Jet Ski STX-15F
December 1st, 2008
Draw attention to the fact that high-performance doesn't have to mean high emissions; the STX-15F has received 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. Also keep in mind that it is 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.
Jet Ski has another remarkable feature - Kawasaki Smart Steering (KSS), which every STX-15F model includes. 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 incorporates Kawasaki's advanced 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.
The appearance of the 15F is very appealing. There is not only a lot of comfortable seating for the driver but there is also enough place for two more, because 2008 Kawasaki STX-15F Jet Ski has a three-person seating capacity! The narrower lead area of the seat makes it easier to move around when aggressive riders want to play hard.
With its powerfully built, aggressive look, the striking 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 pleasureful rides. Electronic system with different lamps warn the rider of low fuel level or high engine temperature, and a magnetic keyed ignition switch helps prevent unauthorized operation.
2008 Kawasaki Jet Ski STX-15F Specifications:
Hull Material/Type: Fiberglass/Modified Vee
Engine: Four-stroke, four-cylinder inline, DOHC, 16 Valve
Displacement: 1,498cc
Bore and stroke: 83mm x 69.2mm
Compression ratio: 10.6:1
Fuel System: Digital Fuel Injection w/60mm throttle body
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Starting: Electric
Lubrication: Semi-dry sump system
Cooling system: Inducted water
Coupling: Direct drive from engine
Propulsion system: Jet pump, axial-flow, single stage
Impeller: Three-blade, oval-edge stainless steel
Fuel capacity: 16.4 gal.
Storage capacity (combined): 23.5 gal.
Overall length: 122.8 inches
Overall width (Beam): 46.5 inches
Overall height: 41.3 inches
Dry weight: 745 lbs.
Curb Weight: 844.5 lbs.
Thrust: 976 lbs.
Jet Ski
October 6th, 2008
"Jet Ski" became prime colloquial term for stand-up personal watercraft, because in 1973 Kawasaki was responsible for a limited production of stand-up models as designed by the recognized inventor of Jet Skis, Clayton Jacobson II. In 1976, Kawasaki then began mass production of the JS400-A. JS400s came with 400 cc two-stroke engines and hulls based upon the previous limited release models. It became the harbinger of the success Jet Skis would see in the market up through the 1990s. In 1986 Kawasaki broadened the world of Jet Skis by introducing a two person model with lean-in "sport" style handling and a 650cc engine, dubbed the X-2. Then in 1989, they introduced their first two passenger "sit-down" model, the Tandem Sport (TS) with a step-through seating area.
What's next, for 1992, Kawasaki modernized their standup line with the JS750 featuring a more stable hull and more power. In 2003, Kawasaki celebrated the Jet Ski brand by releasing a special 30th anniversary edition of its current stand-up model, the SX-R, which has seen a revival of interest in stand-up jetskiing. The X-2 has also been updated, based on the SX-R platform and re-released in Japan. Kawasaki continues to produce three models of sit-downs, including many four-stroke models. The four stroke engines have come on since the late 1990s; with the help of superchargers and the like the engines can output up to 250 horsepower as seen in the newly released Kawasaki ultra 250x. Since the riding of personal watercraft has evolved through the 90s other companies like Yamaha, Bombardier and Polaris have joined the sport to make it into a worldwide sport in both racing and freestyle.
Going further, a freestyle riding of personal watercraft is done on stand-up PWC, with the exception of a few other PWC including the Yamaha Waveblaster, but chiefly on Yamaha Superjets as they are lighter and smaller than the Kawasaki SX-R. Jetski freestyle consists of many different tricks, including big air, hood tricks and technical tricks which, just like BMX and Motocross, are judged on the quality and skill shown in routines. The freestyle world is made up of different competitions into which anyone can enter. In the United Kingdom amateurs start with the FNT (Freestyle National Tour). In 2006 Luke "Showtime" Stocks won the professional category and Stuart Hammer won the amateur. It is held around the main British lakes and coastal bays. The next step up is the British Winter Series which again consists of pro and amateur categories. After winning this title it is possible to enter the British summer series. The British series is held on the official British circuit and has produced some of the world's champions, including Lee Stone (World Professional Champion), Terry Nutkins (1987 World Amateur Champion and famous television naturalist), Richard 'Rich Woodham' Woodham (1998 World Pairs Champion with Terry Nutkins), Ant 'Barrel Roll' Burgess (World Amateur Champion) and Dan 'Aircroft' Ashcroft (Junior World Champion, European Champion & British Champion).
The IJSBA freestyle birth was in the 1980s with Brian Bendix, then moved on to new tricks by Dave "The Flash" Gorden. The sport saw a new style in the early 1990s with Scott Watkins on a stand-up and Jeff Kantz on the X-2. The mid 1990s saw the invention on the biggest change in freestyle "the barrel roll" -- Rick Roy was the first to really perfect this move, which was invented by Jeff Kantz, as new riders like Marc Sickerling and Eric Malone became forces in the sport. Eric Malone went on to become the 8-time freestyle champion, while perfecting the back flip on flat water. The sport has recently taking another turn with Typhoon Tommy Nuttall combining forces with the WFWA and Eric Malone to create the WFWA National Freestyle tour.
Over the years, the sport of Jet Ski Freestyle has also seen many other adjuncts; like great female freestylers and freestyle on runabout PWC. What's interesting, in the begnning all PWC racers had to do freestyle, so we saw the like of Cristy Carlson and others freestyling. In the early 1990s saw Patti Mogan take to the freestyle water against many top riders, then later Rambo Rosie Nuttall became a force in freestyle doing her patent "figure skating" style tricks. That's it! Now you know all the important basics and history, thus if you’re an ultimate thrill seeker, you may pull the wetsuit on and take an extreme run on one of the Jet Ski models, we would review later!
Aqua Glider Sea Scooter
January 26th, 2008
This is a pleasure craft that’s set to become the outdoor toy for summer. The Aqua Scooter will give kids hours of fun on the water. Operated by a "no-maintenance" motor, the Aqua Glider Sea Scooter has a fully rechargeable battery and easy-to-use steering. Kids will have fun racing around on the water, playing at aqua-dodgems, competing in water-bound obstacle races and tailgating their friends.
The Aqua Glider Sea Scooter is incredibly easy to assemble: simply pump up using the included air pump, attach the motor to the steering column, push through the inflatable, attach the handlebars and you’re off! Suitable for children aged 5-13 (up to a weight of 50kg)
Experience power, performance, fun and excitement with the Aqua Glider Sea Scooter Personal Watercraft!
Sea-Doo Seascooter
January 8th, 2008
Ideal for water lovers the original SEA-DOO SEASCOOTER is a snorkeler's dream, at a price that makes it hard to resist.
Engineered by Sir Clive Sinclair, the inventor of the first PC, the environmentally friendly SEA-DOO SEASCOOTER is powered by a battery that lasts 1 hour and that can be recharged overnight with the supplied charger.
The lightest and most efficient personal propeller in the world, the Sea-Doo Seascooter is an ideal accessory for scuba divers, snorkelers, and anyone else looking to get around in the waves. The dive propulsion vehicle runs at a speed of 2 miles per hour and dives as deep as 65 feet, helping you navigate your way through choppy currents while exploring your favorite dive spot. Snorkelers will also get a kick out of the Seascooter, which works as well on the surface as it does underwater. And thanks to the built-in buoyancy regulator, you don't have to constantly mess with your BCD while cruising from one locale to another.
The Seascooter is light enough at 15 pounds (including battery) to carry in one hand, making beach diving a reality. Other details include a finger-activated soft-start trigger, safety grilles for maximum protection, quick-release latches that offer easy access to the rechargeable battery, an auto shutoff function, and a carrying bag for easy transport. The Seascooter, which runs for up to one hour per charge, measures 16 by 15 by 9 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a 180-day warranty.
No more flapping your fins, zoom through the water with this Sea-Doo Seascooter Classic! SAVE BIG! Give those webbed feet a rest. Glide through the water like a dolphin with the lightest and most efficient personal water propellers in the world! Great for pool, lake or sea. Features: Sleek, compact design; Automatic shut-off and protective grille for safety; Battery with run time of up to 1 hr. Can be recharged overnight with charger (included); Speed of up to 2 mph; Adjustable buoyancy; Includes its own bag for easy carry; Weighs 13 lbs. "Flipper" will have nothing on you...
