Top 10 Racing Jet Skis 2027

Direct Answer

The Best Overall racing jet ski for 2027 is the Sea-Doo RXP-X 325, starting around $18,999, which pairs the new 325-hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine, the aggressive T3-R hull with Ergolock R racing saddle, and a launch-control holeshot system to deliver class-leading acceleration and cornering bite.

The Best Value pick is the Yamaha GP HO, starting near $12,499, which brings race-bred GP cornering and a strong 180-hp 1.8-liter HO engine for thousands less. This list is built for performance and competition riders who chase top speed, holeshot, and knife-edge handling — whether the budget sits under $13,000 or stretches toward a loaded $19,000 flagship.

Every pick below uses real 2026–2027 model-year specs and MSRPs.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each watercraft against what racers and high-performance riders actually prize: speed, launch, and cornering precision. We leaned on published data from Personal Watercraft (PWC) magazine, The Watercraft Journal, boats.com, Discover Boating, and manufacturer specification pages from Sea-Doo, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Krash.

The weighting:

• Top speed and acceleration — 25%
• Hull handling and cornering — 20%
• Holeshot and launch control — 15%
• Value and price — 15%
• Racing ergonomics and features — 15%
• Reliability under hard use — 10%

A ski that posts a big top number but pushes wide in corners, or launches hard but fades on the straight, drops fast. The winners balance outright speed with the handling and holeshot that win races.

1. Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $18,999 | Best for: Racers who want the sharpest-handling muscle ski on the water

The 2027 Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 is the new performance benchmark. Power comes from the supercharged Rotax 1630 ACE bumped to 325 hp, the most in Sea-Doo's lineup, mounted in the cornering-focused T3-R hull measuring 130.6 inches with a 48.9-inch beam and a light dry weight near 791 lb.

It seats two, holds 15.9 gallons of fuel, and uses the Ergolock R racing saddle with adjustable footwells plus launch-control holeshot mode for explosive starts. The iBR brake, 7.8-inch display, and a top speed near 70 mph make it the complete race weapon.

Pros:

• New 325-hp Rotax 1630 ACE, the most powerful here
• T3-R hull carves corners with deep, predictable lean
• Ergolock R saddle and launch-control holeshot mode
• iBR brake and 7.8-inch display for total control

Cons:

• Premium pricing near $19,000
• Two-up only, no touring practicality

Verdict: The RXP-X 325 wins outright — top power, sharpest hull, and the best holeshot on the list.

2. Sea-Doo RXT-X 325

Starting MSRP: $18,599 | Best for: Racers who want big-water stability with full muscle power

The 2027 Sea-Doo RXT-X 325 delivers the same 325-hp Rotax 1630 ACE in a larger, more stable hull for rough-water racing. Built on the ST3-R hull at 136.0 inches with a 49.4-inch beam and a dry weight near 836 lb, it stays planted at speed where lighter skis get nervous.

It seats three, carries 18.5 gallons of fuel, and includes the Ergolock R saddle, launch control, iBR brake, and the 7.8-inch display. A top speed near 70 mph with big-water composure makes it the offshore racer's pick.

Pros:

• Full 325-hp Rotax in a stable big-water hull
• Composed and confident at speed in rough chop
• Launch control and Ergolock R racing saddle
• iBR brake plus generous storage and fuel

Cons:

• Heavier than the corner-carving RXP-X
• Larger hull is less razor-sharp in tight turns

Verdict: The offshore muscle ski — same power as the RXP-X with the stability to race rough water.

3. Yamaha GP1900R SVHO

Starting MSRP: $14,899 | Best for: Closed-course racers chasing precision and top speed

The 2027 Yamaha GP1900R SVHO is Yamaha's dedicated race platform and a buoy-course favorite. The supercharged 1.8-liter SVHO four makes roughly 250 hp, in the purpose-built GP race hull measuring 131.9 inches with a 48.4-inch beam and a light dry weight near 769 lb.

It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and adds Yamaha's race-tuned pump, adjustable handlebars, and the RiDE brake and reverse. With sharp turn-in, predictable slide control, and a top speed near 67 mph, it's the precision tool of the group.

Pros:

• Race-bred GP hull with surgical cornering
• Supercharged 1.8-liter SVHO near 250 hp
• Race-tuned pump and adjustable handlebars
• RiDE brake and reverse for course control

Cons:

• Less peak power than the 325-hp Sea-Doos
• No holeshot launch-control system

Verdict: The closed-course specialist — buy it for cornering precision and buoy-racing pedigree.

4. Kawasaki Ultra 310X

Starting MSRP: $17,299 | Best for: Straight-line speed hunters who want raw open-water thrust

The 2027 Kawasaki Ultra 310X is the muscle-bound straight-line bruiser. Its supercharged 1,498cc inline-four makes about 310 hp, in a big, heavy hull measuring 140.9 inches with a 48.8-inch beam and a hefty dry weight near 1,047 lb that powers through chop. It seats three, carries a huge 20.6 gallons of fuel, and includes electronic cruise control and a deep race seat.

With one of the strongest top speeds near 67 mph and immense low-end shove, it's built to dominate open-water runs.

Pros:

• Brawny 310-hp supercharged inline-four
• Largest 20.6-gallon tank for long high-speed runs
• Heavy hull stays planted at full throttle in chop
• Strong low-end thrust off the line

Cons:

• Heaviest ski here at roughly 1,047 lb dry
• Big hull is less agile in tight buoy courses

Verdict: The straight-line bruiser — pick it for raw open-water speed and brute acceleration.

5. Sea-Doo RXP-X 300

Starting MSRP: $16,499 | Best for: Riders who want race-hull handling at a friendlier price

The 2027 Sea-Doo RXP-X 300 carries forward the proven 300-hp Rotax 1630 ACE in the same corner-carving T3-R hull at 130.6 inches with a 48.9-inch beam and a dry weight near 791 lb. It seats two, holds 15.9 gallons of fuel, and keeps the Ergolock R racing saddle, launch control, iBR brake, and 7.8-inch display.

Just shy of the 325's peak, it still posts a top speed near 68 mph and the same razor-sharp turn-in, making it the value entry into Sea-Doo's race line.

Pros:

• Proven 300-hp Rotax with the same T3-R race hull
• Ergolock R saddle and launch-control holeshot
• iBR brake and 7.8-inch display included
• Lower price than the new 325 flagship

Cons:

• Down on peak power versus the 325 models
• Two-up seating limits versatility

Verdict: The value muscle ski — nearly all the RXP-X magic for a meaningfully lower price.

6. Yamaha FX SVHO

Starting MSRP: $16,299 | Best for: Riders who want supercharged speed with a comfortable full-size hull

The 2027 Yamaha FX SVHO brings race-grade power in a larger, more comfortable package. The supercharged 1.8-liter SVHO four makes roughly 250 hp, in the NanoXcel2 hull measuring 140.9 inches with a 50-inch beam and a dry weight near 838 lb. It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and includes the Connext 7-inch touchscreen and RiDE brake and reverse.

A top speed near 67 mph with a stable, planted ride makes it the speed pick for riders who also value comfort.

Pros:

• Supercharged 1.8-liter SVHO near 250 hp
• Stable full-size hull holds speed in open water
• Connext 7-inch touchscreen and RiDE control
• More comfort than dedicated race skis

Cons:

• Larger hull is less agile than the GP race platform
• No holeshot launch-control system

Verdict: The comfortable speedster — supercharged thrust with a planted, livable full-size hull.

7. Krash Footrocket

Starting MSRP: $13,995 | Best for: Freestyle and stand-up riders who want a featherweight trick machine

The 2027 Krash Footrocket is the wild card — a purpose-built stand-up freestyle ski for tricks and surf. It runs a 1,100cc to 1,500cc race engine depending on build, in an ultralight hull measuring roughly 88 inches with a slim beam and an extremely light dry weight near 320 lb that flicks effortlessly.

It seats one rider standing, carries a small 5-gallon fuel cell, and uses a lightweight composite hull tuned for airtime and backflips. It's not about top speed — it's about throwing the ski around in ways no runabout can.

Pros:

• Ultralight ~320-lb hull for explosive maneuverability
• Purpose-built stand-up freestyle and surf platform
• Configurable race engine builds up to 1,500cc
• Unmatched airtime and trick capability

Cons:

• One standing rider only, no seat or storage
• Top speed and range trail every runabout here

Verdict: The freestyle specialist — the trick and airtime king, not a top-speed racer.

8. Kawasaki SX-R 160

Starting MSRP: $10,499 | Best for: Stand-up racers who want closed-course speed and a planted hull

The 2027 Kawasaki SX-R 160 is the production stand-up racer of choice. Its naturally aspirated 1,498cc inline-four makes about 160 hp, mounted in a stable stand-up hull measuring 104.5 inches with a 30-inch beam and a dry weight near governing 551 lb that stays planted in turns.

It seats one rider standing, carries 5.0 gallons of fuel, and uses a deep-vee stand-up hull that tracks confidently at speed. With strong acceleration and a top speed near 62 mph, it's the most capable production stand-up racer.

Pros:

• Powerful 160-hp inline-four for a stand-up ski
• Stable deep-vee hull tracks well at racing speed
• Strong production stand-up race pedigree
• Lowest entry among the runabout-class skis

Cons:

• Stand-up format takes real skill and fitness
• Single rider only, no passenger or storage

Verdict: The stand-up race champ — the quickest, most planted production stand-up you can buy.

9. Yamaha SuperJet

Starting MSRP: $10,099 | Best for: Entry-level stand-up racers and closed-course beginners

The 2027 Yamaha SuperJet is the classic stand-up race ski, now four-stroke. Its naturally aspirated 1,049cc TR-1 four makes about 100 hp, in a nimble stand-up hull measuring 96.5 inches with a 27.2-inch beam and a light dry weight near 838 lb wet (375 lb dry). It seats one rider standing, carries 4.5 gallons of fuel, and uses a race-proven hull that's been a closed-course staple for decades.

With a top speed near 47 mph, it rewards skill and is the affordable gateway into stand-up competition.

Pros:

• Iconic closed-course stand-up race heritage
• Reliable four-stroke 1,049cc TR-1 engine
• Light, nimble hull rewards rider skill
• Most affordable race ski on this list

Cons:

• Lowest power and top speed of the group
• Steep learning curve for newcomers

Verdict: The entry stand-up racer — the affordable, proven way into closed-course competition.

10. Yamaha GP HO 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $12,499 | Best for: Riders who want race-bred GP cornering for the least money

The 2027 Yamaha GP HO delivers the GP race hull with the simpler naturally aspirated engine, making it the smartest value in performance. The 1.8-liter High Output (HO) four makes about 180 hp, in the sharp GP race hull measuring 131.9 inches with a 48.4-inch beam and a light dry weight near 745 lb.

It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and keeps the race-tuned handling, RiDE brake and reverse, and adjustable bars. With a top speed near 60 mph and the GP's surgical turn-in, it's race feel without supercharger upkeep.

Pros:

• Lowest-cost race-hull runabout at $12,499
• Sharp GP race hull with excellent cornering
• Naturally aspirated 180-hp HO engine, easy upkeep
• RiDE brake and reverse plus adjustable bars

Cons:

• Down on power versus supercharged race skis
• Top speed trails the muscle flagships

Verdict: The value champion — genuine GP race-hull handling and a strong engine at the lowest sticker.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Racing Jet Ski

• Engine and power delivery — Supercharged engines (the 325-hp Rotax, 250-hp SVHO, 310-hp Kawasaki) deliver race-winning thrust but demand more upkeep; naturally aspirated HO engines lower running costs and heat.
• Hull and cornering — A dedicated race hull like the Sea-Doo T3-R or Yamaha GP carves tight buoy courses; bigger hulls (Ultra 310X) trade agility for straight-line stability in chop.
• Holeshot and launch control — Race starts win heats. Sea-Doo's launch-control mode gives a repeatable holeshot the GP and Kawasaki skis lack.
• Weight and ergonomics — Lighter hulls and an adjustable racing saddle (Ergolock R) sharpen handling; confirm footwells and bars fit your riding stance.
• Stand-up vs runabout — Stand-ups (SuperJet, SX-R 160, Krash) reward skill and excel at tricks and closed-course racing; runabouts seat passengers and post higher top speeds.
• Brake and reverse — Electronic systems like Sea-Doo iBR and Yamaha RiDE aid course control and quick stops; the Kawasaki Ultra offers reverse but no electronic brake.

What matters less than marketing implies: a single headline mph figure and peak-horsepower bragging rights. In real racing, holeshot, corner exit speed, and a hull that suits your course decide finishing order far more than a 2-mph top-speed edge.

FAQ

Which racing jet ski is the best overall for 2027? The Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 earns our top spot for combining the most power at 325 hp, the corner-carving T3-R hull, the Ergolock R saddle, and launch-control holeshot for the best all-around race performance.

What is the best value racing jet ski? The Yamaha GP HO starting near $12,499 brings the sharp GP race hull, a strong 180-hp 1.8-liter HO engine, and RiDE brake and reverse for the lowest price among the runabout racers.

Which racing jet ski is the fastest? The Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 and RXT-X 325 top the list at roughly 70 mph, with the 310-hp Kawasaki Ultra 310X close behind near 67 mph in a straight line.

Which jet ski is best for closed-course buoy racing? The Yamaha GP1900R SVHO is the buoy-course specialist thanks to its race-tuned GP hull and surgical turn-in, with the Sea-Doo RXP-X line close behind.

Which jet ski is best for freestyle tricks? The Krash Footrocket is the freestyle king — its ultralight ~320-lb stand-up hull is built for airtime, backflips, and surf, not top speed.

Do racing jet skis have brakes and holeshot control? Sea-Doo race skis use the iBR brake plus launch-control holeshot mode; Yamaha uses RiDE brake and reverse but no launch control, while Kawasaki offers reverse without an electronic brake.

Bottom Line

For 2027, the Sea-Doo RXP-X 325 is our Best Overall racing jet ski — starting around $18,999, it wins on outright power, the sharpest-cornering T3-R hull, the Ergolock R saddle, and the best holeshot launch control on the water. The Yamaha GP HO, from about $12,499, is our Best Value, delivering genuine GP race-hull handling and a strong 180-hp engine for the least money.

If your needs lean toward straight-line speed, rough-water stability, closed-course precision, or stand-up freestyle, use the decision tree above to route yourself to the Kawasaki Ultra 310X, the RXT-X 325, the GP1900R SVHO, or the Krash Footrocket instead. Buy on holeshot, cornering, and the hull that fits your racing — not a single top-speed number — and you will finish stronger.

Sources

• Personal Watercraft (PWC) magazine — race ski reviews
• The Watercraft Journal — performance tests and specs
• boats.com — personal watercraft buying guides
• Discover Boating — PWC performance basics
• Boating Magazine — on-water speed testing
• Sea-Doo — 2027 RXP-X and RXT-X 325 specs
• Yamaha WaveRunners — GP and SuperJet specs
• Kawasaki — Jet Ski Ultra and SX-R specs
• BoatTEST — PWC performance data

*Racing jet ski review — best racing jet ski 2027, reviews, ratings, prices, and a review of the top high-performance personal watercraft picks for buyers.*