Info and photos by Kawasaki Motor Corp.
Brute Force 650 4x4
Big-bore performance and features at a mid-size price
When shopping for a nice mid-sized all-terrain vehicle (ATV), it’s easy to find choices with a reasonable purchase price, single-cylinder engine and four-wheel drive. However, ATV shoppers have a better option; the Kawasaki Brute Force® 650 4x4, the stand-out performer in this class. With Kawasaki’s legendary V-twin engine, a proven 4x4 system and rugged styling — for about the same price as the rest — its value is even more apparent to those seeking a sensible yet powerful 4x4 ATV.
Moving the Brute Force 650 4x4 along is Kawasaki’s popular liquid-cooled 633cc, 90-degree V-twin engine with single overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. It is fed by dual 32mm Keihin carburetors that draw fresh air from a snorkel intake located high in the frame near the steering head. This powerplant gives the rider plenty of industry-leading torque and an unrivaled smooth-running operation.
Matched to the robust V-twin engine is the fully automatic Kawasaki Automatic Powerdrive System (KAPS) continuously variable transmission (CVT). With low and high forward, neutral and reverse gears, this dependable transmission functions seamlessly, providing excellent control for both low- and high-speed work or recreational riding. Additionally, with the brakes applied the Brute Force 650 4x4 can be started in any gear.
Power is delivered to the wheels through dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive. The rider can select two-wheel or four-wheel drive operation via the handy switch mounted on the right handle bar. In normal four-wheel drive mode, the front wheels provide extra traction for adverse terrain, while the limited-slip differential allows the rider to make tight turns and reduces steering effort.
Best of all, with the Brute Force 650 4x4’s Variable Front Differential Control, the rider can deliver equal amounts of power to both front wheels by simply pulling a small lever on the left handlebar. This is a definite advantage for riders encountering deep mud and slippery uphill trails or when traversing over large objects such as logs or rocks.
The cutting-edge Brute Force 650 4x4 braking system design is a combination of dual front disc brakes with dual-piston calipers and Kawasaki’s sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc rear brake system. As an integrated part of the shaft drive, the rear braking system is sealed in the aluminum swingarm where it operates in an oil bath. This protects the brake pads from mud, dust and debris, and is virtually maintenance-free.
Enhancing the high-performance brakes is the Kawasaki Engine Brake Control system, which electronically monitors ground speed and uses the engine’s compression to help slow the Brute Force ATV under certain conditions.
Plush and controlled rides are the Kawasaki 4x4 ATVs’ forte and the Brute Force 650 4x4 exemplifies this specialty. It does this with MacPherson strut front suspension with 6.7 inches of travel and an aluminum swingarm featuring a shock with adjustable preload, a piggy-back reservoir and 7.2 inches of travel for the rear suspension duties.
Additional comfort is provided by a large seat and adjustable footpegs mounted atop full-size floorboards. To help reduce unsprung weight and further enhance the smooth ride, the Brute Force rolls on aluminum wheels.
Leading the conveniences on the Brute Force 650 4x4 is a DC power outlet to provide quick and easy power for electrical accessories. Its fully digital instrumentation includes speedometer, odometer, dual resettable trip meters, clock, hour meter, fuel gauge and 2x4/4x4 indicators.
The modern, aggressively angled lines of its Thermo-Plastic Olefin, ultra-high gloss appearance and is scratch-resistant bodywork are complemented by bright cat-eye headlights. Kawasaki engineers also provided space inside the front guard to easily accommodate a 3000-pound capacity winch from Warn or Superwinch.
The Brute Force 650 4x4 also comes with front and rear steel racks that can carry a total of 264 pounds of cargo, and a hitch bracket that enables the ATV to tow up to 1,250 pounds. Owners can expand the versatility of their Brute Force ATV via the extensive line of Authentic Kawasaki Accessories, available through Kawasaki dealers.
Features
633cc Liquid-Cooled, Four-Stroke V-Twin Engine
- Kawasaki’s original V-twin engine
- 90-degree, V-twin engine with four-valves per cylinder produces massive torque yet is exceptionally smooth running
- Electronically managed Kawasaki Engine Brake Control system helps to slow the ATV under certain conditions
Transmission and Powertrain
- Fully automatic Kawasaki Automatic Powerdrive System (KAPS) continuously variable transmission (CVT) has high and low forward gears plus reverse
- Selectable four-wheel or two-wheel drive
- The limited-slip front differential permits tight and easy turning
- Rider can utilize the Variable Front Differential Control for maximum traction on difficult terrain
Brakes
- Dual-piston caliper front disc brakes provide aggressive stopping power
- The industry’s original sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc rear braking system
- An integrated part of the shaft drive, the virtually maintenance-free rear braking system is protected from mud, dust and debris
Chassis
- Tough and rugged body style
- Aluminum swingarm is sturdy and lightweight, and the shock absorber has adjustable preload
- MacPherson strut front suspension provides a smooth, comfortable ride
- Full-size floorboards are comfortable and help protect the rider’s feet from mud and debris
Amenities
- Cat-eye headlights add to its clean and aggressive look
- A digital instrument panel provides the rider important information at a glance
- Front and rear steel cargo racks can carry a combined weight of 264 pounds
- It can tow 1,250 pounds
- Standard winch-mount can accommodate a 3000-pound capacity winch from Warn or Superwinch
Specs
Engine: Four-stroke, V-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four-valve
Displacement: 633cc
Bore x stroke: 80 x 63mm
Compression ratio: 9.9:1
Carburetion: (2) Keihin CVKR-D32
Starting system: Electric with recoil back up
Ignition: DC-CDI
Transmission: Dual-range CVT plus reverse with Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
Final drive: 2x4 / 4x4 shaft
Frame: Double cradle, tubular steel
Front suspension / wheel travel: MacPherson / 6.7 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Aluminum swingarm and single shock / 7.2 in.
Front tires: AT25x8-12
Rear tires: AT25x10-12
Front brakes: (2) Dual-piston disc
Rear brake: Sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc
Overall length: 86.0 in.
Overall width: 47.7 in.
Wheelbase: 50.9 in.
Ground clearance: At center of chassis, 9.0 / at rear axle, 7.3 in.
Seat height: 33.9 in.
Total rack capacity: 264 lbs.
Towing capacity: 1,250 lbs.
Curb weight: 648.3 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 4.8 gal.
Lighting: (2) 45-watt headlights, taillight, brake light
Instruments: Speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, clock, hour meter, fuel gauge, 2x4 / 4x4 indicator light, neutral indicator light, reverse indicator light, low fuel warning light, low oil warning light
Color choices: Woodsman Green, Sunbeam Red, Super Black and Lime Green
MSRP: $6,899
Brute Force 650 4x4i
The ATV with a winning pedigree of power, suspension and big comfort
The middleweight choice in Kawasaki’s V-twin powered sport-utility all-terrain vehicle (ATV) family, the Brute Force® 650 4x4i offers refined power and handling. It combines a plush ride courtesy of its competent front and rear independent suspension with a superb four-wheel drive system and a durable and powerful 633cc V-twin engine to deliver a knock-out blow to its challengers.
Thanks to its 90-degree, liquid-cooled four-stroke V-twin engine, this ATV shines when the going gets tough. With ample low-to-mid range torque and high rpm power to meet challenges presented by the adventure enthusiasts and sportsmen. Less weight is always a good thing. To keep the pounds off, Kawasaki engineers used aluminum in the construction of the front exhaust pipe cover, two-piece center exhaust pipe cover, and the muffler cover. Among the other features designed into the Brute Force 650 4x4i to amplify its power-to-weight ratio are drilled transmission gears to lower their overall weight.
The Brute Force 650 4x4i gets the power from its V-twin engine to the wheels through a fully automatic, dual range continuously variable transmission (CVT). With low and high forward, neutral and reverse gears, this dependable transmission functions seamlessly, providing excellent control for both low- and high-speed work or recreational riding. Additionally, with the brakes applied it can be started in any gear.
Two- or four-wheel drive is selectable by simply pressing a handlebar-mounted button. In four-wheel drive, the rider can manage the amount of power to both front wheels with Kawasaki’s Variable Front Differential Control by simply pulling a small lever on the left handlebar. This is a definite advantage for riders traversing deep mud, slippery uphill trails or large objects such as logs or rocks.
The optimized caster angle for the front A-arms means the Brute Force 650 4x4i has light and responsive steering as well as excellent ground-following abilities. Shock absorber spring rates and initial preload settings for both front and rear are aimed at excellent ride comfort and are enhanced via the plush urethane seat foam.
It may be the slightly smaller one in Kawasaki’s stable of IRS-equipped ATVs, but it doesn’t sacrifice anything in the “looks” department. Like its brethren, the rugged, take-on-anything styling of the Brute Force 650 4x4i will both attract onlookers and satisfy owners.
Stopping the 650 4x4i is a combination of dual 200mm front discs and Kawasaki’s sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc rear brake system. As an integrated part of the shaft drive, the enclosed rear braking system is sealed in the aluminum swingarm where it operates in an oil bath. This protects the brake pads from mud, dust and debris, and is virtually maintenance-free.
Enhancing the high-performance brakes is the Kawasaki Engine Brake Control system, which electronically monitors ground speed and uses the engine’s compression to help slow the Brute Force 650 4x4i under certain conditions.
The able ATV can pull a hefty 1,250 pounds, and it can carry a combined 264 pounds on its front and rear racks. Owners can expand the versatility of their Brute Force ATV via the extensive line of Authentic Kawasaki Accessories, available through Kawasaki dealers.
As with all off-highway vehicle recreation, Kawasaki encourages ATV riders to ride responsibly and to respect the environment. Kawasaki will pay first-time buyers of a new Kawasaki ATV $100 for completing an ATV rider safety course conducted by the ATV Safety Institute (ASI). Interested consumers can call ASI toll-free at 800-887-2887.
Features
633cc Liquid-Cooled, Four-Stroke V-Twin Engine
- 90-degree, V-twin with four-valves per cylinder produces massive torque yet is exceptionally smooth running
- V-twin design and 80mm x 63mm oversquare bore and stroke help produce high torque with a broad, user-friendly curve
- All-aluminum cylinders with Electrofusion coating are durable and help the engine produce more power
- Using aluminum bores instead of cast iron cylinder liners improves heat dispersion and reduces weight
- Large-capacity radiator provides consistent cooling, allowing close engine tolerances, quiet running, and ultimate durability
- Thermostatically-controlled fan keeps engine cool regardless of vehicle speeds
- Twin CVKR-34 carburetors are mounted in a downdraft position, providing the fuel mixture with a straight shot into the combustion chamber from the carburetors for improved efficiency, quicker throttle response and more power
- Electronically controlled Kawasaki Engine Brake Control helps to slow the ATV under certain conditions
Snorkel Air Intake
- Airbox design provides easy access to simplify maintenance
- Oval-type air filter provides large intake area and reduces dust build-up on the filter
Transmission and Powertrain
- Fully automatic Kawasaki Automatic Powerdrive System (KAPS) continuously variable transmission (CVT) has high and low forward gears plus reverse
- Shifting timed in higher rpm range for snappy throttle response and aggressive acceleration
- Water drain hole in drive pulley cover prevents mud from clogging release bearing for added durability
- The drive converter shaft is hard chrome finished for durability
- Belt Check indicator lamp is easy to see
- Exclusive Variable Front Differential allows riders to control the amount of power delivered to both front wheels with the limited-slip front differential for maximum traction on difficult terrain
- Electrically Selectable Two- or Four-wheel drive for changing terrain and applications done with the flip of a switch
Independent Front Suspension
- Double wishbone and coil-over-shock absorbers with adjustable preload provide a comfortable ride with 6.7 inches of suspension travel
- A-arm caster angle provides light steering
- Aluminum steering knuckles are tough and feature added protection for the CV boots
- Constant velocity joints at the front wheels have a wide operating range for durability. The joints can also be independently disassembled to simplify maintenance
Independent Rear Suspension
- Double wishbone and preload adjustable shock for each rear wheel provides superior ride comfort and ground following ability
- Torsion bar helps control body roll
Brake System
- Dual-piston caliper front disc brakes provide aggressive stopping power
- Multi-disk rear brake system is totally enclosed within the rear gear case
- Compact design provides more ground clearance at the rear end
- An integrated part of the shaft drive, the virtually maintenance-free rear braking system is protected from mud, dust and debris
Rugged Bodywork
- Thermoplastic olefin bodywork has a high gloss finish for great looks and is more scratch resistant than polyethylene plastic so it stays looking good longer
- Dual compartments on the front fenders provide convenient storage. Optional storage cylinder at the rear matches the muffler shape for a sporty, balanced appearance
Spacious Cockpit
- Comfortable, upright seating position combined with the independent rear suspension for a luxurious ride
- Wide seat for increased rider comfort
Additional features
- Trailer hitch bracket with 1,250 lbs. towing capacity is standard equipment
- Digital speedometer, odometer, twin trip meters, clock, hour meter and fuel gauge are mounted at a steep angle and has a visor to make the meter more visible from the upright seating position
- Tire and wheel design provides an integrated look with aggressive bodywork as well as superb traction
Spces
Engine: Four-stroke, V-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four-valve
Displacement: 633 cm
Bore x stroke: 80.0 x 63.0mm
Compression ratio: 9.9:1
Carburetion: Keihin CVKR-34 x 2
Starting system: Electric with recoil back up
Ignition: DC-CDI
Transmission: KAPS, Dual Range with Reverse, 2WD/4WD, and Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
Final drive: 2x4 / 4x4 shaft
Frame: Double cradle, tubular steel
Front suspension / wheel travel: Dual A-Arms, two shocks with five-way preload adjustment / 6.7 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Dual A-Arms, two shocks with five-way preload adjustment / 7.9 in.
Front tires: AT25 x 8-12
Rear tires: AT25 x 10-12
Front brakes: (2) Dual-piston disc
Rear brake: Sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc
Overall length: 86.4 in.
Overall width: 46.3 in.
Wheelbase: 50.6 in.
Ground clearance: 9.7 in.
Seat height: 35.6 in.
Total rack capacity: 264 lbs.
Towing capacity: 1,250 lbs.
Curb weight: 654.9 lbs.
Fuel capacity: 5.4 gal.
Lighting: (2) 40W headlights, 5W taillight, 21W stoplight
Instruments: Digital speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, clock, hour meter, fuel gauge, 2x4 / 4x4 indicator light, neutral indicator light, reverse indicator light, low fuel warning light, low oil warning light
Color choices: Woodsman Green, Sunbeam Red, Super Black and
Candy Thunder Blue
MSRP: $7,399
