Construction Equipment Guide
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Thu February 15, 2018 - National Edition
From the National Farm Machinery Show, Kubota Tractor Corporation publicly unveiled the all-new Kubota RTV-XG850 Sidekick. The introduction of Kubota's new Sidekick has been highly anticipated by dealers and customers alike as it is Kubota's fastest utility vehicle yet, with a powerful 48 horsepower gasoline engine, delivering speeds of up to 40 mph, compared to the top speed of 29 mph for its RTV-X models. Available for order now and arriving at dealerships this spring, the new Sidekick joins the renowned RTV line up of work-ready utility vehicles from Kubota, the best-selling diesel utility vehicle manufacturer in North America since 2004.*
"On the farm, around the pasture and in the woods, the Kubota Sidekick is the best multi-use machine on the market and is Kubota's fastest, strongest, and most agile utility vehicle yet," said Roger Gifford, Kubota product manager, utility vehicles. "Customers can confidently take on any task or terrain with comfortable, convenient and capable features, and with the speed to get there fast, up to 40 mph fast."
The Sidekick's quick acceleration and high transport speed — up to 40 mph — come from a powerful 48 horsepower gasoline engine. Equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission with Centrifugal Clutch (CVT Plus), the Sidekick's rugged, water-cooled engine provides plenty of torque for a quick and smooth take-off. The Idle Speed Control (ISC) and highland correction ensure stable power for any situation.
Designed for easy handling at any speed, the Sidekick offers a comfortable drive with its enhanced speed-sensitive Electronic Power Steering (EPS), improving both handling and stability. Tuned front and rear independent suspension offers a consistently smooth ride and engine-assisted braking allows for greater control and increased safety during descents. A selectable full-time 4WD system gives the operator optimum traction and control on any terrain, even under heavy loads.
With class-leading 2,000 lbs. towing capacity and standard equipped with a trailer hitch, the Sidekick is ready for a wide range of towing jobs – from boats to trailers and more. Additionally, the Sidekick's cargo capacity enables it to carry up to 15.2 cu. ft., or half a ton (1,000 lbs./600 lbs. California models) of gear, tools, firewood, supplies and building materials in its heavy-duty steel cargo box. Even more, the cargo box comes with optional electric hydraulic lift for fast and effortless dumping.
The Sidekick offers electrical power for a wide variety of equipment. The regulator and fully-shielded generator are controlled by a microcomputer to ensue stable power for any attachment, including a work light, LED headlight, heater or wench.
From the smart ergonomic meter panel, steering wheel and shift knob, to the bright LED headlights, the Kubota Sidekick offers many convenient features that will make the drive safe and comfortable. For added operator comfort, shoulder guards on the ROPS keep all riders within the passenger area during tight turns, while half doors keep brush and other elements out of the vehicle.
The ergonomically designed split-bench seat style provides hours of working comfort and ample space for both driver and passenger, while offering large compartments underneath for storing tools and personal items. And, the glove box, cup holder and DC outlet offer convenient places to keep things secure and always in reach on every trip.
A full line of new attachments and accessory options, developed specifically for the Sidekick, will be available for customers to further enhance their RTV driving experience, adding even more comfort and customized preferences, including a premium audio system, LED headlights, sports roof or bed extender to carry more cargo, just to name a few.
Available in Kubota dealerships this spring, the Sidekick will be offered in four distinct colors – Kubota Orange, RealTree AP Camo and additional new colors: green and black. For more information visit KubotaUSA.com.
*Power Products Marketing, North American Utility Vehicle Markets Report.
This story also appears on Agricultural Equipment Guide.