Impressive performance versatility
What traits should a personal watercraft possess? We all
know it should have plenty of power, look great, and have useful
features to make it noteworthy. The Kawasaki JET SKI® STX®-12F
watercraft has all that, with a few extras to keep it riding
higher than the competition.
It all starts with the engine. The STX-12F powerplant was
adapted from Kawasaki’s leading-edge Ninja® motorcycle line.
The dual overhead camshaft 1,199cc water-cooled engine makes
plenty of power for optimum performance , and even boasts of low
emissions and quiet operation. The STX-12F meets the
strictest existing emission standards for both the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
In fact, the STX-12F received CARB’s ultra-low “three-star”
rating in 2003, five years before it was required to by law.
The STX-12F also features four valves per cylinder, fuel injection
and an electronic engine control unit (ECU) that coordinates the
ignition system and fuel injection to provide maximum performance
and reliability.
The fuel injection system itself utilizes a single 54mm throttle
body and individual injectors at each chrome composite-plated
aluminum cylinder to provide fuel for the high-performance engine,
resulting in smooth power delivery and instant starting in any
kind of weather.
The STX-12F is designed to be quiet, reliable and environmentally
friendly. While highly tuned, the engine’s exhaust system
is water-jacketed to help reduce underhood temperatures and keep
it running as quietly as possible. The large-capacity airbox is
specially designed to both boost power and reduce intake noise
levels. To reduce vibration, the engine is rubber-mounted.
The STX-12F features an open-loop cooling system that utilizes an
intake filter and draws cooling water from the jet pump, ensuring
consistent operating temperatures for maximum performance.
A direct-drive axial-flow jet pump is connected to an oval-edge,
stainless steel, three-blade impeller. The direct drive pump has
no gear reduction unit, allowing the engine to turn a lower rpm
for lower stress, less wear and tear, lower vibration levels, less
noise and better fuel consumption. A reverse function allows easy
maneuverability in tight quarters.
The STX-12F is also equipped with Kawasaki Smart Steering® (KSS®).
KSS features a steering sensor that is electronically linked to an
on-board microprocessor. If the handlebar is fully turned in
either direction and the engine rpm drops from a designated rpm,
such as when the throttle is released at speed, the microprocessor
activates the KSS, which raises engine rpm to provide enough
thrust to initiate the desired turn.
Assisting with low-speed maneuvering is a reverse bucket that is
shaped to deliver optimum thrust for more precise direction
control when backing, and the bucket is injection molded to
eliminate corrosion.
The STX-12F also features Kawasaki’s innovative electronic Smart
Learning Operation (SLO). Accessible directly on the instrument
panel, SLO can be programmed to place a limit on maximum engine
speed so novice riders can experience riding at a reduced speed
while they master proper riding techniques.
Even the hull bristles with innovation. The STX-12F’s
deep-V hull is made of fiberglass and gel-coated for a lustrous,
scratch-resistant finish and features the molded-in Kawasaki
Splash Deflector (KSD) to help minimize spray. High-performance
sponsons help get the hull up on plane and provide “grip”
while the hull design facilitates precise cornering, increased
stability at high speed and a smoother ride in rough water.
The STX-12F boasts a sporty design with its stylish deck and
angular seat, offering a muscular look befitting a
high-performance watercraft. The handlebars are located in a
cab-forward position to provide plenty of room for the rider, plus
abundant floor space provides room for the rider’s feet. There
are even footrests to help stabilize a rear-facing spotter when
pulling a skier, wakeboarder or tuber.
The open rear deck has space easily used for getting into skis or
as a diving platform. Reboarding in deep water is simplified with
the automatically retracting boarding step located at the rear of
the hull. The rear deck can also accommodate a cooler or other
items needed for a day on the water. The STX-12F features
water-resistant storage space, an easily accessible glove box and
front storage compartment. A hydraulic damper holds the front
storage hood open, allowing easy access until the operator closes
it. Another large storage area is located under the seat.
The Jet Ski STX-12F features a 16.4-gallon fuel tank for more
riding time between fill-ups and an LCD instrument panel allows
riders to monitor fuel level, speed, engine rpm, trip distance and
time. Warning lamps alert the rider to low fuel level or high
engine temperature. In addition, there is a magnetic keyed
ignition switch to help deter theft or unauthorized use.
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