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IF IT’S NOT A
KAWASAKI, IT’S NOT IF IT’S NOT A KAWASAKI,
IT’S NOT A JET SKI
Starting with a high-performance engine from the
legendary Kawasaki Ninja® motorcycle line, the JET
SKI® STX® -15F delivers a flat torque curve for a
smooth spread of power across the entire rpm range.
A long-stroke design was needed to achieve this
broad torque curve, so while the engine’s bore is
the same as the smaller Jet Ski STX-12F, its stroke
is 13.8mm longer, increasing displacement to
1,498cc. Dual overhead cams, four valves per
cylinder, fuel injection and electronic engine
control--to harmonize the fuel and ignition
systems--provide maximum performance and
reliability, and the fuel injection system utilizes
four injectors and a large 60mm throttle body to
deliver a quick response.
High-performance doesn’t have to mean high
emissions; the STX-15F has earned a Three-Star
Ultra-Low Emissions rating, meeting the
Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) strictest
standards, as well as the California Air Resources
Board (CARB) standards for 2008. It’s also as
civilized as it is clean-running: the four-stroke
engine is rubber-mounted in the hull and includes a
water-jacketed, performance-tuned exhaust system,
dual mufflers and a large-capacity airbox.
For propulsion, the STX-15F utilizes a direct drive
axial-flow jet pump connected to an oval-edge,
stainless steel, three-blade impeller and an 82mm
jet pump nozzle for powerful acceleration. That
doesn’t meant, peaky, unmanageable performance:
the STX-15F engine produces its peak power at a
relatively low rpm while matching the impeller’s
peak efficiency rpm. This eliminates the need for a
complex gear reduction unit, resulting in improved
durability, increased fuel economy as well as
reduced vibration and noise.
Kawasaki Smart Steering® (KSS®) equips every
STX-15F. KSS features an on-board microprocessor
that is electronically linked to a steering sensor.
If the handlebar is fully turned in either direction
and the engine rpm drops from a designated rpm—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.
The STX-15F 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. Aggressive turning and high-speed
stability are key performance attributes of the
STX-15F. Injection-molded sponsons designed
specifically for the STX-15F feature a special
“lip” for increased cornering grip and
high-speed stability. The hull also features a
molded-in Kawasaki Splash Deflector (KSD) to help
minimize spray on the rider.
With its muscular, aggressive look, the STX-15F is
lighter and more compact than the competition, yet
Kawasaki engineers have created a spacious riding
position that makes aggressive performance riding
easier and suits a wider range of riders. The hatch
cover is styled from sleek ABS plastic, adding to
the fresh, high-quality styling of the STX-15F, and
a hydraulic damper holds the hatch cover open,
allowing easy access until the rider closes it. The
mirrors are also made of ABS plastic and mount
directly to the deck, which adds to the sleek lines.
The open rear deck of the STX-15F features abundant
space for getting into water skis or on a wakeboard,
and reboarding in deep water is simplified with an
automatically retracting boarding step located on
the rear of the hull. The rear deck can also
accommodate items needed for a day on the water,
like a cooler. There’s also a water-resistant
storage space, an easily accessible glove box and
additional room for gear located under the seat.
Other features include a LCD instrument panel so the
rider can monitor the fuel level, speed, engine rpm,
trip distance and time. Fuel capacity is a generous
16.4 gallons, for extended rides. Warning lamps
alert the rider to low fuel level or high engine
temperature, and a magnetic keyed ignition switch
helps deter unauthorized operation.
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