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July Aug 2003
Tech Update
All Terrain Vehicles
Please fill
in our Reader Request Form located at the bottom for more information
on these products.
Bombardier
Bombardier MAX ATVs are versatile machines capable of carrying a passenger
or handling that extra load safely. From the Traxter MAX—named “2003
Innovative
Concept ATV of the Year” by ATV Connection.com Magazine—to the
new Quest® MAX 650/Quest MAX 650 XT and the Outlander® MAX 400
HO/Outlander 400 HO XT, these extended wheel base four-wheel drives (4WD)
navigate rough terrain with stability, control and comfort, the company
says. The Outlander MAX, close cousin to the Bombardier Outlander 400 ATV,
was recently awarded “2003 ATV of the Year” by ATV Magazine and ATV Guide.
It offers a convertible passenger seat/rack system that allows for quick
conversion from a two-rider 4WD to a one-up ATV with extra cargo space,
capacity. The Quest MAX 650 and Traxter MAX share Bombardier’s full-time
4WD Visco-lok Optimized Traction system, rear-mounted radiator, large up
front storage compartment and a “park” position. The versatile Outlander
MAX 400 HO 4WD is a two-seater that can also be converted into a one
seater with extra cargo space. Bombardier’s SST ™ (Surrounding Spar
Technology) one-piece perimeter steel frame benefits two-up riding by
providing greater strength, structural integrity, better engine protection
and superior power to weight ratio, the company says.
www.recreation.bombardier.com Reader Service Card #6050
Arctic Cat
Arctic Cat has expanded its award winning MultiRack Platform (MRP) system
by engineering unique accessory attachments for its ATVs that are
purpose-built for each job. The MRP system, now available on 11 models, is
engineered with
innovative open-channels on both the front and rear racks
of select Arctic Cat ATVs. The open channels were specifically designed to
accept numerous slide-on accessory racks or attachments into the ATVs base
rack, secured in place in just seconds with locking pins for rattle-free
operation. The end result is more space to place necessities required on
the job. With the MRP system, users can take on-and-off any attachment
desired without handling a single tool, the company says. For 2004, users
may select from over 40 unique MRP attachments that can be
mixed-and-matched to suit individual needs. By identifying various ways
that individuals use their ATVs, Arctic Cat went one step further with
their MRP packages aimed at specific applications. Several packages
comprised of multiple attachments are also available in 2004 and include
construction, ranching and lawn care. Owners may also mix and match the
nine MRP packages aimed at specific applications. The racking system was
the recipient of the “2003 Product Innovation Award” from ATV Magazine.
www.arcticcatinc.com
Reader Service Card #6051
Dinli
Dinli produces youth adventure machines that have the look and performance
that the youth market wants, while having all of the safety features that
parents look for in an ATV. The Dino 50cc Mini ATV is the only Dinli with
a remote control
start/kill safety device with a 75- to 100-metre range.
It also has a trailer hitch and whip flag. The Beast 90cc ATV has more
speed and power and features a rear rack, speedometer/odometer, hydraulic
brakes and patented spring-loaded chain tensioner. Accessories include
dual halogen headlights. The Helix 90cc ATV features a low/high/reverse
four-speed automatic transmission, turn signals, brake lights, horn, as
well as the Beast 90 features. Dual halogen headlights may be added. A
simpler, sportier Diamond Back 50/90cc ATV has the same speed and power as
the Beast, but without the rear rack, speedometer/odometer and trailer
hitch. One of the most popular units, JP-50, a 50cc ATV, has the features
of the Dino and the looks of the Helix, with front and rear brakes and
brake lights. Standard features on all models include an electric start
with a kick-start backup; automatic transmission; oil injection; a
patented anti-vibration system and rear disk brakes. Dinli will soon
introduce a line of larger four-stroke ATVs, including the 150cc Talon.
www.dinliusa.com Reader
Service Card #6052
Honda
Honda’s top of the line TRX650FA represents the company’s SUV of ATVs. The
2004 FourTrax Rincon is a comfortable, full-size ATV, featuring a powerful
liquid-cooled 650cc engine, an all-new, automobile-style, three-speed
automatic
transmission, selectable 2WD/4WD, a torque-sensing front
differential and fully independent front and rear suspension. The TRX500FA
Rubicon features a 499cc engine, mounted sideways in the frame for maximum
efficiency, while its revolutionary Hondamatic hydraulic transmission
offers the same gas-and-go ease of use as a belt drive transmission, but
is more durable and versatile. The sporty and comfortable TRX450FE, with
electric shift, features an enhanced switchable 2WD/4WD system, offering a
choice between 2WD for trail riding or light chores and 4WD for optimum
traction in adverse conditions. The limited-slip front differential makes
the TRX450’s steering lighter in muddy conditions. The TRX400FA, the
original Foreman, was created from the ground up to carry or tow big
payloads. This machine introduced sideways engine technology to the ATV
world, offering superior efficiency and improved fuel economy, the company
says. The extremely low centre-of-gravity makes the TRX400FW a natural for
climbing or descending hills. Three models offer integrated GPS
capability. The TRX350FE is the best selling ATV in Canada, Honda says.
The f4WD versions feature a limited-slip front differential that reduces
torque steer, while electric shift versions offer the ease and simplicity
of push button shifting. The TRX350 is available in 2WD or 4WD, electric
shift or manual models. The TRX350FE features full-time 4WD and electric
shifting. The TRX250TE is a mid-size ATV powered by a smaller version of
the sideways-mounted, OHV engine found in the bigger machines. Honda has
added ESP electric shifting, making the TRX250 easy to operate.
www.honda.ca Reader Service Card
#6053
Kasea
Kasea’s all-new Skyhawk 250 is the largest of the company’s ATVs and the
world’s first two-cylinder, four-stroke sports ATV, the company says.
Features include
rear disc brakes, standard electric start and a
five-speed transmission. The Taiwanese manufacturer has several smaller
models of ATV, including the Skyhawk 170 with a 169cc, four-stroke motor
with electric start and five-speed transmission with manual clutch. It
features dual A-arm front suspension with long travel shocks and grease
fittings for easy maintenance. The rear suspension is controlled by a
massive swing arm for rigidity and a gas oil shock that gives a plush
ride, the company says. The 170 uses hydraulic rear disc brakes and
oversize drums in the front. It has bright, high and low beam dual
headlights, a quick release seat for easy air cleaner and battery access
and a bottom chain guard and disc guard to protect it from rocks and
debris. Aimed at youth, the Kasea Skyhawk 90 has an 86cc, two-stroke
engine with an automatic CVT transmission and electric start with
kick-start backup. It features adjustable Showa shocks front and rear. The
front single A-arm type suspension has a double clevis-style knuckle
holder for strength and durability. The Kasea Skyhawk 50 is the smallest
ATV in the line, with a 49cc, two-stroke engine with an automatic CVT
transmission. www.kasea.com Reader
Service Card #6054
Kawasaki
Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc has replaced the KVF650 4WD sport utility ATV
with the new KVF700 4WD ATV. The KVF700 boasts more engine displacement
and more torque than its predecessor, but retains the KVF650 selectable
four-wheel drive with variable locking differential control, the Kawasaki
Automatic Power-Drive System (KAPS), dual front disc brakes and the
Kawasaki-exclusive
sealed rear braking system. The new V-twin four-stroke
engine, however, borrows many of its parts from the recently introduced
KFX700 V Force sport ATV. In addition to the V Force-influenced power
plant, the KVF700 4WD features redesigned cargo racks, front bumper and
grille. The liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 90-degree V-twin engine in the
KVF700 displaces 697cc—64 more than the KVF650. The engine cases,
cylinders, cylinder heads, dual Keihin CVKR-D32 carburetors, and bore and
stroke are the same as the KFX700 V Force. Power from the V-twin engine is
transferred through KAPS, Kawasaki’s continuously variable transmission,
to dependable shaft drive. Plus, with the flip of a switch, the KVF700 4x4
rider can select 2WD or 4WD operation. The KVF700 4x4 also features
Kawasaki’s exclusive Variable Front Differential Control. When operating
in 4WD, the rider can pull a small lever on the left handlebar to vary the
amount of differential slip. This helps the rider control the power
delivered to each front wheel, so the wheel with traction will always
receive some torque, a decided advantage when encountering deep mud or
slippery uphill trails. www.kawasaki.ca
Reader Service Card #6055
Polaris Industries
Polaris is advancing the ATV industry with the introduction of its new
All-Terrain Pickup (ATP). The Polaris ATP combines the power and styling
of Polaris’ premium ATVs with the functionality of a pickup truck, making
it ideal for hauling and carrying, the company says. It is especially well
suited for hunters, farmers, ranchers, campers, large estate owners and
outdoor recreation enthusiasts. The Polaris ATPs cargo-friendly design
offers a wide variety of storage options to fit
any use. It has twice the
storage capacity of most ATVs—up to 530 lbs—and features a rear cargo box
that dumps like a dump truck, a storage box up front and side storage
compartments. Polaris’ innovative VersaTrac TM drive system makes the
vehicle ideal for rough terrain, but also allows for travel over grass
lawns and other soft terrain without sustaining damage, the company says.
At the flip of a switch, the Polaris ATP converts to 4WD. With a turning
radius that is 20 per cent tighter than most ATVs, the Polaris ATP
features Titan tires and a longer wheelbase. Available in two models, the
330 4WD, with a 329cc four-stroke engine, and the 500 HO (high output), a
499cc four-stroke, they include a pickup-style rear receiver hitch for
easy towing. PurePolaris accessories offer a range of equipment from
trailers and plows to rakes and aerators. Polaris entered the ATV market
in 1985 with the first automatic transmission ATV. Polaris designs,
engineers, manufactures and markets snowmobiles, ATVs, personal
watercraft, Victory motorcycles and the Polaris Ranger for recreational
and utility use. The Polaris Professional Series, a line of heavy duty
Workmobiles targeted at lawn and landscape companies and construction
operations, marks Polaris’ expansion into the commercial equipment
marketplace.
www.polarisindustries.com Reader Service Card #6056
Yamaha
The 2004 Grizzly 660 is the biggest in Yamaha’s bear series of ATVs. With
advanced technology and all terrain performance, Grizzly has a liquid
cooled, five-valve, 660cc power plant, and Ultramatic V-belt transmission,
three-way in/out 4WD with Diff-Lock and fully independent four wheel
suspension. The powerful and
reliable Big Bear Professional features a
386cc, SOHC four-stroke power plant, delivering class leading low- and
mid-range power. With the push of a button, on-command in/out 4WD switches
from 2WD to 4WD. Hi-low range, coupled with a solid five-speed,
semi-automatic transmission with reverse gear, tackle deep mud and tough
chores alike. A mid-sized Grizzly-like performer, the Kodiak automatic 450
automatic 4WD is engineered to conquer the most unpredictable conditions,
the company says. It has a liquid cooled, four-stroke single engine with
ample horsepower and torque, maximized ground clearance and a lower seat
height. The 2004 BearTracker offers versatility and value, with a
full-length wheelbase and class leading cargo capacity. The heart of the
BearTracker is its smooth, 230cc, four-stroke motor that puts out
excellent low-and mid-range power for hauling big loads or trail riding.
www.yamaha-motor.ca Reader
Service Card #6057
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