250 horsepower provides dominating
performance
Kawasaki stunned the motorcycling world with the launch of
its Ninja® ZX-14 flagship. It didn't take long for the
mighty ZX-14 to assume its rightful place as the quickest
and fastest stock production motorcycle. Now, Kawasaki extends
its high-performance domination into the realm of personal
watercraft. As the quickest and most powerful production PWC
in history, Kawasaki's new JET SKI® Ultra® 250X serves
notice that ULTRA defines the pinnacle of
PWC performance.
The supercharged Ultra 250X delivers 250 horsepower for astonishing
acceleration that can be felt in the rider's soul. Once up
to speed, its precise handling and superb stability are equally
impressive, thanks to a brand-new hull specifically designed
to capitalize on the engine's awesome performance.
The JET SKI Ultra 250X's new engine, jet drive and hull incorporate
racing technology refined through Kawasaki's multiple IJSBA
championships. This same technology allows it to deliver the
awesome acceleration of a drag racer, and help ensure excellent
hook-up - even in rough water.
With a 1,498cc marine engine derived from Kawasaki's astounding
JET SKI STX®-15F watercraft, the Ultra 250X produces power
comparable to a normally aspirated high-performance three-litre
engine, thanks to the addition of a Roots-type supercharger.
Unlike centrifugal superchargers or turbochargers, the Ultra
250X's high-volume direct-drive supercharger delivers boost
virtually instantly at any engine speed from idle to redline.
This results in a linear, smooth torque curve which is ideal
for a personal watercraft that needs to accelerate hard all
the way from a standstill through astounding top-end speeds.
A common drawback of forced-induction is the heat build-up
that occurs when the intake air is compressed. The Ultra 250X
overcomes this with the use of a large-capacity intercooler.
The 250X's supercharger compresses the air to a maximum boost
pressure of 11.4psi. This compression heats the intake charge
to extremely-high temperatures, which could limit the engine's
power output. However, the 250X's large-capacity intercooler
cools the intake charge back down to ambient temperature or
even less - ideal for producing maximum power.
The JET SKI Ultra 250X's stunning acceleration is augmented
by a huge 155mm jet pump featuring the largest PWC impeller
and nozzle Kawasaki has ever produced. Developed based on
feedback from Kawasaki's race machines, this pump was specially
designed to deliver predictable thrust and good traction,
even when riding on rough water. The pump uses eight guide
vanes (instead of the six used on previous models) to regulate
the flow of water from the impeller for efficient and powerful
propulsion. This is a significant factor in the Ultra 250X's
mind-boggling acceleration. The new pump incorporates a groove
from the center to the rear of the ride plate which makes
it easier to hold a stable heading when riding in a straight
line.
To suit the 155mm jet pump a new, larger impeller was designed,
offering improved bite in the higher speed ranges. The sophisticated
three-blade design not only delivers high performance, but
also provides smooth and quiet operation.
In addition to more power and acceleration than any other
production watercraft on the planet, the Ultra 250X also boasts
an all-new race-developed hull. Extensive research and refinement
has allowed Kawasaki to design a brand-new hull which is just
as comfortable in rough conditions as in calm. Even at high
speeds, rough water can do little to deter the Ultra 250X.
This combination of unearthly power mated to the latest hull
technology allows Kawasaki's flagship to literally cleave
through waves that would send lesser machines running for
safe harbor.
In addition to its acceleration and top-speed capabilities,
the Ultra 250X also offers precise handling and superb stability,
thanks to a hull that was specifically designed to compliment
the engine's incredible output. This 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
precise cornering, combined with a 22.5° deep-V hull for
a smoother ride in rough water.
In recognition of the tremendous power on tap, Kawasaki designed
the Ultra 250X's hull to lean into corners like a motorcycle.
This helps passengers stay centered, and keeps the rider in
control during peak cornering g-forces.
The Ultra 250X features a five-step adjustable handlebar
position that allows either stand-up or sit-down riding for
enhanced comfort and versatility. As Kawasaki's flagship watercraft,
the 250X includes thoughtful standard features like an enormous
53 gallon detachable front storage compartment and a 20.6
gallon fuel tank (the largest in its category) 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. As the most powerful PWC on the planet, this ultra
new JET SKI offers performance and excitement that are unmatched
by any other watercraft. |