Occasionally I will get asked what my number one thing on the farm would be that I could not do without. I have a list. That lists includes items such as Muck Boots and my Leatherman multitool. But the number one answer to that question without hesitation, would be our side by side utility vehicle.

For the past decade we have been using a John Deere Gator 855 Diesel. This machine had performed well over its years of service. However, it had reached the point in which it became too costly to repair. It needed new front end components as well as a new/rebuilt transmission. The repair was quoted at $12,000 so we decided not to sink that much money into a 10 year old machine with over 18,000 miles.

This meant that it was time to shop for a new side by side. A few requirements included being able to sit three people, a large cargo bed, width for greater stability on our hills, and it needed to be equipped with a diesel engine because we have a bulk diesel tank full of farm fuel on site.

I researched all the major brands and quickly narrowed the search down simply by models with diesel engines. The early front runners were John Deere Gator, Polaris Ranger, Kubota RTV, and Kawasaki Mule. I compared these model’s specs in every way possible to find the right unit for us. I also talked to several producers that I knew had these various models and got their options of these machines. Lastly, I collected several quotes on machines to compare the actual cost the way I would want it outfitted. After everything being considered, in the end we purchased a 2026 Kawasaki Mule Pro-DX.

This model was purchased for several reasons. First, it has the Yanmar diesel engine which is what our previous Gator had and it proved to be very reliable. Next, the Mule had the longest wheelbase of the machines looked at. This helps give a lot of stability on our rugged terrain in Owen County. Third, this unit had the largest bed of any of the side by sides compared. This was a big advantage as we need all the room we can get to haul buckets, tools, etc, on a daily basis. And lastly, this machine was the cheapest of the quotes that I gathered by approximately $4,000.

We purchased this machine at MLS Powersports in Georgetown, Kentucky. This was another factor to consider because we wanted to have access to parts and service when needed.
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I feel that we have purchased the correct side by side for our needs. Stay tuned for updates on the Kawasaki Mule as we put it through its paces at Eden Shale Farm.