Kawasaki X2-inspired stand-up Jet Ski not coming to Australia

Kawasaki has revealed a new stand-up Jet Ski with a fixed handlebar steering system, much like the iconic X2 model of the 1980s. It is set to hit the water in 2026.

However, in unfortunate news for Aussie PWC riders, the new Jet Ski SX-X 160 will not be making its way to Australia in the foreseeable future. A Kawasaki Motors Australia representative told boatsales it is not aware of plans to distribute the model Down Under.

Using the same hull and 1498cc four-cylinder engine as the SX-R 160 stand-up, the new SX-X swaps out the traditional handle pole for a fixed steering system. In theory, this will make it more accessible and easier to ride for new riders. 

The new ski was previewed at an international distributor meeting in Thailand, which coincided with the final round of the WaterJet World Series in Pattaya. 

Stand-up PWCs were popular in the 1980s and 1990s, however interest waned as two-stroke engines lost favour for noise and environmental reasons. Kawasaki reintroduced its SX-R model as a four-stroke in 2016, while Yamaha followed with a four-stroke SuperJet in 2021. 

Sales for the four-stroke SX-R have been steady, but not strong. The hope is that the new X version will attract new riders and breathe new life into the stand-up PWC world. 

Kawasaki also recently announced a new generation of its Jet Ski STX 160 sit-down series. There will be a minor update in 2025 before a major overhaul in 2026.