There are many models to choose from in the smaller-displacement utility ATV segment. A rival to the Honda TRX420FM and the Yamaha Kodiak 450, the Kawasaki KVF 360 4x4 continues to be an affordable workhorse.

Power comes from an air and oil cooled, 362-cc single cylinder with an overhead cam valvetrain. It’s fed by a Keihin CVK-34 carburetor, producing 21 hp at 7,000 rpm and 19.3 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

A rival to the Honda TRX420FM and the Yamaha Kodiak 450, the Kawasaki KVF 360 4x4 continues to be an affordable workhorse. (Photo: Kawasaki)

An electric starter, an electrically controlled 2WD/4WD system and a dual-range CVT automatic gearbox makes life easy, although the competition offers similar features. The rider can, with the help of a lever on the left side of the handlebar, control the amount of differential slip to help the front wheels gain maximum traction.

Unlike the Honda and the Yamaha that ride on a double-wishbone front suspension, the KVF 360 gets MacPherson struts and 170 mm of wheel travel, while a swingarm with a single hydraulic shock suspend the rear wheels, allowing 180 mm of travel. Stopping power is provided by dual hydraulic drilled discs up front and a sealed rear drum.

The 2013 Kawasaki KVF 360 4x4 includes a standard tow hitch, and is able to pull up to 1,100 lbs. Carrying racks can handle 88 lbs up front and 154 lbs in back.

The KVF’s equipment list includes dual multi-reflector headlights, a brake light and a 12-volt power outlet, while optional accessories obviously include a winch, a windshield and cargo boxes. Colour choices include Aztec Red and Scout Green.

The 2013 Kawasaki KVF 360 4x4 is now available for an MSRP of $7,699.

The 2013 Kawasaki KVF 360 4x4 includes a standard tow hitch, and is able to pull up to 1,100 lbs. (Photo: Kawasaki)