed the Ultra 310LX from 2014 through 2021.
What Size was a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX measured 132.7 inches in length, 47 inches in width, and 49.4 inches in height, while its maximum draft was 13.9 inches.
How Much Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Weigh?
The curb weight of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was 1074 pounds.
How Much Weight Could a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Carry?
The load capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was 496 pounds including riders and cargo.
What Size Storage Compartment Did the Ultra 310LX Have?
The total storage capacity of the Ultra 310LX was 56 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 310LX?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX could carry 3 adult riders.
What Kind of Engine was in the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was powered by a 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder Kawasaki engine.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Supercharged?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was powered by a supercharged engine.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX a 4-Stroke Jet Ski?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was powered by a 4-stroke engine.
How Much Horsepower Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Have?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX produced a remarkable 310 HP.
What Kind of Oil Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Use?
According to the owner’s manual, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX 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 310LX Hold?
The oil capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was 5.8 US quarts (5.5 L).
How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Hold?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was equipped with a 20.6-gallon fuel tank.
How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Use?
The fuel consumption of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was about 24 GPH at WOT.
What was the Fuel Range of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX?
The claimed fuel range of the Ultra 310LX was about 53.6 miles at full throttle, which equals 49 minutes of riding time.
How Fast Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Go?
The top speed of a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was limited to 67 mph.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Have a Reverse?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX came with a mechanical reverse.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Have a Brake?
No, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was manufactured without a brake system.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Have Speakers?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX came standard with speakers.
Could the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX could tow a wakeboarder or skier with ease.
Did the 2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Have Cruise Control?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX was marketed with cruise control and electric trim.
How Much Does a Kawasaki Ultra 310LX Cost?
The asking price of a used Kawasaki Ultra 310LXs varies between $9,000 and $20,000 depending on the year and its condition.