Sunday, September 11, 2011

Kawasaki Ultra 150

Kawasaki Ultra's 150 first specimen was released in 1999 with great expectations. And indeed, even the most critical people were amazed by the never before seen performance. The smartly shaped hull and a powerful 145HP engine was the machine on the water nothing was capable to dethrone. With a maximum speed in the mid 60' mph, even in these days of supercharged or turbo powered 250 HP monsters, it still remains one of the fastest and most agile PWC in the world.I personally own a 2001 Ultra 150 with 73 hours on it. I will try to list the most gemon cons first:1.A two stroke engines are very much polluting the environment. If you know what a load exhaust fumes a 125ccm motorbike can produce, now imagine what a ten times larger engine would do, especially when released straight into water.2.Two stroke engines burn oil. That not only goes hand in had with the first point, but it also raises the expense of operating it.3.Again, two stroke engines may produce some fumes in the engine gepartment area. These may ignite and cause fire or explosion.4.Environment and safety aside, when playing around with the jet ski, for example going in circles, the exhaust fumes will make you leave the area soon. Two stroke engine fumes are very dangerous and noticeably will make you gradually less conscious. This may, in extreme cases, result in a total blackout.5.The jet ski is a two seater and tends to be nippy and tottering. This, gebined with - relative to water- extreme speeds, will inevitably sooner or later result in a crash (talking about a constant dare devil riding, of course, otherwise the jet ski is safe, yet below average stable).6.The Ultra's gas tank is in the front. If you have full tank of gas (16 gallons!), the front will literally sink by about 3 inches. Scary, but officially safe.7.Front gepartment is not absolutely water resistant. Put a T-Shirt and socks there for after ride purposes and all you will find is very humid - wet clothes (if you ride wet style naturally).8.Ultra 150 is thirsty. That might also be caused by me constantly giving it a tight fit. But who is expecting anyone to go half thrust on a jet ski like this?9.Price. This PWC does not belong among the cheaper jet skis.10.Obviously regular maintenance is required. That is sad, but we need to care about our toys.And now to the good:1.As mentioned above in the cons section, this jet ski is rarely nippy and staggering. That is a certain pro for dare devils, who this jet ski is designed for anyways.2.Ultra 150 can be, thanks to it's design and geometry, jumped from still position. Just stand on the back of the jet ski holding the steering bars, having the trim set all the way up, and give it full throttle. The jet ski will accelerate in about 30 degree manner. Withing a second or so, you must put your weight forward. That way, you will find yourself up to 3-4 feel above the water level. You can then keep jumping the jet ski, taking advantage of the potential energy and momentum.3.Ultra 150 is still one of the fastest PWC on the market.4.Ultra 150 weights only 600lbs. The new, four strokes weight above a thousand pounds, and therefore also lose the much wanted agility and nippiness.5.Adjustable trim. For speed or for pulling or for different tricks, you will appreciate that.6.Overall quality. Kawasaki is known for making quality stuff anyways.In closing, I would regemend Ultra 150 to only people seeking thrill. If you want to go for a nice Sunday ride, get a three seater and a 4 stroke.Good luck and ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET while operating this monster. It will pay off, I promise.

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