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Is Bigger and Badder Always Better?

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Manufacturers in the off-road industry seem to be racing to build the biggest, wildest and most powerful side-x-side ever.

As engine sizes grow, so does pricing, which puts owning the newest high flying machines like the RZR XP1K, Maverick or Wildcat 1000 more and more out of reach for the average consumer.

The big question is when will these manufacturers slow down and focus on building smaller machines that are more affordable to the average consumer?

The truth is you can’t really make all the current suspension, engine or drive train technology cheaply because these are purpose-built machines developed take abused and their durability equates to a higher price tag.

Arctic Cat developed the Wild Cat to appeal to dune riders and rock crawlers. It is their flagship side-x-side with a big price tag, but could they develop a smaller version and make other potential enthusiasts happy? Could there be an all-new smaller output mill in the works for that chassis?

Earlier this year we saw a press release for a 50-inch wide Wildcat that will compete directly with Polaris’ 50-inch wide RZR, but haven’t heard much about it since. When it reaches the market, will it use the dated XTZ motor to keep the pricing down? Will that be enough to get the tech-minded tuners excited?

Only time will tell what direction the manufacturers go and what new piece of technology will be available in the coming months. Maybe it’s a good idea to just start saving right now.

Polaris Awarded German Military Contract

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Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII), the leading manufacturer of off-road vehicles, today announced the company was awarded a contract to provide MV850 ultra-light tactical vehicles to the German Army.

“Defense forces around the world are seeking Polaris Defense Military vehicles to take advantage of our ability to make modifications to our commercial off-the-shelf technology (COTS), insert customer requirements and quickly deliver an end product that meets their needs,” said Rich Haddad, general manager of Polaris Defense. “It is our goal to match the warfighter’s mission requirements with our best value product.”

The highly-mobile MV850 platform, which was built specifically for the U.S. military and allied forces, allows for the transport of military personnel and gear through extreme off-road terrain. It features a 600 lbs./272 kg capacity metal rack system, 11.75 gal/ 4.5 L fuel capacity, blackout lighting with IR light capability and an optional litter mount.

Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry with annual 2012 sales of $3.2 billion. Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER® and RZR side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles and small vehicles. Polaris is among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles and has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with the Victory and Indian motorcycle brands. Additionally, Polaris continues to invest in the global on-road small vehicle industry with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), Goupil Industrie SA, Aixam Mega S.A.S., and internally developed vehicles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Polaris and KLIM branded apparel and Polaris accessories and parts. Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol PII, and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.

Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicle accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime at www.polaris.com.

BRP ADDS TO CAN-AM SIDE-BY-SIDE LINEUP

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BRP has expanded its line of Can-Am side-by-side vehicles with the new 2014 Commander MAX 1000 and Maverick 1000R X mr.

The new models were unveiled at its dealer show in Orlando, Fla. Along with the two new vehicles, BRP also unveiled a new Can-Am Red colour for the Maverick two-seater and Maverick MAX packages, and Light Grey on certain Outlander 4×4 ATVs.

Commander MAX 1000 DPS / XT

The new Can-Am Commander MAX 1000 DPS has a 29.5-inch (75 mm) longer wheelbase (29.5 in. / 75 mm) and seating for four adults as compared to the two-seat Commander.

Outfitted with Dynamic Passenger Comfort, which includes dual handholds, stadium-style seating and industry-leading comfort for its rear occupants, the Commander MAX is also available in an XT package.

Both Commander MAX models use the proven 976cc Rotax V-Twin engine; Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering, Double A-arm front suspension and TTI rear suspension. The Commander MAX can tow up to 1,500 pounds (680 kg) and carry 600 pounds (463 kg) in the dual-level cargo box. The Commander MAX DPS and XT are offered in Yellow.

The XT package, which includes a WARN winch, front bumper, mud guards and more, is also offered in painted Pure Magnesium Metallic and NEXT G-1 Vista camouflage.

Maverick 1000R X mr

The 2014 Maverick 1000R X mr is a two-seat side-by-side with mud-specific components to help it dominate in muddy terrain.

Outfitted with a front and rear Air Control Suspension with FOX Air-Assist HPG Piggyback shocks and 30-inch Gorilla Axle Silverback tires on 14-inch cast-aluminum ITP wheels, the Maverick 1000R X mr offers both an aggressive appearance and real-world performance.

The vehicle includes strategically placed engine air intake and CVT inlets and outlets for superior performance in the challenging mud.

Tri-Mode DPS, Visco-Lok QE, Analog / digital gauge package, a 4,000-pound WARN winch, custom steering wheel and X-package graphics and trim are included.

New Colour Schemes

An all-new, painted Can-Am Red colour is an additional color offered for both the Can-Am Maverick MAX 1000R X rs DPS and the two-seat Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs DPS. A new Light Grey coloration is also available for all Outlander DPS and Outlander MAX DPS (500, 650, 800 and 1000) models.

For more information on the entire Can-Am off-road lineup of ATVs and side-by-side vehicles, please visit www.Can-AmOffroad.com.

PURE POLARIS UNDERBODY SKID PLATE

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Navigating rough terrain often entails a lot of rubbing from jagged rocks on the under side of your buggy, which could result in scrapes, dings or even serious damage to your vehicle.

While the stock plastic panels do a relatively good job the only sure-fire way to protect vital underbody components is with heavy-duty skid plates.

Pure Polaris offers the best fitting panels for RZR models. Supplied with all the necessary mounting hardware, eighth-inch thick aluminum panels protect the font two thirds while 5/16-inch panels cover the more critical rear portion.

Together, the Pure Polaris underbody skid plate system offers the best protection for traversing rough and rugged terrain.

For more information on Pure Polaris parts and accessories visit Polaris at www.polaris.com

Arctic Cat Appoints New VP of North American Sales

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Arctic Cat is happy to announce that Matt Malfitano is joining Arctic Cat as Vice President of North American Sales.

Matt will be responsible for leading Arctic Cat’s sales, national accounts and dealer development efforts in the United States and Canada.
Matt brings extensive experience leading dealer-based sales organizations, in both start-ups and in more mature market segments. His keen business acumen will make him a tremendous addition to the management team.

Most recently, Matt served as Director of Global Sales and Operations for Fisker Automotive, a luxury hybrid electric vehicle manufacturer. Prior to that, Matt served as Vice President of Sales Operations for Maserati/Alfa Romeo North America and as Senior Director of Global Sales and Marketing with Eclipse Aviation.

Earlier in his career, Matt worked for Ford Motor Company’s Volvo Division as Vice President of Sales for the Western Region. He also held progressively responsible positions within Volvo in sales, marketing, retail operations and after sales support.

Matt is an avid outdoor enthusiast. He graduated from Lynn University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He will relocate to the Minneapolis area from California in the coming months.

About Arctic Cat – Arctic Cat Inc., based in Minnesota, designs, engineers, manufactures and markets snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) / Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROVs) under the Arctic Cat brand name, as well as related parts, garments and accessories. Arctic Cat is among the most widely recognized and respected brands in the snowmobile and ATV/ROV industry. The company markets its products through a network of independent dealers located throughout the United States, Canada and Europe, and through distributors representing dealers in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other international markets. Arctic Cat trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol ACAT.

For more information, please visit www.arcticcat.com.

CAN-AM 4X4 ATV RACERS WIN AT 2013 UNADILLA GNCC

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Can-Am 4×4 ATV racers won five classes at round 10 of the 2013 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) series in New Berlin, New York.

Can-Am Renegade racer Michael Swift outdueled fellow U2 class competitor Rob Smith for the class victory and the top spot on the 4×4 podium at the Can-Am Unadilla event.

JB Off-Road / Can-Am racer Jarrod McClure earned a third-place podium finish in the XC1 ATV Pro class aboard his DS 450 ATV. Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs pilot Kyle Chaney also earned a victory this past weekend, winning the QR1 class at round seven of the UTV Rally Raid Northern Series in Tennessee.

“Winning all five morning 4×4 classes and having Jarrod McClure earn his first XC1 Pro class podium of the season was a great way to come out of the GNCC summer break,” said Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “Can-Am Maverick pilot Kyle Chaney continues to impress as he notched another impressive win in the UTV Rally Raid series.”

Round 10 of the AMSOIL GNCC series was held Saturday, Sept. 7, at Unadilla Motorsports. The Can-Am Unadilla event is an annual favorite and includes challenging hills, wooded sections and, of course, a portion of the popular Unadilla motocross track and its famous Skyshot tabletop jump.

After recording five top-five finishes and also three finishes outside the top 10, Can-Am Pro Jarrod McClure was determined to earn a podium on his JB Off-Road-backed DS 450 ATV. The Pennsylvania racer did just that, as he garnered his first XC1 Pro class podium with Can-Am. He was sixth after the first lap, but had moved into fourth at the midpoint of the race.

He then gained third place by lap four. McClure rode a smart race from there, to notch his first podium of 2013 and his first since finishing second at last year’s Ironman GNCC.

“I’ve been working to get on the box all year and I am so happy it finally all came together,” said McClure. “I worked really hard on the Can-Am all summer and it felt great.”

U2 class and Can-Am Renegade racers Michael Swift (UXC Racing / Can-Am) and Rob Smith challenged one another for the class overall, swapping the lead several times, including on the final turn.

Swift used a last-turn pass to edge Smith (BNR / Can-Am) for the class win and the top spot on the overall 4×4 podium. Swift now trails Smith by two points in the class points race with three rounds remaining.

“My Renegade worked great. I had such a good time battling with Rob (Smith) and it was great to get the win,” said Swift.

In the 4×4 Open class, ATV Parts Plus / Can-Am Outlander 800R 4×4 racer and defending champion, Bryan Buckhannon stretched his winning streak to 10 as he won his class over fellow Outlander racer Sam Williams (JB Off-Road / ITP). Outlander 500 4×4 pilot Kevin Trantham also extended his winning streak in the 4×4 Lites class with his ninth straight victory.

Forrest Whorton, the reigning 4×4 Senior 40+ class champion, also won at Unadilla to extend his class points lead. Can-Am ATV racer Ryan Smith recorded his fifth 4×4 Novice class win of the year and is on top of the class standings going into round 11, the Car Mate Gusher, which will be held Sept. 21, in Foxburg, Pa.

UTVRR North

JB Off-Road / Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs pilot Kyle Chaney won the QR1 class at round seven of the Quantum Racing UTV Rally Raid Northern Series at Windrock OHV Park in Oliver Springs, Tenn. Chaney completed the most laps during the four-hour overnight event and, at one point, had more than a 13-minute lead over the runner-up finisher.

“The Maverick worked very well on the dry, dusty and hardpack Windrock OHV course. The area hadn’t seen rain in quite some time, so it was harder to see,” said Chaney. “I started out solo, but gained a passenger and just drove smart and ended up with another win.”

For more information on Can-Am racing, the entire 2013 schedule, the ’13 contingency program and Can-Am DS 450 ATV amateur racer support program, please visit www.can-amxteam.com.

CREAMER WINS PRO AND PRO-AM CLASSES AT NEATV-MX

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BCS Performance / Can-Am DS 450 Pro Josh Creamer won both the Pro and Pro-Am classes at round nine of the 2013 New England ATV Motocross Series in Clifford, Pa. Hendershot Performance / Can-Am also notched an overall victory recently, winning the UTV Open class with its Maverick 1000R X rs at round six of the American Woods Racing Championship Series in Ohio.

“Josh Creamer continued his successful 2013 season aboard his BCS Performance-backed Can-Am DS 450, winning two classes and all four motos at round nine of the NEATV-MX series,” said Jeff Leclerc, Racing Project Leader, Can-Am. “We were excited to hear the Hendershots showcased the impressive power and handling of the Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs in driving it to an UTV Open class victory at the AWRCS race in Ohio.”

NEATV-MX 9

Can-Am DS 450 racers won six classes and earned 11 total podiums at round nine of the NEATV-MX series at Hurricane Hills MX. The track also hosted round four of the series, but the promoters changed the track direction for round nine. Former ATV national champions Josh Creamer and Travis Spader each won two classes with their BCS Performance-tuned, Rotax-powered Can-Am DS 450 ATVs.

Creamer, the reigning NEATV-MX Pro and Pro-Am class champion, posted twin 1-1 moto sweeps in both his classes to go a perfect 4-for-4 on the weekend. He grabbed both Pro class holeshots and walked away with two easy moto victories. Creamer also put in dominating performance in the Pro-Am class, leading ever lap and posting a 1-1 scorecard.

“My BCS Performance Can-Am was running amazing for the entire length of the motos. That BCS motor tore out of the gate and flew past everyone and I was able to secure all but one holeshot today,” said Creamer. “The track was really fast and got roughed up pretty quickly but I felt great and finished first in both classes.”

Fellow Can-Am DS 450 Pro Travis Moore (BCS Performance / Wide Open Racing) had a challenging weekend in Pennsylvania, finishing seventh in the Pro class and fourth in Pro-Am. However, he garnered enough points to hold onto the points lead in both classes. Can-Am X-Team racer Nick Gennusa also competed at round nine, finishing fifth in the Pro class and sixth in Pro-Am.

Spader also posted a double-moto sweep in both the 40+ and 25+ classes for his two wins at Hurricane Hills MX. The other two class overall wins went to Jake Chamberland in the College Boy ranks and Alan Provost Jr. in the Production Stock C class. The next round is scheduled for Sept. 14-15, at Hemond’s Moto-X Park in Minot, Maine.

AWRCS 6

Powerline Park, near of St. Clairsville, Ohio, hosted round six of AWRCS. The course featured a mix of high-speed straightaways, challenging hills, groves of trees and slippery mud sections. Pre-race thunderstorms made for difficult conditions, but Hendershot Performance / MAXXIS / Can-Am outran 20 other side-by-side vehicles with its Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs and came out on top of the UTV Open class.

After winning the one-hour hare scramble race, the team sits in second place in the class points race, just one point behind the current leader, Team Burkey, which also drives a Can-Am.

“Special thanks go out this week to Can-Am for designing and building the Can-Am Maverick 1000 X rs,” said the Larry Hendershot. “If I had to describe this machine with one word, it would be awesome!”

The next AWRCS SxS race is slated for Saturday, Sept. 14 in Clintonville, Pa.

For more information on Can-Am racing, the 2013 schedule, the ’13 contingency program and Can-Am DS 450 ATV amateur racer support program, visit www.can-amxteam.com.

2014 KAWASAKI TERYX

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The all-new 2014 Kawasaki Teryx shatters the two-seat Side x Side mould with a new larger chassis, a significant overall power boost, and premium FOX Podium high-performance shocks.

Add-in an all-new new larger cockpit and an enhanced cargo bed and you get a bigger, bolder package that pushes the Teryx’s performance, handling, comfort and utility to new levels. Whether tackling a tough job or a rough trail, the new Teryx delivers like no other Side x Side in its class.

Teryx’s character-filled, purpose-built 90-degree V-twin is revered for its fantastic sound, stump-pulling power and amazing flexibility. For 2014, it packs more power than ever thanks to a substantial displacement bump from 749cc to 783cc. Those extra cubes generate a whopping 26% more power and 12% more torque right where you need it, in the low- to mid-range, which makes short work of scrambling up steep hills, stomping through mud bogs and crawling over rocks. The 2014 Teryx does all this while delivering better fuel efficiency than the old engine for even more driving time between fuel stops!

Kawasaki’s engineers achieved these goals via optimized camshaft profiles and revised exhaust headers that allow the Teryx’s new engine to consistently deliver exciting power when driving solo, with a passenger, or when carrying heavy loads. Yet the added torque hasn’t upset the Teryx’s super smooth character in the least, as its 90-degree V-twin design retains perfect primary balance to help keep things comfortable for the driver and passenger during long off-road treks.

Routing all that torque and power to the ground is a proven Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), centrifugal clutch assembly and a three-mode electronically selectable 4WD system that features instant access to 2WD, 4WD and 4WD+Front Differential Lock modes for optimum gearing and traction simply by rotating a dash-mounted switch.

The CVT is well-known for its quick response and direct engine “feel” in sportier riding situations, and its unique engine braking capability can increase driver confidence on descents, while turning and in rough conditions. So whether it’s climbing a rocky uphill trail, negotiating a wet stream bed, hauling lumber for fixing fences on the farm, or just plain hauling down a wide-open two-track trail, the Teryx has an ideal drivetrain mode to handle it.

The Teryx’s all-new Double-X chassis takes on rough and technical terrain. Its highly rigid square tube frame effectively combats flex to provide superior handling over rough ground, and its extremely tight 16.7′ turning radius makes maneuvering in close quarters a cinch – a real benefit over the competition that is often forced to make multi-point turns in the same space.

This stout frame was designed by Kawasaki engineers using detailed computer analysis and loads of off-road testing to create its super-strong Double-X design, which features two X-shaped cross members that bridge the frame’s box structures from corner-to-corner for maximum strength and optimum durability.

The frame is also significantly reinforced by the 2014 Teryx’s upgraded and certified Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS), which extends all the way out to the edges of the bodywork to maximize cockpit space and help shield the chassis and bodywork from damage. The Teryx’s underbody engine guards offer an added measure of protection by shielding vital components; their smooth surfaces act as a skid plate when grinding over the occasional obstacle becomes necessary.

This impressive chassis package is further enhanced with a wide-track/wide-body design that contributes to superb cornering characteristics. The wide track helps resist body roll during cornering and boosts its ability to cope with rough terrain at speed. Mid-ship engine placement, also new for the Teryx model, helps by centralizing the vehicle’s center of mass to reduce turning inertia and promote easy direction changes.

Easy, low-effort and precise steering are hallmarks of the Teryx’s clever Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. EPS offers additional damping on straights, especially on rough surfaces, as well as reduced steering kickback and bump-steer. The Showa-built system eliminates the traditional power-steering pump found on most of the competition, so steering inputs don’t rob engine power, and it is only active when the engine is running, so there’s also no battery drain. Input from vehicle speed and torque sensors determine the amount of steering assistance – more during slow-speed use, and less as speeds increase, just like a state-of-the-art sports car.

Teryx’s independent suspension was already legendary, but the 2014 Teryx adds to the legacy by incorporating one of the best names in the high-performance suspension business, FOX. Stout steel A-arms at all four corners are mated to all-new, adjustable FOX Podium piggyback reservoir shocks with 8.0” of high-quality travel up front and 8.3” out back, to give the Teryx more trail-taming comfort than ever before.

Kawasaki engineers collaborated with FOX to fit the Teryx with the ultimate high-performance FOX Podium shocks, which are adjustable for spring preload and 24-way compression damping, to tailor the ride to the terrain. As always, Kawasaki and FOX incorporated a dual-mode design ideology so the adjustable FOX Podium coil-over shocks provide everything from cruising comfort with two passengers and a full cargo bed to sport-style bump absorption when driven solo. It’s a difficult combination to get right, but the FOX Podium shocks get the job done by maintaining consistent fade-free damping in all driving conditions.

With the Teryx’s substantially increased performance and improved handling potential, consistent brake performance is also essential and the Teryx delivers with high-performance hydraulic discs up front using 200mm rotors gripped by dual-piston calipers for exceptional feel and stopping power. The brakes are recessed within the wheels to help keep them away from dirt, rocks, water and debris, while sturdy steel-braided lines help keep pedal feel crisp and progressive.

In back is Kawasaki’s unique sealed internal wet brake, which features internal components that are completely sealed from mud, water, dust and debris. The result is powerful and ultra-reliable braking performance whether descending steep hills or running wide open on fast trails, wet to dry.

Large 26″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires offer the type of ride comfort, control and traction you’d expect from a Teryx side x side. Their construction and tread design helps maximize forward traction while optimizing response for aggressive cornering.

The Teryx’s 85.8″ wheelbase affords it a surprisingly small turning radius, yet its substantial 11.0″ of ground clearance helps keep it from bottoming when cresting an obstacle or ridge, while high approach and departure angles (79 and 65 degrees, respectively), reduce the possibility of smacking the front bumper when approaching a steep slope or scraping the tail when exiting one.

Teryx also excels at all sorts of workday tasks, from crew hauling to towing. Its sizable 28″ by 43″, tilting cargo bed is 10.4″ deep and boasts a new, heavy-duty 600-lb. payload capacity with a flat bottom that is big enough for a large cooler, several spare fuel cans or other large objects. The bed also features the capability to add Kawasaki’s optional new tool snap-mount system that allows for snap-mounting of Kawasaki accessories and/or tools to the bed rails.

Four tie-down loops help secure the cargo and two new water-resistant rear storage compartments offer 182 liters of total capacity – the largest in its class. The Teryx also features a latching tailgate that can be removed without requiring tools, and the tailgate features molded-in drink holders for added convenience. A 2″ hitch receiver is standard as the Teryx’s towing capacity is a substantial 1,300 pounds.

Convenience features include two DC power outlets providing up to 120 watts of peak electrical power, while nearly 8 gallons of fuel capacity and improved fuel economy for 2014 offer substantial range, enough for a long day on the trail. There’s also a conveniently located beverage holder for each occupant.

The Teryx’s attractive styling matches its powerful image. It starts with an aggressive looking hood that opens for ease of maintenance up-front. The headlamp and fender designs give the Teryx a no-nonsense look that says “sporty” and “functional” at the same time. Accessing the front suspension, coolant reservoir, air filter and electrical equipment is easy, thanks to an easy-open front hood, which is part of a tough, sporty looking body package.

Unlike many of its competitors, the Teryx features factory-designed secure latching doors that are easy to use, look good and offer a high level of mud protection. Scratch-resistant Vibrant Blue bodywork and textured paint on the sturdy front guard and ROPS cage, help keep the Teryx looking sharp for a good long time.

Both the driver and passenger will enjoy riding in the Teryx during a long day, because it’s the most comfortable Side x Side in its class, by far. Its roomy interior gives the driver and passenger ample room to spread-out, with plenty of hip, shoulder and legroom, and its all-new high-backed bucket seats feature high-quality cushioning and cold-resistant seat material for all-day plushness.

The adjustable seats eliminate the need for a headrest and feature wraparound ergonomics to hold driver and passenger firmly in place. They also offer three positions in 1″ increments to tailor the Teryx’s comfort to fit a wide range of body types. When the going gets rough, three-point seatbelts offer a high degree of security to keep the driver and passengers in place. Shock-absorbing comfort mounts and an anti-cinch feature on the seatbelts also help prevent over-tightening when the belts lock during sudden deceleration (or when the tilt sensor is activated).

Teryx’s instrumentation is top-notch, and includes a multi-function electronic display that provides a ton of useful information: speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer and hour meter, clock, dual trip meters, 2WD/4WD indicator, front-differential indicator light, parking-brake indicator, water-temp and fuel-injection warning indicators, reverse indicator light, etc.

When you consider everything that has gone into the new 2014 Teryx, it’s clear there is really no competition for its overall excellence. But Kawasaki didn’t stop with simply building the best Side x Side in the world; they backed it up with the new Kawasaki Strong 3 Year Limited Warranty! It’s well known that the Teryx’s premium engineering makes it a long-lasting and dependable product. Now, that peace of mind is enhanced with factory-backed support for a full three years on every 2014 Teryx and Teryx4 side x side!

Strength. Power. Comfort. Convenience. Hauling and towing ability. Reliability. The Teryx model line has been a pinnacle of off-road fun and function since its inception, and the 2014 Teryx ushers in a new era in Kawasaki Side x Side performance, reliability and comfort!

A large selection of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories is available through authorized Kawasaki dealers. As with all off-highway vehicle recreation, Kawasaki encourages Side x Side drivers to drive responsibly and to respect the environment.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, Side x Sides, and Jet Ski watercraft through a network of more than 1,200 independent retailers, with an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in Kawasaki power products and general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with 300 of them located at KMC’s Irvine, California headquarters. Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles.

Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.

STI DEBUTS ALL-NEW OUTBACK TIRE

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It’s always something with STI Tire & Wheel. This relatively young brand is rapidly building a reputation for rapid-fire release of innovative and effective new ATV/UTV products, and the Outback tire line is no exception.

The STI Outback is a true “all conditions” performer. Job one for STI’s hardworking design and production team was to create the most versatile tire on the market.

That goal was scored with a model that provides the comfort and control of dedicated hardpack trail rubber, while still delivering the grip and cleanout capabilities of a deep, open-lugged bogger.

Now add in a few things we learned about durability while earlier developing the bulletproof Roctane XD. The result is a tire that lives up to its name – if you’re going way out and want to get back, get outfitted with Outback. Its 6-ply bias carcass and robust rim guard provides exceptional reliability while remaining surprisingly light.

The Outback’s tread design is responsible for many of this tire’s capabilities. The tread pattern’s center “V” design provides OEM-like ride on hard surfaces, while deep, dimpled lugs aggressively dig into loose, soft terrain. Wraparound shoulder lugs supply controlled side bite.

The unique, stepped lug profile sheds mud like nothing else.

The Outback comes in two models: the AT features 3/4-in. deep lugs, and the XT model uses 1 1/8-in. deep lugs. Initial sizing is ideal for a wide range of current ATV and UTVs, with more sizes to come. Currently, the AT is available in 25×8-12 and 25×10-12. The XT rolls out in 26×9-12 and 26×11-12. Many more sizes are coming soon.

STI’s advanced manufacturing methods result not only in bar-raising performance and durability, but also highly attractive pricing. Shop and compare: the Outback is a do-it-all tire that doesn’t cost and arm and a leg.

STI Outback tires are available at finer ATV/UTV dealers everywhere.

For more information, visit www.stitireandwheel.com.

FIRST LOOK: 2014 Yamaha YFZ 450R

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The YFZ 450R is an exceptional piece of technology. Check the stats and you’ll see that after any given weekend, Yamaha racers dominate the various circuits. It’s a combination of well-rounded talent channeled through an amazing vehicle.

Some manufacturers feel fine just letting the assembly lines churn out the previous season’s model with few if any improvements besides some new stickers.

After all, the pure sport market is very small and was the hardest hit during the recession so it could be argued that just having a unit available is enough. However, Yamaha isn’t content with just being present in this segment – they want to own it and they want to win.

That’s why year to year we see improvements to the YFZ 450R. That’s why Yamaha’s racers continue to bring home trophies and for 2014; we see some significant updates that will keep this model at the top of the segment.

Yamaha claims the broadest appeal of use with the YFZ 450R with its nearly 49-inch wide stance and 20-inch tires. Load it in your pick-up and head out to the local track or sign up for a race or two and see what you’re made of.

Its all-new clutch delivers reduced engine braking effect on deceleration and lightens the feel at the clutch lever, which reduces fatigue while shifting. More power has been mined out of the 449cc fuel injected mill and better fuel mapping has been added.

Rider ergos have also improved as the front fenders have been repositioned to accommodate the rider’s knees and provide more space for legs as the rider leans off the ATV in the corners. The foot well has also been moved back to provide more room. Plus its handlebars are 4-way adjustable and can be customized to suit your riding style and comfort.

Another big improvement is the no tool bodywork. Quick release fasteners replace any bolts to hold on the plastics, so you can quickly remove the body panels to get access for cleaning and maintenance.

The Yamaha YFZ 450R is excellent for riders that want to hit the track and enjoy riding in competition or just for fun, but when you’re ready to get serious, a nearly endless product list of GYTR accessories are available to convert your ATV from a track junkie’s dream to a serious competitor.

The 2014 YFZ 450R is bred to win and it can be yours for a measly $8799 USD. Visit yamaha-motor.com for more info.