2012 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 First Ride Photo Gallery

Kawasaki has added to its Brute Force sport utility ATV family with the inclusion of the youngest and smallest member, the 2012 Brute Force 300.

Check out photos of our ride in Mines and Meadows on the new 2012 Kawasaki Brute Force 300. Read the full details in our 2012 Kawasaki Brute Force 300 First Ride article.

The 2012 Brute Force 300 is powered by a 271cc water-cooled engine, compared to the air-cooled 228cc Bayou mill.

This 2-wheel-drive utility quad replaces the long-standing Bayou 250 and gives entry-level riders an updated option for riders of all sizes.

Electric start brings the 300 to life with the use of a handlebar-mounted choke for the initial warm-up. Kawasaki also included a recoil starter in case the battery goes dead.

It has no problem pulling its own considerable weight and that of a full-size pilot. Kawasaki says the engine pumps out “20-plus horsepower.”

Beefy cargo racks feature tie-down pins for secure strapping and hold 66 pounds on the rear and 44 pounds up front.

Our test ride was purely recreational, but it’s clear that Kawasaki has made the little Brute brother equally ready for work or play.

The front and rear snorkels for the CVT extend up to the seat level where they are much less susceptible to water penetration.

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) handles the power via centrifugal clutch which eliminates the need for a foot-operated shift lever.

It takes considerable aggression in order to keep the BF 300 running in the upper midrange powerband of High range with a heavy rider aboard. Fortunately, the handling and suspension are capable of withstanding serious abuse.

Rider protection from the rugged bodywork is incredible; better even than it is on the 2012 Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS.

We couldn’t find a single plastic fastener on the exterior panels; everything is held together firmly by metal screws.

A larger stance and water-cooled engine boost the claimed curb weight to 536 pounds.

The quad doesn’t feel that heavy in motion thanks to a balanced chassis, and it’s relatively easy to climb off and muscle around in a tight spot thanks to the rear cargo rack and exposed front bumper.

Even with only 2WD we were able to conquer every trail we encountered and still had the ability to play on harder obstacles.

A steady but responsive chassis teams with impressive budget suspension to give riders of all sizes the ability a comfortable, sporty ride.

After beating the Brute Force around Pennsylvania’s Mines and Meadows ATV Resort, we’re happy to find such a high level of refinement and durability for only $4199.

The large-volume bodywork gives the quad a larger feel and appearance, and it provides some of the best protection we’ve ever experienced.

The Brute Force 300 is an entry-level mount, but thankfully doesn't feel like a minuscule machine.

The handlebars are high enough for standing and wide enough for sufficient leverage without being hard to reach at full turn.

The Kawasaki Brute Force 300 delivers predictable handling, making for an ideal entry-level mount.

The Brute Force 300's engine power isn't overwhelming and quite easy for the novice rider to control.