Kawasaki's 2021 range of Mule utility vehicles – what you need to know

CAN YOU GIVE AN OVERVIEW OF KAWASAKI’S MULE RANGE?

Here is a brief overview:

Mule SX 4x4 – this compact model is a true hard worker with many features of the Pro range. It features a 401 cm3 air-cooled, single-cylinder petrol engine with fuel injection, CVT-drive transmission with reverse and high-low ratios, dual-mode rear differential, selectable 2WD/4WD, limited slip front differential, large load and towing capacity, low ground pressure tyres, tilting cargo bed and roll-over protection system (ROPS) approved roll frame.

Mule Pro-MX – a mid-size model offering the complete all-round package when it comes to power, features and comfort. The 695 cm3 liquid-cooled, single-cylinder petrol engine benefits from fuel injection, CVT-drive transmission and dual-mode rear differential, electrically selectable 2WD/4WD and front diff-lock, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control (KEBC), electric power steering, front and rear independent suspension, front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, heavy-duty load and towing capacity, standard fit half doors, and ROPS approved roll frame.

Mule Pro-DX – class-leading and built for hard-working environments. This rugged machine features a 993 cm3 liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder diesel engine, CVT transmission and dual-mode rear differential, electrically selectable 2WD/4WD and diff-lock, electric power steering, front and rear independent suspension, front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, heavy-duty load and towing capacity, large-capacity tilting cargo bed, standard fit half doors, and ROPS approved roll frame.

READ MORE: Polaris to attend The Game Fair 2021 alongside E.J. Churchill

Mule Pro-DXT – the flagship of the Mule Pro range with crew-carrying capability offering flexibility in industrial and agricultural environments. It features a 993 cm3 liquid-cooled, 3-cylinder diesel engine, CVT transmission and dual-mode rear differential, electrically selectable 2WD/4WD and diff-lock. The Mule Pro-DXT easily transforms to carry two or four people. It also offers electric power steering, front and rear independent suspension, front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, heavy-duty load and towing capacity with a large capacity tilting cargo bed, standard fit half doors, and a ROPS approved roll frame.

WHAT MAKES THE MULE RANGE PARTICULARLY WELL SUITED TO THE ARBORICULTURAL SECTOR?

Arboricultural and forestry applications will require a vehicle that is rugged and durable and the feature-packed Mule Pro-DXT is the first choice with its ability to carry crew and the flexibility it offers in demanding environments. It is fitted with 26” deep tread tyres front and rear, with independent suspension and disc brakes on each wheel for working in tough conditions. The powerful diesel engine delivers torque in 2WD or 4WD and you can be assured safety for the crew with the approved ROPS offering confidence in arduous conditions.

Mule SX 4x4.

WHAT WOULD STEER A WOULD-BE USER TO A PARTICULAR MODEL? FOR EXAMPLE, WHY MIGHT ONE CHOOSE A PRO-DX OVER AN SX OR VICE VERSA?

The choice comes down to a number of factors, in particular: terrain type, type of work, and even fuel choice. The Mule SX 4x4 fits well into the market, packing a considerable punch in terms of carrying and towing capacity while enjoying diminutive dimensions, enabling transportation in the back of many flatbed vehicles and full-sized pickup trucks.

The Mule Pro-DX is the go-to model for heavy-duty work use, with its rugged and durable design, its capability to tow 907 kg and the ability to hold up to 453 kg in its large-capacity cargo bed. The 24 PS diesel engine and CVT drive, with electrically operated 4-wheel drive and diff-lock, coupled with independent suspension and being winch-mounting ready, makes the Mule Pro-DX the perfect choice in the arboriculture sector.

WHEN DESIGNING THE 2021 MULE RANGE, WHAT WAS CONSIDERED TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF OUTDOOR PROFESSIONALS?

Working in tough environments demands durable, reliable machinery that continues to deliver in all conditions and the Mule design fits in this category. Featuring 4WD and diff-locks on all models and with independent suspension available on certain models, it will give the operator confidence in most typical arboricultural and forestry operations.

READ MORE: Should the UK should set ambitious plans for producing more wood?

The Kawasaki Mule has been in the market for well over 30 years, creating a strong brand name with proven reliability and durability as a workhorse time after time.

IF AN ARBORIST OUT THERE HAS A UTV BUT IT’S A FEW YEARS OLD, OR IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE THEY’VE BOUGHT ONE, WHAT ADVANCES CAN THEY EXPECT?

The Mule Pro range is a complete redesign from the ground up, with high ground clearance, aggressive tyres, a new 3-cylinder diesel engine, electric power steering, electrically operated diff-lock with 2- and 4-wheel drive, larger cargo bed, wide accessory choice such as full cabs with heating, independent suspension with disc brakes all round, and greater towing capacity, with larger capacity fuel tanks.

Mule Pro-DXT.

WHAT VARIATIONS OR OPTIONAL EXTRAS ARE AVAILABLE FOR THE MULE RANGE THAT COULD BE OF ADVANTAGE TO ARBORISTS?

Accessories are an important addition to make the Mule unique to the operation it has been selected for. Operator comfort is an important consideration, therefore having a range of cabs for different weather makes the work in hand pleasurable. Rear cargo bed canopies are available to keep the contents secure and dry. With chainsaws and ropes to consider, this would be a good option.

WHAT FEEDBACK HAVE YOU RECEIVED ON THE 2021 RANGE?

There is strong demand for the Kawasaki Mule range, with positive feedback from all markets. The Mule brand has earned a fantastic reputation over the years. Customers upgrading to the Pro range have particularly commented on the smooth ride coupled with the operator comforts in the cabin area.

HAVE CUSTOMERS FOUND ANY SURPRISING USES FOR THE VEHICLES, OR HAVE THEY IMPROVED THEIR WORKING DAY IN WAYS THEY DIDN’T EXPECT?

We sell into a variety of interesting markets which include theme parks, beach guards, helicopter support, and race team support right through to the core market of agriculture and groundscare use.

Mule Pro-DX.

WHAT TRAINING IS AVAILABLE FOR WOULD-BE USERS?

Every Mule and ATV that Kawasaki sells comes with a ‘free’ operator training course from our partners EASI (European ATV Safety Institute), which is an addition to the handover from the supplying dealer. It is very important to have this in place to make sure that the correct PPE is worn, and the user has knowledge of the controls and understands how to correctly operate the Mule. For further information, EASI can be contacted at www.quadsafety.org.

ARE THERE ANY COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS REGARDING UTVS?

Trading up to a Mule from an ATV is a big step up in size. When the decision is made to purchase a Mule, the benefit of the all-round working flexibility and driving comfort far outweighs any initial concerns.

READ MORE: Forestry Commission acts on UK bark beetle findings

WHAT IS THE ‘NEXT BIG THING’ IN THE UTV INDUSTRY?

Kawasaki engineers are working on autonomous vehicle technology, including an autonomous Mule. With many potential commercial applications in terms of use by emergency services and in extreme environments, as well as warehouse operations, the self-driving Mule is potentially the future technology for this industry.

Forestry Journal remains dedicated to bringing you all the latest news and views from across our industry, plus up-to-date information on the impacts of COVID-19.

Please support us by subscribing to our print edition, delivered direct to your door, from as little at £75 for 1 year – or consider a digital subscription from just £1 for 3 months.

To arrange, follow this link: https://www.forestryjournal.co.uk/subscribe/

Thanks – and stay safe.