Thanks Lando.
I chose the Kawi 1100 motor, not necessarily the ZXI. That was just the ski that became available when I was looking for a donor ski. The ZXI 1100 and STX 1100 have the same motor. If an STX 1100 was for sale at the right price, I would of just taken it. STXs are usually more expensive since they are 3 seaters with reverse throttle, which is more appealing to couch riders than a simple two seater.
Honestly, I dont know of any differences between the two skis in terms of a donor for the conversion. The STX just has more stuff you throw away than the ZXI..lol The STX might have a few gauges or dash which makes the ebox slightly different, but you can see for the purposes of a Blaster conversion most of the wiring out of the ebox is removed.
Just to recap my reasons for the Kawi 1100 vs the Yamaha 1200:
#1 reason - Conversion plate for Kawi 1100 allows to shift the motor back (rear) 2 inches which improves handling. Today however, they make Yamaha conversion plates which allow shifting the motor back (Etreeme Throttle)
#2 reason - Pipe from a Kawi is smaller, lighter and can be modified into a tunable dry pipe. Can't do this on a Yamaha pipe.
#3 reason - You can upgrade the Kawi motor: with 3 degree timing advance (free), 44mm mikuni carbs, 4 degree timing plate
Hope this helps
-Rick
