ATV/UV Test Ride
Introduction
Like a Sunday afternoon at the races the engines started in unison and the fifth annual Ontario Out Of Doors ATV and UV Test Ride Weekend began. Of course, this was after a quick introduction and safety pep talk by Clinton Smout, Program Manager for Horseshoe Resort Riding Adventures.
This season’s lucky five winners and guests varied in experience from seasoned riders to green novices who had rarely, if ever, driven an off road vehicle. Training these new riders proved effortless for Clinton, our chief instructor, accompanied by his impressively experienced staff. Within half an hour everyone seemed to be riding at the same level as all the riders climbed steep hills, navigated bumps and attempted jumps.
After hours, our ten test riders were treated to magnificent rooms, soft beds and exquisite meals at Horseshoe Resort in Barrie, Ontario. The resort staff was helpful and friendly and the hot tubs found in each room were a welcome sight after a long day on the trails.
The weekend’s weather began dry and windy. The dust was flying, the engines revving and the adrenaline was pumping. Despite the dust, there were big open smiles and resulting dirty teeth. When the rain began the smiles just got bigger. The weather was going to allow our riders to test these machines in a variety of conditi.
Test them they did! If you are considering the purchase of your first ATV/UV or thinking of upgrading to another model, you will find the following reviews by our winners to be invaluable. Come along as they test ride the 2008 machines supplied by Bobcat, Can-Am, Honda, Polaris, Suzuki and Yamaha.
For the opportunity to become one of next years winners of an all expense paid weekend away, with guest, to ride a variety of new ATV and UV machines be sure to navigate your way to www.FishOntario.com and enter the online draw.
ATV Summaries
Polaris Sportsman Touring 800
This two-up ATV offers both raw power and handsome good looks; a result of the painted finishes which are also 900% tougher than standard plastics. Thanks to the plush passenger seat, ergonomic grips, rolled IRS, adjustable footrests and extended wheelbase this machine is capable of delivering the most comfortable trip two people could share on one ATV. The Touring model is packed with the same great features that you have come to expect on the Polaris Sportsman models with the addition of a Turf mode which allows for single wheel drive, minimizing damage to sensitive terrain. Test scores demonstrate this machine to be a crowd favourite amongst the OOD riders. Rider Steve Hughes comments, “Every one wanted to test this machine over and over and for good reason. When something looks that good and performs as well, it’s a joy to ride.” Mark Zebedee agrees, “This was my absolute favourite bike we tested. Hopefully my next!” Stephanie Trombley commented that that ride was a little too stiff for her liking but she can rest peacefully knowing that the suspension is fully adjustable to meet the needs of each rider.
Polaris Sportsman 500
Versatility and ease of use have been combined to produce this ATV. Whether you are a hunter, angler, farmer or casual trail rider this machine will fit the bill. A single brake lever that senses the brakes all around the machine will avoid new rider confusion when having to apply the brakes quickly. Automatic four-wheel drive is another convenient feature for ease of use. The machine automatically engages all wheels when it senses the terrain warrants it and reverts to two-wheel drive for ease of handling when not needed. Electronic fuel injection and a convenient sealed front storage rack remain unchanged this year. A new addition for 2008 is an Active Descent Control system. This feature works with the built in engine brake to give the rider optimum control when going down steep inclines. “This bike fit me well. I felt comfortable taking it out on the jumps. The power and handling was great,” says Nicole Bruneau. Nicole’s husband Kevin agrees, “This ATV is smaller and easier to handle than the 800cc Sportsman but it still has plenty of power for all of my outdoor needs. This one I would buy.” Craig DePauw opted for the larger machine; “I think the 500cc Sportsman feels a little heavy and is not enough power for me.”
Can-Am Outlander Max H.O EFI XT
Can-Am claims to have one of the strongest 500cc engines on the ATV market today. Their Outlander Max 2-up with 500cc twin-cylinder engine did not disappoint at this year’s ATV Test Ride. In fact, many riders claimed that this may be, not one of, but the, strongest machine in its class. The passenger seat is comfortable and slightly elevated to give the passenger a clear view of the trail ahead. Ergonomic handgrips and raised floorboards add to the passenger’s comfort and safety. Can-Am’s innovative Trailing Torsional independent rear suspension eliminates scrub and camber changes by eliminating the rear arc pattern of most independent rear suspensions. This results in a smoother ride and better handling even in the roughest of terrain. The bike also boasts a security system, inboard brakes to protect the pads from debris, continuous construction steel frame and a dash display that the test riders raved about. “There were certain features that I loved about this bike including the small grips, stability, it was easy to read the speedometer and the colour made it look real sporty,” writes Aaron Robbins. Jason Bastedo echoes these comments, “For a 2-up machine it handles very well. I would buy one of these ATV’s. Well done.”
Suzuki Kingquad 400
ATV market surveys have shown the mid-size 400cc ATVs to be one of the largest selling segments despite the advertising push for bigger and more powerful bikes. Replacing the award-winning Eiger is the all-new 2008 Kingquad 400. This was the smallest of the ATV’s tested this year but this mid-size machine combines enough comfort and practical features into a sporty looking bike to receive big nods from most of the riders. Despite its small size (4 inches shorter than the Eiger) the dependable air/oil cooled, single cylinder, 4-valve, 4-stroke engine has been tuned for high torque output and quick acceleration and Suzuki has increased its ground clearance by half an inch to 9.8 inches. Its advanced engine brake system minimizes freewheeling and unnecessary wear on brake pads on the large front disc brakes and water resistant rear drum brake. “The Suzuki could handle all of the challenges of the test drive and went wherever the larger machines went,” states test driver Kevin Bruneau. Mark Zebedee was impressed with this bike, “the Kingquad has user friendly controls and shifter including high and low gear. The 2 inch receiver for the trailer hitch provides the adaptability of truck to ATV exchanges, which is great. It also handled really well in the tight turn obstacle course.”
Honda Fourtrax Foreman 500 ES
If you want an ATV that works hard and will put a smile on your face when it is time to have fun on the trail, look no further than the Foreman. This machine has as much low-end torque as it has top-end performance. To keep the weight down, centre of gravity low and to reduce the number of moving parts, Honda has positioned the engine longitudinally in the chassis. The crankshaft points to the front and rear axles, eliminating the need for horsepower-robbing bevel gears. Last year, the Foreman 4x4 ES introduced its revolutionary Electric Power Steering. There is no doubt that this ATV is versatile enough to handle just about any task the rider or the trail can throw its way but aboard the Foreman, with its power steering, it feels a lot less like work. The Foreman’s electric-shifting (ES) five-speed transmission with automatic clutch was the only contested feature amongst the test riders. Steve Hughes shares, “this is a bike I have been riding for a while. It has impressive power and reliability, it is quiet and easy to ride with the ES.” Jason Bastedo counters, “this ATV has enough power for trail riding and handles very well but I do not like the ES system.”
Honda Rubicon Trail Edition
Dependability, convenience and functionality. That’s Honda. Extensive testing across Canada resulted in unique suspension calibration and other improvements that allow the Rubicon to ride smoothly in all sorts of conditions without compromising stability or control. A dash-mounted knob switches from one of three electronic shifting programs: D1 for maximum performance, D2 for very low traction situations, and ESP, Honda's exclusive Electric Shift Program. ESP allows the rider to "shift" the Hondamatic with the touch of a thumb using two push buttons mounted on the left handlebar. The digital instrumentation is compact but features a large readout for transmission modes, gear selector position and various other standard gauges. The Rubicon is the only ATV tested that offers a standard built in GPS. Honda’s GPScape is contained within the standard dash assembly and features storage for up to 100 waypoints. The unit clearly displays travel direction and will point you the way home. “This is my favourite ATV amongst all the test vehicles. It is the easiest to drive which is important to a novice driver,” declares Amy Verboom. Aaron Robbins agrees, “ The Rubicon is lightweight and easy to maneuver. I would recommend this bike to people looking for an all round machine.”
Yamaha Grizzly 700
A true big bore ATV that is agile, comfortable and light. Yamaha has spent more than a decade building and perfecting their Grizzly line of ATVs and this one did not disappoint. The Grizzly 700 FI concept focuses on lightweight handling and lightening response. From the compact EFI engine to the Yamaha EPS (Electronic Power Steering) system, every fiber of this new bear has been created to outperform all others with less effort and more control than ever thought possible. Yamaha has succeeded in creating the lightest in-class chassis giving the Grizzly 700 the best power-to-weight ratio out there. Reduced steering effort, a large comfortable seat and long travel suspension combine to create a luxurious ride over the toughest of terrain. “The Grizzly is very comfortable on the trails with its long suspension and plenty of power. It has a metal skid plate rather than the all too common plastic plate,” raves Kevin Bruneau. Jason Bastedo adds, “ It’s like driving a Cadillac through the bush.” Mark Zebedee had only one complaint, “ This ATV has lots of low end torque, excellent suspension, fantastic power steering and great sealed storage but I’m not crazy about the location of the speedometer.”
UV Summaries
Yamaha Rhino 700 FI
Test rider, Steve Hughes, sums up the Rhino well, “I am so impressed with the power of this machine and it is very comfortable. There is enough storage for equipment and tools in the back, under the seat, in the glove box and between the riders to make this buggy the envy of any hunter or ice fisherman.” The Rhino has been completely updated for 2008 with a new engine, fuel injection, 4-wheel disc brakes and much more. Tough, blow-molded doors keep the elements on the trail where they belong. These doors combined with the safety belt and body-hugging seats give the rider a real sense of security regardless of terrain. A big concern amongst serious riders is the possibility of ripping a CV boot while miles from home. Yamaha has addressed this concern with a newly designed boot that is stronger, resists tearing and damage from impact and offers better durability against fatigue, wear, and weather. A single automotive-style brake pedal activates the dual front and rear disc brakes. All four discs are tucked out of the way to prevent damage from rocks or stumps. There is also a mechanical, console mounted, parking brake with an automotive style lever which features a dash mounted warning light to avoid operating the unit with the parking brake engaged. Also conveniently located on the dash is a push-button "On-Command"" system that will allow you to switch between 2WD, limited-slip 4WD and fully locked differential 4WD - all with the simple push of a button. Many of the riders, like Mark Zebedee, suggested a larger steering wheel, “I love the camo, the suspension and the handling on rough terrain but I did find the steering wheel to be a little too small.” Many riders also hoped for the inclusion of Yamaha’s power steering in next years Rhino.
Bobcat 2200
These machines are big and they are powerful. Both the gasoline and the diesel Bobcats tested offer industrial strength power; rugged good looks and both are loaded with great features. These utility vehicles from Bobcat are made with a durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum chassis for longer performance life. The all-aluminum, tubular frame also makes the Bobcat 2200 lightweight yet strong. These machines come standard with a front brush guard and electric bed lift for the cargo box. “The Bobcats have user friendly controls and lots of low end torque and mid range power. They have a great roomy cab and spacious headroom. The power dump box is a great feature and would make these machines a great addition to any worksite, hunt camp or farm,” says rider Mark Zebedee. A dash mounted headlight switch conveniently allows the user to turn the lights on and off regardless of key position. Just be sure to switch it off when you are done or risk draining the batteries. Tilt steering was also a welcome feature as was the adjustable seat. Although the gasoline engine allowed for a little more speed most of the riders preferred the diesel for its added torque. Bobcat has utilized an IntelliTrak automatic differential lock so there is no need to manually shift into four-wheel drive. This drive system provides steady power to all four wheels and prevents them from slipping. It automatically locks the differential for the terrain at hand providing outstanding traction and easy shifting. With the IntelliTrak, 6.4 inches of ground clearance, double A-arm front suspension and swing-arm rear design the Bobcat 2200s are also impressive in off-road situations. Craig DePauw expresses the only common frustration, “I like the Bobcat overall but the gas pedal was hard to keep your foot on and it felt like you had to keep your foot suspended to drive.”
Polaris Ranger
It is getting dark and you have to get yourself and two hunting buddies, with gear, and a moose out of the bush and back to camp in as few trips as possible; the Ranger is the machine for this task. The Ranger has a cargo box capacity of 1000lb./454kg, a towing capacity of 1500lb/681kg and seating for three with safety belts for each rider. There is additional storage under the seat for gear and the Polaris exclusive Lock & Ride cargo system allows you to add a gas can and a chainsaw or switch out to a single or dual gun scabbard or cargo box. Lock & Ride accessories give you instant on and off versatility, with no tools needed and no parts to lose. The Ranger also has an on demand all wheel drive system that automatically senses when the rear wheels slip to engage both front wheels for true four wheel drive. You will also appreciate the unlocking rear differential to minimize damage on grass or sensitive terrain. The Ranger is available in the XP models (700cc) but the 500cc, with electronic fuel injection, has plenty of power for this job, great handling and a surprisingly smooth ride thanks to the independent rear suspension. Test rider Aaron Robins likes the Ranger and believes it is great for everyday use, “this machine will pull enough weight for hunters and farmers and it is easy enough to use for enthusiasts. Lots of power and a good sized steering wheel.” After hearing repeated requests from the test riders for larger steering wheels rider Steve Hughes was also happy with the oversized steering wheel found on the Ranger, “ the feature that stood out to me right away was the large steering wheel. It was a dramatic difference in the ease of steering.”
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Bass Wishes,
Chris Hockley
Copyright © 2007 Chris Hockley
It is illegal to reproduce or distribute this work in any manner or medium without written permission of the author, Chris Hockley c/o Blitzcreek Pro Fishing 47 Lorne St., Sunderland, Ontario, chris@blitzcreek.com