Kspeed Delivers Two Ride Plates For Offshore-Charging Kawasakis

[Rustymuscle]

There’s little denying the fact that Kawasaki’s Ultra platform continues as the weapon-of-choice for rough water/open ocean riding. It’s aggressive deadrise and true deep-V hull permits the big JetSki to sluice through white caps like it was a calm, glassy day. Although the Kawasaki isn’t as flashy or riddled with bells and whistles as the other guys, it’s traditional SMC fiberglass-and-gel coat construction has made it a favorite of hardcore rough water riders worldwide.

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[Astrofizix]

Hey Kevin,

In your opinion, do you think this ride plate would use more fuel and possibly rob a little power/speed from the hull?

It looks to me like the channels create a low pressure zone as they move over the water, and that pulls the hull downward to keep it planted. Which is very good, and is why I am thinking to buy one. However, that means it is pulling the hull into the water, and that means more effort is needed to keep it on a plane. Maybe the effect on fuel is smaller than the effect on handling, which would be great. But I do have to watch fuel usage, getting to some off shore islands is going to be pushing close to reasonable limits already.

Love your work, thanks mate!

[Rustymuscle]

What's not illustrated well in the image is the pitch of the plate. Per Kspeed, the Ultra offshore plate is aimed to replace the 2?? pump wedge, meaning its angle forcibly lifts the bow out of the water freeing up all that drag. Yet, drag is traction, so the inverted strakes aim to (as you said) pull the tail of the ski down, gluing it to the surface. I've yet to try it, but I'm eager to as there's quite a bit of innovation here.

[Astrofizix]

Thanks for the reply Kevin. I didn't know about this replacing the wedge, this is further good news.

I agree completely regarding the innovation. I count myself lucky to live in the same state (albeit 1,000 km away) as KSpeed, they are doing great things for Kawasaki owners! I already have the ECU flash/tune.

I will more than likely go for one of these, and the intake grate. I will write a review here on Greenhulk about how they go.