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Can-Am Side-by-side Vehicle Pilots win In Missouri; ATV Racers Victorious in West Virginia

– Can-Am Maverick X3 pilot Tim Farr notches win Sunday on rain-soaked course
– XPS athlete and Can-Am racer Kyle Chaney earns two podiums in Missouri
– Can-Am 4×4 ATV racers dominate at muddy Snowshoe GNCC course

VALCOURT, QUEBEC, CANADA, June 27, 2018 – Can-Am ATV and side-by-side vehicle racers earned numerous podiums and class wins in two different series this past weekend in Missouri and West Virginia. The side-by-side vehicle pilots earned two podium sweeps in the Turbo Production UTV class at rounds four and five of the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series this past weekend in Wheatland, Mo. Can-Am ATV racers won five classes at the Snowshoe Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) series in West Virginia.

Maverick X3 Racers Shine in Show Me State

ATV racing legend and Can-Am Maverick X3 side-by-side vehicle racer Tim Farr won Sunday in horribly muddy conditions, while fellow Can-Am pilot Kyle Chaney earned the victory Saturday. In all, Can-Am Maverick X3 side-by-side vehicle racers led the way in Show Me State, earning two class wins and tallying six total podium spots, once again showcasing the vehicle’s superior design no matter the conditions. After two solid rounds and another podium finish, Can-Am driver Corry Weller left the track as the Turbo Production UTV class points leader.

Round four of the series pitted many racing regulars against some new Midwest pilots in perfect conditions. Farr (FRE / Bak40 Motorsports / Can-Am) jumped out to an early lead on lap one, in front of three other Can-Am racers. Farr held the lead for the first three laps before Chaney (XPS Oils / Fox Racing Shox / Can-Am) overtook him on lap four and then ran out front until Weller started challenging him for the lead. Weller actually put her No. 748 DragonFire Racing / Maxxis / Can-Am Maverick X3 race vehicle ahead of Chaney’s Can-Am late in lap five, but Chaney answered quickly by retaking the lead at the midway point. After the restart lap (lap six), Chaney stayed out front and didn’t look back, notching the win and earning the fastest lap award in his No. 91 Can-Am Maverick X3 side-by-side vehicle.

“I was very happy with my Can-Am Maverick X3,” said Chaney. “After a few laps, I was able to grab the lead. It was not an easy lead to hold, as Corry Weller, in another Can-Am X3 vehicle, gave me a close run the whole race.”

Weller captured third place, just behind teammate and fellow Can-Am Maverick X3 pilot Paul O’Brien, who stormed back from outside the top five to earn second in his No. #711 Weller Racing / Specialty Coatings / Can-Am. That gave Can-Am a 1-2-3 podium finish at round four and kept O’Brien in the class points lead at that point.

The Turbo UTV feature, delayed 2 hours due to weather, began in heavy rain, turning the already wet course into a short-course bog, so to speak. However, the Can-Am racers and Maverick X3 side-by-side vehicle were confident in their skills and vehicles in spite of the dismal conditions. Farr got out front early, using his driving expertise and the performance of his turbocharged Can-Am side-by-side vehicle. Chaney waited until the white flag lap to make his passing attempts on the leader, but could not find his way to the front, as Farr took the win. Chaney earned the fastest lap award and his second podium of the weekend. Another Can-Am racer, Kyle Hart, ended up third. Weller survived the muck, too, to capture fifth place, which pushed her into the class points lead after five rounds of competition, a few points in front of O’Brien, who was sixth.

“I’m in good company with my teammate Paul O’Brien in the battle for the LOORRS championship,” stated Weller. “[We have] good momentum going into the next round.

Wolfe Howls At Snowshoe GNCC

Can-Am 4×4 ATV racers had a great showing at round nine of the 2018 GNCC ATV series, winning five classes and earning a total of 14 of a possible 18 podium positions in various classes. Landon Wolfe (Can-Am / DeRisi Racing / GBC Motorsports) led the way aboard his Can-Am Renegade X xc 1000R with his second-straight victory in the 4×4 Pro ATV ranks. Wolfe had six consecutive runner-up finishes prior to starting his winning streak.

Reigning two-time 4×4 Pro ATV class champion and Can-Am Renegade racer Kevin Cunningham finish roughly five seconds behind to record his ninth podium of the year. His second-place run also kept his class points lead at 40 as the GNCC season takes its mid-summer break until mid-September.

Can-Am ATV racers also produced class podium sweeps in both the 4×4 A and 4×4 B and notched wins in the 4×4 C and 4×4 Lites classes during another dominant showing.

For more information about Can-Am off-road products, the family of championship-winning Can-Am Maverick X3 side-by- side vehicles and the Can-Am racing program, visit CanAmOffRoad.com.

About BRP
BRP (TSX:DOO) is a global leader in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems. Its portfolio includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am off-road and Spyder vehicles, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. BRP supports its line of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business. With annual sales of CA$4.2 billion from over 100 countries, the Company employs approximately 8,700 people worldwide.

Dirt Trax Television 2018 – Arrival

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Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

New season begins July 2, 2018 on network television and July 8, 2018 on YouTube.

Watch on Outdoor Channel in the United States and WILD TV and OLN in Canada.

Outdoor Channel air times:

Tuesdays – 2:30PM EST
Thursdays – 12:00PM EST
Sundays – 3:00PM EST

OLN air times:

Saturdays – 8:00AM EST
Sundays – 9:00AM EST

WILD TV air times:

Mondays – 9:00PM EST
Wednesdays – 10:30AM EST
Fridays – 7:30AM EST
Saturdays – 2:00AM EST
Sundays – 9:00AM EST

ARGO GO ANYWHERE SWEEPSTAKES

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Dirt Trax Television, in cooperation with Argo – the world’s largest selling Amphibious Extreme Terrain Vehicle – and Tourism Lanaudière is promoting the Argo Go Anywhere Sweepstakes.

Enter and you can WIN an Argo Frontier Scout 6X6 S XTV valued at over $14,000 plus a three day all expenses paid hunting and fishing adventure at the legendary Coin Lavigne Outfitter this coming October.

Located in the heart of the Lanaudière Region, Coin Lavigne Outfitter is surrounded by eight beautiful lakes, breathtaking mountain terrain and majestic wildlife.

The lucky winner will be treated to an authentic Quebec experience and also take advantage of the full service accommodations along with professional guides for Hunting and Fishing.

The lucky winner will also star in a feature story on Dirt Trax Television as you use the Argo XTV’s to your advantage and Go Anywhere!

Enter online at http://www.atvmag.com/argo

Dirt Trax Television 2018 – This is the Time

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Brand new season of Dirt Trax Television starts July 2, 2018 on network television and July 8, 2018 right here on YouTube.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Watch on Outdoor Channel in the United States and OLN and WILD TV in Canada.

Outdoor Channel air times:

Tuesdays – 2:30PM EST
Thursdays – 12:00PM EST
Sundays – 3:00PM EST

OLN air times:

Saturdays – 8:00AM EST
Sundays – 9:00AM EST

WILD TV air times:

Mondays – 9:00PM EST
Wednesdays – 10:30AM EST
Fridays – 7:30AM EST
Saturdays – 2:00AM EST
Sundays – 9:00AM EST

TEXTRON STAMPEDE X

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Many of our readers and viewers don’t get this whole Textron thing yet. I can’t believe the number of questions continually coming from readers and viewers unaware of this giant corporation’s equity in things motorized and specifically off-road.

Much of the confusion stems from this reality: Textron purchased Arctic Cat a little over a year ago and then took the Arctic Cat branding off the Arctic Cat off-road models they continue to produce.

In fact, Textron has moved most of its off-road manufacturing from Georgia to the home of Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls, Minnesota and St Cloud, Minnesota. So Textron Off-Road products are still built in Arctic Cat factories and most of the Arctic Cat employees are still in place. Less confused?

Here’s the beef. Textron is a $15 billion corporation (FYI – approximately the same size as Yamaha Motor Corp worldwide) producing sophisticated aviation (Cessna, Lycoming and Bell Helicopters) and other military vehicles – to mention just a few categories.

What does this have to do with our report on the Textron Stampede? First: The Stampede is not a re-branded SxS from somewhere off-shore. It is true-blue American engineered and manufactured. It’s well built, tough and backed by an impressive dealer network that got a whole lot more impressive when Textron added Arctic Cat’s well established North American dealer network to the relatively small number of Textron Off-Road dealers.

For the record, the Achilles heel of every newcomer SxS and ATV OEM always has been a profound lack of dealers. You can’t get anywhere in the off-road biz today without distribution and customer service – that’s what dealers do.

What do we think of the Stampede? A full-on DirtTrax Test Ride segment will be airing on the Outdoor Channel in the US and OLN and Wild TV in Canada early this summer. Here’s some info to wet your whistle:

The Stampede scores big marks in the specifications column. It’s powered by an even firing, SOHC, 850cc parallel twin driving through time-proven and built-in-the-USA TEAM clutches.

This 80-hp engine is torquey from initial engagement to a near 8000 RPM shift speed. Great care has been taken to ensure the engine and driveline are well protected from water and mud intrusion as are the clutches that have an effective venting/cooling system.

Suspension numbers are equally as impressive with 11 inches of ground clearance, 9.5 inches of wheel travel up front and 10.5 outback.

Here’s where we have some concern. The Stampede is deliberately targeted at the industry leading Polaris Ranger XP. This is a lofty target and one that has more than 50-percent market share in the Sport-Ute SxS segment. If you’re going to target the leader then you need to pay attention to ride quality because the leader (and most recently Can-Am’s new Defender) has ride quality nailed. The Stampede isn’t quite there yet.

Function is where the Stampede – in our opinion – really shines. The basic chassis uses what is best called an “extended cab” to produce a very useable and innovative storage area behind the cab and in front of the large 600-pound capacity dumping cargo box.

You can easily throw a chain saw, gas, axe and safety gear in there while saving the box for the load of cut wood you just stole from your neighbor’s wood lot. There’s a beefy 2-inch hitch receiver, full-length, sealed doors and nice aluminum wheels shod with Maxxis Big Horn 2.0s. The Stampede also comes with traction sensing on-demand true 4×4 and lawn saving turf mode for yard chores.

Stuff we don’t get would be led by the existence of only two seat belts up front. This class of SxS needs three belts like the Ranger and the Defender. The other issue is the two-handed tailgate release clamps – definitely old school – and not up to the standard set by the competition’s pick-up style, one-handed gates.

There’s a lot to like and little to dislike on the Stampede X for MY2018. You owe it to yourself to visit your local Textron Off-Road dealer – which may look an awful lot like your Arctic Cat dealer – and check out the Stampede X before making a purchase in this popular SxS category.

Dirt Trax Television 2018 – Get Ready

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All-new season of Dirt Trax Television is heading your way beginning July 2, 2018 on network television and July 8, 2018 right here on YouTube.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Watch on Outdoor Channel in the United States and OLN and WILD TV in Canada.

Outdoor Channel air times:

Tuesdays – 2:30PM EST
Thursdays – 12:00PM EST
Sundays – 3:00PM EST

OLN air times:

Saturdays – 8:00AM EST
Sundays – 9:00AM EST

WILD TV air times:

Mondays – 9:00PM EST
Wednesdays – 10:30AM EST
Fridays – 7:30AM EST
Saturdays – 2:00AM EST
Sundays – 9:00AM EST

HONDA PURE SPORT SXS

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Supporting the images currently circulating online, rumors indicate there may be 2 version of a pure sport side by side about to drop from Honda.

While Photoshop can be very convincing, we’ve seen enough to make us wonder if all the Honda information we’ve seen is going to make it’s way to a showroom floor in the near future.

All indications point to Honda introducing a 1000cc pure sport that’s sportier than a Pioneer and while we can only hope it is boosted, we’re pretty sure it won’t be.

Will Honda really take the 1000 Pioneer motor and expect to make waves by dropping it in a sport side by side? Sure there will be folks who get excited for it, but it’s going to take more than just a pumped up Pioneer 1000 to play in this game – especially since the competition has such a commanding lead and truly incredible products.

While anything less than 100-hp might not make you run to your bank and take out a second mortgage, there are a lot of folks who would love to take home the reliability Honda is known for in a sporty package.

We have to wonder though if Honda can truly produce a bulletproof sport package that’ll deliver the rock solid reliability Honda buyers expect. Being new to the pure sport side-x-side category, that’s something only time will tell.

If rumors are true, our expectation is an offering that’s less than 100 horsepower available in both a trail riding width and full on dune-smasher with an increased travel, width and larger body shocks.

We’d expect some kind of auto clutch with paddle shifters on a dune version and a DCT-equipped trail version for those who don’t want to do the work.

No matter what the Honda’s pure sport side-x-side ends up being, we believe the company is setting up for something big. We just have to wonder if that something will be enough.

Yamaha YXZ1000R and YFZ450R bLU cRU Racers Leading the Way in 2018

KENNESAW, Ga. – June 19, 2018 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, factory-supported and bLU cRU racers are leading their respective classes for the 2018 season, piloting Yamaha’s pure sport Side-by-Side (SxS), the YXZ1000R, and the industry’s most technologically advanced sport ATV on the market, the YFZ450R. Yamaha’s bLU cRU racing support program, offering championship bonuses to registered racers competing in YXZ or YFZ450R models, has extended support to the new Lucas Oil Midwest Short Course League, which held its debut race at Crandon International Speedway this past weekend.

Yamaha now has a $15,000 Yamaha bLU cRU championship bonus for the Lucas Oil Midwest Short Course League, replacing The Off-Road Championship (TORC) Series after its cancellation for the 2018 season. The new seven-round series runs through September 2, with races held at Crandon International Off-Road Raceway in Wisconsin, ERX Motor Park in Minnesota, and Bark River International Raceway in Michigan. The Midwest League will feature Yamaha’s factory-supported racer, multi-time Pro 2 and Pro 4 truck champion, and last year’s TORC Series Pro Stock UTV champion CJ Greaves in his Mutant Super Soda / Maxxis / Yamalube / GYTR / Greaves Motorsports YXZ1000R. After an extremely wet and muddy start to the series this past weekend, CJ Greaves kept his composure through an array challenges and stiff competition to secure back-to-back Pro Stock SxS wins in his YXZ1000R.

For the national circuit of the Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series (LOORRS) in the Production 1000 UTV class, JM2 / Maxxis / Yamaha factory-supported racer Brock Heger, and Weller Racing / bLU cRU racer Jason Weller are currently second and third, respectively, in the series with the YXZ1000R. In the first three of 12 rounds, Heger is six points behind first place with 152 points, finishing on the podium in every round, with one first and two third-place finishes. Weller follows in third overall with 131 points, and a second-place finish.

In the Lucas Oil Regional Off-Road Series (LORORS), Paul O’Brien is making a strong start in Arizona, capturing three-straight wins and a 34-point lead in the opening rounds with his #911 Weller Racing / FOX Yamaha YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift). In the Southern California (SoCal) LORORS series, bLU cRU racer Keith Brooks holds third overall with 138 total points in three rounds with his #942 Walker Evans Racing / Aim Sports Data / NRG Off-Road / Yamaha YXZ1000R.

Setting up for another successful year, Yamaha factory-supported racer and three-time GNCC Pro-class champion Walker Fowler continues to chase his fourth-straight XC1 Pro ATV championship on his WFR / GBC / Fly / Moto-Xperts / Yamaha YFZ450R. With 175 points and five first-place finishes, Fowler leads with 35 points after seven rounds in the 13-round series.

Looking to recapture the ATV Motocross (MX) championship title, Yamaha factory-supported racer and five-time AMA Pro ATV MX champion Chad Wienen is battling for the lead after seven rounds aboard his Wienen Motorsports / Maxxis / SSI / Walsh / GYTR Yamaha YFZ450R. Only three points behind first place, Wienen has two first-overall finishes, and has yet to end up less than second place in a race this season.

“The racing this year has been incredibly exciting so far, as we watch our best racers fight for top spots against many formidable competitors, and we are anticipating a promising end to the season,” said Donnie Luce, Yamaha’s Amateur MX / ATV / Off-Road Coordinator. “We’re also looking forward to supporting racers in the newly formed Lucas Oil Midwest Short Course League, and expect to see many of the areas’ top competitors facing off in the new series over the summer in some of the most prestigious venues in Off- Road racing.”

In addition to the new Lucas Oil Midwest Short Course League, Yamaha’s bLU cRU program will also award $15,000 championship bonuses to first place finishers driving a YXZ1000R or YXZ1000R SS in the national Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series and GNCC UXC1 Pro UTV classes, and $5,000 to qualified racers in Best in the Desert (BITD), LORORS SoCal, LORORS Arizona, and WORCS.

Qualified racers aboard the YFZ450R racing in the ATV MX Pro class and GNCC XC1 Pro ATV class receive $10,000 in championship bonuses.

The complete list of championship bonuses for 2018 are as follows:

SxS Racing Series / YXZ1000R
Lucas Oil Midwest Short Course League, Pro Stock SxS class: $15,000
Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing, Pro Production 1000 class: $15,000
Grand National Cross Country, UXC1 Pro UTV class: $15,000
Best in the Desert, Production 1000 class: $5,000
LORORS SoCal, Production 1000 UTV class: $5,000
LORORS Arizona, Production 1000 UTV class: $5,000
World Off-Road Championship Series (WORCS), SxS Pro Stock class: $5,000

ATV Racing Series / YFZ450R
GNCC, XC1 Pro ATV class: $10,000
American Motorcycle Association (AMA) ATV MX, Pro class: $10,000

Yamaha’s bLU cRU program offers racing bonuses to registered racers competing in select classes aboard Yamaha’s 2017 or newer YXZ1000R, YXZ1000R SS or YFZ450R models adorned with Yamaha and bLU cRU decals. Once approved, racers will receive a reloadable Yamaha bLU cRU debit card and $45 credit on their www.bLUcRUswag.com account for bLU cRU apparel. These racers will also be eligible for the above listed championship bonuses paid directly to their bLU cRU debit card.

Racers can register or view more information on the program, including all guidelines and requirements for ATV and SxS racing at www.YamahabLUcRU.com. Follow Yamaha Outdoors and racing on your favorite social channels at www.Facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors, www.Twitter.com/YamahaOutdoors, www.Twitter.com/YamahaATVracing, and www.Instagram.com/YamahaOutdoors. #YamahaRacing #YXZ1000R #YFZ450R #bLUcRU #ProvenOffRoad #REALizeYourAdventure #REALizeYourPodium #AssembledinUSA #Yamaha

About Yamaha Motor Corp., USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the powersports industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATVs and Side-By-Side Vehicles, Snowmobiles, Outboard Motors, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States.

Headquartered in California since 1960, YMUS also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information about Yamaha, visit www.YamahaMotorsports.com.

SCRAMBLER XP1K HIGHLIFTER EDITION

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We recently posed the question on Instagram whether there’s merit in Polaris producing a 1000cc Scrambler XP1K Highlifter Edition and honestly weren’t surprised by the almost unanimously positive response. So here’s our logic for asking the question in the first place:

Right off the start, a Scrambler mud machine would compete directly with Can-Am’s Renegade Xmr. Can-Am owns 100-percent of the factory share of space in the pure sport mud performance category with its Renny, which is enough reason alone for Polaris to want in on the action.

Yes, we know there’s already a Sportsman Highlifter so what’s the big deal about a Scrambler? Well, probably the biggest factor is about mud clearout.

The Scrambler has significantly less fender plastic to build-up mud as you progress through the gnarliest skeg and muck. Better clearout means less restriction so you can utilize all the engine’s power to propel you to the other side without getting completely weighted down by mud. Furthermore, stock plastic means you don’t have to take the dremmel to your brand new ATV and cut up the plastic.

Creating a Scrambler for mud involves more than just slapping some big-lug tires on it. We’d like to see high clearance A-arms, a cool looking snorkel, relocated radiator and perhaps pattern-cut footwells that would allow better flow-through of water and clearout of mud.

Tweaks to clutching and extra low gearing would also take performance to a new level. Outlaw tires similar to the Sportsman Highlifter would be the ticket to get you out of the deep-and-dirty and a stock winch is a must when you eventually run out of talent mid-mudhole.

We think this setup would be a real winner and since it’s not like Polaris to leave a category unchallenged, we have to think we’re not the only ones daydreaming about an ATV like this.

Stay tuned…

2019 KAWASAKI MULE PRO-MX

Following multiple accolades for its MULE™ PRO series, Kawasaki continues to grow the MULE PRO family with the addition of the all-new MULE PRO-MX™ side x side to the 2019 lineup. The MULE PRO-MX features increased recreational abilities and rugged, no-nonsense styling that further establishes the mid-size, compact side x side as the customer’s dependable choice for work or play.

The all-new 2019 Kawasaki, MULE PRO-MX™ side x side brings a mid-size option to the MULE™ PRO Series. A comfortable fit for two passengers, the muscle to cover more ground in less time, and the capability to get out for some fun when work is done.

The MULE PRO-MX EPS LE is the right size for work or play, the power for both. The fuel injected 695cc single cylinder engine is smooth and powerful with plenty of torque that contributes to its fun to drive nature, which is complemented by its speed-sensitive Kawasaki Electronic Power Steering (EPS), effective engine braking, and powerful disc brakes.

In contrast to the rest of the full-size MULE lineup, the MULE PRO-MX line offers a shorter and narrower wheelbase yet is still wide enough to provide a solid platform, paired with a powerful engine that makes it a perfect choice for almost any situation.

The all-new Kawasaki MULE PRO-MX was designed and built to offer the rancher, hunter, or weekend warrior a mid-sized highly capable trail and chore option to tackle any adventure. The MULE PRO-MX features high-quality pickup truck-styled bodywork, easy to read automotive style dashboards, bright quadruple headlamps, along with a number of tough, durable steel parts; as well as the legendary MULE performance, durability, and class-leading comfort.

A tight turning radius, heavy towing capacity, and high-volume storage that make the MULE PRO-MX an ideal work companion; but it’s the carefully calculated wheelbase, independent double-wishbone front and rear suspension, and Shinari-tuned frame that make it a blast for the trails. The MULE PRO-MX is also backed by a Kawasaki STRONG, 3-Year Limited Warranty.

THE 2019 KAWASAKI MULE PRO-MX

• Mid-sized rugged and durable Shinari-tuned steel frame
• 695cc single cylinder fuel injected single overhead cam engine offers plenty of smooth and useable power
• 13.8-foot turning radius allows for nimble handling on the tightest of trails
• Class-leading comfort and convenience with standard features including roomy interior, contoured bench seat, doors and tilt-adjustable steering wheel

ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN

The heart of the all-new Kawasaki MULE PRO-MX side x side is a smooth and powerful liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 695cc SOHC, 4-valve, four-stroke engine that has smooth acceleration and plenty of torque. The fuel injection system assures fuel delivery to the engine is instantaneous, creating smooth and predictable power. With 43 ft. lb. of torque, it has excellent pulling power when fully loaded, but also excellent acceleration and agility when combined with the centrifugal clutch and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) design and four-wheel drive system. The MULE PRO-MX has smooth and dependable engine braking and also provides confidence-inspiring control when maneuvering down steeper descents.

The engine design and layout of the MULE PRO-MX was created with performance and durability in mind. The highly efficient intake and air cleaner design are placed high up in the engine bay, beneath the dashboard in a labyrinth layout, which utilizes a rubber seal and paper filter element to minimize the engine’s exposure to dust and grime. To enhance reliability of the MULE PRO-MX the ECU, CVT duct layout, and differential breather layout were designed to minimize water exposure; the ECU was placed inside an enclosed container high up in the vehicle. Taking into account coolant temperature, air intake temperature and pressure, throttle position, vehicle speed and crankshaft angle, the fuel injection system automatically regulates the optimal amount of fuel for extremely stable power delivery. Fueling the good times of the MULE PRO-MX is a large, 9.5-gallon fuel tank, which is recessed far from the wheels to minimize damage from trail debris.

Transferring the engine’s performance to the ground is a specially tuned CVT, complemented by a centrifugal clutch system that delivers smooth acceleration, maximizing traction and contributing to precise maneuvering. The MULE PRO-MX utilizes hard chrome plating on the CVT drive and drive shafts for long-lasting durability; the N7-grade CVT belt also ensures top-level durability. The CVT is paired with an electrically selectable 2WD/4WD system that has a dual-mode, locking rear differential. Convenient dash-mounted switches allow the driver to instantly engage the systems, giving full control over the 4WD system. The CVT also provides natural engine braking to assist when descending slopes, with consistent engine holdback to increase driver confidence, especially when the vehicle is loaded.

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

The Shinari-tuned frame of the MULE PRO-MX side x side is what truly provides its incredible handling and comfort characteristics, but also its durability. Shinari is a Japanese term that describes the elasticity of an object, which enables it to bend but not break, all while retaining its original shape, similar to the characteristics of a hunting bow or fishing pole. The Shinari tuned characteristics of the MULE PRO-MX are derived from its construction and highly specialized materials chosen to do the job.

The MULE PRO-MX frame has been built from high-quality steel square tubing using a ladder-type construction. The frame components are joined together using a combination of welded and bolted members, which create the highly predictable chassis performance and durability. For specific high-load areas, such as the suspension mounting plates, high-tensile strength steel was chosen to ensure greater reliability. A fully rubber mounted engine helps ensure increased ride comfort by minimizing engine vibration.

Complementing the design and performance of the Shinari tuned chassis of MULE PRO-MX is a double-wishbone suspension design utilizing twin-tube shock absorbers, both front and rear, which allows each of the wheels to drive over obstacles with minimal effect on the chassis. The shock absorbers provide excellent bump absorption and off road performance, while also helping to minimize chassis body roll to help provide a smoother ride for passengers.

HANDLING & MANUVERABILITY

Just like the other members of the MULE PRO family of side x sides, the MULE PRO-MX was designed and built to offer smooth, easy handling. Its chassis features a design that positions the wheels as close to the corners of the vehicle as possible, which contributes to the overall handling performance, and minimizes overhang. The incredible handling and maneuverability of the MULE PRO-MX are made possible by a few of its design characteristics, such as the width of its track and length of the wheelbase, ample ground clearance, high approach and departure angles, and Kawasaki Electronic Power Steering (EPS) on select models.

The MULE PRO-MX features a 13.8-foot turning radius, which is complemented by a short 78.9-inch wheelbase and wide track width, measuring 52 inches in the front end and 50.5 inches in the rear end with over 10 inches of ground clearance, allowing it to navigate plenty of tight turns and technical terrain. A 67-degree approach angle and 63-degree departure makes the MULE PRO-MX a very capable choice for off-highway adventures, because it reduces the chances of hitting the bumpers or scraping the tail when ascending or descending steep slopes. Kawasaki’s high-grade EPS system on the MULE PRO-MX works best when you need it most: at extremely slow speed and when stopped.

The EPS system also enhances ride comfort and control by acting as a damping system, by using the inertia of the electric motor significantly reduces bump steer and kickback to the steering wheel caused. Complementing the Kawasaki EPS system is a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, which has a stepless range of 31-degrees and allows drivers to set the wheel to their preferred position while driving or exiting the vehicle.

TIRES, WHEELS & BRAKING

The MULE PRO-MX side x side comes equipped with 25-inch tires mounted to 12-inch rims. The large 25-inch Duro Frontier radial tires provide great off-road traction and ample ground clearance, and complement the rugged styling. The MULE PRO-MX™ EPS edition and EPS CAMO edition both feature rugged steel wheels, while the MULE PRO-MX™ EPS LE edition features cast aluminum wheels, which contribute to its high quality appearance.

The stopping duties of the MULE PRO-MX are handled by a powerful front and rear hydraulic disc brake package that offers consistent performance and brake pedal feel, complemented by the dependable engine braking system. All four corners of the MULE PRO-MX are equipped with 212 mm discs; the front discs are gripped by a pair of twin piston calipers, while the rear discs use a single caliper to slow the vehicle down. The MULE PRO-MX has a sturdy independent parking brake that helps keep it from rolling away when stopped, which is located conveniently the under the dash.

CARGO, STROAGE, TOWING CAPACITY

Because it is built Kawasaki STRONG, the MULE PRO-MX side x side has a sturdy 1.6 mm thick steel diamond-plate cargo floor with a maximum cargo capacity of up to 700 pounds (California model 600 pounds). Its spacious cargo bed measures 33.35 inches x 44.1 inches x 9.13 inches. The flat design of the cargo bed makes it easy to access and load from three sides, while its flat bottom provides efficient, useable space for chores around the property or gear for some outdoor fun. The bed utilizes a two-lever tailgate release system for easy opening and closing. The cargo bed has a gas-assisted tilt feature that makes it easier to raise the bed to allow easy access to the engine compartment.

The MULE PRO-MX cargo bed was engineered with convenience in mind, with many useful features integrated into it. New to the Kawasaki MULE PRO line up is the sturdy cargo divider system. A number of different cargo bed storage layout configurations are possible thanks to the slots that were built into the walls and tailgate, which allows dividers to be arranged laterally or longitudinally. The cargo bed also has an integrated one-inch square pipe, which provides six easy tie-down points that are compatible with the optional KQR™ accessory mounts. Another convenient feature of the cargo bed are the integrated tailgate cup holders, which are accessable when the tailgate is down.

Convenient storage options are another key feature of MULE PRO-MX. A 2.4-gallon storage compartment is located under the front hood; an additional 1.4-gallon storage compartment was built in beneath the passenger seat. A lockable passenger side glove box for small items was integrated into the dash, along with two cup holders, dashboard pockets and a tray for quick and easy storage of small items.

A standard two-inch tow hitch receiver allows the MULE PRO-MX to utilize a wide variety of accessory hitches while showcasing its impressive 1500-pound towing capacity, whether hard at work on the job or just helping friends along the trail.

TOUGH, RUGGED STYLING

The MULE PRO-MX side x side is built to be noticed; its tough high-quality pickup truck-style bodywork is inspired by its larger counterparts in MULE PRO Series lineup. It also takes many of its styling cues from Kawasaki’s flagship MULE line, such as the grill design, functional bumper and guard, and headlamp-area. The MULE PRO-MX’s size is not overwhelming, which gives it an easy-to-use appearance. Its sleek styling elements are not just for good looks, they also help to increase driver confidence with features like the front hood’s downward slant, which allows for a large field of vision. The MULE PRO-MX also features its own unique backswept paneling design around the headlamps, and a steel front bumper adds to its tough and rugged image.

The theme of clean automotive inspired design continues into the interior of the MULE PRO-MX with its dashboard configuration, which includes switches for the headlights, selectable 4WD, and rear differential lock. It also contains a multi-function display that is built into the dash, which monitors fifteen features, including but not limited to driving mode (2WD/4WD) indicator, digital speedometer, digital fuel gauge, odometer, parking brake indicator lamp, reverse indicator lamp, and a neutral indicator lamp. The dash also contains a conveniently placed 12-volt DC power outlet to make charging easy.

The spacious interior of the MULE PRO-MX offers ample room for driver and passenger, as well as a comfortable cold resistant bench seat material, which are equipped with three-point anti-cinch seat belts. The interior also features Kawasaki’s Roll Over Protection System (ROPS), which includes a passenger handgrip and shoulder guards that are integrated into the frame.

MODEL VARIATIONS

The MULE PRO-MX™ is available in several different models and color ways. The MULE PRO-MX EPS edition comes in a Timberline Green or Bright White finish and also features: EPS, adjustable tilt steering, steel wheels, halogen headlamps, and two LED auxiliary headlamps complementing two halogen headlamps. The MULE PRO-MX EPS CAMO edition comes in a TrueTimber® HTC Green and also features: EPS, adjustable tilt steering, steel wheels, halogen headlamps, and two LED auxiliary headlamps complementing two halogen headlamps, and plastic roof. The MULE PRO-MX EPS LE edition comes in Firecracker Red and also features EPS, adjustable tilt steering, stylish aluminum wheels, halogen headlamps, plastic roof, and two LED auxiliary headlamps complementing two halogen headlamps.

KAWASAKI STRONG 3-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Completing the appeal of the MULE PRO-MX™ is a standard Kawasaki STRONG 3-Year Limited Warranty to keep you running STRONG.

KAWASAKI MULE PRO-MX™ EPS
Color: Timberline Green, Bright White
MSRP: $11,999 (US)
Availability: TBA

KAWASAKI MULE PRO-MX™ EPS LE
Colors: Firecracker Red
MSRP: $12,499 (US)
Availability: TBA

KAWASAKI MULE PRO-MX™ EPS CAMO
Colors: Camouflage TrueTimber® HTC Green
MSRP: $12,649 (US)
Availability: TBA

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki’s commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski® watercraft through a network of approximately 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,700 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 260 of them located at KMC’s Foothill Ranch, California headquarters. Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles.

Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at kawasaki.com.