Published on February 6th, 2011 | by Joe
02012 KAWASAKI BRUTE FORCE® 750 4X4i EPS First Look
New six-spoke cast aluminum wheels replace the previous pressed steel units and make a significant styling contribution, while offering a more premium image and enhanced credibility on the trail. Mounted with aggressive tires, the premium wheels help give the Brute Force its 9.4 inches of ground clearance and transfer the awesome power of the V-twin engine to the ground.
Completely sealed, the rear braking system’s components are protected from mud, dust and debris. Its compact size also provides more ground clearance than a conventional rear disc brake system. The sealed rear brake and dual front discs bring the Brute Force 750 4x4i to a quick halt. Enhancing the highly effective braking is the Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, which helps slow the ATV when going downhill.
The 2012 Brute Force 750 4x4i features a new stronger double-cradle tubular steel frame featuring reinforcements at key areas like the front wishbone mounts, rear stabilizer mounts, engine mounts, footrest mounts, etc., resulting in improved rough terrain handling and enhanced durability. The frame’s improved ability to absorb shocks when sport riding on rough terrain boosts ride comfort and makes it easier to maintain a higher average speed in a wider range of conditions.
A new double-wishbone front suspension layout features shock absorbers mounted at a more splayed angle between the upper and lower wishbones to help minimize sag and allow a higher ground clearance to be maintained once a rider sits on the ATV. The front suspension works in concert with its independent A-arm rear suspension. The front wishbones feature adjustable shocks with 6.7 inches of travel, while the IRS employs a leading torsion bar and provides 7.5 inches of travel. A combination of needle bearings and ball joints in the lower rear A-arms gives the IRS unrivaled suspension action, stability and excellent rider comfort.
New single-rate springs replace the dual rate units in the front and rear suspension. The use of single rate springs is preferable due to the revised suspension geometry on the Brute Force 750 4x4i. Complementing the suspension, the urethane seat foam is supportive yet comfortable for long hours in the saddle.
An upright and comfortable riding position enhances the rider’s ability to interact with the Brute Force 750 4x4i and allows the rider to effectively scan the horizon or check the easy to read automotive-style instrument panel. Its front bumper is designed to offer effective hand holds for manhandling the Brute Force when the need arises. Behind the bumper is a new set of bodywork molded from tough and scratch-resistant Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO). The hood, fenders, bumper and headlight surrounds were all re-designed to offer a wide and rugged appearance. Other new design touches include dual wide-set 35-watt headlights which help provide excellent lighting for nighttime rides, and a new ultra-convenient covered hood storage compartment large enough to hold two 16 oz. bottles. New cargo racks featuring stronger tubing that is over 25% larger in diameter than previous versions and the addition of tie-down hook points on the cargo racks make it easier –and far more reliable– to secure a load. The cargo racks can carry a combined total of 264 pounds, making them more than ready to accommodate the rider’s supplies, tools and/or outdoor gear.
The Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS is also available in an SE version, featuring a premium quality Metallic Tungsten Gray automotive paint finish, unique graphics and a bright silver machined finish on the face of its cast aluminum wheels.
Underneath this strong bodywork is a factory-installed plastic conduit for easy winch installation. A large five-gallon fuel tank is located beneath the seat to help keep the center of gravity as low as possible. Helping to keep weight in check, aluminum footpegs are surrounded by tough full-sized composite floorboards.