V-twin powered 4x4 performer offers large
utility at a small price
When it comes to dollar
stretching performance, Kawasaki’s
mid-sized Brute Force® 650 4x4 all-terrain
vehicle (ATV) is the stand-out performer
in this class. With its legendary V-twin
engine, a proven 4x4 system and rugged
styling — for about the same price
as the single-cylinder engine crowd —
its value is even more apparent to those
seeking a powerful yet sensible 4x4 ATV.
The Brute Force 650 4x4
is powered by Kawasaki’s popular
liquid-cooled 633cc, 90-degree V-twin
engine with single overhead cams and four
valves per cylinder. Its dual 32mm Keihin
carburetors draw fresh air from a snorkel
intake located high in the frame near
the steering head. This powerplant gives
the rider industry-leading torque and
a smooth power delivery that’s unrivaled
by the competition.
The robust V-twin engine
is mated to the Kawasaki Automatic Powerdrive
System (KAPS) continuously variable transmission
(CVT). With low and high range, neutral
and reverse, this dependable transmission
functions seamlessly, providing excellent
control for both low- and high-speed work
or recreational riding. Additionally,
the Brute Force 650 4x4 can be started
in any gear, as long as the brakes are
applied.
Power is delivered to
the wheels through dependable, low-maintenance
shaft drive contained in a lightweight
aluminum swingarm. The rider can select
two-wheel or four-wheel drive operation
via a switch conveniently mounted on the
right handle bar. In normal four-wheel
drive mode, the front wheels provide extra
traction for adverse terrain, while the
limited-slip differential allows the rider
to make tight turns and reduces steering
effort.
When maximum traction
is needed, the rider can utilize Kawasaki’s
Variable Front Differential Control by
pulling a lever on the left handlebar
to send power to both front wheels. This
is a definite advantage for riders encountering
deep mud and slippery uphill trails or
when traversing over large objects such
as logs or rocks.
The cutting-edge Brute
Force 650 4x4 braking system design is
a combination of dual front disc brakes
with dual-piston calipers and Kawasaki’s
sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc rear brake
system. As an integrated part of the shaft
drive, the rear braking system is sealed
in the aluminum swingarm where it operates
in an oil bath. This protects the brake
from mud, dust and debris, and is virtually
maintenance-free.
Enhancing the high-performance
brakes is the Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
system, which electronically monitors
ground speed and uses the engine’s
compression to help slow the Brute Force
ATV under certain conditions.
Plush and controlled rides
are the Kawasaki’s 4x4 ATV forte
and the Brute Force 650 4x4 exemplifies
this specialty. It does this with MacPherson
strut front suspension with 6.7 inches
of travel and an aluminum swingarm featuring
a shock with adjustable preload, a piggy-back
reservoir and 7.2 inches of travel for
the rear suspension duties.
Additional comfort is
provided by a large seat and adjustable
footpegs mounted atop full-size floorboards.
To help reduce unsprung weight and further
enhance the smooth ride, the Brute Force
rolls on aluminum wheels.
The modern, aggressively
angled lines and ultra-high gloss appearance
of the Thermo-Plastic Olefin scratch-resistant
bodywork are complemented by bright cat-eye
headlights. The fully digital instrumentation
includes speedometer, odometer, dual resettable
trip meters, clock, hour meter, fuel gauge
and 2x4/4x4 indicators.
Leading the conveniences
on the Brute Force 650 4x4 is a DC power
outlet to provide quick and easy power
for electrical accessories. It is also
has space provided inside the front guard
to easily accommodate a 3000-pound capacity
winch from Warn or Superwinch.
The front and rear steel
racks on the Brute Force 650 4x4 can carry
a total of 264 pounds of cargo, and a
hitch bracket that enables the ATV to
tow up to 1,250 pounds. Owners can expand
the versatility of their Brute Force ATV
via the extensive line of Authentic Kawasaki
Accessories, available through Kawasaki
dealers.
As with all off-highway
vehicle recreation, Kawasaki encourages
ATV riders to ride responsibly and to
respect the environment. Kawasaki will
pay first-time buyers of a new Kawasaki
ATV $100 for completing an ATV rider safety
course conducted by the ATV Safety Institute
(ASI). Interested consumers can call ASI
toll-free at 800-887-2887
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