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Jason Tansem
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Jason Tansem
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Jason Tansem
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['GEORGIA P ZUMWALT', 'Georgia P Zumwalt']
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Georgia P Zumwalt
Words and photos by Jason Tansem
For over 14 years Kubota has been asking their customers what they want improved on their reliable and durable RTV’s (Rough Terrain Vehicle). Recently we ventured to Georgia to put their all-new Sidekick under the microscope.
There are four divisions in the Side-by-Side market – Sport (Racing), Recreational that are high speed and designed for trails, work focussed that are safe with a max speed of 38kmph and crossovers or “Utility” Vehicles. This Crossover category focusses on fun and work and continues to gain momentum. This is where the new all-new Kubota Sidekick enters the market.
Naturally when it was my turn to drive, I punched the gas like no one was watching. Immediately I noticed how smooth the Sidekick accelerated. It wasn’t jerky and gained top speeds quickly. The units are equipped with a continuously variable transmission with centrifugal clutch (CVT Plus) that gives you more than enough torque when climbing and accelerating. There was tremendous smoothness in the ride because of the tuned front and rear independent suspension. The engine-assisted braking was very evident as we descended down some winding trails while maintaining cruising speed and still feeling in complete control. One of my favourite additions to the Sidekick is the selectable full-time, four-wheel drive. You never know when you are going to lose traction and need a little extra help. Most competitors come with hydraulic power steering. These units are equipped with electronic power steering which makes handling and stability an A+.
We put Kubota to the test as we wanted to ensure the unit could get to the proclaimed 40 mph. We reached this speed with ease.
The ride was extremely smooth even while maintaining high speeds and of course trying to hit every bump on the course. Cornering felt safe at speeds not normally recommended and we were able to get back to centre quickly.
I was able to drive a couple of different units and my favourite is the black version, which is an upper model and considered their flagship Sidekick. It has some fantastic options such as Alloy Wheels, Front guard, Hydraulic lift for the cargo box and extra LED lights. This model is perfect for our conditions in Canada.
Overall, I was very impressed with how Kubota has put this unit together. Speed, Cargo and Towing is what Kubota customers asked for, and Kubota certainly listened and delivered. It is no coincidence that a new unit comes off the assembly line in Georgia every 200 seconds.
The Sidekick is practical, capable, durable, and a blast to drive.
Specs:
48 HP gasoline engine
Up to 64.4 km/h (40 mph)
2000lb Towing Capacity with standard equipped trailer hitch (1550 lbs on a slope)
CVT Plus (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Centrifugal Clutch
Electronic Power Speeding
Front and rear independent suspension
Engine Braking – engine assisted deceleration
Selectable Full-Time 4WD
Steel Cargo Bed
Strong High-Rigidity frame
15.2 cu ft cargo capacity
Dumping Cargo box comes with an optional hydraulic lift
Four distinctive colours – Black, Kubota Orange, Green and RealTree AP Camo
2 Sets of standard LED Lights
Digital dash display
New steering wheel and shift knob
Half Doors and shoulder guards
60/40 Split-bench seats
Under-seat storage compartments
Glove Box
Cup Holder
DC Outlet
Over 50 Optional Accessories
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