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Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Review and Specs [Video]
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was the flagship touring/luxury model in the 2009 Sea-Doo lineup. This unique ski featured a supercharged 255 HP Rotax engine and the Sea-Doo-exclusive iS Intelligent Suspension system.
If you want to find out more about this high-end touring Sea-Doo, this post is for you.
We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 review!
2009 Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Review
By 2009, Sea-Doo had expanded its popular GTX line with the all-new GTX Limited iS 255.Its smaller brothers were the entry-level GTX 155 and mid-range GTX 215.
Each of them shared the same GTX hull, but the Limited iS stood out with its high-performance 255 HP engine and a unique suspension system.
After only one year of production, it was phased out by the more powerful GTX Limited iS 260 in 2010.
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about this model in detail!
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Hull and Deck
Just like any GTX-based Sea-Doo, the 2009 GTX Limited iS 255 was also built on the well-designed S3 hull.This platform ensured a comfortably smooth riding experience in all water conditions. Its unique design created a low-pressure zone, which ensured better traction and more precise handling.
In addition, it reduced drag, which translated to higher top-end speed.
The S3 featured a deep-V design with a narrow chine that could cut through the chop with ease. Thanks to its composite fiberglass construction, this hull was 19% lighter than its competitors.
Regarding dimensions, the ski measured 139 inches in length, 48 inches in width, and 44/50 inches in height, and its dry weight was a whopping 970 pounds.
Its special, 2-piece top deck featured an angular design with sharp edges.
Keeping convenience in mind, it was designed with many innovative features, including front spray deflectors, retractable mooring lines, and a bolstered touring seat.
It also housed an 18.5-gallon fuel tank, standard bow storage, and a glovebox with an organizer.
The overall storage capacity of the ski was 16.4 gallons while its load limit was 500 pounds, 100 pounds less than other full-size Sea-Doos.
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Suspension
The most exciting feature of the GTX Limited iS 255 was arguably its Intelligent Suspension (iS) system.How did it work?
In a nutshell, the Sea-Doo iS suspension was a mechanical system featuring one Fox PS6 Racing shock absorber and one heavy-duty spring mounted between the upper moving deck and the fixed lower deck. The total suspension travel was 6 inches.
The main idea behind this innovation was to isolate the rider and the passengers from the repeated impact of rough waters.
The system could be adjusted to fit different riding conditions and number of passengers.
Riders could use the auto-calibration or select from nine settings on a handlebar-mounted control button.
The iS suspension system was introduced on the GTX Limited iS 255, but over the years it found its way onto many other popular Sea-Doos including the successor GTX Limited iS 260, GTX iS 215, RXT iS 255, and RXT iS 260.
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Engine and Propulsion
As the name suggests, the power source of the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was the 255 HP variant of the 4-stroke, 1494cc, SOHC, 3-cylinder inline Rotax 4-TEC engine.
The key features of this powerhouse were as follows:
- 4-stroke, 3-cylinder architecture
- Engine power: 255 HP @ 8000 RPM
- Supercharged and intercooled
- Single throttle body (60 mm) with an actuator
- 12 valves (4 per cylinder) with hydraulic lifters
- Single Over Head camshaft (SOHC)
- Compression ratio: 8.4:1
- Water-cooled exhaust system
- Dry sump lubrication system
- Multi-port fuel injection
- Chokeless starting
- Water/air separator
- Watertight digital ignition
- RPM limiter
- Warning device
- Tips Over Protection System (T.O.P.S.)
- iTC (Intelligent Throttle Control)
- Cruise control
- Water/air separator
- D-Sea-Bel sound reduction system
- Closed-loop cooling system
- Electric starter
- Fuel type: Premium unleaded recommended
- iBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse)
- Replaceable urethane wear ring
- Aluminum stator vanes
- Stainless-steel impeller
- Large diameter drive shaft with a crowned spline design
- Dual automatic vacuum siphon pumps
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Features
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 came with many advanced features, including:
- Interactive Multifunction Digital Information Center
- Sea-Doo learning keys
- Digitally Encoded Security System (D.E.S.S.™)
- Off-Throttle Assisted Steering (O.T.A.S.)
- iS Intelligent Suspension
- Floating safety lanyard
- Handlebar-mounted start/stop buttons
- High-performance electric Variable Trim System (VTS™)
- Removable, watertight front storage bin
- Glovebox
- Swim platform storage
- Adjustable handlebar
- Tilt steering
- Comfort hand grips (“palm grips”)
- iBR brake and reverse system
- 3-rider touring seat
- Set strap
- Splash deflector
- Dual drain plugs
- Finger throttle lever
- Tow hook
- Mooring cleats
- Automatic retractable mooring lines
- Bumpers
- Rear grab handle
- Quick latch fuel filler design
- Foam flotation
- Sponsons
- Deck mats
- Adjustable mirrors
- Fold-down reboarding step
- Ski tow eye
- Depth finder
- Speed tie
- Removable dry bag
- Recessed cargo cleats
- Sandbag anchor
- Glove box organizer
- Safety kit
- Cover
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Performance
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 built a reputation for outstanding comfort and a smooth operation.
Its suspension system offered very comfortable rides even in rough water conditions.
This was a game changer for passengers who couldn’t grab the handlebars to reduce the bounces on the chop.
The riding position could be tailored using the adjustable tilt steering system, which also moved the display up and down. Therefore, the informative multifunction digital information center was never blocked from your sight.
Powered by the high-performance 255 HP engine option, the top speed of the ski was 65-67 mph under ideal conditions.
Engine power could easily be adjusted by activating the riding modes of the Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) system.In terms of fuel economy, the maximum fuel consumption of the GTX Limited iS 260 was 19.5 GPH at WOT, so its 18.5-gallon fuel tank offered a riding time of 57 minutes.
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Problems
Although the GTX Limited iS 255 was a revolutionary PWC, it had some definite flaws, which were as follows:
- It was hard and expensive to work on and repair
- Various electrical issues
- iBR issues
- Rubber-coated driveshaft
- Low storage capacity
What’s more, its engine was nestled in an enclosed plastic compartment due to its unique “two deck” architecture.
This coffin not only made the engine hard to work on, but it also didn’t allow the engine to breathe and dry out after rides.
In other words, the engine was wrapped in a plastic box, which kept moisture in all the time. This humidity caused a lot of corrosion on the wiring harnesses, fuses, and other electrical parts.
All of these resulted in various electrical issues and continuous headaches for owners.
Also, the top deck of the Sea-Doo had to be removed before any major engine repair.
The iBR brake and reverse system also proved to be quite unreliable on the early 2009-2011 iBR Sea-Doo models, and the GTX Limited iS 255 was no exception.
This Sea-Doo was also known for its defective rubber-coated driveshaft. This coating would come off with time, which caused severe impeller damage.
Consequently, if you are considering buying a used Sea-Doo, you should stay away from the GTX Limited iS 255 (and all suspension Sea-Doos).
Instead, you should invest in a naturally-aspirated model manufactured after 2011.
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Specs Charts
For your convenience, we’ve compiled the key specs of the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 into these charts:Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Engine Specs
| Engine Specs | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Type | Rotax® 1503 4-TEC®, 4-stroke, Single Over Head Camshaft (SOHC) |
| Induction | Supercharged intercooled |
| Number of cylinder | 3 |
| Number of valve | 12 valves with hydraulic lifters (no adjustment) |
| Displacement | 1494 cc (91.2 cu. in) |
| Bore | 100 mm (3.9 in) |
| Stroke | 63.4 mm (2.5 in) |
| Compression ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Maximum HP | 8000 RPM |
| Lubrication Type | Dry sump (2 oil pumps). Replaceable oil filter. Water-cooled oil cooler |
| Lubrication Oil Type | XPS summer grade oil (P/N 293 600 121). Refer to LUBRICATION subsection |
| Lubrication Capacity | 3 L (3.2 qt (U.S. liq.)) oil change w/filter, 4.5 L (4.8 qt (U.S. liq.)) total |
| Exhaust system - Type | D-Sea-Bel sound reduction system. Water cooled/water injected (open loop). Direct flow from jet pump |
| Water injection in muffler | 3 x 3.5mm (.138 in) on exhaust pipe and 1 x 3.5mm (.138 in) on muffler |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Cooling System
| Cooling System | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Type | Closed-loop cooling system |
| Cooling system - Coolant | Ethylene-glycol and distilled water (50% - 50%) Use premix coolant from BRP or a coolant specially formulated for aluminum engines |
| Cooling system Capacity | 5.5 L (5.8 qt (U.S. liq.)) total |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Electrical System
| Electrical System | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Magneto generator output | 360 W @ 6000 RPM |
| Ignition system type | IDI (inductive discharge ignition) |
| Ignition timing | Variable (electronically controlled) |
| Anti-start system | D.E.S.S. (Digitally Encoded Security System) with selectable max vehicle speed settings for RK (rental key) and LK (learning key) |
| Spark plug - Make and type | NGK, DCPR8E |
| Spark plug - Gap | 0.7 to 0.8 mm (0.028 to.031 in) |
| Battery | 12 V, 30 Ah |
| Engine speed limiter setting | 8300 RPM |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Fuel System
| Fuel System | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Fuel Injection Type | Multipoint fuel injection with iTC (intelligent Throttle Control). Single throttle body (60 mm) with an actuator |
| Fuel Pressure | 386 kPa to 414 kPa (56 PSI to 60 PSI) |
| Fuel Injector Quantity | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded |
| Minimum octane | Inside North America ((RON + MON)/2): 91 or higher, Outside North America (RON): 95 or higher |
| Fuel tank (including reserve) | 70 L (18.5 U.S. gal.) |
| Fuel tank reserve (from low level signal) | approx. 14 L (3.7 U.S. gal.) |
| Idle speed (not adjustable) | 1800 ± 50 RPM |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Steering and Propulsion system
| Steering and Propulsion system | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Steering | Adjustable tilt |
| Steering nozzle pivoting angle | 26° |
| O.T.A.S. (Off-Throttle Assisted Steering) | Electronically-controlled. Achieved with the iBR gate and engine speed |
| Jet Pump Type | Axial flow, single stage |
| Jet Pump Grease Type | Jet pump bearing grease (P/N 293 550 032) |
| Impeller Rotation (seen from rear) | Counterclockwise |
| Impeller material | Stainless steel |
| Drive shaft - Coupling type | Crowned splines, direct drive |
| Minimum required water level for propulsion system | 90 cm (3 ft) underneath the lowest rear portion of hull |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 iBR and VTS
| iBR and VTS | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Description | Intelligent Brake and Reverse activated by a LH lever. Electronically-controlled iBR gate to provide brake, reverse, neutral and forward position |
| VTS system | Electronically-controlled with manual and 2 preset positioning. VTS range angle: 8° up, 5° down |
| Actuator | 12 V, 80 A max. capacity (fused @ 30 A). Reversible PWM (pulse-width modulation) motor |
| iS Suspension | Intelligent suspension. Electronically-controlled suspension with auto mode or manual mode with 9 presets and a dock mode |
| iS Suspension Type | Direct action twin-rate suspension |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Dimensions and Capacities
| Dimensions and Capacities | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Number of passenger (Driver incl.) | 3 |
| Load limit (passenger and 10 kg (22 lb) luggage) | 227 kg (500 lb) |
| Weight (dry) | 441 kg (970 lb) |
| Length | 354 cm (139 in) |
| Width | 122 cm (48 in) |
| Overall height with keel horizontal, suspension extended | 128 cm (50 in) |
| Overall height with keel horizontal, suspension collapsed | 111 cm (44 in) |
Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Performance
| Performance | Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 |
|---|---|
| Estimated Pump Power | 93 kW (125 HP) |
| Maximum fuel consumption at wide open throttle | 73.8 L/h (19.5 U.S. gal/h) |
| Cruising time at full throttle - fuel tank without reserve | ± 43 minutes |
| Cruising time at full throttle - fuel tank reserve (from low level signal) | ± 14 minutes |
Takeaways
As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255:What is a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255?
The 2009 Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was the flagship luxury Sea-Doo featuring an advanced suspension system.
When did the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Come Out?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was offered only in the 2009 season. It was phased out by the GTX Limited iS 260 in 2010.
What is the Difference Between the RXT iS 255 vs. GTX Limited iS 255?
The GTX Limited iS 255 and the RXT iS 255 were very similar Sea-Doos. The main difference between them was that the latter was tuned for performance while the GTX was designed as a “luxury” Sea-Doo.
Hence, it featured a special touring seat, more gauge functions, and a unique color scheme.
Aside from these, the GTX and RXT iS 255 were identical.
What Size was a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 measured 139 inches in length, 48 inches in width, and 44/50 inches in height (suspension collapsed: 44”, suspension extended: 50”).
How Much Did a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Weigh?
The dry weight of the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was 970 pounds.
How Many People Could Ride on a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was rated for three riders.
What Kind of Engine was in the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was powered by a 4-stroke, 1494cc, SOHC, Rotax 4-TEC engine.
Was the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Supercharged?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 utilized a supercharged engine configuration.
Was the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 a 4-Stroke?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was powered by a 4-stroke engine.
How Much Horsepower Did a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Have?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 produced 255 HP in stock condition.
How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Hold?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was equipped with an 18.5-gallon fuel tank.
How Much Oil Did a Sea-Doo GTI SE 133 Hold?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 required 3.2 US quarts of oil with filter (4.8 US quarts total).
How Much Weight Could a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Hold?
The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was 500 pounds.
How Much Gear Could a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Carry?
The total storage capacity of the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was 16.4 gallons.
How Fast Did a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Go?
The top speed of a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was about 65-67 mph under ideal conditions.
Could the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?
Due to its three-seater configuration, the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 could legally tow a wakeboarder or skier.
Did the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Have a Reverse?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 came standard with an electric reverse system.
Did the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Have a Brake?
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 was manufactured with the innovative iBR brake and reverse system.
How Much Does a Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 Cost?
The asking price of a used Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 255 varies between $5,000 and $8,000 depending on the year and its condition.
