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2012-2015 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Specs and Review [Video]

2012-2015 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Specs and Review [Video]

Sea-Doo released the all-new RXP-X 260 for the 2012 model year. Unlike the predecessor RXP-X 255, this new ski featured the entirely new T3 hull and a more powerful 260 HP engine. Just like the 3-seater RXT-X 260, the new RXP-X also became a favorite of racers and performance-minded recreational riders.

If you want to learn all about this high-performance 2-seater Sea-Doo, you’ve come to the right place.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know into this Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 review!

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Review

The Sea-Doo RXP Family

Sea-Doo released its legendary RXP series in late 2003 to replace the outdated 2-stroke XP DI. In the last decades, the RXP family has undergone five different generations, including:

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Hull

There’s no question that the most exciting invention on the 2012 RXP-X 260 was its T3 hull.

This new hull was designed from scratch and exclusively reserved for the new RXP-X. (In contrast, the predecessor RXP/RXP-X models were actually built on a modified GTI hull.)

The main purpose of the new T3 hull was to set a new benchmark in performance handling. And it did a very good job!

As the name suggests, the T3 (Tight-Turning T-shape) hull formed a T shape when viewed from the stern. At first glance, it was obvious that this platform was engineered to provide the best cornering abilities.

This new design utilized a special “multi-stage” surface and rounded chines, allowing the ski to roll into the turns effortlessly. The running pad was also lowered, ensuring a much smaller running surface.

Thanks to this radically new T3 hull, the RXP-X 260 offered a lean-in riding style and that essentially glued the ski into the water in turns.

What’s more, it was also equipped with a pair of new sponsons, which utilized tiny protruding fins on their rear portion. The main idea behind these vertical sponson winglets was to help initiate turns and prevent sliding out.

Also, the sponsons were adjustable to match your skills and riding style.

On top of that, the new RXP-X hull came with vertical trim tabs as standard, designed to increase straight-line stability and top end speed.

Last but not least, the front of the hull featured “anti-splash chines,” which contributed to a drier riding experience.

The all-new T3 hull was completed with a new angular top deck that housed a roomy front storage and a glovebox. As far as storage capacity, the RXP-X 260 offered a remarkable capacity of 30.7 gallons – almost three times as much as its predecessor!

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Ergolock System

Besides its new body, another key feature of the RXP-X 260 was its innovative “Ergolock System,” including a well-designed Ergolorck saddle, adjustable handlebars, and canted footrests.

As the name suggests, this system was designed to “lock” you into the ski!

If you want to learn more about this feature, don’t miss our detailed Sea-Doo Ergolock review or this detailed video:

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Engine

The engine of the RXP-X 260 was the proven supercharged Rotax 1503 4-TEC tiple rated at 260 HP. The key features of this power source were as follows:

  • 1494cc, 3 cylinder in-line
  • Rotax Multipoint Fuel Injection
  • Induction type: Vortex supercharger with intercooler
  • 12 valves (4 valves per cylinder) – SOHC
  • Dry sump oil injection system
  • Closed-loop cooling system
  • NGK DCPR8E spark plugs (x3)
  • Electric starter
Engine power was delivered to an aluminum jet pump featuring a stainless steel impeller.

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Features

Standard features of the 2008 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 were as follows:

  • X-handlebars
  • Billet finger throttle
  • High-performance VTS
  • X-traction footwell carpet and deck pad
  • X-racing seat
  • Speedometer
  • Tachometer
  • Fuel gauge
  • Information Center (20 functions)
  • D.E.S.S.™
  • O.P.A.S.™ system
  • Sea-Doo Learning Key™ (LK1 or LK2)
  • Mirrors
  • Double density comfort hand grips
  • Removable engine hatch
  • Reboarding ladder (OPT)
  • Handlebar-mounted start/stop button
  • Handlebar-mounted function buttons
  • Front storage
  • Glove box
  • Rear storage basket
  • Electric start
  • Safety lanyard
  • Mooring cleats
  • Overheating warning device
  • Bow and stern eyes
  • Ski tow eye
  • Bilge drain plugs
  • Flushing connector
  • Side vanes
  • Sponsons
  • Rear grab handle
  • iBR (intelligent brake and reverse)

 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Riding Experience

There’s no question that the RXP-X 260 was nearly a race-ready machine out of the box.

Thanks to its innovative T3 hull and Erlogock system, it could turn tighter than any other competitor 4-stroke jet ski in history.

Its unbeatable riding experience and handling made the RXP-X the most popular performance PWC in the mid-2010s.

With its supercharged and intercooled Rotax 1503 engine, the RXP-260 topped out at the (limited) 67 mph. As far as acceleration, its 0-30 mph numbers were in the ballpark of two seconds.

Besides its incredible power, the RXP-X 260 had legendary cornering abilities. This was no surprise since the race-like attitude was always the trademark of the XP/RXP line.

However, the latest family member with its T3 hull raised precision handling to an entirely new level. Around the buoys, the ski laid on the water like the iconic XP 800 with the X-4 hull and the competitor WaveBlaster.The RXP-X 260 also had various riding modes, including Sport, Touring, and ECO. The latter was tuned for the best fuel efficiency, while the Touring mode provided a good overall performance.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Sport mode offered the maximum available power.

Keeping safety in mind, the craft featured Sea-Doo’s Intelligent Brake and Reverse (iBR) system.This system was a game-changer especially for novice riders, as it shortened the braking distance and allowed precise handling around docks.

On top of that, the ski could already be started in “neutral,” as the iBR bucket prevented it from moving at idle speed.

Drawbacks?

According to Personalwatercraft.com, one of the major drawbacks of the RXP-X 260 was that its unique ergonomics were fitted to an average-sized person.

The design of the ski moved the rider towards the handlebar, so legroom was a little tight for taller riders.

Also, the T3 hull could occasionally produce some odd movements. For example, if you suddenly released the throttle, the hull was prone to rolling a little bit onto one side. The same issue happened when you tried to slightly accelerate through turns.

Fortunately, the ski remained stable in these situations, but this awkward behavior was definitely recognizable.

Despite these minor tradeoffs, the RXP-X 260 became extremely popular among racers and weekend riders. It’s safe to say that it carried over the legacy of the legendary XP series.

Sea-Doo marketed this model from 2012 through 2015 and replaced it with the more powerful RXP-300 for 2016.

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Specs Chart

For your convenience, we’ve compiled the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 specifications into these charts!

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Dimensions

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260Dimensions and Capacities
Number of passengers2 (refer to load limit)
Overall length331.6 cm (130.6 in)
Overall width122.7 cm (48.3 in)
Overall height114.7 cm (45.2 in)
Dry Weight368.3 kg (812 lb)
Load limit182 kg (400 lb)
Storage capacity116.4 L (30.7 U.S. gal)
Fuel tank (including reserve)60 L (15.9 U.S. gal)
Cooling system (coolant)5.5 L (5.8 U.S. qrt) total
Engine oil capacity3 L (3.2 U.S. qt) oil change w/filter

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Engine Specs

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260Engine Specs
Engine typeRotax® 1503 4-TEC®. Single Over Head Camshaft (SOHC)
InductionGear-driven supercharger with slip clutch. External water/air intercooler
Number of cylinder3 in-line
Number of valve12 valves (4 per cylinder) with hydraulic lifters (no adjustment)
Exhaust systemWater cooled / water injected with regulator
Intake systemSupercharger with external intercooler
Performance260 HP
Displacement1494 cm3 (91.2 in3)
Bore100 mm (3.9 in)
Stroke63.4 mm (2-1/2 in)
Compression ratio8.4:1
Cooling TypeClosed-loop cooling (CLCS)
Fuel injectionMultipoint fuel injection with iTC (intelligent Throttle Control). Single throttle body (62 mm) with actuator

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Liquids

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260Liquids
Fuel type – Minimum octaneInside North America: Minimum (87 (RON + MON)/2) Outside North America: 92 RON
Fuel type – Recommended octaneInside North America: (91 (RON + MON)/2) Outside North America: 95 RON
Engine OilXPS synthetic blend oil (summer grade). Refer to MAINTENANCE Engine oil section for more information

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Propulsion

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260Propulsion
Propulsion systemSea-Doo® Direct Drive with iBR (intelligent brake and reverse)
Jet pump typeAxial flow, single stage. Large hub with 10-vane stator
Jet pump materialAluminum
Transmission typeDirect drive
Variable trim system (VTS)High performance electric VTS with programmable preset positions
Reverse systemYes
ImpellerStainless steel
Minimum required water level for jet pump90 cm (3 ft) underneath the lowest rear portion of the hull

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Electrical Features

2012 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260Electrical Features
Ignition system typeIDI (Inductive Discharge Ignition)
Spark plug – Quantity3
Spark plug - Make and typeNGK, DCPR8E
Spark plug - Gap0.75 mm (.03 in)
Starting systemElectric starter
Battery12 V, 30 Ah, Electrolyte type
These charts are for informational purposes only! For exact specifications, please refer to the factory manual.

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 for Sale

If you are considering purchasing one, you probably want to know where to find a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 for sale.

We recommend that you start your research on dedicated Sea-Doo forums and Facebook fan groups. Aside from some good deals, you may find some valuable info there about this ski.

Besides these sources, you may also find some used Sea-Doo RXP-X 260s for sale on Craigslist, PWC Trader, and other dedicated jet ski swap sites.

Takeaway

As a takeaway, we’ve answered the most common questions about the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260!

What is a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was a 2-seater supercharged “musclecraft” PWC.

What Year did Sea-Doo Make the RXP-X 260?

Sea-Doo marketed the RXP-X 260 from 2012 through 2015.

How Many People Could Ride a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was rated for two riders, but it was really more of a solo machine.

What Size Storage Compartment Did a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Have?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 featured a small glovebox and a large bow storage with a total capacity of 10.7 gallons.

Was the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Supercharged?

Yes, the RXP-X 260 was powered by a supercharged Rotax engine.

What Size was the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was 130.6 inches long, 48.3 inches wide, and 45.2 inches high.

How Much Did a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Weigh?

The dry weight of the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was 812 pounds.

What Kind of Engine Did the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Have?

The engine of the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was a supercharged and intercooled ROTAX 1503 4-TEC. This 1494 cc, SOHC triple featured a closed-loop cooling system and a Multipoint Fuel Injection system.

How Much Horsepower Did a 2012-2015 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Have?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 provided 260 HP.

How Many cc Was a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 featured a 1494 cc triple engine.

Was a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 a 4-Stroke Ski?

Yes, the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 utilized a 4-stroke engine.

Did the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Have Reverse?

Yes, the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was equipped with iBR (intelligent brake and reverse).

How Much Weight Could a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Hold?

The total weight capacity of the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was 400 pounds.

How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Hold?

The Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 utilized a 15.9-gallon (60 L) fuel tank.

How Much Fuel Did a Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Use?

The fuel consumption of the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was about 20-22 GPH at WOT.

Could the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Tow a Skier or a Wakeboarder?

No, the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was rated for two riders, so it wasn’t recommended for tow sports.

How Fast Did a 2012-2015 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Go?

The top speed of a 2008-2011 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 was 67 mph in stock condition.

How Much is a 2012-2015 Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 Worth?

It’s hard to tell the exact price of a first-generation Sea-Doo RXP-X 260, as it strongly depends on its year, condition, and location. But as a rule of thumb, the prices typically range from $8,000 up to $15,000.