Kawasaki Brute Force 650

Oct 1, 2008 12:00 PM, BY KAREN MCMAHON

Among the three large vehicles, the Kawasaki Brute Force was the middle contender in all the events. Although the ATV's score put it in second place, a couple of the drivers said the vehicle is first on their list to buy because it is priced competitively.

“Ergonomically, it was a great machine with a comfortable feel,” Jeff Ryan noted. “It had excellent power and great stability. I would be comfortable taking the Kawasaki at $1,200 less than the Yamaha.”

Driver Jake Gervais appreciated the option of a front differential control for difficult situations. The lever is located on the left handlebar. He also liked the rear braking system that is sealed in the aluminum swing arm for virtually no maintenance.

“I also like the styling of the Brute Force,” he added. “It is kind of sporty looking. If I took a machine out for a weekend, this would be a great one to use.”

Other drivers like Pete Bakken, Garretson, SD, thought this model would benefit from having fuel injection. Bakken added, “The vehicle had good comfort. But the front end seemed a little light. I thought it was the most powerful vehicle, but it also has a two-cylinder motor.”

Shirley Hodgen said she liked some of the “creature comforts” of the vehicle, including two front pockets that are very accessible, a nice dash and the front racks. But she noticed a whine in the engine, which another driver said might be a belt noise.

VERDICT

The Kawasaki Brute Force 650 can go out and do the work on any farm. Although it doesn't have the latest features like power steering and fuel injection, it also doesn't have the extra price.