While the competition sells some nice big-bore all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) with single-cylinder engines and four-wheel drive, the Brute Force™ 650 4x4 comes with Kawasaki’s legendary V-twin engine, a leading-edge 4x4 system and angular good looks for about the same price.

The Brute Force 650 4x4 is powered by a liquid-cooled 633cc, 90-degree

V-twin engine featuring single overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. It is fed by dual 32mm Keihin carburetors drawing fresh air from a snorkel intake located high in the frame near the steering head. Together, these powerplant features provide the rider with industry-leading torque and smooth-running operation unmatched by the competition.

Power is then transferred to Kawasaki’s much-acclaimed fully automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT). With high or low forward gears, plus neutral and reverse, this proven transmission functions seamlessly, providing excellent control for both low- and high-speed work or recreational riding. Plus, the Brute Force 650 4x4 can also be started in any gear, provided the brakes are applied.

Complementing the CVT is a switch on the right handle bar that gives the rider a choice of either two-wheel or four-wheel drive operation, and power is delivered to the wheels by dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive. 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.

As expected, the Brute Force 650 4x4 includes Kawasaki’s Variable Front Differential Control, a favorite feature often praised by editors of the leading ATV magazines. By pulling a small lever on the left handlebar, the rider can deliver equal amounts of power to both front wheels, a definite advantage for riders encountering deep mud and slippery uphill trails or when traversing over large objects such as logs or rocks.

The Brute Force 650 4x4 braking system also benefits from leading-edge Kawasaki design. Dual front disc brakes with dual-piston calipers are matched to 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 pads from mud, dust and debris, and is virtually maintenance-free.

Working in conjunction with 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 ATV.

Kawasaki’s 4x4 ATVs have a well-deserved reputation for providing smooth, comfortable rides and the Brute Force 650 4x4 carries on this tradition. MacPherson strut front suspension with 6.7 inches of travel grace the front end, while the aluminum swingarm rear suspension features a fully adjustable spring, piggy-back reservoir and 7.2 inches of travel.

Additional comfort is provided by a large saddle and adjustable footpegs mounted atop full-size floorboards. To help reduce unsprung weight and further enhance the smooth ride, the Brute Force rides on aluminum wheels.

The Brute Force 650 4x4 is wrapped in tough-looking bodywork styled after its bigger sibling, the Brute Force 750 4x4i, and features aggressively angled lines complemented by cat-eye headlights.

Other features include front and rear steel racks that can carry a total of 264 pounds of cargo, and a tow hitch so it can tow up to 1,250 pounds. Kawasaki engineers also provided space inside the front guard so it can accommodate a Warn 3000 winch or Super Winch 3000.

The Brute Force 650 4x4 comes with fully digital instrumentation, including speedometer, odometer, dual resettable trip meters, clock, hour meter, fuel gauge and 2x4/4x4 indicators. There is also a DC power outlet.

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.

2006 Kawasaki Brute Force® 650 4x4 (Camo)