86 Kawasaki X2 Performance help - PWC Forum: The best hang-out for Personal WaterCraft enthusiasts

86X2 · 11-12-2011, 05:56 PM

I got this 86 X2 all stock except the oil block off. Rode it a few months this past summer and I love the ski, handles great even stock which I've heard that the stock plates on these are sketchy but I have no issues with it. Only problem I have with the ski is acceleration and top speed. I was looking into some bigger engines like a 750, 900, or 1100. I know the 750 would be an easy swap and a lot easier on the pocket but when I ride my moms Yamaha GP800 I'm still not impressed with the top speed, however it is stock so I'm not sure how big a difference it would make adding some mods to it and its also twice the size of my X2. So considering that and the fact I'm planning to add a lot of mods to my ski then its possible that the 750 would be enough for me. I really don't want to build the ski this winter and be disappointed come spring. So to be safe and not have to do another rebuild on it next winter I was considering going big now and just dropping in that 1100 which I know is possible since I saw one on YouTube. But I don't know enough about whats involved in doing this as far as what other parts I would need to buy to make it run proper. The 750 premium is $1K and the 1100 premium is $1500. I'll need carbs with either engine since mine is the 28mm and I know Ill need at least 38mm or 44mm if it will fit. I believe if I go to the 1100 then I would need 3 carbs compared to 2 with the 750 but this is a guess? I also seen a Mikiuni triple outlet fuel pump for $30 that I believe would work on this engine.

I ride fresh water in mostly 1-4 ft waves and I want my ski to be able to do back flips, barrel rolls, submarine, etc..

Can anybody can offer up any advice or experience with a build like this.
I plan to add as many performance parts to either set up as I can find, I really want to turn heads with this thing.

I'm thinking I'll need with either set up.....

44mm Carbs and adapters w/ flame arrestors-
Intake manifold- ?
Aftermarker reeds- ?
Intake grate- ?
Aftermarket Impeller- ?
Aftermarket Fuel pump and filter- ?
Jetworks Flow control valve pro series-
Waterbox- ?
Dual Exhaust- ?
Bilge kit- ?
Foot holds- ?

So if I'm planning to change all of these anyway does it really make a difference if I get the 1100 over the 750 or are there more parts that would need to be changed on the 1100 that aren't in this list.

If anybody can offer any advice I would appreciate it. Thanks

prickofmisery · 01-23-2012, 09:47 PM

The X2 with a good pipe (such as a Coffmans or Factory Performance Pipe), aftermarket or drilled OEM waterbox, high compresson head, SBN 44mm carb, SS impeller, ride plate and intake grate will be a completely different machine.

If you are looking to go 60mph, you bought the wrong model, or you have a very spendy trip ahead of you.

98yota · 01-23-2012, 10:40 PM

The X2 is designed to be a quick machine with great acceleration and handling. They in a similar class as the Yamaha Blasters, small and light with great Handling. Once you start throwing heavier motors in, the handling performance is reduced do to the weight. The pump would need to be upgraded to make use of the extra power. If not the only increase will be cavatation. If it were my project I would improve the stock motor, upgrade the impeller, ride plate, and grate to start with. You can make these 60+ MPH skis but you will lose the other positive features of the X2. My Blaster tops out around 50 (on gps) but the acceleration and handling tries to tear my arms out of socket. I just wouldn't want to lose this. Good luck on what you decide to do!