Smaller Kawasaki in high selling sector
Smaller Kawasaki in high selling sector
KAWASAKI also chose last week to launch its new KVF 360-A ATV – a smaller version of the KVF 650, which it introduced a year ago.
According to marketing manager Martin Lambert, it is the 300cc-500cc sector which now commands the most sales – as much as 70% of the agricultural market, he says.
Power for the 360 is supplied by a new single OHC engine rated at 20hp which is air/oil cooled by a thermostatically controlled fan.
An automatic transmission with high and low ranges is also equipped with a brake control system which provides engine braking when the throttle is closed on steep descents.
Full braking employs twin discs at the front axle and an enclosed wet multi-disc system for the rear. To reduce tyre wear when working on harder surfaces the ATV can be operated in electrically selected two or four-wheel-drive.
One of the most commonly talked about features of modern ATVs is the front diferential. Several manufacturers have opted for a torque sensing system but Kawasaki has a hand operated variable slip diferential which means the operator can apply as much or as little diff lock to suit conditions.
Suspension for the 360 comprises a McPherson strut for the front, which has a 170mm travel, and a mono-shock rear suspension providing 180mm of travel.
It all adds up to good ground tracking and ride quality, says Kawasaki.
Other features of the 360 include a towing capacity of 500kg and front and rear rack carrying capacity of 40kg and 70kg respectively.
For the operator, multi-purpose digital instrumentation, includes speedometer, odemeter, trip and hour meter indicator lamps for neutral, reverse gear, 2WD/4WD and oil warning are also provided.
In the field, the 360 certainly performs with a certain vigour drawing one to believe that for most farmers, there is sufficient power to meet their needs without having the extra purchase and running costs of a larger machine.
The price of the Kawasaki KVF-360A is £4750. *
Debut appearance for Kawasakis KVF 360-A. The 300cc-500cc sector now represents 70% of ATV sales, says its manufacturer.