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2026 Kawasaki SX-X 160 Review [Video]

2026 Kawasaki SX-X 160 Review [Video]

The Kawasaki SX-X 160 is a fixed-steering variant of the proven SX-R 160 (formerly: SXR 1500) stand-up Jet Ski. At first glance, it looks like the successor of the vintage Kawasaki X-2, but these two models are quite different.

If you want to find out more about this all-new Kawasaki racing PWC, this post is for you.

JetDrift has compiled everything you need to know into this detailed review!

2026 Kawasaki SX-X 160 Review

Hull and Top Deck

In late 2024, Kawasaki announced the release of a new fixed-steering stand-up jet ski for the 2026 season.

Labeled as Kawasaki SX-X 160, this exciting ski is built on the platform of the SX-R 160.

This shell debuted in the 2017 model year on the SX-R 1500, which was rebranded as SX-R 160 in 2023.

As the name suggests, this impressive hull was specifically engineered to accommodate the proven 1.5 liter 4-stroke Kawasaki jet ski engine.

In terms of dimensions, it measures 104.5 inches in length and 30.1 inches in width.

While The SX-X 160 shares this hull with the SX-R 160, it features a slightly different top deck design.

There’s no question that the key difference between these skis is their steering system. While the SX-R 160 was designed with a traditional moving handle pole, the SX-X enjoys a unique fixed-steering system.

This design carries over the legacy of the iconic Kawasaki X-2, which was manufactured in the late ‘80s and ‘90s.

However, the SX-X 160 is not only significantly larger and heavier than the 2-stroke X-2, but it also lacks the mini center seat. Instead, it utilizes a standard tray like any other modern stand-up PWC.

While few riders will miss this seat, most of them will certainly not regret its absence.

Let’s face it, many of the old-school X-2s were flat decked for a better riding experience and easier reboarding.

Therefore, the Japanese manufacturer did not see much point in carrying the seat over to the SX-X.

On the other hand, it was also much easier to use the tray of the SX-R 160 than having to completely redesign its deck to accommodate a seat.

However, aftermarket seat kits will more than likely be available for this model!

Engine

Besides its body, the SX-X 160 shares its engine and pump with the SX-R 160.

This power source is a naturally-aspirated, 1498cc, 4-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder Kawasaki marine engine rated at 160hp.

Kawasaki uses the same engine to power all its non-supercharged jet skis, including the STX-160 series, the Ultra 160, and the innovative Ultra 160LX-S Angler.

What’s more, supercharged models also utilize the same base engine, but their performance is boosted with a belt-driven supercharger.

Believe it or not, this 1498cc Kawasaki marine power mill has been in production since 2004 without any significant changes.

Takeaways

The Kawasaki SX-X 160 is a 4-stroke fixed-steering stand-up jet ski out of the box.

Even though the manufacturer announced this model in late 2024, it will only hit the showroom floor in 2026.

When it comes to its design and specifications, it’s safe to say that the 2026 SX-X 160 is a fixed-steering version of the SX-R 160 stand-up.

These skis share most of their features including the hull, engine, and pump.

Their top deck also has a lot in common, but while the SX-R has a moving handle pole, the SX-X is designed with an old-school fixed-steering system.

Combined with the large platform and the powerful 4-stroke engine, the ski creates a bridge between old-school and modern stand-up PWCs.

This is no surprise since SX-X 160 is inspired by the iconic 2-stroke Kawasaki X-2.

But compared to its vintage predecessor, the SX-X is less nimble and lacks a center seat as well. In return, it’s much more powerful, and due to a larger body, it’s far more stable as well.

Due to its extra buoyancy and stability, it’s a great ski for riders who want to switch from a sit-down to a stand-up PWC.

The closest competitors of the SX-X 160 include the lesser-known Krash Reaper and the Yamaha SuperJet with an aftermarket fixed-steering hood.