Kawasaki STX 160-X

Boat Test #1601
By Brad Roberts

The original Jet-Ski manufacturer offers three lines for 2020: the popular STX line with three models, the Ultra line with one model, and the only purpose-designed stand-up personal watercraft in the industry: the SX-R.

All new for 2020, the STX 160-X model moves away from the black and lime-green of previous year to feature new eye-catching colours: ebony and turquoise with red accent graphics.  Designed in the same footprint size as previous years models at 123” in length and a 46” beam, it offers plenty of running surface to deliver a comfortable ride for three passengers, but yet is still short enough to also deliver exciting single-rider performance when you want to go solo.

The helm features an all-digital gauge for the speedometer, fuel level, tachometer, oil level, trip, hour meter and water temperature. Twin rear-vide mirrors are mounted low leaving the handle grips clean and unencumbered, but this requires the driver to dip their head to see in most cases.

A full 160 horsepower performance is delivered by Kawaskai’s 1,498 cc DOHC 16 valve inline four-cylinder water-cooled engine with digital fuel injection.  Again, there’s more than enough power there to peg the digital electronic displays even with three passengers – or two riders with one enjoying the view from the end of the tow rope hooked to the standard ski hook.  That power is respectful to the environment as well. The engine has earned a Three-Star Ultra-Low Emissions rating from the California Air Resources Board and it also meets the US Environmental Protection Agency’s strictest standards.  The direct fuel injection provides more predictable acceleration and excellent fuel economy, so that the large 62 litre fuel tank can keep you on the water for the entire day.

As one of five models in the jet-ski lineup, the all new STX 160-X is packed with performance and luxury features, in a highly affordable package. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Length 122.8” / 3.12 m
Beam 46.5” / 1.18 m
Fuel Capacity 13.6 gal. / 62 L
Weight  844 lbs  /  383 kg
Rider Capacity: Three
Engine:  1,498 cc Four-stroke, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, four-cylinder inline
MSRP: $14,699 CDN

For more information: www.kawasaki.ca