By utilizing feedback from Kawasaki factory racers, Kawasaki engineers have purposely designed the JET SKI® Ultra® 150 to be the highest-performing model in its personal watercraft line. And as the editors of one magazine noted, it is, indeed “a pint-sized rocket ship, able to reach the upper echelons of the radar scale and slice a buoy to ribbons with surgeon-like expertise.”

The Ultra 150’s incredible power comes from a 1,176cc three-cylinder, two-stroke engine. The intake manifold is angled back 45 degrees to create a downdraft effect for the trio of high-flow, constant velocity-type carburetors. A variable speed oil pump reduces oil consumption and exhaust smoke. The result is more power and better efficiency under a variety of operating conditions.

Each of the three aluminum cylinders has its own water jacket to help ensure cooling capacity matches the high power output. Similar to other models in the JET SKI

lineup, the cylinders utilize lightweight, wear-resistant Nikasil composite plating for maximum heat dissipation and counter balancers at both ends of the crankshaft to eliminate vibration. The engine is also rubber-mounted in the hull for a comfortable, vibration-free ride with reduced structural noise.

The engine is fed by triple 40mm constant-velocity carburetors that provide smooth throttle response and excellent fuel economy. The carburetors are linked to the digital Direct Current Capacitor Discharge Ignition (DC-CDI) system by the Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC) throttle-position sensor. The system works by setting the independent timing maps for each cylinder based on engine speed and throttle opening for quick throttle response and acceleration.

For maximum engine performance, the Ultra 150 uses a water-jacketed dry exhaust system that separates cooling water from the expansion chamber, allowing exhaust gases to flow completely dry and free from power-robbing water vapor. This water insulation also suppresses engine noise and lowers the temperature of the aluminum exhaust components for reduced engine compartment temperatures.

The Ultra 150 also features the Kawasaki Smart Steering® system (KSS®). The Kawasaki Smart Steering system 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.

Smart Steering can assist riders in learning to negotiate turns and to maneuver, making turning easier and smoother. Experienced riders may not feel the system functioning since they realize throttle application is required during turning.

To transmit the Ultra 150's incredible power to the water, a mixed-flow jet pump is placed low in the hull to provide maximum “hook-up” and acceleration. This highly efficient design provides for the highest possible water flow while keeping physical dimensions and weight to a minimum.

The handling and stability of the Ultra 150's hull perfectly match the high-performance engine. Using technology from the Kawasaki JET SKI® Racing team, it features bulkhead-type construction for high rigidity and reduced weight. The deep-V design provides precise handling characteristics and slices cleanly through choppy water while the water intake on the bottom of the hull is shaped to enhance ride quality. The molded-in Kawasaki Splash Deflector (KSD) minimizes spray that might reach the operator.

To further enhance the Ultra 150's handling, an electric variable trim adjustment switch on the left handlebar gives the operator more precise control over the hull's attitude in the water. The highest position trims the hull to a neutral position for reduced drag at high speed. The lowest position trims the nozzle downward 10 degrees, allowing the deep-V hull to slice more deeply through the water for tighter turning.

Convenient features add to the appeal of the Ultra 150. The top deck allows easy access to the fuel and oil tank fill spouts located under the front hatch cover. A generous 15.3-gallon fuel tank permits extended riding, while the variable-rate Superlube oil injection system with a 1.2-gallon oil tank supplies the right amount of oil to the engine at all times, eliminating the need for pre-mixing gas and oil. A multi-function digital instrument panel includes fuel level, oil level, speedometer, tachometer, hour meter, trip meter, trim gauge and important warning lamps. An easily accessible glove box permits the operator to keep keys or a wallet handy while additional storage in the bow compartment holds larger items.