2014-2021 Kawasaki Ultra 310X Review and Specs [Video]

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The Kawasaki Ultra 310X was a close relative of the popular 310R, but it came with a different seat, deck mats, and adjustable handlebars. Except for these minor differences and their unique design, these skis were basically identical. The Ultra 310 series was completely redesigned for the 2022 model year, so it returned with an all-new platform and many exciting 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 310X review!

2014-2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310X Review

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Hull and Top Deck

The Kawasaki Ultra 310 series was released in 2014 as an upgraded version of Ultra 300 models.

This family consisted of three members, the 310R, 310X, and 310LX.

These machines shared their platform with the naturally-aspirated Ultra LX, measuring 132.7 inches in length, and 47 inches in width.

This hull had a 22.5-degree deadrise and was larger and heavier than its competitors, so it offered greater stability and outstanding rough water handling.

The roomy top deck of the Ultras had industry-leading capacities, including a 20.6-gallon fuel tank and a 56-gallon overall storage capacity. The latter consisted of standard bow storage, an under-seat storage case, and a glove box.

A distinctive feature of the 310X was its relatively flat “bench-like” seat, while the 310R and the LX came with a more advanced, bolstered seat.

The curb weight of the ski was a whopping 1047 pounds while its load limit was 498 pounds.

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Engine and Propulsion

The Ultra 310X shared its engine with other 310 models. This power source was a 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, 4-valve, inline 4-cylinder, 310 HP Kawasaki marine engine, borrowed from the ZX-R 14 Ninja motorcycle.

The key features of this powerhouse were as follows:

  • 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC architecture
  • Semi-dry-sump lubrication system
  • Eaton Twin Vortices Series (TVS) roots-style supercharger
  • Air-to-water intercooler
  • Open-loop cooling
  • Digital fuel injection
  • Ignition: Digital transistor
  • Electric start

This 310 HP engine option was an upgraded configuration of the predecessor 300 HP Kawasaki marine engine.

In the year of its introduction, this engine was only rated for 250 HP but it underwent several power upgrades over the years, including:

  • 2007: 250 HP
  • 2009: 260 HP
  • 2011: 300 HP
  • 2014: 310 HP

This last extra 10 HP came from some minor changes, including:

  • 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

Engine power was matched with an axial-flow, single-stage jet pump, housing a revamped 3-blade, stainless steel, oval-edge impeller. It also featured a longer nose for a smoother water flow.

This advanced propulsion system produced less cavitation, a quieter operation, and a maximum thrust of 1890 pounds.

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Features

The standard features of the Kawasaki Ultra 310X were as follows:

  • LCD dashboard
  • Kawasaki Smart Steering system (KSS)
  • Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode
  • Mechanical reverse
  • 20.6-gallon fuel tank
  • Front storage compartment
  • Glovebox
  • Under-seat storage case
  • Adjustable handlebar mount
  • 2-piece, flat PWC seat
  • Variable trim system
  • Tool kit (stored in the back of the rear seat)
  • Rear grab handle
  • Reboarding step
  • Mooring cleats
  • Tow hook
  • Sponsons
  • Deck mat

One of the biggest flaws of the Ultra 310X was that it lacked a brake and reverse system.

While competitors introduced their brake systems in the 2010s, (Sea-Doo iBR: 2009, Yamaha RiDE: 2015), the Kawasaki Ultras only had an outdated, cable-controlled reverse gate.

Although this outdated mechanism did the job, it wasn’t intended to be used for braking. Therefore, it ensured less comfort and safety than an electrically-controlled brake and reverse system.

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Performance Handling

Thanks to its heavy deep-V hull, the Kawasaki 310X offered great stability, a precise cornering performance, and amazing straight-line tracking.

Its deep keel could effectively cut through the waves, so it did a very good job on rough waters.

The riding position could be tailored to the operator with a 12-position adjustable handlebar mount.

Just like any other high-performance PWC, the top speed of the Ultra 310X was electronically limited to 67 mph.

The claimed fuel economy of the ski was a whopping 24 GPH at full throttle, translating to a fuel range of 54 miles or 49 minutes of fun.

Its stable hull and large swim platform made the Ultra 310X a good choice for fishing, touring, or even tow sports.

Beginners appreciated the assistance of the Kawasaki Smart Steering (KSS) system and the safety of the Smart Learning Operation (SLO) key.

Surprisingly, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was manufactured from 2014 through 2021 without any major changes but was completely revamped for the 2022 season.

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Specs Charts

For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the 2018 Kawasaki Ultra 310X into these charts:

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Engine Specs

Kawasaki Ultra 310XEngine Specs
Type4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve, water-cooled, supercharged
Displacement1 498 cm³ (91.4 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke83 × 69.2 mm (3.27 × 2.72 in.)
Compression Ratio8.2 : 1
Ignition System Digital transistor
Lubrication System Semi-dry sump
Fuel SystemDigital fuel injection
Antiknock Index (RON+MON)/2Minimum Rating 90
Starting System Electric starter
Battery12 V 18 Ah

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Tuning Specifications

Kawasaki Ultra 310XTuning Specifications
Spark Plug Type NGK PMR9B
Spark Plug Gap0.6 ∼ 0.7 mm (0.024 ∼ 0.028 in.)
Spark Plug TerminalSolid post terminal
Ignition Timing 0° ATDC @1 300 r/min ∼ 17° BTDC @3 000 r/min (rpm)
Idle Speed - in water1 300 ±100 r/min (rpm)
Idle Speed - out of water1 300 ±100 r/min (rpm)

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Drive System

Kawasaki Ultra 310XDrive System
Coupling Direct drive from engine
Jet Pump TypeAxial-flow, single-stage
Jet Pump Thrust8 407 N (858 kgf, 1890 lb)
Steering Steerable nozzle
Braking Water drag

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Performance

Kawasaki Ultra 310XPerformance
Minimum Turning Radius 4.0 m (13.1 ft)
Fuel Consumption91 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 310X Dimensions and Capacities

Kawasaki Ultra 310XDimensions and Capacities
Overall Length3 370 mm (132.7 in.)
Overall Width1 195 mm (47.0 in.)
Overall Height 1 155 mm (45.5 in.)
Curb Mass 475 kg (1047 lb)
Fuel Tank Capacity 78 L (20.6 US gal)
Number of passengers (driver incl.)3 persons (1 operator and 2 passengers)
Load limit225 kg (496 lb)

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Engine Oil

Kawasaki Ultra 310X Engine Oil
TypeAPI SG, SH, SJ, SL, or SM with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2
ViscositySAE 10W-40
Oil Capacity5.5 L (5.8 US qt)

These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.

Takeaways

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Kawasaki Ultra 310X!

What is a Kawasaki Ultra 310X?

The Ultra 310X was a supercharged sit-down Jet Ski manufactured by Kawasaki.

When did the Ultra 310X Come Out?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X debuted for the 2014 model year.

What Years Did Kawasaki Make the Ultra 310X?

Kawasaki marketed the Ultra 310X from 2014 through 2021.

What Size was a Kawasaki Ultra 310X?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X measured 132.7 inches in length, 47 inches in width, and 45.5 inches in height, while its maximum draft was 13.9 inches.

How Much Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Weigh?

The curb weight of the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was 1047 pounds.

How Much Weight Could a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Carry?

The load capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was 496 pounds including riders and cargo.

What Size Storage Compartment Did the Ultra 310X Have?

The total storage capacity of the Ultra 310X 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 310X?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X could carry 3 adult riders.

What Kind of Engine was in the Kawasaki Ultra 310X?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X was powered by a 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder Kawasaki engine.

Was the Kawasaki Ultra 310X Supercharged?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X was powered by a supercharged and intercooled engine.

Was the Kawasaki Ultra 310X a 4-stroke?

Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was powered by a 4-stroke engine.

How Much Horsepower Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Have?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X produced a remarkable 310 HP.

What Kind of Oil Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Use?

According to the owner’s manual, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X 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 310X Hold?

The oil capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was 5.8 US quarts (5.5 L).

How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Hold?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X was equipped with a 20.6-gallon fuel tank.

How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Use?

The fuel consumption of the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was about 24 GPH at WOT.

What was the Fuel Range of the Kawasaki Ultra 310X?

The claimed fuel range of the Ultra 310X was about 53.6 miles at full throttle, which equals 49 minutes of riding time.

How Fast Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Go?

The top speed of a Kawasaki Ultra 310X was limited to 67 mph.

Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310X Have a Reverse?   

Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X came with a mechanical reverse.

Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310X Have a Brake?       

No, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was manufactured without a brake system.

Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310X Have Speakers?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310X was marketed without speakers.

Could the Kawasaki Ultra 310X Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?

Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X could tow a wakeboarder or skier with ease.

Did the 2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310X Have Cruise Control?

Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310X was marketed with cruise control and electric trim.

How Much Does a Kawasaki Ultra 310X Cost?

The asking price of a used Kawasaki Ultra 310Xs varies between $9,000 and $20,000 depending on the year and its condition.

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