Kawasaki Ridge Top Speed

The 2024 Kawasaki Ridge hits the scene with considerable fanfare. This off-roader has style, elite performance, and durability.

Built to take on nearly any terrain, the Ridge is perfect for those seeking adventure and excitement far away from the hustle and bustle of urban living.

Available with a sealed cab, the Ridge provides utility while balancing style and performance. All the important nuances are addressed including the subtleties of the interior.  From user-friendly ergonomics and comfy seating, the Ridge gets the small stuff right.

The best part is the Ridge is completely new for 2024, meaning everything about it is fresh.

However, the question still begs: Does the Ridge live up to the lofty standard set by the Kawasaki brand name?  

Let’s find out.

This is your inside look at the Ridge’s power, performance, and top speed.

Engine & Performance

The Ridge is loaded with a 4-cylinder 999cc engine that boasts 116 hp. The engine is liquid-cooled for optimal performance when put to the test by even the most demanding of drivers.

If you aren’t concerned with power, consider the Ridge Ranch Edition of the vehicle that costs less yet still provides 92 hp. Both of the trims’ motors generate 74 pound-feet of torque.

Official Top Speed of the Kawasaki Ridge

Put the pedal to the metal and you’ll find the Ridge responds better than most off-road vehicles. The Ridge tops out around 70 miles per hour when put to the test.

Factors That Affect Top Speed

Ridge top speed is partially determined by choice of trim. The Ridge Limited lets you reach a maximum of 63 miles per hour. The Ridge XR tops out around 74 miles per hour. The XR hits a faster speed primarily because of its robust 116 horsepower engine. In contrast, the Limited has an engine with 92 horses.

Keep in mind, vehicle weight also has the potential to limit top speed. If you’ve piled up the sundries in the rear or added another rider, the Ridge might not max out at the top speed as expected.

How to Increase Top Speed Safely

You have the power to increase your Ridge’s top speed. As is often said, if there is a will, there is a way.

1. Mind the Tires

The right set of tires enhances top speed. In some cases, large tires help the Ridge hit top speed without sacrificing safety. However, bigger isn’t always better. The optimal combination of tires and suspension has the potential to hike speed to a level higher than expected in less time than would otherwise be possible.

Do your due diligence before buying new tires and/or a suspension system to guarantee they’ll increase top speed without reducing safety.

2. Enhance the Exhaust System

You can also boost top speed by tacking on a high-performance exhaust system for enhanced airflow. A slip-on exhaust is an affordable means of boosting power while decreasing weight, allowing that much more air to exit the engine.

3. Drop Some Weight

Reduce your cargo weight. Minimize vehicle weight and the Ridge will hit its top speed that much faster and safely.

4. High-Performance Parts

Consider replacing the factory suspension parts with those that are high-performance for faster speed. The added stability boosts control as an added bonus. As an example, you won’t need a lift kit if you opt for A-arms that accommodate larger tires.

5. Drive Components, Belts and More

There’s also the option of adding performance drive components. Upgrade to a clutch kit or premium clutch and you’ll boost your Ridge’s speed and acceleration. Some clutches are nuanced to the point that they are suited for specific terrains.

You can also install a heavy-duty drive belt for an upgrade, boosting power and performance. There’s also the option of adding an ECU tuner to heighten speed and rev limiters.

If you are especially passionate about speed, you’ll consider the merits of a big bore kit to bolster torque and horsepower all the more.

The kits contain the following:

· Gaskets

· Clips

· Pins

· Rings

Big bore kits also feature more expansive cylinders and pistons to boost engine power while simultaneously enhancing compression.

6. Govern Wisely

You can also adjust the governor, sometimes referred to as the speed limiter. This component limits the level of gas that moves to the engine while driving. Perform a gradual adjustment of the speed limiter and you’ll get a better sense of how the vehicle moves with higher RPMs.

7. Air Filter

Mind the air filter. Replacing or cleaning the air filter facilitates the movement of air. The cleaner the filter, the greater the horsepower that will be generated.

8. Better Fuel

There’s also the option of upgrading fuel for a higher octane. The greater the octane, the better the engine will perform.

9. A New Gear Ratio

You can also change the gear ratio. This ratio is the number of times the vehicle’s front sprocket rotates per rear sprocket revolution. Alter the gear ratio and you’ll increase both top speed and acceleration.

When in doubt, try a combination of strategies. Reducing weight and adding a high-performance exhaust system in combination will help your Ridge hit top speed faster than would otherwise be possible.

Is Top Speed the Most Important Factor?

Speed is only one consideration. The Ridge is fast yet it also has other merits. As is often the case, it is the small stuff that makes a meaningful difference. As an example, ride quality matters. The Ridge has a rubber belt CVT that is barely audible and seamless in functionality.

Some are partial to vehicle feel. If you are in the market for a top-heavy off-roader, the Ridge is for you. The vehicle’s sport bucket seats make the top-heavy feel that much more prominent.

Others are partial to superior suspensions. Though the Ridge XR suspension has been criticized for its soft feel, no two drivers are guaranteed to have the same opinion.

If buttons, knobs and nozzles are important to you, you’ll love the Ridge. The vehicle features HVAC controls with an intuitive user experience design. Each of the controls is easily accessible and also easily visible with a quick darting glance.

Step it on up to the Limited trim and you’ll be treated to much more than speed. This trim features Garmin Tread infotainment along with a navigation system.

Tips & Conclusion

In the end, fun is the only thing that matters. We ride for the thrill. If you are considering the Kawasaki Ridge, you can buy in confidence knowing this off-roader surpasses expectations both in terms of play and work.

Representing the optimal blend of speed, power, and control, the Kawasaki Ridge delivers without sacrificing rider comfort or ergonomics.

Simply put, the Ridge is a toy for grownups like you.

Unleash your inner child with the addition of the new Kawasaki Ridge and you’ll agree it is worth every penny.

 

FAQs

 

Q1: Is speed the Kawasaki Ridge’s primary selling point?

A1: No. The Ridge provides more than speed and power. Spin your wheels through woods, desert or other off-road site with the Ridge and you’ll find it is responsive to even the slightest touch of the steering wheel, gas, and breaks. The Ridge even has rear and front cameras for enhanced visibility.

Q2: Is the Ridge meant for work or play?

A2: Both. You can use the Ridge for hauling and also have a blast joyriding. The superior powertrain combined with a powerful engine makes trail duty surprisingly easy.

Q3: Is only one trim available?

A3: No. The Ridge Ranch Edition is economical yet lacks HVAC and an enclosed cab. Step up the trim and you’ll enjoy HVAC for a higher price. The Ridge Limited is more costly yet its four-cylinder engine is rip-roaring and ready to go.

Q4: Are there different driving modes?

A4: Yes. Sport, Normal, and Work modes are available, each of which performs uniquely. Work mode is ideal for hauling hefty loads. Sport mode is more responsive to driver commands. 

 

Image source：Kawasaki