Kawasaki Ultra 160LX & LX-S Review and Specs [Video]

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The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S are completely identical to the high-end Ultra 310LX and LX-S, except that the 160 models come with the naturally-aspirated, 1498cc, 160 HP engine option and a slightly smaller jet pump. Hence, they are slightly lighter as well.

If you want to find out more about these naturally-aspirated full-size Kawasaki jet skis, you’ve come to the right place.

We at JetDrift have compiled the specs and all the key info you need into this Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S review!

Kawasaki Ultra 160 Review

Kawasaki Ultra 160LX Review

Surprisingly, Kawasaki released two new models in the middle of the season, including the Ultra 160LX and Ultra 160LX-S.

The former is completely identical to the flagship Ultra 310LX, except for its naturally-aspirated power source.

This power source of both models is a 4-stroke, inline-4 cylinder Kawasaki marine engine, pretty much the same as you can find in the Recreation STX-160 series as well as the SX-R 160.

Compared to its supercharged counterpart, this engine is much more fuel efficient and tends to be more reliable.

The key features of this power mill are as follows:

  • Displacement: 1,498cc
  • Engine type: 4-stroke
  • Cylinders: Inline-4
  • Bore x stroke: 83.0 x 69.2mm
  • Compression ratio: 10.6:1
  • Valves: 16 valves with hydraulic lifters
  • DOHC – Dual Overhead Camshaft
  • Fuel system: Electronically controlled fuel injection: ∅60 mm × 1
  • Ignition: Digital
  • Starting System: Electric
  • Performance: 160 HP
  • Open-loop water cooling system
  • Electronic fuel injection system

The engine delivers power to a 155mm, axial-flow jet pump, featuring a stainless steel, 3-blade, oval-edge impeller. In contrast, the supercharged equivalent of this ski has a slightly larger, 160mm jet pump.

The Ultra 160LX inherited its innovative deep-V hull, top deck, and color scheme from the Ultra 310LX.

This platform was released for the 2022 model year, replacing the outdated ’14-’21 Ultra 310 models.

In a nutshell, the key features of this full-size Kawasaki jet ski platform include:

  • Deep-V hull design
  • 5-degree deadrise
  • FMC fiberglass material
  • Reinforced bow
  • Length: 140.9 in
  • Width: 47.0 in
  • Height: 48.8 in

Just like the hull, the top deck of the 310LX has also been redesigned from scratch.

Keeping a low center of gravity in mind, the deck was lowered by 1.28 inches and was returned with many exciting innovations, including:

  • Wind-deflecting meter visor
  • Deeper and wider footwells
  • KSRD – Kawasaki’s brake and reverse system
  • Extended rear platform (+ 7.9-inches)
  • Multi-Mount Bars
  • New front bumper with Kawasaki Splash Deflectors (KSD)
  • Raised rear bumper
  • Built-in cleats for safe docking
  • Larger mirrors
  • Dual cup holders
  • Foldable reboarding step
  • Adjustable tilt handlebars
  • 7” TFT color dashboard
  • River Mark emblem
  • ERGO-FIT saddle
  • Ebony/Gold color scheme
  • Bow storage: 32.8 gallons
  • Dual “gullwing” glovebox: 10.5 gallons (with a 0.5-gallon watertight box)
  • Rear wet storage: 0.7 gallons

Kawasaki Ultra 160LX-S Review

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and 160LX-S enjoy the same platform and engine, the difference between them is only in their equipment levels and color schemes.

The latter comes with a “Candy Steel Furnace Orange” dress but lacks some features, like the LXury saddle, the visor, and the Jetsound 4S audio system.

It also should be mentioned that the Ultra 160LX-S and the Ultra 310LX-S are also identical, except the latter houses a 310 HP supercharged engine and a 160mm jet pump.

Kawasaki Ultra 160LX Specs Chart

For your convenience, we’ve listed the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX specifications in these charts!

Kawasaki Ultra 160LX Engine Specs

Kawasaki Ultra 160LXEngine Specs
Engine4-stroke, DOHC, four valves per cylinder
CylindersInline-4
Engine Stroke4
Displacement1,498cc
Bore x Stroke83.0 x 69.2mm
Compression Ratio10.6:1
InductionNaturally-aspirated
Maximum Boost16.8 psi
Cooling SystemInducted water
Fuel SystemDFI® with 60mm throttle body
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
Starting SystemElectric
Propulsion System155mm jet pump, axial-flow, single stage
Impeller3-blade, oval-edge stainless steel
Lubrication Semi-dry sump system
Coupling Direct drive from engine

Kawasaki Ultra 160LX Dimensions and Capacities

Kawasaki Ultra 160LXDimensions and Capacities
Overall Length 140.9 in.
Overall Width 47.0 in.
Overall Height 48.8 in.
Curb Weight 987.8 lb.
Seating Capacity3
Color Choices Ebony/Metallic Shadow Gold
Load Capacity 496 lb.
Storage Capacity 44.5 gal.
Fuel Capacity 21.1 gal.
Oil Capacity 5.8 qt.

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

Takeaway – FAQs About the Kawasaki Ultra 160 Series

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Kawasaki Ultra 160 line!

What’s the Difference Between the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX, and 160LX-S?

It’s safe to say that the Kawasaki Ultra 160X and 160LX-S are almost identical.

The only difference between these models is their different color schemes and some extra features on the 160LX, including the audio system, visor, and adjustable LXury seat.

These skis were released for the 2023 model year as the new naturally-aspirated Kawasaki Jet Ski series.

What Size are a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S?

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S are 140.9 inches long, 47.0 inches wide, and 48.8 inches high.

How Much Does a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S Weigh?

The curb weight of the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX is 987.8 pounds, while the 160LX-S weighs 963.6 pounds.

What Kind of Engine is in the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and 160 LX-S?

The engine of the Ultra 160LX and LX-S is the proven 1,498cc, 4-cylinder Kawasaki marine engine. This 4-stroke power source features an electronic fuel injection system and open-loop water cooling.

How Much Horsepower Does a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S Have?

Ultra 160LX and LX-S offer 160 HP.

Are the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S Supercharged?

No, the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and 160LX-S come with a naturally-aspirated engine option.

How Many Passengers Can the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX Carry?

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S can carry 3 adult riders legally and comfortably.

How Much Weight Can a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and 160 LX-S Hold?

The total weight capacity of Kawasaki Ultra 310LX and LX-S is 496 pounds.

What Size Storage Compartment Do the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S Have?

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S feature a 32.8-gallon bow storage, a 10.5-gallon “gullwing” dual glove box, and 0.7-gallon wet storage, translating to a total storage capacity of 44.5 gallons.

How Much Fuel Does a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S Hold?

Keeping longer tours in mind, the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S are equipped with a large, 21.1-gallon fuel tank.

How Long is the Factory Warranty on a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S?

The limited factory warranty covers the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S for only one year.

How Much Does a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S Cost?

In 2024, the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX-S is available for an MSRP of $17,199, while the more advanced 160LX costs $18,199.

Where Can You Find a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and LX-S For Sale?

If you are in the market for a Kawasaki Ultra 160LX or a 160LX-S, don’t hesitate to contact Kawasaki’s official website.

You may also find our jet ski comparison tool useful, with which you can compare the latest jet ski models head-to-head!

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