Kawasaki's flagship ATV model, the Brute Force 750 4x4i, has received a broad spectrum of upgrades and new features for the 2012 model lineup.
For 2012, the Brute Force 750 4x4i is available in four models: Brute Force 750 4x4i with Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS SE, Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS Realtree APG HD camo and Brute Force 750 4x4i (non-power steering).
The most notable new feature is an Electronic Power Steering system, but other upgrades include a more powerful V-twin engine, new double-wishbone front suspension, six-spoke cast alloy wheels and new body work.
Revised tuning and a new cylinder head and increased compression ratio give the fuel-injected four-stroke 90-degree V-twin engine more power than previous models. Low-rpm power delivery is enhanced, making the Brute Force 750 a more capable crawler in technical situations. The V-twin is fed through 36mm throttle bodies controlled by a 32-bit CPU, which monitors coolant temp, air intake temp, air intake pressure, throttle position, vehicle speed and crankshaft angle to deliver an optimized fuel mapping. The fuel-injected engine has crisp throttle response with light throttle pull, thanks to low-rate springs on the throttle return and ball bearings in the throttle bodies.
Another new feature, a larger radiator, is placed higher on the chassis for better protection from mud and debris. A larger radiator fan and larger diameter cooling hoses and pipes increase cooling performance. A self-repairing circuit breaker and dedicated fuse for the new fan keep the system cool and protected.
Kawasaki's Electric Power Steering (EPS) system is designed to enhance the handling and ride comfort level on the Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS. Turning the bars causes a signal to be sent to the electronic power steering control unit, initiating power assist. The control unit monitors inputs from the vehicle speed sensor and steering shaft torque sensor to determine the amount of power assistance required from the system's electric motor. At slow speeds or when stopped, assistance is greatest; assistance is reduced as vehicle speed increases to help ensure predictable handling.
The EPS assembly enhances ride quality and control by also acting as a damping system; even when steering input is neutral, the added inertia of the electric motor acts as a stabilizer. It also reduces bump steer and kickback to the handlebars caused by wheel impacts. The entire steering assembly was repositioned, so the bottom of the steering shaft no longer connects directly to the front differential. Movement of the differential due to throttle inputs in 4x4 mode no longer affect the steering assembly. This isolation provides significantly smoother handling. This upgrade applies to the non-EPS Brute Force 750 4x4i as well.
Another upgrade to the 2012 models is the fully automatic dual-range CVT with a new high gear ratio and thicker belt made of stronger material. The new design extends the life of the CVT belt and reduces maintenance requirements. A revised converter weight and drive spring tuning improve acceleration and low-speed operation. The CVT system's air duct has been moved and revised to prevent any mud and water from entering the system.
The 2012 Brute Force 750 4x4i features a new stronger double-cradle tubular steel frame featuring reinforcements at key areas like the front wishbone mounts, rear stabilizer mounts, engine mounts, footrest mounts, etc., resulting in improved rough terrain handling and enhanced durability.
A new double-wishbone front suspension layout features shock absorbers mounted at a more splayed angle between the upper and lower wishbones to help minimize sag and allow a higher ground clearance to be maintained once a rider sits on the ATV. The front wishbones feature adjustable shocks with 6.7 inches of travel, while the Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) employs a leading torsion bar and provides 7.5 inches of travel.
New single-rate springs replace the dual rate units in the front and rear suspension. The use of single rate springs is preferable due to the revised suspension geometry on the Brute Force 750 4x4i.
The 2012 Brute Force 750 models feature a new set of bodywork molded from tough and scratch-resistant Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO). The hood, fenders, bumper and headlight surrounds were all re-designed to offer more rugged appearance. Other new design elements include dual wide-set 35-watt headlights which help provide excellent lighting for nighttime rides and a new covered hood storage compartment. New cargo racks feature stronger tubing that is over 25 percent larger in diameter than previous versions and the addition of tie-down hook points on the cargo racks. The cargo racks can carry a combined total of 264 lbs.
The SE version of the Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS features a premium Metallic Tungsten Gray automotive paint finish, unique graphics and a bright silver machined finish on the face of its cast-aluminum wheels.
The Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS Realtree APG HD features bodywork clad in genuine Realtree APG HD camouflage with blaze orange model designations.
