KAWASAKI INTRODUCES KFX400 Sport ATV

Jun. 01, 2002 By ORC STAFF

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., has re-entered the ultra-high-performance all-terrain vehicle (ATV) market with an all-new sport model for 2003.

For sport ATV enthusiasts who fondly remember the Kawasaki Tecate® of 1988, the all-new KFX400 will generate excitement with its competition styling, lithe chassis and high-performance engine. Sporting traditional Kawasaki Lime Green and black racing colors, the KFX400 will be available by July 2002.

Vince Iorio, marketing manager ATV and Utility Vehicles at Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., said the company is excited to add the KFX400 to the company's lineup.
"We expect the KFX400 to be a tremendous sales success," Iorio said. "It is a highly competitive 400cc class sport model ATV that features the performance and technology sport riders want. The chassis, the suspension and high-tech engine are all top notch.
"And, by adding the KFX400 to the lineup, we can now honestly say that Kawasaki has a complete line of ATVs-there's something for everyone in the family."

The KFX400 is powered by 398cc aluminum alloy, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine that features double overhead cams and four valves. Fed by a 36mm high-performance carburetor, it includes electric start, a counter balancer to reduce vibration, plus an electronic CDI ignition and automatic cam chain tensioner to simplify maintenance.

The cylinder of the KFX400 engine is plated with a special nickel-phosphorus-silicon-carbide compound that is lighter than a traditional steel cylinder sleeve and also transfers heat more efficiently, while the piston is made of forged aluminum. The 28-degree included valve angle provides a more compact combustion chamber and also reduces engine bulk. And because the engine utilizes dry-sump lubrication, it is mounted lower in the chassis to improve weight distribution and handling. Plus, the KFX400 features twin air ducts on the front fenders that help direct cooling air to the radiator.

Transmitting power from the engine to the rear wheels is a high-performance five-speed-plus-reverse manual transmission and efficient O-ring chain. Reverse gear on the KFX400 is engaged by turning a knob on the right front fender and shifting the foot pedal downward.

A high-performance powerband requires an equally advanced chassis, so the KFX400 engine rides in a high-tensile steel-alloy tube frame and subframe. Suspension duties are handled by dual A-arms up front with preload-adjustable shocks that provide 8.3 inches of travel, while an aluminum-alloy swingarm with preload-adjustable shock provides 9.1 inches of travel on the rear. The KFX400 rides on competition-inspired aluminum-alloy wheels, and stopping power is provided by dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake.

Extra amenities are abundant on the KFX400. A tube steel front bumper and a lightweight skidplate are standard, as are serrated steel footpegs that help keep the rider's feet from slipping in wet or muddy riding conditions. For those who enjoy riding at night, the KFX400 features dual multi-reflector halogen headlights that are complimented by a multi-reflector taillight and brakelight.

The 2.7-gallon fuel tank contributes to the KFX400's low, 370-pound dry weight, and handlebar-mounted instruments include a neutral gear indicator, reverse gear indicator and coolant temperature light. The KFX400 also has a 175-watt generator and maintenance-free battery, so riders can spend more time on the trails, tracks and dunes instead of handling maintenance duties in the garage.

The KFX400 has a suggested retail price of $5,699 and comes with a six-month warranty that can be extended up to three additional years. Kawasaki ATV accessories can also be purchased online at www.BuyKawasaki.com.
As with all off-highway vehicle recreation, Kawasaki encourages ATV riders to ride responsibly. Kawasaki will pay first-time ATV buyers of a new Kawasaki ATV $100 for completing an ATV rider safety course conducted by the ATV Safety Institute (call toll-free 800-887-2887).

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., is the wholesale distributor of JET SKI® watercraft, ATVs, MULE™ utility vehicles, portable generators, power products, and motorcycles. The product lines are sold through a network of independent retailers. The company employs more than 600 people in the United States, with nearly 400 of them located at the Irvine, Calif., headquarters.
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Check out all the other models in Kawasaki's 2003 Line up!