The John Deere Gator Gets a High Performance Upgrade

John Deere is known for creating workhorse machinery that suits commercial and hobby farmers, but they are spreading their wings into the off-road enthusiast market an have introduced a high-performance version of their recreational utility vehicle – the Gator RSX850i. It’s been engineered to be faster, more powerful and more agile than any Gator ever built.
John Deere has been producing the workhorse Gators since 1992 but for the next generation of Gators, John Deere has collaborated with design and engineering consultants for Formula One and NASCAR.
Here are the specs on the new Gators from John Deere.

There are three RSX models – the Gator RSX850i Sport, the RSX850i Trail and the Base RSX. The Sport model was designed for harsh desert and rocky, sandy terrains and includes sport seats, alloy wheels with Maxxis tires, PreRunner bumper, cargo box rails, sport steering wheel and FOX® 2.0 Performance Series shocks.
The Trail Model was developed for hunting, fishing and back country trails. It features sport seats, alloy wheels with Maxxis tires, winch, front brushguard, 2 inches front receiver hitch with recovery loops, rear bumper and cargo box rails. The Base RSX can be modified to need and taste with factory installed options. And all three can be well appointed with over 70 available aftermarket attachments.
All models come equipped with an 839 cc, V-twin, liquid cooled, four-cycle, gasoline motorcycle engine that produces 62 hp and a top speed of 53 mph. The engine also delivers 0-30 mph acceleration in three seconds. Advanced electronic controls and a fuel-injection system supply excellent starting, idling, and throttle response during operation. In addition, the closed-loop system offers dependable performance at high altitude and hassle-free cold weather starting (tested to -20 degrees F). The RSX also incorporates a large 7.4 gallon fuel tank.

The RSX utilizes a unique four-wheel independent suspension for an unparalleled ride over challenging terrain and precision handling through corners. A dual, wide arch A-arm design delivers maximum front-wheel control, precise steering and 10.3 inches of ground clearance. The exclusive Multi-Link semi trailing arm independent rear suspension features 9 inches of wheel travel and moves wheels rearward in compression, lowering the impact of terrain and improving ride. Exclusive aluminum body monotube FOX shocks are standard on the Base and Trail models. While FOX 2.0 Performance Series shocks with full spring and compression adjustability come standard on the RSX Sport, and are available for aftermarket upgrade on the other models.
The RSX850i was designed with occupant comfort and safety in mind as well. Easy entry and exit from the vehicle is made possible with an industry first automotive-style door for the operator and passenger. Side-by-side 35.5 inch high- performance sport seats combine proven, off-road riding experience and top automotive styling to enhance driver confidence and comfort. Deluxe high-back bucket seats on the base model are positioned to provide ample legroom, with large headrests for support during aggressive driving, and all seats tilt forward for ease of service and to keep dry during outdoor storage. In addition, the RSX features an ISO certified Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS) with three-point seat belts and multiple passenger-side grab handles.
Best-in-class sealed storage includes 1.82 cubic feet of space in the glove box and under the hood, with additional storage in the center console and cup holders. An easy-to-read digital instrument panel displays a system diagnostic light, engine oil pressure light, park break light, seat belt indicator light, fuel level, and a 4WD indicator, among other vehicle gauges.
A high-density, 8.9 cubic feet, polyethylene composite cargo box carries on the Gator tradition of quality hauling capability and utility. The large, one-piece design has rounded inside corners to ensure material removal when tilted and has a 400 pound payload capacity. The tailgate can be opened or removed for easier cleanout and to carry longer items. Additionally, it features truck-like performance and can be operated with one hand. The dumping mechanism is as simple as lifting a lever. Integrated tie-down points offer increased versatility and are incorporated in all four corners, on multiple points along the side walls and via tie-down bars on either side of the cargo box.
The new Gator RSX850i is available in Realtree Hardwoods HD Camo, olive and black or traditional John Deere green and yellow. In addition to the new RSX a full line of Gator Traditional and Crossover Utility Vehicles are available to support the needs of every kind of customer type.
We’re looking forward to testing one of these in person and will report back with our thrilling review soon.