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Honda Thaws After A Long Freeze

Rick Sosebee
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Honda Thaws After A Long Freeze

Recent introductions and press releases seem to indicate Honda is finally thawing after a noticeable freeze on new and exciting off-road vehicles.

After the release of HondaÂ’s disappointing Big Red, the introduction of the Pioneer 700 two and four-seat side-x-side brought a grin from many industry faithful. It looks cool, rides great and shows that Honda is re-engaged in this industry.

More good new came this past week with something happening in the ATV segment too.

WeÂ’ve waited a long time for anything new from HondaÂ’s FourTrax line and it looks like Honda fanatics will be getting what theyÂ’ve hoped for in 2014.

Rumors were swirling around the utility segment for ages and this news is good because at least in the minds of consumers Honda is back and thereÂ’s already discussion about what could happen down the road.

With the redesign of the Foreman and Rancher itÂ’s just a matter of time before we start seeing other items of interest from Honda.

Could there be a new version of the TRX450R? Anything is possible and one thingÂ’s for sure. It is definitely an exciting time for fans of Honda.

Maverick or RZR 900 or Wildcat X?

Motorhead Mark Lester
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Dear motorhead:

I’m in the market for a SXS. The Maverick is way cool, but so is the Wildcat X. Most of my riding will be over rocks, forest roads and trails with the occasional sand dunes.

It’s very difficult to decide what’s actually the best for comfort, power, suspension, etc. Would you help me to decide which sxs I should purchase and why?

Thank you very much. I love your show.

Doug

Doug:

Thanks for your email!

We appreciate your kind words and are pleased you enjoy the show!

I think you should also include the Polaris RXR XP 900 in your purchase decision.

Your question is really difficult to definitively answer. These three vehicles are at the pinnacle of the Pure Sport SXS market and now that Arctic Cat has stepped up and given their Wildcat the extra power it needed last year – the playing field is virtually level with these superb side-x-sides.

Here’s what our guys think. If you’re going to run a lot of trails (and BTW – none of these rides are really good on trails because they are so wide) the RZR 900 XP is the best.

If you’re looking at high speed desert running with gnarly terrain the Maverick is hands down the fastest and its suspension (X-Package) the best at those high speeds in rough terrain.

The Wildcat is a great compromise between the two and has the necessary jam, suspension and handling to keep it competitive in this segment.

I know, that isn’t a very definitive answer but even we need more time with these three rockets – it’s really hard to call with the Maverick so new, the Wildcat so updated and the RZR the original (and still very competent) Pure Sport SXS.

Watch for a full-on comparo of these three on an upcoming episode of DirtTrax Television and in the late summer issue of DirtTrax Magazine!!

Thanks,

Motorhead Mark

SETTING GOALS

Rick Sosebee
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SETTING GOALS

Setting small goals can help you move forward in most anything you wish to become better at.

It really doesn’t matter if it’s racing, education, fitness or life in general, it takes those small steps to keep us motivated and on our way to the next step.

Racing however requires discipline to get results, which can be tougher than most other achievements.

There are racers in all age groups and classes on the local and national levels that work hard every race and yet barely improve from event to event.

The racer wants to win, but maybe doesn’t know how to get the forward momentum to grab that next place trophy. This is where a goal-minded rider is more successful.

If you cannot physically last an entire race, strength and cardiovascular training could be in order. If your machine keeps breaking down during a race, maybe your crew needs to focus on better maintenance habits or maybe extra time spent combing over the machine with a second set of eyes might help you catch something you normally might miss on race day.

Whether it’s setting small achievable goals like, training an extra hour or eating a little bit better, when you set goals don’t let your mind wonder or be distracted by another rider’s behavior. Stay on track literally and figuratively.

It is an enormous investment to get to the races during a season, why not set goals for yourself and see just how far you can go.

More 2014 Models From Honda

Dirt Trax Online
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More 2014 Models From Honda

Excitement continues to build as American Honda introduces more new 2014 models for off-road enthusiasts. This ongoing infusion of innovative engineering highlights the commitment Honda is making to consumers, as more new models bring ever-higher capabilities across the board.

“For this 2014 model announcement, Honda is continuing its push to bring new and diverse machines to market while also delivering great value,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. “Here we’re unveiling a new generation of our hugely popular FourTrax Rancher and FourTrax Foreman lines of ATVs with completely new frames, suspension, styling and more for elevated levels of performance. We’re also introducing two versions of the all-new CRF125F that features an electric-start engine along with two different wheel sizes to replace the CRF80 and CRF100F. The CRF125F offers an increase in engine displacement and a friendly, easy-to-use powerband, but also aggressive new styling and a brand-new chassis with upgraded front and rear suspension for optimum performance.”

“These new models, along with additional Honda favorites returning for the new model year, demonstrate Honda’s commitment to providing more choices to our customers, and we’ll be introducing more exciting new models in the coming months as Honda continues to lead the expansion of the powersports market.”

FourTrax Rancher Series

Over the years, Honda’s liquid-cooled fuel-injected 420cc FourTrax Rancher series has built a wide-ranging, loyal and enthusiastic following, thanks in large part to the multiple configurations that are available to meet many varied rider needs.

For 2014, these FourTrax Rancher models feature an all-new chassis with a redesigned frame featuring new, longer-travel suspension for enhanced rider comfort plus outstanding performance over rugged terrain. That new chassis is wrapped in all-new bodywork with distinctively aggressive styling.

The multiple choices in drivetrain styles remain; the 4WD FourTrax Rancher 4×4 ES features Honda’s highly regarded Electric Shift Program (ESP) that makes gear shifts as easy as pushing a button, while the 4WD FourTrax Rancher Automatic DCT features Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), a five-speed fully automatic transmission that also gives the rider the option of ESP mode.

The FourTrax Rancher 4×4 offers riders 4WD with a traditional manual-shift gearbox. The two-wheel-drive FourTrax Rancher available with manual or electric shift offers terrific performance, at an extremely affordable price point.

Most of these models also offer the option of Electric Power Steering—all considered, it adds up to a wealth of wonderful choices for off-road work and play. Colors: Honda Phantom Camo, Olive, Red, Orange; Price: TBD; Availability: Fall

powersports.honda.com/2014/FourTrax-Rancher.aspx

FourTrax Foreman Series

For years, the FourTrax Foreman series of ATVs has carved out an impeccable reputation as hard-working partners that also know how to have fun when it’s time for a little recreation.

Now that reputation grows stronger than ever as the next generation of FourTrax Foremans arrives for 2014 with an all-new chassis, suspension, locking front differential, styling and more.

As before, the FourTrax Foreman 4×4 ES boasts HondaÂ’s renowned Electric Shift Program (ESP) that delivers push-button convenience for shifting, while the manual-shift FourTrax Foreman 4×4 is the machine of choice for riders who prefer the more conventional gearbox.

Both models can be had with the option of Electric Power Steering as well. No matter which configuration you may favor, the FourTrax Foreman shines brighter than ever as the ideal machine to tackle a hard day’s work while also pulling double duty when you head out for that weekend adventure.

Colors: Honda Phantom Camo, Olive, Red, Blue; Price: TBD; Availability: Fall

powersports.honda.com/2014/fourtrax-foreman-4×4.aspx

About American Honda – American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers.

TEST RIDE: 2013 Polaris Ranger 800

Dirt Trax TV
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DirtTrax Television Co-Host AJ Lester shares his thoughts on Polaris’ 2013 mid-sized Ranger 800 side-x-side.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Confidence On The Track

Rick Sosebee
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Confidence On The Track

Is it correct to say that looks equals confidence? I think so in most cases.

When people feel good about their appearance it often shows through in their work. Does this also translate into the world of ATV racing?

Confidence is something that carries riders into the next level and if a new graphic kit makes you feel fast then by all means get it on your ATV.

Many riders pull up onto a starting line and check out the competition. Maybe they’ll think one rider looks faster because of his graphics or color scheme, but if they feel like another rider looks better than them it could impact how they perform during their race.

If you have old ratty gear for half a season and then put on brand new complete from top to bottom riding gear it does give you an edge in your mind that should most often translate to a better ride on the track or trail.

Products can also boost a racer’s confidence. Tire Blocks help prevent flats, which is sure to make a rider go just a little harder on the track knowing that’s something they don’t have to worry about.

Every ounce of confidence you can gain from an edge will make you a little better overall.

SHOX NEED LOVE TOO

Dirt Trax TV
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SHOX NEED LOVE TOO

Ever heard the expression you can only go as fast as your suspension will let you? Well, that statement couldn’t be more true than with today’s modern suspensions and the folks from FOX know this best.

With more and more side x sides coming equipped with FOX shock absorbers rough rides have become a thing of the past.

With all this being said, it doesn’t mean you can neglect them. Shocks are wearable components and they need regular servicing to keep them in top performing shape.

With mid-summer approaching it’s also a perfect time to show your shocks some love. FOX’s mid summer service promotion is running and it’s a time where Dirt Trax fans can also win some cool prizes.

Simply ship your shocks to FOX and have the same technicians that the top pros depend on tune or upgrade your shocks.

With a typical turn around of only 1-2 days and service options that range from rebuilds to compression and rebound component upgrades your buggy will be fresh and ready to roll by the weekend.

For fans of DirtTrax, make sure you reference “DT” as your referral source on your paper work and you’ll get cool 16-inch FOX decals and also be entered to win a larger prize pack of cool FOX swag.

For more details on FOX’s mid summer service Promotion at: ridefox.com

CAN-AM WINS MORNING OVERALL AT SNOWSHOE GNCC

Dirt Trax Online
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Can-Am Renegade 800R X xc racer Rob Smith won the U2 class and earned his first career 10 a.m. morning overall at round nine of the 2013 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) series in Snowshoe, W.Va.

Fellow U2 class competitor and Renegade pilot Michael Swift joined Smith on the overall podium, 4×4 overall podium and U2 class podiums at the Snowshoe GNCC. Can-Am ATV racers also won the other four 4×4 classes at round nine and Bryan Buckhannon extended his 4×4 Open class winning streak to nine races.

At the first side-by-side event in the AMA Mid America Cross Country Championship Series, Can-Am Maverickâ„¢ 1000R X rs racer Matt Rowell won the UTV Modified class in Nashville, Ind.

“Can-Am ATV racers again dominated the morning session, winning all five 4×4 classes in spite of the wet, muddy and rugged conditions at the Snowshoe GNCC. Rob Smith and Michael Swift had a great battle for the top spot on the overall morning podium, the U2 class win and class points lead. We have several Can-Am racers who have good control of their class points lead heading into the GNCC summer break,” said Jimmie O’Dell, Race Manager, Can-Am. “Matt Rowell won his first race in the Maverick 1000R X rs in the MAXC series, proving the flagship Can-Am Maverick 1000R is truly a race-ready side-by-side.”

GNCC

The ninth round of the AMSOIL GNCC series was held Saturday, June 29, atop Snowshoe Mountain at an altitude of 4,242 feet. Known as “America’s Toughest Race”, once again, the 4×4 machines shined again this year in the wet-and-rugged mountain conditions with Can-Am machines sweeping the top two spots on the morning podium.

The highlight of the Snowshoe GNCC for the Can-Am racers was the battle between U2 class competitors and Renegade 800R X xc racers Rob Smith and Michael Swift. Smith (BNR / Can-Am) outraced Swift for the U2 class win and in the process secured not only the 10 a.m. morning overall, but also the class points lead. Swift settled for a very-close second place on the morning overall podium. Swift (Team UXC Racing / Can-Am), who has five victories this year, trails Smith by just four points heading into round 10.

“My Renegade worked amazing. That quad is like a tank. I am on the newer 2012 quad and itÂ’s just flawless,” said Smith, who recorded his first-ever GNCC morning overall. “It’s really nice to have the U2 points lead heading into summer break. I have been working harder than ever before and really want to earn the championship.”

In the 4×4 Open ranks, ATV Parts Plus / Can-Am Outlander 800R 4×4 racer Bryan Buckhannon won the class at Snowshoe to maintain his perfect season in 2013. Can-Am Outlander Sam Williams (JB Off-Road / ITP) took second ahead of Can-Am racer Tanner Bowles.

Kevin Trantham, the 4×4 Lites class defending champion, and 4×4 Senior 40+ class points leader Forrest Whorton each won their class and have winning streaks of eight and four races, respectively. Can-Am ATV racer Ryan Smith took his fourth 4×4 Novice class win and is the points leader going into the GNCC summer break.

GNCC racing resumes Sept. 7, with round 10, the Can-Am Unadilla in New Berlin, N.Y.

MAXC

Southern Indiana features rolling hills and is an ideal location for the MAXC racing series. The first round of the SxS series, the Big Nasty Cross Country race presented by Lucas Oil & Red Bull, was held at what was once known as Ski World Resort, which shut down in 2004.

According to the MAXC release, the side-by-side vehicles lined up to do battle Friday evening with a $2,000 purse on the line. SxS vehicles were faced with competing in two motos and six total laps over the two-mile course.

NightKrawler Kustoms’ Matt Rowell, who used to compete in a Can-Am Commander side-by-side, recently purchased a Can-Am Maverick 1000R X rs to race the MAXC SxS series. In his first race behind the wheel of the Can-Am, Rowell swept both motos on his way to winning the UTV Modified class at round one of the MAXC SxS series.

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.

HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU SPEND TO FIX YOUR ATV?

Rick Sosebee
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HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU SPEND TO FIX YOUR ATV?

I recently had a young man bring his ATV over to see if it was worth fixing. His 1992 Polaris 250 Trail Blazer belonged to his grandfather, but he didn’t think it was worth putting the money into it to get it going again.

Of course I love to repair old rides – especially ones that have some sentimental value. If the repairs end up being a bunch of small things though it could drain the cash reserves really quick.

As I began adding up all the little repairs it became evident that the machine needed more repairs than its resale value was worth.

Its CVT belt cover was cracked open and the belt had also suffered at the hands of the weather and trail debris, which would add costs to the repair list. Then after inspecting the air cleaner, I discovered the box it was housed in had cracked all the way around totally separating from the carb and leaving the throat of the machine open for anything it could suck down. Then as I squeezed the front brake lever the tension quickly gave way and it seemed there were no brakes at all.

Costs were adding up, but there was no payment tied to the machine and it was a young man’s grandfather’s hunting ATV. So I needed to check to see if he wanted me to move ahead.

When do you fix an ATV and when do you dig a hole in the yard and bury it? It’s a tough decision and one you have to eventually make. If it had been my decision I would have fixed this particular ATV, but young owner decided it was time to take his ATV to the dump.

TIPS ON NAILING DOWN SPONSORS

Rick Sosebee
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TIPS ON NAILING DOWN SPONSORS

Suppose you’re a big time aftermarket manufacturer interested in sponsoring a racer or even a whole team. How do you guarantee your investment will actually be worth the expense?

Honestly, there’s no guarantee for the sponsor because it’s up to the racer to make a good return on a sponsorship investment.

During the first few months of a new year there seems to be a flood of requests hitting big companies for product and or discounts on products. If you (the racer) wait until January or February to start sponsorship hunting you may be too late.

Most companies start reviewing possible riders to support in the tail end of September and all of October or November of the year prior.

Suppliers need to know what they will get for their contribution to your race program. It’s a business, just like your racing career is a business and this marketing relationship has to work for them in order for you to receive any goodies.

As a representative of a sponsor’s product, you must be respectful on and off the track to everyone. Be spot-on with what you promise to potential sponsors and provide them with plenty of reasons to want to be a part of your program. Having a neat and tidy appearance at the track is key as well. Remember, your image is their image.

Way before they even consider what type or level of help a sponsorÂ’s willing to give they’re thinking, “What do I get for my sponsorship?”

Stand out from the other racers and support your sponsor the way they’re supporting you. Be the kind of racer who is a walking, talking example of what they NEED to make their product look good.

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