Is that a true 12" of ground clearance or just from the frame? From what I've heard it is a solid axle unit, but Ive also heard from friends from Lincoln Nebraska it will be one heck of a ATV also. Can't wait!!!!!!

 

That ground clearance sounds SWEEEEEET! If its true.

I wish Kawasaki would release some more info on the "beast", such as release date, weight, anything would be nice.

Yes, I have been to the website.

 

I hope you're right about the ground clearance, but I don't understand how it could be that much more under the rear differential if it is still a solid axle with 25" Dunlop tires, unless the differential ring gear is a lot smaller in diameter than the old Prairie's, and that would mean a very different ratio...like 2-1? I hope they've found a way.
No one has explained how you mount a windshield or any other accessories to the handlebars of the 650 with that plastic shield on them. Does anyone know?

 

That ground clearance is from frame to ground not including rear axle.

 

Hi guys
Sorry to burst your bubble when it comes to ground clearance, but I measured it on the 650 and from the skidplate under the engine to the ground it is a dissapointing 9 1/2". The rear swingarm which is much bigger in size because of the built in wet brake, is going to get dragged through the mud or anything else that happens to be higher than 5". I went over this quad with a fine tooth comb and found that the only thing I did not like was the ground clearance. Hopefully they will increase the tire size to a 27" on the production model and I'm pretty sure the aftermarket guys will come out with a lift kit.

 

Snowride, did the Kawasaki reps give you any indication that they may go to big tires? Is there only 5" of clearance under the rear differential? Everything else I've heard about this machine sounds impressive, but that ground clearance sounds dissapointing and with a solid axle, it would be tough to match the ride of a Sportsman. I guess it can't be best at everything. Did you happen to notice if there is any way to mount anything to the handlebars? If I buy one, I want to be able to mount my GPS handlebar mount and my windshield for winter. They fit great on my Prairie 400 4x4. Also, do you know what they will be asking for the 650 in Canada? I checked with a couple of places on the Rubicon, and they will be asking $10,400 at one dealer, and $10,600 at another! In the States, they are selling for the same price as a 500 Sportsman H.O., which sells for about $9,300 here. Sounds like gouging to me! I hope you find time to answer these questions. Since you've seen this beast, you're the guy to talk to!

 

polaris was making quads before 1990. like 86 or 87. i think they were called cyclone?? ask the polaris forum they would know!

 

jscyoung
The Kawa rep said they "may" go to larger tires and lightweight rims on the production model. He told me that the main reason that they are lugging the 650 all around north America, is so that they can get feedback from the general public and still make some changes before the final release. The 5" rear axle ground clearance is a guess, but lets say it is no more than 6". Sounds like your getting shafted in BC, unless the $9300 cdn is out the door. Here in Quebec a 01 HO including dealer prep is $8200 cdn, plus tax. I was told that the estimated price of a 650 would be $9000 cdn. The 650 has a built in female thread on each side of the handelbars (similar to the Suzukis where you mount the mirrors) which I was told would be used for mounting accessories such as a windshield. Overall I would say that the 650 is the best quad made when it comes to fit and finish and the entire package, but as you know the real test is the test ride, which I'm sure is on the list of all quad enthusiasts.

 

My dealer here in ON told me probably $10,000 cdn for the 650. They are selling the Rubi for $10,500 cdn.

 

Snowride, thanks for the reply. I looked at the picture on the Kawasaki site of the 650 that you can rotate, and although it isn't a good angle of view at the rear, it looks like it has about the same clearance as my Prairie, which has about 8" under the gear case skid plate. I hope your guess of 6" is real conservative! If you're right, they should go to bigger tires. Those female threads in the handlebars should work well---I wish they'd put them in the ends of the handlebars too for mirrors. What has the 650 got for a park brake? Does it have a brake light? Now if they would just install a back-up light! Also, did the rep mention what the 650 would be like for gas mileage? I hope it won't be any worse than a Grizzly. By what you're saying about prices, it does sound like the local dealers are on a "get rich quick" plan. The Polaris/Honda dealer in Kelowna is new, so they may not get what they are asking.