Kawasaki KRX4 es UTV Review
Engine:
Kawasaki’s 2023 KRX1000 powerplant remains unchanged, with a stout 999cc parallel-twin engine delivering power through a CVT transmission. The KRX engine makes good noises and has a decent amount of low-to-mid grunt, but it lacks top end punch. The engine will motivate the KRX to the mid-60 MPH range, putting it near the rear of the pack in the 1000cc NA sport class. The KRX’s engine is well suited for slower technical terrain, where its engine and throttle tuning really start to shine. The KRX also has a Low Power Mode switch, which deadens the throttle response and pulls back more engine power to make navigating slow-speed obstacles easier. We would like to see adjustable throttle maps without the need for reduced power.Â
The KRX’s engine is fed by a Donaldson air filter box, with a large intake plenum designed to increase throttle response. It breathes through a large prefilter snorkel that is routed up to the top of the bedsides. One side feeds the engine, the other feeds the CVT intake.Â
Transmission/Drivetrain:
All KRX1000 models use the same two-speed CVT transmission. This Kawasaki belt drive system also integrates a centrifugal clutch that takes the abuse at low speed rather than trashing the belt. The gearing in the KRX’s transmission seems very low, as it reaches its top speed quite easily in stock form. We have also heard rumblings of some customers experiencing premature clutch wear with users subjecting their KRXs to prolonged high-RPM/high speed use, although we have never had an issue with one of our production testing units. We are very interested to see the effects of some aftermarket clutch tuning on this platform.
