Kawasaki’s Bayou 220 was launched in 1985, and after more than 17 years, Kawasaki decided to discontinue it in 2002. It is the company’s best-selling ATV because it is affordable and easy to ride, making it ideal for new riders and families who like getting away together.
If you want to know the Kawasaki Bayou 220 top speed, specs, and reviews, then read the full article for a better understanding.
Top Speed of Kawasaki Bayou
Kawasaki Bayou 220 top speed is 42 – 46 mph / 72.4 km/h, along with maximum power of 13–15 HP / 13.2 – 15.2 PS (9.7–11.2 kW, estimated) and maximum torque of 17.7 Nm / 1.8 kg-m, 13 ft-lb @ 6,000 RPM. With this power, you can easily enjoy off-road rides, but for some reason, if you are not satisfied with it, then you can go with the Kawasaki KFX 400, having a top speed of 65 – 75 mph.
Specification
Here is the specification of this small-sized quad given below.
| Engine Type: | SOHC, Air-cooled, four-stroke, single cylinder |
| Displacement: | 228 cm3 |
| Bore X Stroke: | 2.7 in x 2.4 in OR 69.0 x 61.0 mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel System: | Mikuni VM24SS Carburetor |
| Gearbox: | 5-Speed |
| Clutch: | Automatic Wet multi-plate |
| Final Drive: | Shaft |
| Front Suspension: | Independent single A-arm |
| Rear Suspension: | Semi-independent quad-link with dual shocks |
| Front Brake: | Drum |
| Rear Brake: | Drum |
| Front Tire | AT21 x 8 – 9 |
| Rear Tire | AT22 x 10 – 10 |
| Overall Length: | 70.1 in OR 1781 mm |
| Overall Width: | 40.2 in OR 1021 mm |
| Seat Height: | 28.7 in OR 729 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 43.9 in OR 1115 mm |
| Ground Clearance: | 7.5 in OR 191 mm |
| Weight: | 404 lbs. OR 183 kg |
| Fuel Capacity: | 2.6 gallons OR 9.8 L |
Engine
Kawasaki Bayou 220 has a SOHC 228 cc four-stroke engine and a single cylinder. Its engine also has an air-cooled system that keeps its temperature low even in extreme conditions. Its engine has a 2.7 in x 2.4 in OR 69.0 x 61.0 mm Bore X Stroke and an 8.9:1 compression ratio as well.
Furthermore, you will get Mikuni VM24SS Carburetor Fuel System that provides air and fuel mixture to the engine according to its requirement. It also has a five-speed transmission along with the automatic wet multi-plate clutch and has a solid-state with electronic ignition backup. Lastly, it also has an electrical starter for the user’s convenience.
Brakes & Tires
It has drum brakes for both the front and rear wheels. Although these drum brakes should be improved but according to their speed, these brakes are adequate. However, there’s a rear chance that you will find stock rubber in mint condition so you can replace these brakes and improve your safety.
Coming on the tires, it has AT21 x 8 – 9 front tires and AT22 x 10 – 10 rear tires. Similar to its suspension, if you find a pre-loved Bayou in good condition, there’s a high chance that the stock wheels are still in decent shape and provide good traction.
Suspension
It has an independent single A-arm front suspension and a semi-independent quad-link with dual shocks. These suspensions are adequate at work, but currently, it is rare to find a pre-loved unit in mint condition. Moreover, it has an independent rear suspension, but its front suspension is not independent.
Further talking about its handling over rough roads and berms, the Bayou 220 demonstrated outstanding maneuverability and handling. Thanks to its light and responsive steering, you will experience a non-restrictive riding experience.
Exterior
It has a double-cradle tubular steel frame and plastic body available in two color options. Further, it has a simple but rugged style, with a vinyl saddle, foot pegs on top of full floorboards, and utility racks for light loads.
Price of Kawasaki Bayou
As Kawasaki Bayou 220 was discontinued in 2002, and now it is not available in brand-new condition. Its pre-loved version is available at the price of $1,999 – $3,299. Moreover, it is a rear chance that you will find a functional Bayou, so if you find one, it’s an excellent decision to go with this economical quad.
Common Problems of Kawasaki Bayou
A few of the most common Kawasaki Bayou 220 problems are as follows:
- Starter problems
- Idle problems
- Transmission problems
- Carburetor problems
Final Thoughts
Kawasaki Bayou is the company’s best-selling quad at its time. It has moderate power and is frequent for beginners and modern-level riders. In addition to absorbing bumps adequately, its suspension provides a smooth ride when traveling at slow speeds.
Further talking about its brakes and tire, both need improvements to ensure user safety. Although these are best for beginners and moderate riders, however, if you have gained some experience, you can go with the Kawasaki Prairie 360.
Lastly, it was the most affordable, which also contributed to its popularity, so anyone could afford it and enjoy its ride.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions, and their answers are below.
Is a Kawasaki Bayou a 2 stroke?
No, the Kawasaki Bayou doesn’t have a two-stroke engine. It does, however, have a four-stroke engine.
Is Kawasaki Bayou automatic?
Kawasaki Bayou has semi-automatic 5-speed transmission along with the reverse option.
How many gears does a Kawasaki Bayou have?
Kawasaki Bayou 220 has five gears.
How big is a Kawasaki Bayou?
Kawasaki Bayou 220 has a seat height of 28.7 in OR 729 mm, a wheelbase of 43.9 in OR 1115 mm, and a ground clearance of 7.5 in OR 191 mm.
Rand Frankey is OffRoadsCare freelance Content Editor. He loves offroad Travelling and bikes, jeeps, and dirk bikes. He will explain all his experience with dirt bikes and offroad vehicles which helps you to make a decision like which vehicle is right for you.
