EQUIPMENT FOCUS
Bobcat ’ s UV34 line of UTVs ( pictured top ) includes four variations ; users can choose a gas or diesel engine , and single-row or two-row seating . Unlike the UTVs from some of the powersports-focused companies ( Can-Am , Polaris , etc .), the Bobcat UV models are speed limited to 35 mph . “ Performance ” means work to Bobcat , and owners can choose to limit speeds further depending on the use environment . These vehicles come standard with a ROPS-approved cab .
The “ Kleenex ” of this category is the Kawasaki Mule . The Mule started the UTV trend decades ago , and now Kawasaki offers more than 40 models with different drive systems , engine sizes , fuel types , seating configurations and prices that start under $ 10K . You can find Mules everywhere from Walmart parking lots to motocross racetracks .
Utility : Low speed and street ready
The Utility categories start to blend here . You can find lowspeed workers in the above groupings , but some vehicles are designed strictly for low-speed use , even street-legal ones depending on local laws . If you run landscape teams on large commercial lots , or in HOA-type neighborhoods , a street-legal , low-speed vehicle that can carry tools and people could be a good option .
The Cushman Hauler Pro LSV ( pictured left ) is one of several Hauler models in the Cushman Utility category . Users can choose gas or electric , and a variety of configurations for niche uses . The “ LSV ” designation means the vehicle must meet federally regulated safety standards to be deemed street legal – it ’ s not just Cushman marketing .
Sport-Utility : Work advantage
The sport-utility category is large and growing . We try to separate it into more work-focused and more fun-focused , but there is a lot of cross over , and you ’ d need to compare specific details like suspension travel , loadcarrying capacities , available accessories and more . Look for comfort features in this category ,
16 OPE + April 2024 www . OPE-Plus . com