The Kawasaki Brute Force 300 2X4 is the newest and cheapest member of the Japanese manufacturer's utility/sport ATV lineup, and the only one to come exclusively with 2WD.

A year after being named “ATV of the Year” by ATV Illustrated magazine, this machine returns for 2013 as an “easy-to-control package with the highest riding excitement in its class and a high level of everyday versatility,” the company promises.


Flagship styling
The 2013 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 2X4 is a big and rugged entry-level ATV with a seat height of 845 mm and a curb weight of 243 kg. While modelled after the brand's flagship ATV, the front looks funny in an animated, Disney robot sort of way, what with the widely spaced headlights, gaping radiator grille and exposed underbelly, not to mention the front cargo rack and brush guard for extra convenience and protection.

At the same time, there's no denying its commanding stance, courtesy of high-arching fenders and one of the widest tracks in its class. Firecracker Red body panels combine with matte black rocker panels to make this model stand out from other Brute Forces.

The 2013 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 2X4 is a big and rugged entry-level ATV with a seat height of 845 mm and a curb weight of 243 kg. (Photo: Kawasaki)

The little engine that could
Motivating the 2013 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 2X4 is a 271cc, four-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder engine that uses liquid cooling and a Keihin CVK32 carburetor instead of a more sophisticated electronic fuel injection system. It produces 22 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 16 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm.

The combination of a high-performing, liquid-cooled engine with a CVT transmission (just like the top-of-the-line Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS) and centrifugal clutch is said to deliver a great power feel and high controllability, especially at low and medium revs, along with natural engine braking, which is fantastic when tackling downhill trails.

The Kawasaki Secondary Air system helps ensure clean emissions. In fact, the Brute Force 300 meets strict EPA and CARB standards. Moreover, the air cleaner duct opening is located high on the chassis, under the handle cover, which prevents mud, water and other debris from infiltrating the engine bay.

It produces 22 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 16 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. (Photo: Kawasaki)

Stable chassis
The 2013 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 2X4 is built on a tubular steel frame with a double wishbone front suspension (131 mm of travel) and a single damper working through a swingarm (141 mm of travel) in the back. Both offer five-way adjustable preload. This suspension was designed for high straight-line stability and cornering ability with minimal bump steer. The long A-arms connect to 10'' wheels shod in Maxxis tires.

Elsewhere, the Brute Force 300 must be commended for its digital instrument panel, beverage holder, DC outlet and built-in hooks -- just some of things that will boost convenience for riders. There’s even space and a mounting bracket behind the front grille for a winch. Towing capacity is rated at 227 kg (500 lbs).

Priced at $4,699 in Canada, the 2013 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 2X4's most direct competitors are the Yamaha Grizzly 300 and Kymco MXU 375.