If you decide to buy new, there are plenty of ATV choices out there, many from what we call "The Big 5" - Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Polaris. Here is a quick rundown of what Kawasaki has to offer in the Sport ATV market for 2014.
1. 2014 Kawasaki KFX 450R
Kawasaki offers the KFX 450R as an all around sport quad this is just as comfortable on the trails and in the dunes as it is on the racetrack. With it's agile chassis, fuel injected engine, and overall light weight, the KFX is an easy quad to throw around and move through corners.
The KFX is powered by a 449cc DOHC engine, providing a broad torque curve and optimizing power delivery for solid acceleration without too much wheel spin. The transmission is a 5-speed manual transmission with an easy-to-use reverse gear system, making it perfect for getting out of tight situations. The KFX features an electric start system with the capability of installing a back-up kick starter.
The chassis on the 450R is made from aluminum, and its high torsional rigidity enhances stability in the corners as well as allows for more precise tuning due to its feedback. The KFX 450R was designed to carry its weight low to the ground, for increased corner speeds, and its front A-arm attachment points sit close together to allow for maximum front A-arm travel.
The front suspension is controlled by dual-rate front springs, which deliver progressive suspension travel for a comfortable ride over rough terrain and giving the KFX 8.5" of travel. The rear shock features both low and high speed compression adjustability, as well as adjustable rebound dampening, and allows for 10" of travel via a cast aluminum swingarm.
Some other features that set the KFX apart in the sport quad world is its two-tone textured seat, which allows for rider movement yet also helps the rider grip the sides. Tapered Renthal Fatbars are standard on the KFX, with the ability to switch to other aftermarket bars if the consumer chooses. The front headlight assembly is easily removeable, allowing for quick disassembly for racing purposes.
The KFX 450R is a solid choice for anyone looking for a quality machine that can do just about anything you ask of it.
SPECS
2. 2014 Kawasaki KFX 90
For younger and smaller riders, the KFX90 is a good step between Kawasaki's 50cc quad and their 450R. Designed for riders over 12 years of age or beginners to the ATV world, the KFX90 offers a good mix of strength and safety.
The KFX 90 features a fully automatic transmission that is easy to operate, a push-button electric start, full suspension and similar styling to the rest of the sport quad line.
The 89cc air-cooled four-stroke engine produces a predictable and user- friendly power. The electric start system features a kick-start backup, so you won't be left stranded if the battery should fail.
With full floorboards, no shifting necessary and all three brakes activated by the handle bar mounted brake levers, this is a simple yet fun quad to ride. Parental controls such as a collar in the CVT which can easily be removed and a throttle limiting screw, gives parents the ability to start their new rider out slowly, then increase speed with experience.
SPECS
3. 2014 Kawasaki KFX 50
When it comes to the youngest of riders, Kawasaki offers a sport machine that is built with them in mind. The KFX 50 was designed with an air-cooled, 49cc four-stroke motor that gives just enough power to be fun and safe.
Like the 90, the KFX 50 also offers parental controls and safety features, such as full floorboards to protect small feet, electric start, screw-type throttle limiter and an ignition cutoff tether that allows a parent or guardian to quickly stop the motor with just a quick tug of the cord.
The KFX 50 is driven by a CVT transmission, in which the clutch on the transmission allows for engine braking in certain situations, making it a bit easier to slow the quad down for beginner riders.
This chain-driven little quad is a great choice for any parent looking to buy a quad with safety features for their youngest riders.
SPECS