Thanks to its high-performance motorcycles, Japanese manufacturer Kawasaki enjoys an outstanding reputation. The latest models, including the ZX-14 and Concours 14 as well as the ZX-R lineup, are vivid examples. The inline four-cylinder engine of the former produces 197 horsepower at 9,500 RPM only, making it one of the most powerful in the industry.

Kawasaki is also a personal watercraft specialist and further proof of that comes from the new 2008 lineup.

2008 Jet Ski Ultra 250 X

Almighty
The new Jet Ski Ultra 250X is one of the fastest and most potent personal watercraft of all time thanks to a four-cylinder engine derived from the ZX-14 superbike. Delivering a strong performance in naturally-aspirated configuration, this 1,498-cc mill becomes even mightier with the addition of a Roots supercharger and intercooler, giving it an output of 250 horsepower.

The all-aluminum cylinders with electroplated bores help prevent friction and wear while offering superior heat dissipation. In order to handle the massive boost from the supercharger, Kawasaki engineers made the pistons hollow and dropped the compression ratio to 7.8:1. An efficient intercooler, force-fed from the jet pump, cools the intake air down to a level that's slightly lower than ambient temperature. Finally, the all-new 155-millimeter jet pump delivers superior "traction" and stable output in rough water conditions, while the larger, 3-blade impeller offers improved thrust in the higher speed ranges.

Family-oriented
The company also sells the Jet Ski STX-15F, a cheaper, more user-friendly watercraft powered by a naturally-aspirated variant of the famous four-banger. This 16-valve, DOHC engine generates 160 horsepower, which is more than enough to pull a water skier, wakeboarder or just a kid on a tube. The V-shaped hull was specifically designed to reduce wave shock and deliver exceptional stability in stormy waters. What's more, the deeply-padded, three-passenger seat will undoubtedly prove comfortable during long rides on the lake.

2008 Jet Ski STX-15F