Sea-Doo Stage 1 vs Stage 2 Kit: Which One Should You Buy?

Sea-Doo Stage 1 vs Stage 2 Kit: Which One Should You Buy?

You've decided to upgrade your Sea-Doo. Good call. But now you're staring at Stage 1 and Stage 2 kits wondering which one makes sense for your riding style and budget. Here's the honest breakdown.

What's in a Stage 1 Kit?

A GT40Marine Stage 1 kit includes three core upgrades: a 4-inch carbon fiber cold air intake, a catch can kit, and intercooler tubing with a Tial blow-off valve. These are the foundational mods that improve airflow, protect your engine from oil blow-by, and manage boost pressure properly.

Price: $1,039 for 230/260/300 HP models.

What you'll feel: Sharper throttle response, quicker acceleration, and a more responsive feel at all RPM ranges. The cold air intake alone makes a noticeable difference in how the ski pulls off the line.

What Does Stage 2 Add?

Stage 2 includes everything in Stage 1, plus a GT40 SuperCooler intercooler and a rear exhaust system. These two additions address the biggest performance bottlenecks on a stock Sea-Doo: heat soak and exhaust restriction.

Price: $1,600 for 230-300 HP models, $1,750 for 325 HP models.

What you'll feel: Everything from Stage 1, plus consistent power delivery on long runs (no heat soak fade), stronger mid-range and top-end pull, and a deeper exhaust note. Stage 2 is where most riders say the ski feels truly transformed.

The Money Question

Stage 1 is $1,039. Stage 2 is $1,600-$1,750. The price difference is $561-$711 for a SuperCooler and exhaust — components that would cost more if purchased separately later. If you're planning to add a SuperCooler eventually, it's cheaper to go Stage 2 from the start.

Our Recommendation

Go Stage 1 if: You're on a budget, you ride casually, or you want to test the waters before committing to a full build. Stage 1 gives you real, tangible gains for $1,039 and everything is bolt-on with no ECU changes needed.

Go Stage 2 if: You ride hard, you want consistent power, or you plan to keep the ski long-term. Stage 2 is the sweet spot between cost and performance. Most riders who start with Stage 1 end up buying the SuperCooler and exhaust later anyway — and spend more in the process.

Both kits are available at gt40marine.com. Every part includes a 2-year warranty and US-based technical support.