Side-by-sides are all the rage right now, and they have been getting even more popular over the past few years. In terms of off-road, four-wheeled fun, there’s no better way to tear up a trail in the company of family and friends. This year at Husker Harvest Days, we got an in-depth looks at one of Kawasaki’s flagship 2023 side-by-side models.
Kawasaki’s Teryx line of UTVs entered the market in 2008; at this time, it was one of few side-by-sides on the market that wasn’t focused purely on utility. They’ve since evolved to lean more on the performance recreation side, although base model (two-seat) Teryx and Teryx S LE models do still feature 600-pound capacity cargo beds and a towing capacity of up to 1,300 pounds. If a utility-focused side-by-side (with some thrills to be had in addition) is what you’re after, the Kawasaki MULE has always been the way to go.
The Teryx KRX 1000 line now serves as the go-to performance recreation vehicle in its catalog, offering a range of features and capabilities that make it a thrill to ride almost anywhere off the beaten path.
Displayed front and center was the all-new 2023 Teryx KRX4 1000 eS, Kawasaki’s flagship UTV model. The 999cc four-stroke, parallel twin-powered side-by-side boasts a new feature this model year with Kawasaki’s Electronic Control Suspension (KECS). The KECS high-performance suspension system provides the ability to adapt to a wide range of terrain in real time, granting the driver and passengers a much more comfortable ride over harsh terrain.
The four-passenger side-by-side’s suspension has different firmness levels, allowing for it to adjust from a soft mode suitable for choppy terrain or a more standard mode fit for a sportier ride and stiff turns through cornering. Paired with a 15.2-inch ground clearance, dual hydraulic disc brakes (two-piston calipers in front, single in back) and MAXXIS Carnivore 31 x 10.00R15 8PR tires, the TERYX KRX4 1000 eS is more than capable of handling rough terrain.
Like many side-by-side brands, Kawasaki also makes its vehicles primed for customization. The model we saw at Husker Harvest Days had several original equipment manufacturer (OEM) upgrades on it that buyers typically add, including a modified front bumper, a half windshield, an accessory light bar and a spare tire rack.
If you have a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, snowmobile or jet ski you’d like to feature in MPN’s Ride of the Week series, please email MPN Content Director Greg Jones at [email protected].
