Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/105105
Mule 4010 Trans4x4 Diesel (MSRP: $12,199) There's nothing like diesel when it comes to handling big jobs. That's why Kawasaki's Mule 4010 Trans4x4 is available with a diesel power plant. Whether you're hauling 1,000 pounds of fence posts and tools to the north forty or a half-ton of materials to the corner of an inner-city job site, the 4010 4x4 Diesel's robust and long-lasting power, easy-to-use automatic transmission and electric power steering (EPS) will make short work of the task. Selectable four-wheel drive and a locking rear differential ensure traction and control in mud, gravel and hilly environs, while a tilting cargo bed makes unloading simple. Producing substantial torque at low engine rpm, the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel's liquid-cooled, 953cc three-cylinder diesel engine is matched to a Kawasaki Automatic Power-Drive System (KAPS), a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features a high and low range, reverse, and helps maintain engine rpm in its most efficient range for any selected vehicle speed, load or terrain. It also yields a wide drive ratio for ample pulling power and quick acceleration. The Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel chassis includes a ladder-type frame riding on a DeDion-type rear leaf-spring suspension. It is designed to carry heavy loads yet provide a smooth ride when the cargo bed is empty. MacPherson struts handle front suspension duties and provide a good balance of comfort and load capacity. Effective stopping power is provided by four hydraulically operated, self-adjusting, sealed drum brakes, designed to resist contamination from water, mud and other debris. Large 23-inch low-pressure tires provide a comfortable ride, great traction and help minimize impact over a variety of terrain. Kawasaki; kawasaki.com; (800) 661-7433 3400 4x4 Utility Vehicle (UTV) (MSRP: See bobcat.com to request a quote) Bobcat's 3400 4x4 UTV features a true four-wheel drive system that sends torque to every wheel when wheel spin is detected. If the rear wheels start to lose traction, the front wheels engage. Available in an EFI 32hp gas engine or a 24.8hp diesel engine Bobcat protects critical machine components with covers, skid plates, suspension guards and bash plates. The 3400 4x4 UTV is available in bucket or bench seating configurations with three-point shoulder harnesses. Bobcat; bobcat.com; (800) 743-4340 Ranger XP 800 (MSRP: $11,199, $11,799 Camo) Polaris says its Ranger XP 800 is built for extreme performance. The 760cc twin-cylinder EFI engine produces 50hp and a 55mph top speed. Dual A-arm independent rear suspension (IRS) supports a 1,000-pound rear cargo box capacity. The AWD system doesn't require any driver input, which is nice around jobsites. So is the VersaTrac Turf Mode that allows the driver to unlock the rear differential so the machine doesn't tear up the grass in tight turns. The suspension is fully adjustable at all four corners and features dual A-Arms with exclusive top mounting-point adjustability. Adjustments can be made for softer trail riding or stiffer heavy-duty work. The front offers 9.6 inches suspension travel, with 9 inches suspension travel in the rear. A tilt steering wheel provides a wide range of motion at 10 inches. The slide-through cab was designed for three adults to get in and out quickly. The pallet-size rear dump box has a gas-assist dumping operation and features Polaris' Lock & Ride cargo system, which accommodates a variety of hard-working accessories that go on and off in seconds. The Ranger XP can tow 2,000 pounds with a standard 2-inch hitch receiver. Polaris; polarisindustries.com; (888) 704-5290 Ranger RZR 800 (MSRP: $10,999, $11,599 Camo) The very popular Polaris Ranger RZR is an amazing off-road performer. Built with a low center of gravity and outstanding suspension travel, this machine is only 50 inches wide so it fits on a quad trail. The 800 twin-cylinder high output EFI engine provides great power-to-weight ratio for this light and nimble machine. The Polaris On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) automatically engages all four wheels when you need more traction and reverts back to two-wheel drive when you don't. Exclusive front and rear anti-sway bars help keep the chassis flat while cornering. Dual Front A-Arms and Rolled IRS are fully adjustable. The newest model has a redesigned cargo box with 60 percent more volume and extended sides to strap down and carry more gear and supplies. The RZR is more play than work, which makes it one of our favorite machines. Polaris; polarisindustries.com; (888) 704-5290 Ranger EV (MSRP $10,999; $11,399 Camo) The 2011 Polaris Ranger EV is a fully electric side-by-side with great off-road capabilities. The batteries are rechargeable with a standard 110-volt AC outlet. The 30hp 48-volt high-efficiency AC-inducted electric motor produces a lot of torque and can achieve 25 mph. This electric machine is super quiet, which makes it a great choice for warehouses, barns, sleepy neighborhoods and stealthy trips to the deer stand. A three-mode system (High, Low, and Max Range) helps the Ranger EV extend driving range on a single charge up to 50 miles (in Max Range mode). Off-road prowess is supplied via On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Versatrac Turf Mode. The AWD system automatically engages all four wheels when you need more traction and reverts back to two-wheel drive when you don't. When in two-wheel drive, the VersaTrac Turf Mode switch unlocks the rear differential for easier, tighter turns that won't tear up your grass. A full 10 inches of ground clearance lets you tackle some of the tougher terrain that comes your way, while cab ergonomics deliver outstanding driver and passenger comfort, with extra legroom and easy cab slide-through design so two adults can get in and out quickly. Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) has 9 inches of travel and five-point adjustable preload so you can stiffen the suspension for heavy loads. The MacPherson Strut independent front suspension provides 8 inches of travel. Polaris; polarisindustries.com; (888) 704-5290 propickupmag.com PROPICKUP 9 ProPickup_2011 Buyer's Guide Part 1.indd 9 3/22/12 10:41 AM