My 08 Brute cranked 4k a couple of days ago, and now stands at 4088. It has been a great relationship, other then routine maintance, its just a gunner and go deal. I also have a 02 Prairie that has logged nearly 18000 miles, truthfully it has been the same kind of deal. If it weren't so, the machines would be gone. The 02 will still give the 08 a real run in drag races.

My experience with Kawi's has been nothing but good. I also have a 98 Honda, with something like 24k miles, and the Kawai's have been by far the better machines. No brake issues, better performance, no starter issues, just good dependable rides.

When I read of the misery on other sites, I just shake my head, and wonder WHY???

And as a sort of disclaimer I always state that I'm not a racer, not a mudder, and there are times when a machine like the Honda, (gears) is the perferred machine. Utility use in steep country underscores the fact that sometime there just ain't no substitute for gears.

That's pretty good, XS. They seem to be a fairly decent machine.
Mine only has 1600 miles, plus 10% for oversize tires. I've had to replace the upper control arm bushings & a rear output seal. Also a headlight bezel, but that was operator error. But otherwise it seems to be hanging in there.

How long are you getting on a CVT belt? How often do you adjust them?

The 02 just squawks-what can I say. Initially I messed with it, adjusted, fiddled, fumed, and did all that, and finally just made my life easier and ignored it. The 08, again, what can I say, I take it to the stealer once a year, get the major tune up, and to this point there ain't been nothing done. The belt is the least of my worries, not being one that puts great stress in it like mudding, pulling contests, or serious racing, it still has the original belt. With the 02 if it gets to throwing the loose belt switch, I'll deal with it. The 02 doesn't see continuous duty anymore, so it won't go to the stealer everyother year. I did get so I could reset the belt light on the 08, so that thing ain't shining in my eyes all the time.

I'd like to get to Colorado and see how much altitude I could get to. Here, about 9k is it.

I have taken my 08 Brute through the rockies 3 times now. It has never missed a beat. It has much more power and control than my 06 Rincon did. Just last week I took the lady and I doubled up to the top of wager gulch. Past the Carson town site there is a pass and a steep long trail that ascends to 13k ft. It was loose gravel type soil most of the way. In 4wd and low range with 26" horns it pulled like a draft horse to the top. My Rincon would not have attempted such a hill climb. There is no replacement for that v twin power.
I have owned only Hondas since my first 50cc in 83... I was scared to leave the brand but I am pleased with the Kawi. I guess I can't poke fun at belt powered machines anymore.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: JohnsWoodshop,

Thats neat, way above the tree-line. 13k, better then 4k higher then can be done around here.

good deal, i only have about 1300 miles on my 08....