For over a decade now, John Deere has been on the cusp of the ORV industry. A legend in the agricultural and landscape industry and with their Gator utility vehicle sitting just outside the powersports realm, there was never any doubt whether or not they could do it. It was just a question of when they finally would. With the growing popularity of the side-by-side world encroaching on them they finally decided it was time to make their entrance. Introducing the John Deere RSX850i.
The 2013 John Deere Gator RSX850i Line Up. John Deere stock photo.
The RSX850i enters the power sports world showing it knows what it takes to be considered. It’s powered by a 839cc v-twin that produces 62 hp and 59.5 lb-ft of torque according to Deere. It tops out at 53 mph and reaches 30 mph in 3 seconds. It has fully locking four-wheel drive and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. It’s up for any task with 400 lbs of capacity in the dumping cargo box. The base model RSX850i carries an MSRP if $12,999 and is available in three color schemes including traditional John Deere green/yellow, olive/black and REALTREE HARDWOODS HD camo.
The Gator RSX850i Sport with FOX 2.0 suspension. John Deere stock photo.
For added excitement the Gator RSX850i can be picked up in Sport or Trail packages. The Sport model upgrades the steel wheels to alloy wheels and Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires. You’ll also get a pre-runner front bumper, a sport steering wheel, 35.5 inch sport seats and cargo box rails. To balance out the sport use you’ll get FOX 2.0 Perormance Series shocks on the corners. MSRP on the Sport model is $15,499. The Trail package also has the alloy wheel upgrade, sport seats and cargo box rails. You get an aggressive front brushguard with a Warn winch up front and a rear bumper but lose the FOX suspension. The FOX suspension is an available add-on for the base and Trail models. MSRP on the Trail package is $14,999. John Deere has a full line of accessories available for each model including a huge selection of HELLA lights, cab enclosures, storage, etc.
The WARN equipped Gator RSX850i Trail model. John Deere Stock photo.
Deere tags the RSX850i as “a whole new species of Gator” and it certainly is. And while it may not be revolutionary against the existing competition it doesn’t come in behind either. So next time you’re on the trail don’t be surprised to see a Deere. Get more information on the Gator RSX850i at http://www.deere.com.