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 Kawasaki is replacing the Mule" 550 off-road utility vehicle with an all-new, leading-edge compact model that will be popular for both work and recreation. The Mule 610 4x4 is the first four-wheel drive utility vehicle in its class. It produces more power and accelerates with more authority than its predecessor, and features all-new, rugged styling. And true to form, this compact Kawasaki utility vehicle can fit in the bed of a full-sized pickup truck. The Mule 610 4x4 features a new single-cylinder engine that is matched to an improved continuously variable transmission, dual-mode differential, independent front suspension, swing-frame rear suspension and sealed hydraulic brakes. The most visible difference between the Mule 610 4x4 and the out-going 550 is the styling. By lengthening the chassis nearly four inches, designers were able to create a more spacious cab for the Mule 610 4x4. The curved body panels, redesigned hood and grille, and large-diameter steel tube frame give it a clean, modern look, while automotive-type controls and gear selectors are now located on the newly styled dashboard. Luxury features include two large cup holders, a passenger-side glove box, passenger-side grab handle and storage space located beneath the hood. For many utility vehicle owners, the larger engine is the most enticing feature of the new Mule 610 4x4. The air-cooled, single-cylinder four-stroke engine displaces 401cc and accelerates with more authority than its 286cc predecessor, and includes a cooling fan to help it maintain an ideal operating temperature. Equally important, the new engine is easier to start due to a new enrichening system that opens the throttle nearly 20 percent during starting, thereby eliminating the need to apply the throttle. It also features a 25 mph maximum speed governor. To maximize the four-wheel drive capability of the Mule 610 4x4, its engine includes performance enhancements such as reshaped intake and exhaust ports, and a higher compression ratio. The Mule 610 4x4 transfers its power through a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which features more durable materials in the converter and a longer-lasting drive belt to match the engine's enhanced acceleration and hill-climbing performance. With its high and low range forward gears, plus reverse, the sturdy transmission can also be started in any gear, provided the brakes are applied. The Mule 610 4x4 utilizes dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive and features a dual-mode differential that can be locked to maximize traction on adverse terrain. It also includes selectable four-wheel drive and features a limited-slip front differential. The Mule 610 4x4 rides on MacPherson strut front suspension, while rear suspension duties are handled by a unit swing-axle rear suspension. Triple-sealed hydraulic drum brakes at all four wheels provide ample stopping power and it rides on large 24-inch tires for improved off-road handling. Also, a plastic front differential/axle guard and steel rear differential guard is standard, helping to protect important powertrain components. To light the way on dark evenings, the Mule 610 4x4 features the same gourd-style headlights as the new Kawasaki BRUTE FORCE" 750 4x4i all-terrain vehicle. Kawasaki engineers know that hauling and towing are the two most-common tasks for any Mule utility vehicle, so they designed the Mule 610 4x4 to carry 400 pounds in its tilting cargo bed. It also features new tailgate latches that are easy to fasten quickly and securely. Plus, it can tow up to 1,100 pounds with an optional towing hitch - 200 pounds more than the previous model. |
