Honda AquaTrax Model Reference [2002-2009]

Honda entered the PWC market in 2002 with the introduction of the 3-seater F-12 and the turbocharged F-12X. In the following season, these skis were followed by the much sportier, 2-seater R-12 and R-12X. At the end of the decade, Honda upgraded its F-12 series to the more advanced F-15, but in 2009 the manufacturer terminated its entire PWC line.

If you want to find out more about these skis, this post is for you.

We at JetDrift have compared these skis head-to-head!

Honda AquaTrax Model Reference 2002-2009

Honda AquaTrax F-12 and F-12X

The first Honda PWCs ever built were the 2002 AquaTrax F-12 and F-12X. These skis were 3-seater runabouts built on the same 126-inch long and 49-inch-wide platform.

They also shared the same features but housed different engine options.

The power source of each model was based on the same 1235cc Honda PWC engine, but the F-12 got a naturally-aspirated version rated at 125hp. In 2005 this unit was upgraded to 135hp.

In contrast, the lively F-12X had a turbocharged configuration of this engine that delivered 165hp.

(When it comes to Honda PWCs, the X models were the turbocharged variants.)

Pros:

• 3-rider seat
• Great storage and weight capacities
• More convenience features (reboarding step, tow hook, mirrors, etc.)

Cons:

• Wetter rides
• Less sporty attitude
• Turbo was prone to getting stuck
• Higher fuel consumption

Honda AquaTrax R-12 and R-12X

Released in 2003, the AquaTrax R-12s were the sportier, 2-seater relatives of the larger F-12s.

They shared the same engines, but the R-12s were built on a noticeably smaller platform which measured 120.6 inches in length and 45.4 inches in width. Since the R-12s were only slightly smaller they had very limited capacities as well.

On top of that, they lacked some convenience features like a reboarding step, tow hook, and mirrors.

Even though the R-12s were rated for an operator and a passenger, they were primarily recommended for solo rides.

The naturally-aspirated R-12 delivered 125hp while the turbocharged R-12X cranked out 165hp.

Thanks to their smaller dimensions and lighter weight, the R-12s were much more lively and nimble than the 3-seater AquaTrax models.

Pros:

• Better fuel economy
• Livelier attitude
• Drier rides

Cons:

• Poor stability with a passenger onboard
• Lack of passenger and weight capacity
• Small storage compartments
• Turbo was prone to getting stuck

Honda AquaTrax F-15 and F-15X

In 2008, the AquaTrax F-12X was replaced by the more advanced F-15X. In the following season, the entry-level 3-seater, the F-12, was also phased out by the F-15.

As their name suggests, these skis enjoyed a larger power source.

Based on the same 4-stroke, 1.5L (1470cc), inline-4 engine, the naturally-aspirated F-15 delivered 153hp while the turbo F-15X was rated at 197hp.

Just like the power sources, the hull of the F-15s was completely redesigned. This shell was almost eight inches longer than its predecessor and significantly heavier.

Therefore, the F15s were more stable and predictable than any other Honda PWC.

Due to poor sales figures caused by the 2008 crisis, Honda discontinued its entire PWC line after the 2009 season. However, the remaining inventory continued to be sold in the following years.

Pros:

• Large and stable hull
• Great capacities
• Powerful engine

Cons:

• Tow-positioned handlebars
• Lack of a brake system

Honda AquaTrax Comparison Chart

As a takeaway, we’ve compared the key specifications of each Honda PWC in one chart:

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