There have been some brilliant and impressive four-wheelers that have graced the ATV landscape in the 2000s. In addition to their rugged aesthetics and V-belt transmission, these machines were enhanced, and a slew of enhancements were made. The Kawasaki Prairie 360 was no exception.
In 2003-2013, Kawasaki produced the Prairie 360 4×4 as a compact version of the Prairie 650. With a belt-driven transmission, KEBCTM, and differential lock capabilities, the mini Prairie was a highly-favoured workhorse as well as a weekend enthusiast.
Consumers and know-it-alls could preview the future of UTVs through the vehicle’s enhanced instrumentation, long-travel suspension, and powerful mid-sized quads, which are all the rage in today’s ATV scene.
Explore this four-wheeler’s humble beginnings and see how it became a highly successful vehicle with dual purposes.
What Do You Get With Kawasaki Prairie 360?
There are two or four wheels on the Prairie 360, and the engine is a 362cc, SOHC air-cooled, two-valve four-stroke. A push of the electric start button starts the Prairie. Additionally, the 360 has a recoil starter as a backup.
This engine pulls starts just as easily, thanks to its automatic compression release. It doesn’t growl like its V-twin brothers, but it rumbles with a healthy yet quiet sound. An automatic CVT transmission drives the Prairie 360. Despite many years without a problem, this transmission is still going strong today.
Gear selection is straightforward and should not confuse. In the right corner of the front plastic is the selector, which is easily accessible. The CVT belt in the Prairie grabs traction almost as quickly without any noticeable lag, and the throttle response is quick.
Despite being a two-valve motor, the 360 offers good acceleration for a two-valve engine. Like other mid-sized Utes, it tops out at 45mph quickly.
While it lacked top speed, the Prairie made up for it with torque at low and mid ranges. Despite steep and rocky terrain, the Prairie easily handled all testing.
What are the Different Models of Kawasaki Prairie 360?
1. KAWASAKI Prairie 360 4×4 2012 – 2013
Kawasaki’s 2013 MY Prairie 360 4×4 is available in the USA only and is a good mid-sized ATV choice. The vehicle is capable of handling strenuous work days as well as weekend outings through woodland trails.
Featuring a balanced combination of performance and ease of maintenance, the 362cc four-stroke engine is a dependable one. It offers a selection of three gears: H, L, and R, allowing the rider to focus on getting the job done while reducing fatigue.
With four-wheel drive, the ATV can ride over difficult terrain safely and easily. With Kawasaki Variable Front Differential Control, riders can control the amount of torque delivered to each of the front wheels so that they can cross virtually any obstacle.
2. KAWASAKI Prairie 360 4×4 2011 – 2012
There is only one word that can summarise the 2012 MY Kawasaki Prairie 360 4×4: versatility. A smooth and reliable 4-stroke engine with 362cc displacement delivers a lot of torque and requires little maintenance. Combined with the engine is a continuously variable transmission with H, L, and R gears.
On this all-terrain vehicle, the Kawasaki Variable Front Differential Control is a key feature, enabling the driver to control how much power goes to each front wheel on any terrain.
3. KAWASAKI Prairie 360 4×4 Camo 2010 – 2011
For the tough bodywork, this off-road beast comes wrapped in Realtree APG HD camouflage. In the wild, the new trim makes the 2011 MY Prairie 360 4×4 Camo less noticeable to wildlife workers and hunters.
Compared to its flat-coloured sibling, the Prairie 360 4×4 Camo does not introduce any technical changes. With on-demand 4WD and a variable slip front differential, the same 362cc air-cooled single engine is paired to a dual-ratio automatic transmission. Suitable for work and play as well as anything in between, the Prairie 360 4×4 Camo is a great lower-middleweight all-rounder.
4. KAWASAKI Prairie 360 4×4 2010 – 2011
ATV enthusiasts who want a machine that is equally fun and useful for both work and play will find the Prairie 360 4×4 to be a great choice. The 2011 MY Prairie 360 4×4 delivers solid, consistent performance in the toughest scenarios, making it much more than a toy. Featuring an automatic transmission, variable locking differential, and dual range operation, this vehicle is easy to ride on rough terrain.
Front MacPherson suspension units feature hydraulic disc brakes, while aluminium swingarms use sealed brake units. To make it even more versatile, you can add 30W halogen headlights and a 12V accessory socket.
5. KAWASAKI Prairie 360 4×4 Camo 2009 – 2010
2010 MY Prairie 360 4×4 Camo offers a new, nifty livery that will reduce visibility when parking in the wilderness. This ATV looks great in the vegetation thanks to the Realtree APG HD camouflage wrap and brown seat cover. There are no changes to the tech specs from the base model.
6. KAWASAKI Prairie 360 4×4 Camo 2008 – 2009
The 2009 MY Prairie 360 4×4 Camo should fit the bill just fine if you value looks as much as how well it performs. In hardwoods Green HD livery, the Prairie 360 4×4 is dressed to impress. When parked in the wild, this ATV will blend in much better with the decor and be harder to spot, making it the perfect choice for hunters or forest and wild park employees.
In addition to AWD and a limited-slip front differential, this Prairie 360 4×4 Camo offers strong engine braking, generous cargo racks, and high towing capacities.
What are the Specifications of Kawasaki Prairie 360?
Exterior
It’s amazing how much better the instrumentation of the 360 was because of the mother company. While other countries used a complete set of ingredients, those released in North America did not. During its manufacture, minute changes were made. There were two basic colours available for the 2WD: Aztec Red and Woodsman Green.
Meanwhile, 4×4 vehicles featured Realtree APG HD camouflage and Polar White. By pressing the mode switch on the bottom centre of the speedometer, you can switch the LCD to visualise the trim meter or odometer if your model does not have a US trim. It is possible to tell that you are in “trim meter” mode by the presence of a decimal point next to the “10th” number. If you push and hold the switch for at least three seconds, you can erase the trip count.
- Frame: Steel double-cradle
- Front Suspension: MacPherson strut / 6.7 in.
- Rear Suspension: Swingarm with single shock, preload adjustment / 7.1 in.
- Front Brake: Dual hydraulic discs
- Rear Brake: Sealed, oil-bathed, multi-disc
Lubrication and Engine
There is an increase in torque and power output compared to any other Kawasaki class-300 model. Unlike its rivals, the Kawasaki Prairie 360 uses a urethane foam air filter instead of an air filtration system. It can reach speeds of 55 mph. Despite its size, it performs better than most beasts. With an 8.3:1 compression ratio, the engine is a 4-stroke SOHC, single-cylinder.
- Type: Air-cooled, SOHC, four-stroke, single cylinder
- Displacement: 362 cm3
- Bore X Stroke: 3.1×2.8 in OR 79 mm
- Compression Ratio: 8.3:1
- Horsepower: -/- KW(hp)/RPM
- Torque: 0/- lb-ft/RPM OR 0 Nm/RPM
- Fuel System: Keihin CVK34 Carburetor
Suspension
Both the Prairie and the Brute Force 650 have similar suspension systems. Since the former has the same chassis as its predecessors, this shouldn’t be a surprise to riders. Due to the presence of nitrogen gas in the rear shock absorbers, beginners are not advised to attempt disassembling or incinerated them themselves. In addition, they should release the gas completely. As part of this process, drill a 15 mm hole from the bottom of the rear shock cylinder.
- Frame Type: Tubular, double-cradle
- Caster, Trail: 2.5°, 15 mm (0.59 in)
- Turning Radius: 3.1 m (10.17 ft)
- Front Suspension Type, Travel: MacPherson Strut, 170 mm (6.7 in)
- Rear Suspension Type, Travel: Aluminum swingarm w/ 5-way adjustable spring preload, 180 mm (7.1 in)
Brakes and Tires
Unlike traditional tubeless tires, Dunlop tubeless tires have tubular wheels, which provide a better braking system and more grip. However, if you enjoy serious rock crawling or mudding, replacing these tires with GBC Grim Reaper Radial ATV Tires would be a better option. This model includes dual hydraulic disc brakes in the front and enclosed multi-plate disc brakes in the rear. It is recommended that you clean brake parts with ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, or DOT 3/DOT 4 brake fluid. Your brake system rubber parts will deteriorate if you use engine oil, gasoline, or any other petroleum distillate. Furthermore, oil spills are hard to clean up.
- Front: AT25x8-12 tubeless
- Rear: AT25x10-12 tubeless
Dimensions
A comparison of the Kawasaki Prairie 360 with other 4X4s in this category reveals significant improvements in trailer weight and rack capacity. It is also possible to enjoy a comfortable ride thanks to the seat height.
- Overall Length: 81.3 in OR 2065 mm
- Overall Width: 47.4 in OR 1204 mm
- Seat Height: 45.9 in OR 1166 mm
- Wheelbase: 49.3 in OR 1252 mm
- Ground Clearance: 7.8 in OR 198 mm
- Weight: 640 lbs OR 290 kg
- Fuel Capacity: 3.6 gallons OR 13.6 L
Ignition
The quad features an upgraded DC-CDI ignition system with an auxiliary mechanical recoil starter and an electric starter system. Due to the battery’s location under the seat and starter circuit relay, these parts are protected from debris and water.
- Ignition: DC-CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
- Ignition Timing:10° BTDC @ 1,300 RPM – 30° BTDC @ 5,000 RPM
- Spark Plug: NGK DPR8EA-9, 0.8-0.9 mm (0.031-0.035 in.)
- Alternator Type: Three-phase alternator
- Rated Output: 25 A, 14V @ 8,000 RPM (regulator/rectifier) 36-54V @ 3,000 RPM (alternator)
- Fuse: 30 Amp (main); 20 Amp (fan/oil cooler); 5 Amp (auxiliary, belt switch)
Drivetrain
As the Kawasaki 360 features a driveline switch, riders have the option of selecting either 4WD or 2WD. Furthermore, a dual-range automatic transmission with a reverse KAPS system handles shifting. In terms of steering parts, they are solid. A steering replacement is also an option if it becomes too rough. You can replace it with any tie rode, preferably a race-type rode. The measurement should be 315 ± 0.7mm.
- Gearbox: Automatic, L, H, reverse
- Clutch: Automatic
- Primary Drive: N/A
- Final Drive: Shaft, 4WD
What are the Features of Kawasaki Prairie 360?
- A four-stroke, air-cooled engine offers exceptional torque, combining simplicity and performance
- By using the compression of the engine, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control helps slow down the Prairie 360 when it is towing heavy loads and climbing steep hills
- Continually variable transmissions have high and low forward gears plus reverse, so no shifting is required
- Maintainability is minimal with a reliable shaft drive
- With dual front disc brakes, the front wheels are able to stop more quickly
- The sealed, oil-bathed multidisc rear brake system offers superior rear braking power and requires virtually no maintenance. It is also protected from water, mud, and dust.
- It is possible to carry 242 pounds of weight on both the front and rear cargo racks
- With full-sized ergonomics, the saddle is large, and the floorboards are thick with serrated footpegs for superior comfort and protection from debris and mud.
- An adjustable shock at the rear provides 7.1 inches of travel, while the front suspension offers 6.7 inches of travel with MacPherson struts.
- A ball hitch can tow up to 1,100 pounds quickly and easily with a standard hitch bracket
Special Features of Kawasaki Prairie 360
Utility capabilities racks weigh 88 pounds up front and 154 pounds in the rear, and an 1100-pound towing capacity is included with a standard equipped hitch. There is a speedometer on the Prairie’s handlebars, a neutral, drive, and revere indicator light, a 12-volt accessory power outlet, and a keyed ignition. Under the rear rack, you’ll find a medium storage box. Tire repair kits, water, and trail accessories were stuffed inside.
Additionally, the Prairie 360 features full floorboards with adjustable footpegs that provide solid footing and splash protection. A pair of 30-watt halogen lamps illuminate the trail at the front of the Prairie. Fuel-tank capacity of 3.6 gallons allows you to ride for hours without refueling.
How Much Does Kawasaki Prairie 360 Cost?
Until several years ago, Kawasaki Prairie 360’s MSRP was $4,599 to $6,499 – at least for the KVF360B trim. Most expensive were the camouflage versions, followed by the 4WD models. The following table lists all Prairie 360 models and their prices.
| Year – Trim – Model Number | List Price | Retail/Trade-In Values |
| 2003 -2004 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-A1/A2, 4×4 | $5,499 | $1,400 – $2,565 |
| 2003 – 2008 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-B1 to B8F | $4,599 | $1,160 – $3,155 |
| 2003 – 2004 Kawasaki Prairie 360 (KVF360-C1/C2), 4×4 Camouflage | $5,799 | $1,460 – $1,985 |
| 2005 – 2008 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-A3 to A8F, 4×4 | $5,199 | $1,540 – $3,400 |
| 2005 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-C3, 4×4 Camouflage | $5,499 | $1,625 – $2,140 |
| 2006 – 2008 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-C6F to C8F, 4×4 Camouflage | $5,549 | $1,800 – $3,400 |
| 2009 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-A9F, 4×4 | $5,349 | $2,270 – $3,520 |
| 2009 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-B9F | $4,799 | $2,005 – $3,195 |
| 2009 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-C9F, 4×4 Camouflage | $5,699 | $2,410 – $3,520 |
| 2010 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-AAF, 4×4 | $6,049 | $2,665 – $3,505 |
| 2010 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-CAF, 4×4 Camouflage | $6,399 | $2,795 – $3,680 |
| 2011 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-ABF, 4×4 | $6,149 | $2,725 – $3,585 |
| 2011 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-CBF, 4×4 Camouflage | $6,499 | $2,865 – $3,770 |
| 2012 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-ACF, 4×4 | $6,199 | $2,805 – $3,690 |
| 2013 Kawasaki Prairie KVF360-ADF, 4×4 | $6,299 | $2,875 – $3,780 |
Auction listings indicate that the resale value of a used Prairie ranges from $715 to $3,425. Pre-loved Kawasaki Prairie 360 models from 2003-2005 typically have stock parts, no upgrades, and need minor mechanical or electrical repairs. On the other hand, the 2006 Kawasaki Prairie 360s are in good condition, heavily modded, and come with an abundance of functional aftermarket parts.
The rear ATV bag is optional on units valued above $2,000, as are 25-inch all-terrain tires and the ATV TEK FFG2 FlexGrip Gun Rack (view on Amazon). There might be items on the rear cargo of a higher-quality resale unit, such as a 25-gallon tank sprayer (view on Amazon) or a front snow plough base/push-tube mounting kit, which would indicate that the vehicle has been heavily used.
What are the Common Problems of the Kawasaki Prairie 360?
There will always be some problems with a great product, no matter how good it is. This prompted us to write about some of the common issues with the Kawasaki Prairie 360. Consider these problems before purchasing a Kawasaki Prairie 360.
1. V-twin engines are absent
It is possible to have an unconventional and controversial issue at the same time. We’ll explain why that sounds absurd. Adventure is always on the minds of professionals or enthusiasts. Therefore, they look for ATVs with powerful engines. There was also a powerful V-Twin engine available on the larger Kawasaki Prairie 650. But we imagine many people won’t like the fact that it doesn’t offer the same engine as the Kawasaki Prairie 360.
2. Engaging Issue With 4WD
Kawasaki Prairie 360, though a 4WD ATV, has an engagement problem. When shifting between driveline modes, there is no 4WD light and engine brake actuator failure (with diagnostic code indication).
There is also the possibility of this problem when you get measurements indicating specs from your OHM readings while getting different sets of results from your speed sensor. For this, you might have to take your ATV to a mechanic or another owner.
3. Defective Fan
Cooling fans can overheat, which can cause a lot of problems. In most cases, defective fans are the cause of overheating. Most of the time, the fans will operate. Several factors can cause the fan to malfunction, including defective plugs, blown fuses, and a fan switch sensor attached to the radiator’s side.
4. Idling Problems
This may be one of the most concerning issues with the Kawasaki Prairie 360. A gummed-up carburettor may cause idling problems when left unused in the garage or barn.
Basic troubleshooting of the engine is required to resolve the issue. Valve or jet adjustments won’t do much good. Cleaning carburettors, ports, and passages usually requires a thorough cleaning. Ensure that the choke is not stuck on the slide when applying throttle.
5. Lack Of Equipment
Sometimes, unexpected problems can occur, such as worn front shocks, slipping converter belts, unsatisfactory top-ends, and slipping suspension bearings. There may be times when you need to replace parts. It is not an exhaustive list, but some parts are difficult to source economically.
Additionally, the Prairie 360 has a wonky frame due to its large size. The repair of some parts won’t be convenient. However, this is nothing compared to the above challenges. Additionally, most of these problems are self-inflicted as the quad ages.
What are the Pros and Cons of the Kawasaki Prairie 360?
Pros of the Kawasaki Prairie 360
- The ATV is not only 4WD but also allows riders to choose between 2WD and 4WD.
- Powered by a great 4-Stroke SOHC engine, this ATV has plenty of power to spare.
- A great carburetor system is also available from Keihin, the CVK34.
- Despite its small size, it can hold a lot of fuel.
- Featuring 21.1 hp and 26.1 Nm of torque, this ATV is capable of producing a maximum of 21.1 horsepower.
- There are rock-solid steering components on this vehicle.
- It comes with a DC-CDI that is advance and features electric start.
- With Dunlop tubeless tires, it is ready to go.
Cons of the Kawasaki Prairie 360
- The price can be a bit high (from $4,599 to $6,499) considering the prices of similar ATVs.
- It is not possible to use other petroleum distillates besides DOT 3/DOT 4.
- Turning off the actuator key may take forever when the battery is discharged.
- Compared to a water-cooled motor, it has an air-cooled motor.
- There is no odometer or hour meter on the car.
Conclusion
Kawasaki Prairie 360s remain one of the favourite utility machines in the off-roading community today due to their charm and capabilities. Although it lacks the V-Twin engine of its larger-displacement sibling, this multi-purpose wheeler is both a workhorse and a fun trail harrier. A torquey powerband and good acceleration are among the highlights of this vehicle at a reasonable price.
FAQs
How do I tell what year my Kawasaki Prairie is?
In the 17-character VIN, the 10th character indicates the model year of the vehicle. In order to comply with this standard, a vehicle must be manufactured after 1981.
Is a Kawasaki Prairie 360 water cooled?
No. The Prairie has a proven 362cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine from Kawasaki.
What model Kawasaki do I have?
Your Kawasaki engine’s model number and serial number can be found on the engine housing at the rear of the engine. A label with your model number and serial number is shown in the image.
What is the top speed of the 2008 Kawasaki Prairie 360?
Compared to other mid-sized Utes, it tops out at 45mph quickly. Despite lacking top speed, the Prairie made up for it with low and midrange torque.
How much does a Kawasaki 360 weight?
The Kawasaki 360 weight is 640 lbs OR 290 kg. However, this depends on the additional gears and types of equipment of the vehicle.