2010 Kawasaki Jet Ski Ultra 260X Review

Yes, the Ultra is big, and it feels it in rough water. This is a favorite among offshore racers for good reason — it tracks straight and true, and is little affected by waves and chop. Pick your line, give it the gas, and you’re off into the sunset without a hiccup. The result is a comforting, stable, heavy-feeling presence on big water, whether you need it to get to the mark first, or simply to keep your family safe and secure.

Yes, that same presence makes the boat feel slightly more sluggish in the turns. The Ultra drifts through corners, rather than bites abruptly, with the rider using a comfortable and intuitive inside lean. I think it’s a tradeoff that most buyers, faced with changing water conditions, will find acceptable. Still, those into serious carving should be forewarned and try a test drive.

Beyond Performance

That deep-V hull is mated to a comfortable deck above. The seat is a good mix of soft and firm, providing the cushion required for long hours in the saddle, but providing enough support to enhance performance riding. Handlebars adjust to five separate positions, meaning you can tilt the bars up and stand should you desire to take some of the jolt with your legs. Ridges on the hull deflect spray quite well, and a boarding ladder makes climbing aboard a simpler task in deep water.

Reverse works well, and uses a portside lever with a push-button lock to prevent accidental activation. The information display, however, still is in need of improvement. As noted in previous years, it’s a little small, fuel level is difficult to decipher, and the buttons not that convenient to push. In this era of electronic throttle control and goodies like cruise control, the Ultra also remains relatively straightforward. It lacks gizmos, and doesn’t even feature trim. Fans of the craft perhaps rightly argue that they’re not necessary in a true performance craft.

Kawasaki uses a magnetic key system for security, a device that can also activate a slow-speed mode. Off-throttle steering enhancement is provided by computer, which bumps up rpm in conjunction with the release of the throttle and hard turn of the bars in order to provide directional thrust.

Finally, the Ultra’s “bigness” doesn’t end at the engine and hull. The craft is massive in terms of storage and fuel capacity, with room for 60 gallons-worth of assorted gear, and over 20 gallons of fuel. Yes, at full speed that fuel may quickly be consumed, but cruising speeds are acceptable. And let’s face it; chances are if you’re buying a craft like this, fuel-efficiency is not high on your list of priorities.

Big Change

In case you haven’t guessed it by now, there’s little difference between the 2010 and 2009 model. That color scheme is a rather bold choice, but the only other change for the new year is in the boat’s price. Last year it bumped up a few hundred dollars to $11,999. This year it extends all the way to $12,899. That’s not unreasonable given the competition, but it will likely make buyers think a little longer when making the decision.

The Ultra 260X is also available in this eye-catching Ebony/Candy Lime Green color scheme.