Following last year's special-edition Ultra 310X SE, Kawasaki’s supercharged personal watercraft returns for 2015 with a new, extreme performance version aimed at delivering the biggest adrenaline rush on the water. The Jet Ski Ultra 310R leverages decades of championship-winning PWC racing experience to become perhaps the ultimate sport personal watercraft.

Photo: Kawasaki

Ideal for hardcore recreation and racing
If the aggressive graphics in Ebony/Lime Green aren't enough to convince you, the 1,498cc, 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder engine will. Derived from Ninja superbikes, this supercharged and intercooled unit generates an industry-leading 310 hp along with 201 lb-ft of torque. The Eaton TVS supercharger boasts a constant-displacement design for a significant performance increase over a standard roots-type model, producing more low-rpm boost than competitive or aftermarket systems (max 16.8 psi).

The engine drives a 160mm jet pump with a three-blade impeller that was revised last year, and comes with a Fuel Economy Assistance Mode for those times when you want to play it smooth (making the most of the class-leading 78L tank).

Designed to emulate the performance of Kawasaki’s IJSBA championship-winning race machines, the deep-V hull of the 2015 Jet Ski Ultra 310R enables a steep bank angle for motorcycle-like cornering performance. This also reduces the lateral G-loads imposed on riders during turns. Handling is further enhanced with Electric Trim Control, allowing easy riding style adjustments for the conditions you find yourself in.

Other benefits of Kawasaki expertise
Derived from KX motocross bikes, the stainless steel handlebar enhances the Ultra 310R’s sport-riding capabilities while also providing excellent all-day comfort. The 12-position handlebar mount can be adjusted for reach and height to allow operation while standing or sitting and to suit a wide range of riders and conditions. Meanwhile, the sport seat offers a special support bolster and a grip-y KX-style seat cover for hard sport riding.

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

There's an easy-to-read LCD screen that features a fuel consumption indicator, while the mirrors are optimally curved to provide a wider view of what's going on behind you. Seating for three, electronic cruise control, and 212 litres of storage will also attract potential buyers. Don't forget the long re-boarding step that facilitates climbing aboard, and retracts when not in use.

Canadian pricing and availability for the 2015 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 310R have yet to be announced, but you should know that it starts at $16,299 in the U.S. Competitors include the Sea-Doo RXP-X 260 and Yamaha's FZS/FZR combo.