Practical Mule choice

[1st zephyr]

Trying to stay realistic on this next Mule buy. My trails are built for small stuff and I like how the SX fits my trailer. That said, I'm not keen on muscling it without steering assist. Is the MX worth extra money and trail widening?

 

[GingeredMule]

The Mule SX is definitely appealing for its compact size and trailer fit.
However, if power steering is a must-have for your trails, the MX models typically come standard with Electric Power Steering, which makes a huge difference in maneuverability and reducing fatigue, especially on tight trails or when loaded.
I think you can either get aftermarket EPS kits for some SX models, but that's an added cost and installation, and might not feel as integrated as a factory system.
But honestly, if trail-widening isn't a deal-breaker and you value the steering assist, the MX is likely worth the extra money!

 

[1st zephyr]

Thanks for the good insights. The EPS on the MX is tempting, though I'd need to measure again to see how much trail widening we're actually talking. I'm trying to avoid retrofitting unless I can line up the install before September. Do you find the MX steering holds up in muddy ruts or slow technical climbs?

 

[DocPepper8]

The Mule SX is definitely appealing for its compact size and trailer fit.
However, if power steering is a must-have for your trails, the MX models typically come standard with Electric Power Steering, which makes a huge difference in maneuverability and reducing fatigue, especially on tight trails or when loaded.
I think you can either get aftermarket EPS kits for some SX models, but that's an added cost and installation, and might not feel as integrated as a factory system.
But honestly, if trail-widening isn't a deal-breaker and you value the steering assist, the MX is likely worth the extra money!

This is really helpful as I'm trying to decide between the SX and MX! As a newbie, I'm wondering how noticeable is the difference in steering effort without EPS on rough terrain? Also, does the MX's larger size limit where you can take it compared to the SX?

 

[greatdennis]

This is really helpful as I'm trying to decide between the SX and MX! As a newbie, I'm wondering how noticeable is the difference in steering effort without EPS on rough terrain? Also, does the MX's larger size limit where you can take it compared to the SX?

The SX can be tough to steer on rough trails since it doesnt have power steering, while the MX is much easier to handle thanks to EPS. The MX is a bit wider, so it might be tricky on very narrow trails, but if you want comfort and easier steering, its worth it.