Excellent and reliable V-twin power, sporty styling, comfortable seating position, above par handling
Rear oil bathed brakes feel spongy, front differential lock lever not beginner friendly, limited suspension adjustability, halogen headlights should be updated to LED
The evolution of the Brute Force 750 4x4i really started in 2002 with Kawasaki’s Prairie 650, the first mass production ATV to feature a V-twin engine. The 750 4x4i came into existence in 2005 and has only received minor updates since then. That’s a good thing though, as the Brute Force has a proven record of dependability, strong power and premium rider comfort.
As of this writing, Kawasaki stopped producing the non-EPS model after the 2021 model year. The 2022 Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS received no significant changes other than new color choices.
Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS - $9,999
Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS in Fragment Camo Gray or Realtree Xtra Green Camo - $10,599
To camo or not to camo. That’s the only difference between the two models. Camo bodywork comes with a $600 additional cost.
V-twin power is fantastic, and while Kawasaki isn’t forthcoming with horsepower numbers, we know this engine packs around 50 ponies. It’s a strong engine and highly reliable mill that produces minimal vibration due to a 90-degree cylinder offset. The engine was designed with easy access to all regular maintenance points. Kawasaki’s digital fuel injection (DFI) system adjusts to both quick throttle response and easy off-idle transitions.
The CVT transmission includes high and low range, as well as reverse, and automatically compensates for belt wear. A belt check indicator on the dash provides notification when a belt change is required. The system provides excellent engine braking style control in low range when descending steep hills.
2WD and 4WD operation are electronically selectable on the fly. The front differential is lockable via a lever on the handlebars that allows the operator to control how much torque is applied to the front wheels. It works well but takes some getting used to.
Kawasaki’s Electric Power Steering (EPS) is variable, offering more steering assistance when stopped or at slower speeds. Assistance is reduced as speed increases. EPS also doubles as a steering damper, reducing the amount of handlebar shock transmitted from rocks and other trail obstacles.
The double wishbone suspension design at all four wheels works well in most situations. The shocks only allow five stages of spring preload adjustment. In the future, we’d like to see a special edition model with upgraded shocks that further compliment the V-twin power output.
Front hydraulic disc brakes are well matched to the weight and power of the Brute Force. The rear brake system is a unique Kawasaki design in which multiple discs are sealed in a case and bathed in oil. The design is unaffected by dirt, water, and other elements. It’s also virtually maintenance free, but rear brake feel is on the spongy side. It takes some getting used to.
Seating position is one of our favorite features of the Kawasaki Brute Force. It is comfortable for all size riders. The seat is plush. wide and flat with plenty of room to slide around. Bars are set at the right height and full floorboards offer lots of room and plenty of grip for large boots. Sealed storage is built into the left front fender for easy access and protection of personal items. Additional sealed storage is located under the front rack.
Front and rear steel racks offer plenty of ways to strap down up to 264 pounds of combined cargo. Towing is good with a 1,250-pound maximum. Trailer cargo should be adjusted for a maximum tongue weight of 88 pounds.
A compact dash display is easy to read, providing information such as a speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, fuel gauge, engine temperature indicator, clock, and hour meter. Indicator lamps for EPS, neutral, reverse gear, 2WD/4WD, belt indicator, and oil warning are also included. LED front headlights would be a nice touch instead of halogen bulbs, but its an upgrade that can be had via aftermarket part suppliers.
Factory warranty coverage is better than average at 12 months. Additional coverage up to 48 months can be purchased through Kawasaki protection Plus.