[K38 Rescue]

In 2001, this is the last year we see the 717 GTS that used the old style hull (1990-2001) (possibly actually phased out in 2000).
We get a new GTS though and it’s basically the same as the GTI, but with less bells and whistles. It may use a different hull than the GTI as well but not sure on that one. We also see the 717 GTI in the lineup again.
The GSX RFI, GTX RFI, GTX DI, RX DI, GTX, RX, XP and LRV all basically are the same machines as the 2000.
There is one big change for 2001 though in the form of two color options for almost every model. We do also see a limited production race machine designated RXX which I’ve read is the fastest stock production 2 stroke ever made.

[K38 Rescue]

In 2002, we see the first of what will become the base of all Sea Doo power to come. I’m referring to the 1503 4-TEC 3 Cylinder 4 Stroke engine. We also see the OPAS (Off Power Assisted Steering) first this year as well on the GTI LE (717) and the GTX 4-TEC. This year, we still have many of the same 2 strokes including the GTI, GTX, GTX RFI, GTX DI, RX DI, RX, and XP. The GTI LE is basically the GTI but with a different hull featuring OPAS. The 2002 GTI LE, GTX DI and GTX 4-TEC also now use a different design upper hull utilizing a new style hood and different seat design than 2002. New this year also is the LRV DI.

[K38 Rescue]

In 2003, we see the first Supercharged 4-TEC in the GTX model. We still have the GTI (717) and the more optioned GTI LE (717) as well as the new GTI LE RFI (787 RFI). We also still have the standard 155hp GTX 4-TEC, GTX DI, RX DI and XP DI and LRV DI. This is the last year though for the LRV due to poor sales I would imagine. This is also the last year for the RX model.

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[K38 Rescue]

In 2004, we start to see the direction Sea Doo and most of the PWC industry is headed with more 4 strokes and less 2 strokes in the lineup. This is the first year for the new Supercharged RXP, which I would guess was meant to be the replacement for the 130hp RX model. What a replacement!

This year we still have the GTI (717), GTI LE (717), and GTI LE RFI (787 RFI) models as well as a new GTI RFI (787 RFI) model. The GTX 4-TEC and Supercharged models are still in the lineup as well. It’s worth mentioning that the majority of the 2004 models haven’t changed and even have the same color scheme as 2003 which I would guess was probably since Sea Doo put most of their resources into developing the RXP.
Although the XP DI is in the lineup again, this will be the last year for the XP model line. Also, as mentioned this is the first year for the RXP and it turns out to be arguably the most popular Sea Doo in years.
Maintenance note… the new supercharged 4TEC models are having lots of problems with the drive. The ceramic clutch discs are great at dissipating heat but they break easy. The pieces get into the oil system and it’s quite a job and expense to clean them out. If an owner of one of these skis notices it slipping, they need to get it in for service BEFORE it breaks!

[K38 Rescue]

In 2005, we still have the GTI (717), GTI LE (787 RFI), and GTI LE RFI (787 RFI) models as well as the GTX 4-TEC and Supercharged models. A new model to appear is the GTX (4-TEC) Wake model which is set up for wakeboarding and similar activities.
The new 4 stroke model for this year is the RXT Supercharged model. It’s basically the two passenger model of the RXP and is a little longer and slower than the RXP. As for the RXP, it’s basically unchanged from 1994 besides different trim. Both the RXP and RXT come in either Red or Green color schemes this year.
Finally, I would guess since they pulled the XP in 1994, Sea Doo also released a new single seat 2 stroke model called the 3D, equipped with the 787 RFI engine. The ski is kinda like the transformers toys you might have had as a kid. It changes from stand up to sit down and all together there ends up being 5 different riding combinations you can use on the ski. Although it isn’t a very popular ski, I have heard it’s a whole lot of fun to ride!

[K38 Rescue]

In 2006, you really start to see the way Sea Doo is headed with the emphasis on 4 stroke models. All 2 strokes have been eliminated with the exception of the 3D, which now has the more powerful 947 DI installed.
The GTI models are all 4 stroke powered now and the GTX models from last year are also are in the lineup. The RXT and RXP also of course are back as well.
By now, the only real mechanical fault worth mentioning is well known among those who own the Supercharged models. The infamous clutch problems! Sea Doo addresses it with a heavier duty clutch package and aftermarket sources also have good solutions available.

[K38 Rescue]

In 2007, all models from 2006 are offered but in different colors than last year. The only real new addition is a 155hp RXP which has been a big debating point on the many Sea Doo forums. It’s a bit like putting a V6 in a Corvette, but those who are less experienced riders would most likely benefit from the less powerful model. The RXP (maybe RXT too) does have a change to the steering column making it more vertical and people say that’s an improvement. This is the last year for the poor selling 3D DI too although from what I’ve read, anyone who has actually owned or rode one loves them! A salute and RIP to the two strokes that started it all!
Maintenance note… There’s still problems with the supercharger drive but new metal washers make them last much longer. Still, if you notice a lack of rpms, get your ski in for service BEFORE it breaks!

[K38 Rescue]

In 2008 BRP hits us again with two new models… the RXP-X and the RXT-X. These have an incredible 255hp and are the most powerful PWCs ever. I believe Sea Doo picked the 255hp option to combat Yamahas 250hp ski and these new models blow any other ski away for acceleration, handling and features. From 0 to 50mph in 2.9 seconds, you almost need a seat belt!
With all these great features though people lose the fact that these now are so complicated and expensive that we’ve totally gotten away from what a PWC originally was. These are basically boats that have to go to a dealer for even the simplest maintenance needs.
A note about the ever increasing HP figures… Although Sea Doo and other PWC manufacturers have always had a constant battle to put out a ski that one-ups the competition, you’ll notice that any new ski (no matter who makes it) will ever go past 70 mph. The reason for that is the PWC manufacturers have an agreement with the USCG (and maybe insurance companies too) to keep the speeds in check. The way Sea Doo does it is to limit the hull design. They put out huge hp but then the add weight and design the hull so it’s really hard to get over 80mph safely. Yamaha has a great lightweight hull but limit speeds with the drive train design. What’s really interesting about that is now people are putting the RXP engine in the Yamaha hull and have built the first PWCs that will break the 100mph barrier. You couldn’t pay me to ride on a PWC going that fast though!

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[K38 Rescue]

In 2009 there isn’t much change in the lineup or performance with the exception of the new iS concept. The iS stands for "Intelligent Suspension" and from what I hear, it offers an incredible ride. Although the new GTX Ltd iS is a really incredible state of the art craft with intelligent suspension, intelligent throttle, and even brakes, it seems to me that Sea Doo is trying to make an idiot proof ski anyone can ride. I’ve found though it’s much better to keep the idiots off the water than giving someone with no common sense or skill a product that’s easier to operate. From what I see too, this outrageously expensive ski looks like a nightmare to repair if it breaks so make sure you get an extended warranty if you’re planning on buying this $16,500 machine!
A comment on the supercharger issues... Sea Doo now installs metal supercharger washers in all the Sea Doo models that are supercharged. They still can fail though so therefore Sea Doo calls for the supercharger to be rebuilt every 100 hours. Many dealers won’t tell a person that when buying a ski so keep that in mind if you own one or are considering purchasing a supercharged model. I’ve been hoping for a better design with less maintenance but I now believe that’s not going to happen.

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In 2010, the lineup is pretty much the same as last year but with the addition of the RXT iS 260. The GTX iS also is now also 260hp. Not sure where the extra 5hp was found but it’s once again probably a bragging thing. Not sure why they didn’t give the RXP-X the 260hp badge but maybe they’re saving that for 2011.
You would think I would be impressed with all these new models and new features but I’m not. As I’ve stated before, I don’t like complicated expensive skis that few can afford. The ski I probably like best in the 2010 lineup is the lowly GTI that’s the least expensive Sea Doo you can buy at $7,999. The reason though I like the GTI is mainly the color. I’ve never seen anyone release an almost all white PWC and that’s pretty cool. This one should be popular with people who own large yachts since they generally like a ski that blends in with their yacht and looks like it belongs there. While on the subject of color, anyone who has been in the tropical sun knows that dark colors on a boat aren’t the smartest idea since they get really hot. Therefore I can’t imaging how you can walk up and hop on a new RXP-X or RXT-X once it’s been setting out in the sun in South Florida for any length of time!


What’s up with these prices?!! The GTI and the GTI SE are now the only skis left that are below $10,000. Aren’t manufacturers paying attention to the economy? We can’t afford these crazy prices these days! Gone are the days of a $5000 ski and even used 4 stroke ski is priced crazy. The cost of a PWC these days now seems to be getting way out of the reach of pretty much anyone except those with exceptional credit. As many people have found out too, the banks aren’t giving out that stimulus money they got from us. The only good thing about these high priced new models is they’re fueling the resurgence and resurrection of the ‘ol 2 stroke smokers and I like that!

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As I said at the beginning, since I’m putting this together from memory there may be some errors so if you see one (or more), please let me know! If you have anything to contribute to the page, please feel free to e-mail me!
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This fantastic dialogue comes from: http://www.seadoosource.com/seadoomodelreference.html