There's an interesting battle going on in the luxury performance segment of the personal watercraft industry. With a strong pedigree and cutting-edge technology, the 2013 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300LX seriously rivals the Sea-Doo GTX Limited iS 260 -- not to mention the Yamaha FX Cruiser SHO -- with a supreme focus on “Maximum Power. Ultimate Control.”


Prepare for the tidal wave
The 2013 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300LX is powered by a mighty 1,498cc, 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder engine. Derived from the Ninja superbikes, this fuel-injected, supercharged and intercooled unit is built for power and durability on the water. Electronic throttle valves efficiently manage its 296 hp at 7,750 rpm and 201 lb-ft of torque at 7,250 rpm.

Driving a 160-mm jet pump with a three-blade impeller, the engine also comes with a Fuel Economy Assistance Mode (featuring an Economical Riding Indicator) for those times when you want to play it cool.

Meanwhile, the race-derived hull of the 2013 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300LX gives you the ideal balance of strength and light weight, specifically designed to handle the enormous output from the supercharged engine. Handling is additionally enhanced with Electric Trim Control, allowing easy riding style adjustments according to conditions.

Let's not forget comfort...
The spacious, three-passenger seat on the 2013 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300LX offers generous lumbar support for the rider and a grab rail for the final passenger, while the 5-way adjustable handlebar suits a wide range of riders and riding styles, whether standing up or sitting down.

Kawasaki Smart Steering (KSS) can assist riders in learning to negotiate turns and manoeuvre, making turning easier and smoother. The Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode gives them the choice between limited power for easier training and full power for maximum fun.

Cruise control, an all-digital instrument panel, and 212 litres of storage capacity are other big draws, here.

As for colour schemes: Metallic Titanium has replaced Metallic Stardust White. Also, you should know that the 2013 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 300LX stands out from the $500 cheaper Ultra 300X with a GPS-compatible handle pad (accommodating GARMIN 72/76 Series devices) and a LXuryseat providing enhanced cruising comfort and contoured for a good ergonomic fit.

Similar to last year's model, pricing starts at $17,999.

Photo: Kawasaki