Info and photos by Kawasaki Motor Corp.
The rugged, off-road hunter’s utility vehicle of choice
With the application of the REALTREE™ Hardwoods Green® HD™ camouflage, the Kawasaki Mule™ 610 4x4 (Camo) adds another dimension to the versatile Mule™ 610 4x4. The compact utility vehicle and its selectable four-wheel drive make this the ideal tool for the adventurous hunter; able to haul people and equipment almost anywhere, regardless of how remote. Enhancing its flexibility is its size and the ability to transport it in the back of a full-size pickup truck.
At the heart of the Mule 610 4x4 is a single-cylinder engine coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The model also features a dual-mode rear differential, independent front suspension, swing-frame rear suspension and sealed hydraulic drum brakes.
A spacious cab, factory camouflage covered, curved body panels and a large-diameter steel tube frame structure—that meets ROPS requirements—present a clean, modern look, with automotive-type controls and the gear selector that are within easy reach on the Mule 610 4x4 dashboard. Comfort features include two large cup holders, a passenger-side glove box and grab handle, and more storage space located beneath the hood.
The Mule 610 4x4 utilizes a durable air-cooled, single-cylinder 401cc four-stroke engine with a cooling fan to help maintain an ideal operating temperature. For 2009, the flap in the rear left tire housing was widened slightly to minimize mud entering the engine area. Equally important, the sturdy engine can be started in any gear, provided the brakes are applied, and starting is easy thanks to an enrichening system that partially opens the throttle during starting.
Fuel-Injected Power and a New Rugged Look
The foundation of Kawasaki’s full-size industrial-grade utility vehicle line, the two-wheel drive Mule™ 4000 is a step up in cargo and towing capacity from the compact Mule 600 series, thanks to its full-size chassis and a more powerful engine, now equipped with digital fuel injection (DFI). The Mule 4000 also features a fully-automatic transmission, locking rear differential and a tilting cargo bed. For 2009, the new Mule 4000 is powered by a liquid-cooled 617cc four-stroke V-twin. Managed by a digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU), its DFI system compensates for variations in atmospheric pressure, engine and air temperature. This helps make engine starting smoother and more consistent, gives better throttle response and its improved fuel metering helps reduce fuel consumption. The system incorporates an automatic fast idle speed control, which activates when the engine is cold, eliminating the need for a manual choke. The system also regulates maximum engine speed, eliminating the need for a mechanical governor.
The Mule 4000 utilizes a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to provide quick acceleration and efficient pulling power. Dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive transfers power to a dual-mode differential that can be locked to maximize rear-wheel traction, or unlocked to improve handling and minimize ground disturbance when making tight turns.
