The X2 was Kawasaki's first mass-produced "sit on top" watercraft. Kawasaki began production on this PWC in 1986 and ended in 1995. This craft is small and light, weighing less than 300 pounds. The idea behind it was that up to two people would be able to sit, though it is most often ridden by one rider standing up. This craft has gained much respect in the stand-up communities. Its unique handling characteristics make it highly sought-after by enthusiasts.
The X2 used the same pump and motor as the Kawasaki JS650, TS650, SC650 (Sea Couch) and Jetmate.
In 2005, Kawasaki re-introduced the x-2 (JF800A) with a completely redesigned hull and top deck and utilizing the same pump and powerplant as their highly successful SX-R 800 stand-up model Jet Ski.
Contents |
1986 was the first year of production. 28 mm Keihin carb. This year has no rev limiter built into the CDI. Air intake on the hood is in the middle of the "hump" for looks, but this tends to take on water. The fuel tank is vented to open air, and does not have the water trap found on subsequent model years. Waterbox is much quieter than subsequent years, but also more restrictive. This year's waterbox is rumored to clear faster because of the angle at which the water and exhaust enters the box. On modified skis, tests have shown quicker acceleration and a gain of 1 mph top speed.
Water trap is added to fuel tank vent, trim adjuster mechanism changed slightly, air scoop on hood is moved to left side of hood. External fuel pump design changed.
Same as 1987, except minor jetting changes are made, and flame arrestor element is changed slightly. (Rubber gasket added.) Crankshaft positioning ring is built into the crankshaft bearing beginning this year. Head pipe to expansion chamber coupler is changed from bolt-together style to rubber-coupler style. This is also the last year that had the notorious "red" cylinder head. This head was of very poor quality and had a tendency to warp. It would result in a blown head gasket if it wasn't resurfaced before re-installation.
"Squirrel cage" steering mechanism eliminated in favor of direct cable linkage. However, this steering configuration is much less responsive than the "squirrel cage" setup. Flywheel bolt is changed from 8 mm to 10 mm. According to the service manual, this was the year the rev limiter was added to the CDI. Reliable sources say that the rev limiter was added on the 1987 model year.
Flame arrestor element changed again, and direct steering linkage is ditched halfway through the model year in favor of the old "squirrel cage' style. This setup becomes the standard all the way through the 1995 model year. Metal reed petals are tossed in favor of fiberglass reed petals that won't harm engine internals if they disintegrate.
The X-2 gets the 38 mm Keihin carb. Gone is the 28 mm carb with its remote fuel pump. Electrics are consolidated inside a single, larger box mounted to the side of the hull between the battery and carb. Fuel petcock "On" and "Reserve" positions are reversed. Water box gets one-piece molded hoses. Gone are the aluminum elbows to the waterbox. A larger bilge hose and filter is fitted as compared to previous years. Driveshaft is beefed up—it is now the same diameter from tip to tip, instead of narrower in spots like those found on previous years. A few wire colors are changed inside the electrical box, and a larger engine flush fitting is installed. Motors are now painted silver instead of black. Extra thrust came from a water-cooled, 635 cm3 two-stroke twin pumping out 52 HP at 6,000 rpm via an axial flow pump. A water-injected exhaust system helped ensure low noise levels. The X-2 was the first jet ski watercraft to feature an adjustable handlebar and adjustable trim. Its great agility and motocross-like handling made it extremely popular.[says who?]
Same as 1992 but with a very rare 1-year sticker set, being the only X2 to have only a 1-year graphics run. There were mixed opinions about its look, hence the single-year run, but it was the 1990s and neon was in. Pump also was upgraded to have a bung to drill for more cooling lines where the older pumps were flat. One of these in mint condition is very desirable. To a collector this specific year is of great interest.
The 38 mm Keihin is upgraded to a 40 mm Keihin carb. Rubber trim is now gray instead of black. Upholstery is now purple instead of blue. Additional foam is added to the engine compartment area to aid in flotation. Water box bigger inlet and out and now surrounded in the additional foam.
Same as 1994, except a 5-blade stainless-steel impeller is added. Last year of the "Old Body Style"
JF800A - Around 80 mm longer and 39 mm wider than the original. Now with an inbuilt engine-flushing hose fitting. No longer a two-seater vessel, rated now for just one person.
|
|
|||||