The Kawasaki JET SKI® STX®-15F watercraft is the ultimate expression of power, performance and leading-edge technology in the personal watercraft world, and the reason is simple: the brand responsible for building some of the most powerful motorcycles on earth is the same brand that introduced the JET SKI name to the world more than 30 years ago.

A high-performance engine from the legendary Kawasaki Ninja® motorcycle line provided the starting point for this dominant JET SKI model. While the bore is the same as that of the smaller JET SKI STX-12F, the stroke is 13.8mm longer, increasing displacement to 1,498cc. This long stroke design delivers a flat torque curve for a smooth spread of power across the entire rpm range. Dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, fuel injection and electronic engine control, which harmonizes the fuel and ignition systems, provide maximum performance and reliability. Plus, the fuel injection system utilizes four injectors and a large 60mm throttle body to deliver a quick response.

Even with such high-performance attributes, 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.

The four-stroke engine is rubber-mounted in the hull and includes a water-jacketed, performance-tuned exhaust system, dual mufflers and large-capacity air box.

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. Equally important, the STX-15F engine produces its peak power at a relatively low rpm while matching the impeller’s peak efficiency rpm, thus eliminating the need for a complicated gear reduction unit. The result is improved durability, reduced vibration and noise, and improved fuel economy.

The STX-15F 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-15F 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.

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 stylish hatch cover is constructed from 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 are mounted directly to the deck, adding to the sleek lines.

The open rear deck of the STX-15F features abundant space for getting into water skis or a wakeboard, and 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. Other features include a water-resistant storage space, an easily accessible glove box and additional storage space located under the seat.