PEAK PREMIUM PERFORMANCE
Ignite your off-road adventure with the turn of the automotive-style key, as the all-new RIDGE® XR side x side from Kawasaki roars to life with its distinctive tone and 999cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke in-line four-cylinder engine. Setting itself apart from the crowd of twin-cylinder-powered sport-utility side x sides, the RIDGE XR promises an exhilarating experience. Feel the smooth, linear throttle response as you navigate corners, enjoying precise control and a surge of acceleration directly linked to your right foot. Crafted for comfort, the RIDGE XR boasts a wide-track chassis, long-travel suspension, and high ground clearance to confidently navigate obstacles while maintaining cabin tranquility. The in-line four-cylinder engine’s low vibration adds to the premium ride comfort, creating an immersive driving experience.
Step into the thoughtfully designed cab featuring a high-grade D-shaped steering wheel, an automotive-inspired dashboard, and a 7-inch TFT color instrument panel. Sink into plush, adjustable high-backed bucket seats with three-point seatbelts. Attention to detail shines through, from flat door handles maximizing interior space to carefully chosen textures on slip-resistant footrests. For the RIDGE® XR Deluxe side x side, contoured bench seating accommodates three adults, ensuring everyone enjoys the journey.
The premium fit-and-finish extends to the exterior of the RIDGE XR, adorned with sporty and tough styling. Fierce line-type LED position lights and bumper shroud accent lights hint at its rugged performance capabilities. The high power, high torque, and smooth power delivery of the engine are complemented by the robust build, substantial cargo, and towing capacity—perfect for ridgeline adventures or demanding jobsites. With three versatile model variations, including one with a factory-standard full cab with HVAC, the RIDGE XR redefines expectations for premium off-road performance, seamlessly blending recreation and work in a single, dynamic package. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey with the RIDGE XR—an epitome of power, comfort, and versatility.
KAWASAKI RIDGE® XR KEY FEATURES
- Kawasaki-Built 999cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke In-Line Four Cylinder Engine
- Roomy Interior with Premium Comfort
- Full Cab with HVAC (HVAC model)
- Long-Travel Double Wishbone Suspension and High Ground Clearance
- 30-inch Tires with 14-inch Aluminium Wheels
- All-LED Exterior Lighting including Accent Lights
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Power Mode Selection
- On the Fly Electrically Selectable 4WD & Front-Rear Differential Lock
- Chassis Designed for Comfort
- 1000-lbs Capacity Tilting Cargo Bed with Detachable Tailgate
- 7-inch Full-color TFT Instrumentation
- Adjustable driver seat
- Automotive-Inspired Fit & Finish Exterior and Interior
- Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP POWERSPORTS
- Kawasaki STRONG Three-Year Limited Warranty
ENGINE
In the heart of the RIDGE XR, Kawasaki’s latest marvel, beats a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke in-line four-cylinder engine—a powerhouse that not only defines performance but redefines the thrill of driving. This engineering masterpiece, meticulously crafted with a bore and stroke of 73.4 x 59.0mm, delivers 116 hp† and 73.8 ft lbs of torque† propelling the RIDGE XR to new heights, delivering a symphony of power and torque for both work and play.
As the accelerator pedal is pressed, a crisp response echoes through the vehicle, ideal for those seeking the thrill of riding off road. The smooth and predictable feedback from the engine not only facilitates control but elevates the driving experience with superb power feeling and acceleration.
Amidst the exhilarating acceleration, the distinct exhaust note of the in-line four-cylinder engine adds a musical touch to the driving excitement. Observers are treated to the spectacle of the RIDGE XR roaring past, leaving behind the impression of a jet fighter. However, in the everyday-use range, the engine’s purr is subdued enough to allow for easy conversation within the cab contributing to the overall ride comfort and high-quality experience.
The engineering prowess extends to the rear-facing exhaust ports, strategically designed to keep heat away from the cab. A dual heat shield adds an extra layer of heat shielding, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. The intentional lengthening of the exhaust pipe enhances low-end performance, a testament to the dedication to optimizing every aspect of the engine’s functionality.
In the end, the RIDGE XR with its Kawasaki-built 999cc Liquid-Cooled, 4-Stroke in-line four engine is not just a vehicle: it’s a symphony of power, precision, and exhilaration—a testament to the relentless pursuit of engineering excellence. As it takes on the trail, it leaves behind not just a mark but a legacy, redefining what it means to drive with passion and purpose.
POWER MODE SELECTION
The Kawasaki RIDGE XR side x side offers the freedom to tailor your vehicle’s performance to your preference and your driving conditions. With the choice of three distinctive modes – Work, Normal, and Sport – our system puts you in control like never before.
WORK MODE: Designed for utility and precision, this mode provides a milder response that is perfect for tasks requiring a smooth and constant pace. Whether you’re carrying a load or navigating uneven surfaces, the programmed response minimizes the likelihood of sudden changes in vehicle speed or engine rpm.
SPORT MODE: For those moments when you crave an exhilarating driving experience, look no further than Sport mode. Immerse yourself in the thrill of sharper, more linear throttle response that establishes a direct connection between the gas pedal and the engine.
NORMAL MODE:
When versatility is key, Normal mode steps into the spotlight. Striking a perfect balance between the utility of Work mode and the spirited performance of Sport mode, Normal mode offers a smooth engine response right from the moment the throttle is opened. It is the go-to setting for everyday driving, providing an enjoyable and responsive experience without compromising efficiency.
ON-THE-FLY ELECTRICALLY SELECTABLE 2WD, 4WD, & REAR DIFFERENTIAL LOCK
Electrically selectable 4WD, along with front and rear differential locks, empowers drivers to effortlessly switch between drive systems on the go, adapting to the ever-changing terrain and applications. In 2WD mode, drivers experience light steering, and fuel-efficient cruising. Shifting to 4WD maintains this light steering while providing enhanced traction, ensuring stability on gravel, dirt, or uneven surfaces. Engaging 4WD along with the differential lock offers maximum traction, making the vehicle a powerhouse on challenging terrains.
With a swift turn of the switch, the system engages seamlessly, putting the driver in complete control of when 4WD or the 4WD with front and rear differential locks are activated. Locking the front and rear differentials transforms each pair of wheels into a single axle, preventing free-spinning in low-traction situations or when a wheel is suspended in the air. This provides the RIDGE XR with true AWD capability, guaranteeing maximum traction when navigating challenging terrains or overcoming obstacles. The Electrically Selectable 4WD and Differential Locks redefine adaptability, allowing the RIDGE XR to conquer the terrain with confidence and control.
RANGE AND MAINTENANCE
The nearly 13-gallon fuel tank provides a generous range between fill-ups, minimizing interruptions during tasks or allowing extended adventures on the trail. Positioned well away from the wheels, the fuel tank is shielded from potential impacts by flying debris, further enhanced by a protective steel guard.
Routine maintenance is achieved with easily located oil and air filter locations; the oil filter is easily accessed by removing the fender panel forward of the rear wheel. The air filter on the RIDGE XR is located under the center console. On the RIDGE XR and RIDGE XR HVAC models the filter is accessed by lifting the armrest console and on the RIDGE XR Deluxe, the filter is accessed by lifting the passenger seat.
CHASSIS
The RIDGE XR frame boasts a ladder-type construction, crafted from high-quality steel square tubes, ensuring a robust foundation. This design imparts highly predictable chassis performance and exceptional durability to the vehicle. High-strength material is strategically employed in high-load areas, such as the suspension mounting plates, reinforcing critical components.
Even while in motion, the vehicle offers a serene and calm interior, thanks to its low noise and low vibration features. This translates to a quiet composure inside the cab enhancing the overall driving experience.
The wide track significantly contributes to the vehicle’s stability while also maintaining a width of 64-inches for use on most trails. The highly composed chassis platform is further complemented by front and rear independent suspension, adding an extra layer of ride comfort for occupants.
The RIDGE XR has a high ground clearance of 14.5 inches (14.3-inches on HVAC model) at max preload and enhances accessibility during work or recreational activities but also ensures superb ride comfort by reducing the likelihood of scraping its bottom. This feature is particularly beneficial in navigating varied terrains.
Bottom of Form
The RIDGE XR employs a double-wishbone suspension system both at the front and rear, allowing each wheel to navigate obstacles with minimal impact on the chassis. The shock absorbers, featuring single-rate springs on the front and dual-rate springs on the rear, complement the chassis’ balanced flexibility, delivering excellent bump absorption and rough road performance. This ground-hugging suspension excels at following the terrain, ensuring a smooth ride within the cab.
To enhance ride comfort, the suspension settings are designed to minimize chassis roll speed, providing a more composed experience for passengers. The long wheel travel of 12.7-inches front and rear contributes to high ground clearance and optimal ride comfort.
The cargo bed, measuring 35 x 49 x 12.8-inches with a load capacity of 1,000 lbs. is designed for substantial loads. Its flat design facilitates loading from three sides, and in models without a full cab, the cargo bed can be accessed from the cabin. Four built-in hooks provide convenient tie-down points. Additionally, the RIDGE XR boasts a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. and a standard 2-inch tow hitch receiver is compatible with a variety of accessory hitches.
AUTOMOTIVE-INSPIRED FIT AND FINISH
The RIDGE XR boasts a premium exterior design to match its sporty and tough styling, featuring painted fenders and all-LED lighting. The front headlights, equipped with line-type LED position lamps, create a fierce expression, complemented by a large aluminum Kawasaki emblem on the front grille, a light-looking steel front bumper, and LED accent lights on the bumper shrouds.
Bright LED headlights (48.6 W / 22.2 W) with line-type LED position lights contribute to the fierce expression, and an air-scoop built into the front hood adds to the aggressive, sporty image. The automotive-style front grille, complemented by a large aluminum Kawasaki emblem and a black-painted steel front bumper, enhances the vehicle’s tough looks.
LED taillights with a pickup-truck-style design add to the car-quality fit and finish. Brightly colored suspension A-arms provide a striking contrast to the somber bodywork, enhancing the sporty and tough styling of the RIDGE XR.
The roomy cab of the RIDGE XR is designed for optimal ride comfort. High-backed bucket seats and three-point seatbelts offer support during hard riding and comfort during leisurely rides. Lever-adjustable seats and tilted steering wheel provide flexibility for the driver’s comfort and control. On the RIDGE XR Deluxe, contoured bench seating accommodates three people with a lever-adjustable driver’s seat.
The factory-standard full cab on the RIDGE® XR HVAC is equipped with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning offering a comfortable escape from extreme weather conditions. The full cab includes a glass windshield, full doors with power windows, a glass rear panel, a plastic roof with a roof liner, a windshield wiper and washer, a rearview mirror, and an interior ceiling light. Seal performance is excellent due to a reverse design approach, with the cab designed and engineered in conjunction with the rest of the vehicle, contributing to efficient climate control and passenger comfort.
The HVAC unit in the full cab includes multiple vents with mode selection, adjustable fan strength, a choice of fresh or recirculated air, and fast-acting temperature control.
TFT COLOR INSTRUMENTATION
A large 7-inch high-grade full-color TFT LCD screen integrated into the automotive-inspired dashboard adds to the automotive-inspired quality of the RIDGE XR. Multiple selectable display modes offer customizable information presentation. The high-grade instrumentation includes infotainment features, such as three selectable display modes (Digital, Analog, Simple) and screen background options (black or white). The brightness adjusts automatically based on available light, with manual adjustments available for driver preference. LCD bonding technology minimizes glare for high clarity. When linked to a smartphone via Bluetooth, the instrument display indicates calls and messages received. Using the smartphone application RIDEOLOGY THE APP POWERSPORTS*, drivers can access vehicle information, log GPS routes, adjust instrument display settings, communicate, and share profiles and trip logs with other users. Compatibility is limited to iOS-type smartphones.
Disclaimers:
*RIDEOLOGY THE APP POWERSPORTS is not intended for use during vehicle operation. Only use RIDEOLOGY THE APP POWERSPORTS when the vehicle is not being operated and it is safe to do so.
ABOUT KAWASAKI
Kawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. is committed to maintaining and furthering these strengths which will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the Good Times Roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com and, for Canadian customers, at www.kawasaki.ca
