A Good Thing Made Better

When seen side by side, there isn't a whole lot different between last year's Kawasaki 900 ZXi and this year's 1100 ZXi. Slightly different graphics. New colors. And of course the new name ... er, number. Otherwise, the two are identical. Right?

Well, looks can be deceiving. The 1100 ZXi isn't just a 900 with a slightly bigger engine. It's also a significantly improved watercraft, which is saying something.

The most obvious improvement is the extra power provided by the new 1071 cc engine. The new engine, rated at 120 horsepower, is similar to last year's 900 package, though the bore has been increased to 80 mm (up from 73 mm). Kawasaki also adapted the rest of the engine to the resulting increase in power.

Thankfully, the extra 20 horses produced by the engine have been spread evenly throughout the powerband, making the 1100 ZXi not only faster on the top end than the 900, but but also down low. One of the ways that was accomplished was with the addition of accelerator pumps to the three CDK-II 38-29 carburetors, which have improved throttle response and eliminated the initial "bwaaa" when you pin the throttle.

The engine also has a new advanced ignition system. The ignition setup features a digital igniter with a timing data map. It is designed to complement the engine's power output sensor, which signals the igniter to advance the timing automatically when the intake air temperature exceeds a predetermined level. This reduces any power fade on hot days.

But the engine isn't all that's new. The 1100 ZXi also features an industry-first automatic trim system that monitors engine rpm and automatically adjusts the angle of the pump for optimum acceleration. We were a little skeptical about the system when it was first explained to us, but it actually works. The system is activated by pressing a switch located near the manual trim switch. When the engine's rpms hit a certain level, the system kicks in and starts trimming the nozzle up as the hull begins to plane. When the rpms drop below 2,000, the system then drops the pump back down to its lowest position. On the whole, it's much quicker and easier than adjusting it manually. This is done by pressing the rocker switch on the left handlebar.

The 1100 ZXi also has a new air induction system that pulls air through the engine compartment and releases it through outlets located on the inner strakes. Theoretically, the air reduces the friction between hull and the water surface to improve acceleration and top speed. How much this contributes to the 1100's improved top end and acceleration we couldn't determine. However, one of the side benefits to the system is improved air flow in the engine compartment, which should also improve performance.

Other changes to the craft include a new pump housing with a larger, three-blade stainless-steel impeller. The nozzle was also moved back 100 mm to improve the craft's turning ability. The gauge package has also been updated and improved, and a clock has been added to the console glove box. The three easy-to-read analog gauges (a speedometer, tachometer and trim setting) are located between the handlebars and the front stowage area. A light gauge that indicates fuel level, low oil and overheat warnings is located on the console.

The ZXi 1100's big, beamy deep-V hull makes it an easy craft to push hard from the start, even if you're a beginner, because there are no difficult techniques to master. The 22.5 degree deep-V allows for a fairly neutral riding style and also provides a soft, shock-absorbing ride in rough water, with great tracking and control. It also has integrated anti-spray strips in the bow that keep the ride nice and dry.

Some performance riders will find the handling a bit soft in tight turns — the back end has a tendency to slide out when pushed — but that can easily be cured with the addition of more aggressive sponsons, available on the aftermarket. The 1100 ZXi also has a big, heavy feel, which can be good or bad depending on your outlook. It's a difficult boat to toss around on the water, though the weight and size give it terrific rough water performance.

The 1100 ZXi can carry two adults in comfort, and fuel capacity has been increased to 13.5 gallons to allow you more time out on the water. There's a good-sized stowage area in the bow that can be reached from the driver's position as well as a glove box on the console and dry stowage under the seat. The 1100 ZXi also features a magnetic ignition key, which prevents anyone from starting the craft when you're not around.

Specifications