We recently had the opportunity to travel to CaliforniaÂ’s central coast to ride KawasakiÂ’s MULE SX and get a better feel for its target market.
Seriously, if youÂ’re expecting wheel spinning, high-speed action, youÂ’re going to be disappointed. The MULE SX simply isnÂ’t that type of vehicle… not at all. However, Kawasaki stands firmly behind the MULE SXÂ’s intended user and feels strongly itÂ’s a market Kawasaki dominates.
Lets take a look at what it offers: Supplying power to the ground is a 401cc air-cooled single churning out a mind-bending 13.5-horsepower. This carbureted engine provides smooth and easy-going conveyance – perfect for ranch owners with relatively light duties or families with younger, less experienced riders that still want to get out for a drive.
This decidedly mellow engine chugs along and does whatÂ’s expected of it capably, navigating hilly countryside and smooth, even pathways exactly like we experienced surrounding the beautiful Ancient Peaks Winery.
The cab features an adjustable tilt steering with a comfortable thick grip steering wheel plus a plush bench seat with a lap belt. The durable textured floor can handle abuse from muddy boots and hoses out nicely.
Load up the steel cargo bed with up to 400 pounds of cargo – anything from plants for gardening to hunting gear and hitch up 1,100-pounds of gear to haul wherever you feel your MULE SX can take you. It may not get you there bullet fast, but itÂ’ll do the trick. It also features selectable 2/4WD and a dual mode rear differential for added traction when required.
The MULE SX has a McPherson strut front suspension and a one-piece swing axle rear suspension. With only 6.7-inches of ground clearance youÂ’re pretty much forced to remember this vehicle is not made for aggressive trail riding.
However, this set-up does do an admirable job of providing a decent ride experience and fits perfectly into the expectations of a buyer looking for a light-duty UTV in this horsepower range. ItÂ’s really ideal for getting you and a friend out to a watering hole for a day of fishing, lugging gear out to your hunt camp or loading up the cargo bed with a sprayer implement.
The MULE SX is capable and we give Kawasaki credit for recognizing the needs of this segment and providing a vehicle that fits it so well. Another bonus is the MULE SXÂ’s ridiculously enticing Kawasaki STRONG 3-Year Limited Warranty.
For more information on the Kawasaki MULE SX, visit kawasaki.com
