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2014-2021 Kawasaki Ultra 310R Review and Specs [Video]
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R was the flagship performance Kawasaki Jet Ski from 2014 through 2021. It was built on a large stable deep-V Ultra platform and utilized a 310 HP supercharged engine.
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 310R review!
2014-2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310R Review
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Hull and Top Deck
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R was released in 2014 as the most powerful jet ski ever built.
It inherited its fiberglass platform from the 300X series, measuring 132.7 inches in length, 47 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height.
This 22.5-degree deadrise hull was significantly larger and heavier than the competitors, so it offered outstanding rough water handling.
The manufacturer used this shell for many great skis including the entire Ultra 310 family as well as the non-supercharged Ultra LX.Its large top deck ensured industry-leading capacities, including a 56-gallon overall storage capacity and a 20.6-gallon gas tank. The former was split into a regular bow storage, a glovebox, and a storage case under the rear portion of the seat.
Although its roomy 2-piece seat was rated for three riders, it was clearly built around the operator. It featured one large bolster for adequate back support for the driver, while the passengers only got a relatively flat pillion seat.
The curb weight of the ski was no less than 1047 pounds while its load limit was 498 pounds.
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Engine and Propulsion
The power source is the Ultra 310R was a 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, 4-valve, inline 4-cylinder Kawasaki marine engine rated at 310 HP. This engine was borrowed from the ZX-R Ninja motorcycle family but heavily redesigned for marine use.
It featured a semi-dry-sump lubrication system, open-loop cooling, digital fuel injection, electric start, and a direct drive system.Just like any other flagship Kawasaki jet ski, the Ultra 310R was also boosted by an Eaton TVS supercharger. This constant-displacement supercharger featured a belt-drive system and was supported by an intercooler.
This 310 HP engine option was an upgraded configuration of the predecessor 300 HP Kawasaki marine engine. (This power mill was originally rated for 250 HP but underwent several power upgrades over the years, including 2009: 260 HP, 2011: 300 HP, and 2014: 310 HP).
Where did the extra 10 HP come from?
As reported by the ProRiderMag, the engine underwent some minor changes to improve efficiency and reduce mechanical loss, 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
This advanced propulsion system produced less cavitation, better performance, quieter operation, and an incredible 1890 pounds of thrust!
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Features
The standard features of the Kawasaki Ultra 310R 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
- Motocross-style, electro-polished, stainless steel handlebar
- 12-position adjustable handlebar mount
- Bolstered sport 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
- Aggressive graphics
While competitor manufacturers released their systems in the 2010s, (Sea-Doo iBR: 2009, Yamaha RiDE: 2015), the Kawasaki Ultra 310R only had an outdated mechanical reverse.
Although this cable-controlled reverse mechanism did the job, it ensured less safety and comfort than their electric-controlled counterparts and wasn’t intended to be used for braking.
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Performance Handling
Thanks to its deep-V hull design, the 310R offered precise cornering performance and great straight-line tracking.
Its heavy body and deep keel could cut the chop effectively, so the 310R was known for its outstanding rough water performance.
So, it’s no surprise that this model won numerous endurance championships over the years.
The top speed of the Ultra 310R was a limited 67 mph on the GPS, which was more than enough for the average rider.
In terms of fuel economy, the claimed fuel consumption of the Ultra 310R was a whopping 24 GPH at full throttle. This translated to a cruising range of 54 miles or 49 minutes.
Due to its stable hull and large swim platform, the 310R could be used for various activities including tow sports, fishing, and even touring.
Beginner riders appreciated the advanced Kawasaki Smart Steering (KSS) system and the moderate performance of the Smart Learning Operation (SLO) key.
Believe it or not, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was manufactured for 8 years without any significant changes.
The legendary 310R was discontinued in 2021 when the manufacturer introduced the all-new Ultra 310 family.
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Specs Charts
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the 2013 Kawasaki Ultra 310R into these charts:Kawasaki Ultra 310R Engine Specs
Kawasaki Ultra 310R | 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 310R Tuning Specifications
Kawasaki Ultra 310R 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 310R Drive System
Kawasaki Ultra 310R | Drive System |
---|---|
Coupling | Direct drive from engine |
Jet Pump Type | Axial flow single stage |
Jet Pump Thrust | 8 407 N (858 kgf, 1860 lb) |
Steering | Steerable nozzle |
Braking | Water drag |
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Performance
Kawasaki Ultra 310R | 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 mile) @full throttle |
Cruising Range (2) | 49 minutes |
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Dimensions and Capacities
Kawasaki Ultra 310R | Dimensions and Capacities |
---|---|
Overall Length | 3 370 mm (132.7 in.) |
Overall Width | 1 195 mm (47.0 in.) |
Overall Height | 1 150 mm (45.3 in.) |
Curb Mass | 475-487 kg (1047 - 1074 lb) |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L (20.6 US gal) |
Number of passenger (driver incl.) | 3 persons (1 operator and 2 passengers) |
Load limit | 225 kg (496 lb) |
Kawasaki Ultra 310R Engine Oil
Kawasaki Ultra 310R | 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 Kawasaki Ultra 310R!What is a Kawasaki Ultra 310R?
The Ultra 310R was a race-ready sit-down jet ski manufactured by Kawasaki.
When did the Ultra 310R Come Out?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R debuted for the 2014 model year.
What Years Did Kawasaki Make the Ultra 310R?
Kawasaki marketed the Ultra 310R from 2014 through 2021.
What Size was a Kawasaki Ultra 310R?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R measured 132.7 inches in length, 47 inches in width, and 45.3 inches in height, while its maximum draft was 13.9 inches.
How Much Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Weigh?
The dry weight of the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was 908 pounds, while its curb weight was 1047 pounds.
How Much Weight Could a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Carry?
The load capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was 496 pounds including riders and cargo.
What Size Storage Compartment Did the Ultra 310R Have?
The total storage capacity of the Ultra 310R 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 310R?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R could carry 3 adult riders.
What Kind of Engine was in the Kawasaki Ultra 310R?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R was powered by a 4-stroke, 1498cc, DOHC, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder Kawasaki engine.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra 310R Supercharged?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R was powered by a supercharged and intercooled engine.
Was the Kawasaki Ultra 310R a 4-stroke?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was powered by a 4-stroke engine.
How Much Horsepower Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Have?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R produced a remarkable 310 HP.
What Kind of Oil Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Use?
According to the owner’s manual, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R 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 310R Hold?
The oil capacity of the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was 5.8 US quarts (5.5 L).
How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Hold?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R was equipped with a 20.6-gallon fuel tank.
How Much Fuel Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Use?
The fuel consumption of the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was about 24 GPH at WOT.
What was the Fuel Range of the Kawasaki Ultra 310R?
The claimed fuel range of the Ultra 310R was about 53.6 miles at full throttle, which equals 49 minutes of riding time.
How Fast Did a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Go?
The top speed of a Kawasaki Ultra 310R was limited to 67 mph.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310R Have a Reverse?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R came with a mechanical reverse.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310R Have a Brake?
No, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was manufactured without a brake system.
Did the Kawasaki Ultra 310R Have Speakers?
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R was marketed without speakers.
Could the Kawasaki Ultra 310R Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R could tow a wakeboarder or skier with ease.
Did the 2022 Kawasaki Ultra 310R Have Cruise Control?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ultra 310R was marketed with cruise control and electric trim.
How Much Does a Kawasaki Ultra 310R Cost?
The asking price of a used Kawasaki Ultra 310Rs varies between $9,000 and $20,000 depending on the year and its condition.