Jet skis come in a variety of weights. Whether you are looking at a luxury jet ski or a lightweight standup model, the average jet ski weight is a factor you must understand. The weight of a jet ski (or any personal watercraft) impacts maneuverability, safety, towing procedures, agility, and more.
We will break down exactly how much a jet ski weighs–accounting for external factors like fuel and accessories that add extra weight and need to be calculated in the mix.
Understanding Jet Ski Weight
The weight of your jet ski often depends on the type you purchase. Here is a basic look at the type of jet ski and how that plays into the average dry weight of the jet ski.
| Jet Ski Category | Average Dry Weight | Key Features and Considerations |
| Stand-Up Models | ~300 pounds | Lightest category, ideal for solo riders and those looking for agility. |
| Recreational Models | 400-800 pounds | Strike a balance between performance and comfort, suitable for beginners to intermediate riders. |
| Performance Models | 600-850 pounds | Higher power and speed, designed for experienced riders. |
| Luxury Models | 750-1,100 pounds | Largest and most comfortable models, equipped with the latest technology and features. |
| Three-Seater Models | 425-1,100 pounds | Provide room and stability for up to three passengers, offering a balance between performance and comfort. |
| Two-Seater Models | 375-800 pounds | More agile than three-seaters, catering to solo riders or couples. |
Average Weights of Popular Jet Ski Models
Jet skis come in a spectrum of shapes and sizes. Their weight greatly impacts their handling when on the water. Certain brands have models with an average weight that is known to be higher.
The owner’s manual will tell you exactly what your make/model of jet ski weighs, but these are some of the popular models that you can use as a reference.
| Brand | Model | Dry Weight (approx.) | Key Features |
| Sea-Doo | Spark Trixx | 405 pounds | Lightweight, agile, ideal for tricks and playful riding. |
| Sea-Doo | GTI models | 450-700 pounds | Balance of performance and weight, suitable for recreational use. |
| Sea-Doo | GTX 170 | 776 pounds | A luxury model with enhanced features for comfort and performance. |
| Sea-Doo | RXP-X 325 | 778-798 pounds | High-performance model, option for sound system adds to weight. |
| Yamaha | FX Cruiser HO | 838 pounds | Promises comfort, luxury, and reliability. Plus, a smooth ride in choppy conditions. |
| Kawasaki | Ultra 310 LX | 1,074 pounds | High-end luxury and performance model, capable of handling tempestuous waves. |
| Kawasaki | Performance models (general) | 900-1,100 pounds | Engineered for power, incorporating features like upgraded injectors and intercoolers for peak performance. |
Sea-Doo Models
Courtesy of Sea-Doo (Model pictured: 2024 Sea-Doo Spark)
The Sea-Doo Spark series starts the lineup on a lighter note with the Spark Trixx, a 405-pound model built for fun and easy storage. Moving up the scale, the GTI models find a sweet spot in the Rec-Lite category, balancing weight and performance between 450 and 700 pounds. The GTX 170 sits at a dry weight of 776 pounds, with the RXP-X 325 tipping the scales between 778 and 798 pounds, depending on whether you opt for the sound system.
Yamaha Models
The Yamaha FX Cruiser HO stands out in their fleet, with a substantial dry weight of 838 pounds. This model represents Yamaha’s dedication to creating a jet ski that’s just as fun to ride as it is comfortable.
Kawasaki Models
Kawasaki jet skis are the heavyweights of the sea. Their performance PWCs are engineered with a focus on sheer force, incorporating advanced features like upgraded injectors and intercoolers. These weigh between 900 to 1,100 pounds, with the crown jewel being the heaviest jet ski, the Kawasaki Ultra 310 LX— at 1,074 pounds.
Jet Ski Dry Weight vs. Curb Weight
As a jet ski owner, you must understand both dry weight and curb weight.
Dry weight is the weight of your jet ski without fluids and accessories. It’s the number you’ll see on sales tags, essentially the baseline for the jet ski.
Curb weight is the weight of the jet ski combined with the weight of the full tank of gas, oil, and any accessories you’ve added to customize your experience.
This number indicates what you handle as you launch into the waves, and it’s essential for accurately estimating transportation and handling costs.
Factors Influencing Jet Ski Weight
When it comes to jet ski weights, the materials that make up the hull and the hull’s design can have a significant impact. Accessories and gear are also known to add significant weight to the jet ski.
Factor #1: Accessories and Gear (How They Add Weight)
Every added item contributes to the overall weight of your jet ski. This increase isn’t just about numbers—it affects how your jet ski handles, accelerates, and even how it burns fuel. Some essential accessories to consider when determining how much does a jet ski weigh are:
- Fishing equipment
- Coolers
- Wakeboard racks
- Anchors
- Bumpers
- Lifejackets
- Ropes
Make sure to carefully consider the weight and balance of your jet ski when adding accessories.
Factor #2: Fuel Capacity and Weight
Fuel capacities range from a modest 4.8 gallons to 20.6 gallons, averaging around 15 gallons. Understanding that a gallon of gas weighs about six pounds, a full tank can significantly increase the jet ski’s weight, influencing everything from handling to safety.
This is a crucial factor to keep in mind, as it’s not just about how long you can ride, but also how well you can maneuver when the tank is full.
Factor #3: Jet Ski Trailers (Types, Weights, and Capacities)
Jet ski trailers come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to match the jet ski you own.
Single jet ski trailers, for example, are lighter, tipping the scales between 170-300 pounds, while double trailers, meant for carrying two jet skis, weigh between 350-500 pounds.
But the weight of the trailer itself shouldn’t be the determining factor. Instead, you’ll need to choose a jet ski trailer according to the amount of weight it can carry–as you’ll need a trailer sturdy enough to haul the jet ski itself, as well as the fuel and gear.
This total weight, or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), varies based on the trailer’s construction and features, influencing how you transport your jet ski and the type of vehicle you’ll need to tow it.
| Trailer Type | Estimated Weight Range (lbs) |
| Single | ~195 to 300 |
| Double | 350 to 500 |
| Custom | 800 to 3,000 |
Adhering to Jet Ski Weight Limits: Safety and Performance
Ignoring a jet ski’s weight limit is like flirting with danger. It’s a risky game that could compromise your safety. The weight limit, typically between 500 and 600 pounds, is the jet ski’s way of telling you, “This is how much I can handle.” It accounts for you, your passengers, your gear, and your fuel.
Staying within this boundary is key to preventing accidents and ensuring a stable ride. Handling and acceleration also remain crisp and responsive when you stay within range.
Overloading increases the risk of capsizing and puts undue stress on your jet ski, leading to excessive wear and tear.
Towing Your Jet Ski: Vehicle Requirements and Considerations
When you’re gearing up to tow your jet ski, you’re looking at the combined weight of not only the jet ski itself–but also the trailer and any additional gear you’ve packed.
Knowing your vehicle’s towing capacity is crucial. For a safety buffer, it’s wise to use only 80% of that maximum capacity.
Consider the following when choosing a vehicle for towing:
- Look for a vehicle with a tow package with heavy-duty cooling systems and special gauges, to ensure it can take the strain without breaking a sweat.
- A four-wheel-drive towing vehicle can provide the traction you need for challenging boat ramp conditions.
- If you’re looking to save on fuel, a two-wheel drive might suffice.
- If you’re towing, especially heavy loads, think diesel. It offers the horsepower, torque, and capacity needed for stress-free transport.
Summary
Now that you know how much a jet ski weighs and how this will impact towing and transport, it’s time to make sure you have a proper place to store it.
If your garage is running short on space for your jet ski and jet ski trailer, consider Neighbor. Neighbor a peer-to-peer storage marketplace offering convenient and affordable storage right in your neighborhood. If you prefer to store your jet ski close to the launch, there are options for that as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Lightest Jet Ski?
The lightest jet ski is the JETSURF SKI, weighing only 54.8 pounds. It provides unmatched portability without compromising on power.
What Is the Weight Limit for a 2-Person Jet Ski?
The weight limit for a 2-person jet ski typically ranges from 350 to 500 pounds (159 to 227 kg).
What Does a Seadoo Weigh?
A Sea-Doo jet ski’s weight varies widely, with models ranging from approximately 405 to 850 pounds (184 to 386 kg).
What Is the Dry Weight of a Jet Ski?
Dry weight on a jet ski refers to the weight of the jet ski without any fluids, fuel, or additional gear.
How Heavy Is a Jet Ski in KG?
A jet ski’s weight in kilograms typically ranges from around 136 kg (300 pounds) for light models to nearly 500 kg (1,100 pounds) for luxury models.
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