History is about to repeat itself, as Kawasaki’s new
JET SKI® Ultra® 260X reclaims the title as the most
powerful production PWC sold in the U.S. Only two years after
shattering records with the supercharged and intercooled
Ultra 250X, Kawasaki engineers have raised the horsepower
stakes even higher with the new Ultra 260X.
Increased compression ratio, new high-lift
cams and revised ignition timing help boost the 1,498cc
engine’s output
by 10* horsepower. Combined with a new impeller to translate
that enhanced power into thrust, the new 260X can accelerate
harder than ever, delivering an electrifying ride that’ll
thrill even the most jaded PWC enthusiast.
With its Roots-type supercharger, the Ultra 260X is able
to produce power comparable to a normally aspirated high-performance
engine twice its size. Unlike centrifugal superchargers or
turbochargers, the high-volume, direct-drive, Roots-type
supercharger force-feeds the engine two-liters of air with
every revolution, providing a stable supply of high-pressure
air at all rpm, from idle through redline. This produces
a smooth, linear torque curve that is perfect for accelerating
this Jet Ski watercraft hard, all the way from a standstill
through its breath-taking top-end.
With the 260X’s supercharger compressing the air to
a maximum boost pressure of 11.4psi, the intake charge can
reach extremely-high temperatures – potentially limiting
the engine’s power output. However, Ultra 260X uses
a large-capacity intercooler to overcome this handicap, bringing
the pressurized air back down to ambient temperature or even
less – ideal for maximum power production.
Utilizing lessons learned from Kawasaki’s race machines,
the Ultra 260X’s huge 155mm jet pump was designed to
deliver predictable thrust and good “traction,” even
in rough water. Its sophisticated three-blade impeller delivers
high performance smoothly and quietly. The revised impeller
design features blades with less twist, to better convert
the increased output from the supercharged 1,498cc engine
into blistering acceleration performance.
A significant factor in this extra “traction” are
the pump’s eight guide vanes that smooth the flow of
water from the impeller for efficient and powerful propulsion.
The pump also incorporates a groove from the center to the
rear of the ride plate which makes it easier to hold a stable
heading for straight line riding.
In addition to more power and acceleration
than any other production watercraft on the planet, the
Ultra 260X also boasts a race-developed hull. Its precise
handling and superb stability are equally impressive, thanks
to a hull specifically designed to capitalize on the engine’s awesome performance.
The fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) hull is loaded with
DNA from Kawasaki’s IJSBA championship winning machines.
This includes carefully designed sponsons and chines for
enhanced straight-line stability and more precise cornering,
combined with a 22.5° deep-V hull that leans into corners
like a motorcycle. This provides a smoother ride in rough
water, reduces the lateral G-loads generated during turns
and helps keep the rider in control.
The seaworthy hull design is just as comfortable
in rough conditions as in calm. Even at high speeds, rough
water can do little to deter the Ultra 260X. This combination
of unearthly power mated with the latest hull technology
permits Kawasaki’s
flagship to literally cleave through waves that would send
lesser machines running for a safe harbor.
The Ultra 260X features a five-step adjustable handlebar
position that allows either stand-up or sit-down riding for
a wide range of riders to enjoy the superior comfort and
versatility. The new Ultra 260X also includes thoughtful
standard features like an enormous 53-gallon of storage space
including a detachable front storage compartment and a 20.6-gallon
fuel tank for substantial cruising range.
From horsepower to handling and everything in between, once
the spray settles after the first ride, one thing will be
certain. The powerful Ultra 260X JET SKI model delivers a
level of performance and excitement that is unmatched by
any other watercraft.
* Horsepower measured in PS at the crankshaft
under controlled conditions. Actual performance may vary.
Increased compression ratio, new high-lift
cams and revised ignition timing help boost the 1,498cc
engine’s output
by 10* horsepower. Combined with a new impeller to translate
that enhanced power into thrust, the new 260X can accelerate
harder than ever, delivering an electrifying ride that’ll
thrill even the most jaded PWC enthusiast. 
