1999 Yamaha XL1200

The 1999-2000 Yamaha XL 1200 Ltd was a more advanced successor of the 1998 XL 1200. It enjoyed a more powerful 155hp triple engine and a revamped XL platform, which was carried over to the XLT 1200 and the XLT 800.
If you want to find out more about this popular 2-stroke WaveRunner, this post is for you.
The first PWCs in this breed were the 1998 XL 760 and the 1998 XL 1200, followed by the XL 1200 Limited (a.k.a. XL 1200 Ltd) in 1999.
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about this unique WaveRunner in detail!
Yamaha XL 1200 Ltd Hull and Top Deck
Unlike the predecessor XL 760 and the base XL 1200, the XL 1200 Limited was built on the redesigned XL platform, which was carried over to XTL models after the Millennium.
(Because of this, the 1999-2000 XL 1200 Limited and XLT 1200 were almost the same ski.)
In terms of dimensions, the XL 1200 Ltd measured 124.4 inches in length, 48 inches in width, and 44.5 inches in height. In comparison, it was 1.2 inches narrower and .4 inches longer than its predecessor the ’98 XL 1200.
This new hull also got a modern top deck, which was easily recognizable by the well-designed line of the hood that continued into the seat. This sleek design shaped a wave that made these skis even more visually appealing.
The dry weight of the XL 1200 Limited was 780 pounds, 169 pounds more than the XL 1200.
This is not surprising since the new model featured larger fuel and oil tanks, a set of new features, and a larger engine, which all contributed to the weight gain.
Let’s move on and take a closer look at this engine.
Yamaha XL 1200 Ltd Engine
Just like the hull and top deck, the engine of the XL 1200 was also upgraded for the 1999 season.
The all-new XL 1200 Limited returned with a 2-stroke, 1176cc, triple-carbed, reed-valve, triple-cylinder Yamaha marine engine that offered an industry-leading performance. Compared to the original 1200 engine, this unit displaced 45cc more and offered an extra 20hp.
Its claimed power was 155hp at 7000 RPM while its predecessor only cranked out 135hp at 6750 RPM.
In a nutshell, the key features of the 1176cc Yamaha triple were as follows:
• Bore x stroke: 80 x 78 mm
• Compression ratio: 5.9:1
• Digital CDI ignition
• Reed valve intake system
• Electric start
• Triple Mikuni BN44 carburetors
• Oil injection system
• Open-loop cooling system
• NGK BR8HS spark plugs
Behind the engine, the hull housed an axial-flow, single-stage jet pump that came standard with a manual 5-position trim, a stainless steel impeller, and a manual reverse system.
In terms of performance, the XL 1200 Ltd’s top speed was around 58 mph under ideal conditions.
The fuel consumption of the ski was a whopping 17 gph at WOT, but thanks to its bigger 18.5-gallon fuel tank, its cruising range remained over one hour.
Yamaha XL 1200 Ltd Features
The XL 1200 Ltd came standard with many advanced features, including:
• Under-seat storage bucket
• Front storage compartment
• Glovebox
• Fire extinguisher container
• Manual trim
• Manual reverse
• Dual mirrors
• Deck mats
• Bow and stern eyes
• Programmable security system
• Tilt steering
• Engine cut-off switch
• Engine shut-off cord (safety lanyard)
• Drain plugs
• Rope holes
• Rear grab handle
• Two-piece saddle
• Fuel cock knob
• Ski tow eye
• Sponsons
• Finger throttle lever
• Cooling water pilot outlet
• Visibility spout

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