2024 Kawasaki SX-R 160 Stand-Up Jetski Review

The 2024 Kawasaki SX-R 160 represents a major leap in the stand-up personal watercraft category. For riders who love agility, raw performance, and the unique experience of riding standing up, the SX-R 160 brings together advanced engineering, refined design, and a modern powertrain in one thrilling package. It’s not just about making waves—it’s about redefining what stand-up watercraft can do.

Right from the first look, the SX-R 160 communicates serious intent. Its design is sharp and aggressive, with clean lines and sporty angles that reflect its racing DNA. The color scheme (Ebony/Ice Gray) underscores the performance-oriented character. The deck is wider, and Kawasaki has increased both length and width to improve stability without sacrificing responsiveness. The bigger footprint gives the rider more room to shift weight, reposition, and control the ski in turns—important for a stand-up model.

Underneath that sleek exterior lies a powerful engine. The SX-R 160 is powered by a 1,498 cc inline four-cylinder, four-stroke engine, with DOHC and sixteen valves. It uses fuel injection through a 60 mm throttle body and is cooled via inducted water. The compression ratio sits at around 10.6:1. This engine delivers class-leading thrust, especially in low to mid RPMs, permitting strong off-the-line performance without the unpredictable surges found in older two-stroke stand-ups.

Power figures are impressive: maximum power is quoted at roughly 118 kW (~160 PS) at 7,500 rpm in some markets, while torque peaks in the neighborhood of ~152 Nm at 7,250 rpm. That amount of power, combined with a relatively light curb weight for the category, makes the ski feel explosive. Riders will feel acceleration instantly, especially when launching from a standstill or exiting a tight corner.

The hull and wetted body are designed around a V-shape form which Kawasaki refers to as a “rider-active V-shape hull.” What this means in practice is that the center of gravity is kept low and central. The ski handles aggressively—cornering is sharp but controlled, allowing the rider to lean into turns with confidence. The wider and longer hull compared to previous smaller stand-ups adds stability in straight lines and while stopped. If you’re boarding from water or waiting in idle, you’ll appreciate not feeling overly tippy.

One of the challenges of stand-up PWCs is rider fatigue, especially in the arms, legs, and core, during long sessions or when navigating choppy water. Kawasaki has addressed this with a wider deck to allow more freedom of movement, a reinforced handle pole, and attention to ergonomics so the grip and pivot points reduce unnecessary forward-backward motion. That means less arm fatigue and better control over time.

In performance settings, the propulsion system plays a key role. The SX-R 160 uses an axial-flow, single stage jet pump with a 148 mm diameter impeller (3-blade, stainless steel, oval-edge). That setup helps deliver strong thrust with less cavitation and good efficiency. It also helps in rough water by maintaining flow and reducing stall.

Fuel capacity is moderate for a stand-up, at about 23 liters. It’s not huge, so range will depend heavily on riding style—hard acceleration, high revs, etc., will drain fuel fast. But for bursts of excitement or short run-outs, it’s sufficient.

Weight (curb mass) is about 250 kg. That includes all necessary fluids and a full fuel tank (almost full). This weight is significant, and while the ski remains nimble, getting it onto a trailer, launching, hauling, or maneuvering off the beach will require proper equipment and strength.

Convenience and smaller creature comforts are also considered. The SX-R 160 has small-item storage under the handle pole (for ropes, tools, etc.), low fuel and engine warning indicators on the handle pole pad, a bilge drain plug in the hull for quick draining after use, and a magnetic key ignition switch for security. There’s no room for big cribs or full touring gear—it’s still a performance machine—but these features make ownership more practical.

Styling is also a highlight. Kawasaki has given the SX-R 160 a look that blends its racing heritage with modern aggressive cues. Sharp lines, MX-style handlebar, and aesthetic touches (like minimal paneling, color contrast, and a purposeful stance) give it presence. For many buyers, how a jetski looks is part of the thrill. This model doesn’t disappoint.

There are drawbacks to consider. The fuel capacity limits long rides, especially if pushing hard. Maintenance demands are higher for such powerful, high-revving engines—jet impellers, cooling system, seals, handle pole joints, etc., all need careful attention. As with any high-performance stand-up, the margin for error is smaller—rider skill matters more, especially in rough water or waves. Also, trailering, launching, and storage of a 250 kg stand-up are no small tasks. The ski is powerful but not necessarily forgiving for beginners.

In summary, the 2024 Kawasaki SX-R 160 stands out as arguably the most advanced production stand-up jetski currently in Kawasaki’s lineup (and in general). It brings together tremendous power, modern control, and design improvements that address many of the usual compromises in stand-ups. If you want high-octane thrills, sharp handling, and the prestige of owning a top-tier stand-up jetski, this model delivers in spades.

If you are considering buying it, here’s where to learn more or find one:

Check Out the 2024 Kawasaki SX-R 160 Stand-Up Jetski Here

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