Reimagining a bestselling, high-performance model is a tricky task for any personal watercraft manufacturer. Nevertheless, that’s just what Sea-Doo has done with the RXP-X 300 for 2021, tweaking everything from the running surface to the craft’s renowned ergonomics. The result is a craft that’s at once quite familiar and yet a completely new experience from top to bottom.
Arguably already one of the most aggressive handling models on the market, the new T3-R hull has clearly benefited from Sea-Doo’s pro-racing experience. It maintains the highly intuitive, lean-in style of its predecessor, relying on a sharp keel and soft outer chines that allow the boat to easily roll into the most aggressive of turns. A new feature, in our opinion, improves the overall experience for race and nonrace types alike. Dubbed shark gills, they add a series of narrow, slanted grooves to a secondary chine that, by breaking up the surface tension and introducing air, gives the craft a slightly more forgiving feel in certain scenarios. Specifically, it eliminates the sometimes surprising bite the hull could have in sweeping full-speed turns and results in a more predictable— arguably even more thrilling—solo ride for riders of all experience levels.
Yes, solo ride. Once a two-seater, the ’21 RXP-X 300 now comes from the factory as a single-passenger craft, with even deeper knee wells, a grippy seat texture, and an adjustable saddle bolster that can be quickly repositioned up to 5 inches fore or aft. Along with canted footwells, the latter addition to Sea-Doo’s Ergolock-R system truly locks the driver in place as well as tailors the saddle to taller or shorter body types. A passenger seat is available as an option, and quickly and securely latches into position for recreational riding. Likewise, the previous telescoping steering neck has also been moved to the options list, replaced by a low-profile, cast-aluminum fixed steering system for even greater leverage.
Combined, the various modifications and hull and deck construction material trim a significant 67 pounds off the most recent RXP-X design. Add the carryover 300 hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine boosted with a supercharger and intercooler, and the result is a lightning-quick zero-to-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 68.5 mph.
High Points
- TR-3 hull offers precise, lean-in handling, and shark-gill design improves full-speed sweeping turns, with better rough-water hookup.
- Ergolock-R system includes adjustable saddle, tacky surface material, low-profile handlebars and double-angle foot wedges.
- Enhanced onboard experience through addition of more storage capacity, integrated LinQ accessory system, and optional 100-watt Bluetooth sound system.
Specs
LOA: 10′10.6″
Beam: 4′1.2″
Dry Weight: 780 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 1 (standard); 2 (optional)/400 lb.
Stowage Capacity: 40.6 gal.
Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gal.
Price: $15,799
How We Tested
Engine: 300 hp Rotax 1,630cc 1630 ACE-300
Pump/Impeller: 161 mm high-pressure/stainless steel
Gear Ratio: NA
Fuel Load: 15 gal.
Crew Weight: 155 lb.
More Information
Sea-Doo – Valcourt, Quebec; 888-272–9222; sea-doo.com
