What is a mini truck?
"Minitrucks" are just that. Small, two
seat utility trucks that are used throughout Japan in all sorts of
applications. From muddy farming workhorses to postal delivery trucks,
mobile fruit stands to haul construction equipment such as backhoes.
Anyone that has visited Japan would surely have noticed the large volume
of these convenient small vehicles being used in all facets of everyday
life. Also known as the "K Truck" or in Japanese "Keitora", they are
powered by liquid cooled two to four cylinder 550cc or 660cc engines.
Hoosier Mini Truck & ATV primarily import's the four-wheel drive
versions for off-road and farming applications. This is because
Minitrucks do not currently meet U.S. safety standards for on-road
registration due to their size.
Why Japanese Mini Trucks?
Japanese mini trucks are the most
affordable 4WD light utility vehicles on the market. The Japanese mini
truck is the ideal choice for people looking for total flexibility,
day-to-day reliability, low running costs and real value for the money.
Featuring a 1400 lbs. load capacity, large flat deck with drop down
sides, the Japanese mini truck is ideal for Farm or horticultural
business' as well as Construction sites, Light Manufacturing, Hunting,
Corporate & Educational campuses, Hotels, Resorts, Golf courses, Parks
and Zoos. You'll be surprised at the performance and all-round
versatility of the Japanese 4WD mini truck.
Why are Japanese mini trucks
inexpensive?
They are subject to the same strict (and
expensive) inspection regulations as all other road-going vehicles in
Japan. This means they must be well maintained. This however, as with
all other new vehicles sold in Japan causes a high depreciation rate
over the years and eventually Japanese owners will trade a perfectly
good vehicle in for a new one, often with very low mileage. That's what
makes them ideal for overseas buyers.
Are the Minis currently licensable?
Minis are licensable in 8 states, NOT
including Indiana. Most small towns allow their passage on county roads
if a “Slow Moving Vehicle” sign is posted. We are working with the
State Senate in moving Indiana towards legalization.
Some Differences
Japanese "K" or "Kei" class trucks are
all similar, but there are some differences between manufactures and
year of manufacture.
- Suzuki/Mitsubishi have greater ground
clearance.
- Daihatsu/Honda have a softer ride.
- Subaru's have rear-mounted engine.
- In mid 1990 mini trucks went from a
550cc motor's to the 660cc motor, thus the 660 cc are 1990 and newer and
the 550cc 1990 and older.
Typical uses
Minitrucks are designed to be workhorses
for hauling heavy loads in extreme and adverse environments. Japan is a
mountainous country and the Minitruck is primarily operated on the
twisty, hilly roads (many of which are dirt) and highways of Japan.
Therefore Minitrucks come equipped with high-quality and
high-performance engines, transmissions, brakes and cooling systems to
meet these requirements. Minitrucks are designed for comfort and ease of
operation. These trucks must be able to do everything from hauling a
load of rocks out of a riverbed to transporting an express delivery down
a rural road. They often even substitute as the "family car"! Many of
our newer trucks also have air conditioning
Who makes them?
Japanese "Kei Class" or "K Class"
subcompact trucks are manufactured by major Japanese auto makers such as
Honda, Suzuki, Subaru, Daihatsu (Toyota affiliate), Mitsubishi and
Mazda. Mazda trucks are actually manufactured by Suzuki and share most
common components with minor cosmetic changes. These trucks have been
engineered to provide years of heavy-duty service and are a common site
at practically any workplace in Japan
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