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Baron Takes Second Win in a Row at WORCS

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After the swamp-like conditions at Canyon MX Park, in Peoria, Ariz., last month, the dry weather of Primm, Nevada for WORCS Round 2, Buffalo Bills, was a welcomed change! RZRs would, once again, take the top spot in all the side-by-side classes offered.

Polaris Racing/Holz Racing’s Beau Baron would, once again, steer his new RZR XP 900 to the win in the Pro Production class and first overall. Second would go to Ryan Piplic also in a RZR XP 900. Baron and Piplic sit one, two in the series standings after two races.

The Production 1000 class saw 16 RZRs line up and Mitch Guthrie Jr. in his Holz Racing RZR XP 900 again took the checkered flag. He also placed third overall behind Baron and Piplic. Jacob Shaw and Holz Racing’s Jake Greco in their RZRs finished second and third.

The Production 700 Class saw a majority of RZR 570s entered. Polaris Racer Cody Rahders would take second place to Holz Racing’s David Haagsma in another RZR 570 with round-one winner Michael Bunyea’s Holz Racing RZR 570 finishing third.

The Production 850 class also had RZRs take the top three spots with Alfredo Ramirez, Justin Lambert and Chris Willing finishing first, second, third. The Production 600 class, once again, only had one entry, Amelia Morton, who finished the race first.

The next WORCS race is Crazy Horse, in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, March 22-24.

About Polaris – 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 on-road electric/hybrid powered 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 electric/hybrid powered vehicle industry with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), Goupil Industrie SA, and internally developed vehicles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure 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.

BEST IN CLASS: BEST SPORT UTILITY SXS

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WINNER: Polaris Ranger 900

Clearly, Polaris is rabid in its continuing conquest of the SxS business in every segment. The new Ranger 900 XP is the personification of the drive Polaris has towards growing its worldwide leadership in this industry.

The new Ranger 900 is precisely that: New from its tip to its tailgate. The vehicle is barely three inches longer but the wheels have been pushed further toward each end, making the Ranger more capable in rough terrain and enhancing ride quality.

The front and rear suspensions are so plush, you could mistake the ride for that of an RZR. The 900 motor is a 60-horsepower, single throttle body version of the RZR XP’s 88-hp mill. At 60 ponies this engine is immensely torquey and buttery smooth.

The fully tied-together driveline makes the old CVT-sub-tranny combo seem rough. There’s no driveline thrumming and a noticeably tighter feel on engagement and take-off. The cab features myriad improvements including an adjustable driver’s seat and huge underseat storage bins and the powertrain is now fully serviceable with the box raised.

One ride and you’ll be convinced this BIC Award winner is not just improved – it’s completely redefined the category.

Polaris practically invented the SxS genre and is proving it intends to continue leading it.

RUNNERS-UP: Can-Am Commander 800 XT & John Deere RSX 850i

Can-Am has nailed the dual purpose equation in the Sport/Utility segment with the Commander chassis. The dual level cargo box is a solid and functional hit with buyers. However, the commander’s sporty, performance feel and aggressive ergonomics play strong to the sport buyer.

We love the 800 Commander’s exhaust sound and more importantly, the delivery of power from a torquey, smooth V-twin. Again, we strongly recommend buyers upgrade to the XT package or, in MY 2013, the DPS package – the value here is too good to ignore.

Like a sleeping giant waking from a long nap, John Deere has re-emerged in the business it launched in the early 1990’s. We might have been impressed if it had come to the market with touched-up Gator, but the Big Green Machine didn’t do that – not a chance.

The new-from-the-ground-up RSX platform is a real Sport-Utility SxS that can play hard with anything in the segment. However, because it’s JD green, it’ll capably work hard and last for years.

There’s impressive stuff going on at Deere and the RSX is a clear indication of the company’s calculated commitment to the SxS market.

FUN IN THE SUN ON YAMAHA’S RAPTOR 700 SE

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If you find yourself in need of a magic carpet to hit the sand and just cannot decide which ATV to choose, go for the Yamaha Raptor 700SE.

It may not be everyone’s first choice and there will be critics who choose other rides, but for this writer the bone stock 2013 Yamaha Raptor 700SE did the trick.

Having never ridden in the big sand of Glamis I knew it could be a challenge without the right quad and it was not until we arrived at our camp along Gecko Rd that I knew I might be ready for this adventure.

Each year Yamaha strives to bring new and exciting news to our industry and this year the machine I choose to ride in the sand of the Imperial Sand Dunes was the Yamaha Raptor 700SE.

This select number of ATVs had been prepared for us and these would be the first of many to come that are now completely assembled in the USA.

The 686cc four-stroke engine plays really nice in the sand. Being a big guy at over six feet tall I felt as if the Raptor fit my body and played to my posture well.

I rocketed this machine over many dunes staying in and around third gear almost all day. The powerful low-end torque was undeniable.

The new twin piston rear caliper really makes it stop well and with the extra legroom, lower tank and fenders out front the Yamaha Raptor made my first ride in the dunes a great experience.

2013 Gator Heavy-Duty XUV Models

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John Deere introduces its 2013 Heavy-Duty Crossover Utility Vehicle (XUV) lineup. Featuring the all-new, fastest, most powerful four-seat Gator available, plus updates to current models.

All New Four-Seat Gator XUV
Outdoor enthusiasts sharing the trail or work site can now transport friends, family and gear in the all-new, heavy-duty XUV 825i S4. The latest addition to the Gator family provides the durability and versatility owners expect around their property or off-road destination.

“The introduction of the XUV 825i S4 is a reflection of the growing popularity of our crossover utility vehicles,” said David Gigandet, marketing manager. “Customers wanted our heavy-duty XUV, in a multi-passenger form that was comfortable and customizable. These new Gators provide an unparalleled balance of performance and work capability for all off-road challenges.”

To allow for extra passengers or needed cargo space, the XUV 825i S4 provides an innovative, convertible rear seat cargo space. Two additional passengers can be transported in the rear seat area that includes a large under-seat storage compartment.

When more cargo room is needed, the rear seat folds down in just seconds providing a flat platform with tie-down points that can hold an additional 200 pounds of payload.

The XUV 825i S4 boasts the proven 50 hp, 812 cc, inline 3-cylinder engine with EFI and dual overhead cams featured in the current 825i. This Gator also has a top-speed of 44 mph and fully locking 4-wheel drive system to quickly traverse all types of terrain.

A best-in-class, fully independent, double wishbone suspension provides 8 inches of wheel travel and up to 11 inches of ground clearance. Power steering, with anti-kickback feature comes standard on these new S4 models providing operators easy vehicle control with only modest effort regardless of conditions.

The durable, composite and metal hybrid cargo box carries on the Gator tradition of superior hauling capability on the S4 models. The large 16.4 cubic feet cargo box has a 1,000 pound payload capacity. It features over 20 integrated tie-down points, a truck-style tailgate and removable sides for a flatbed mode.

The new Heavy-Duty S4 is also available with diesel power. The XUV 855D S4 is powered by a 23 hp, liquid cooled 3-cylinder diesel engine.

2013 XUV Line Updates

The XUV 825i now comes standard with dynamic downhill engine breaking, due to a new tight belt continuous variable transmission (CVT). Plus, a new seven-gallon fuel tank with digital readout on the dash adds 40 percent more fuel capacity and eliminates the analog dial.

The XUV 625i and XUV 855D will also feature these upgrades, as well as the digital display cluster from the 825i as standard equipment. Power steering is now optional for both the 825i and 855D models.

“Constant focus on our customers enables us deliver ongoing improvements like this to our portfolio of XUVs,” said Gigandet.

All Gator XUVs are available in Realtree Hardwoods HD Camo, olive and black or John Deere green and yellow color schemes. There are also more than 100 factory and dealer installed attachments available to customize them.

Visit your local John Deere dealer or www.JohnDeere.com/Gator to learn more.

2014 Honda Pioneer 4-Seater SXS

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Now you don’t have to choose between a two-person or four-person Side-by-Side.

The all-new Honda Pioneer boasts an innovative convertible design that allows the two rear seats to fold into the bed.

Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino says, “Next comes the Pioneer, replacing the Big Red in Honda’s Side-by-Side lineup. Why Pioneer? Because this machine brings pioneering innovation to the Side-by-Side class. Powered by Honda’s fuel-injected 700cc-class liquid-cooled OHV single-cylinder four-stroke engine that features an automotive-style automatic transmission with hydraulic torque converter, three forward gears and reverse, the Pioneer also incorporates industry-leading innovations such as a versatile, adjustable seating configuration that can accommodate two, three or four people. All-new rugged and aggressive styling distinguishes the Pioneer, but it’s the innovative engineering that makes this Side-by-Side unlike anything seen before.”

Owners can opt to use the Pioneer with two-seat, three-seat or four-seat configurations. Best of all, the rear seats fold quickly and easily without the need for tools, and once folded away the Pioneer’s tilt-bed space can be fully utilized.

Long-travel suspension combines a comfortable ride with high-performance handling, and helps give the Pioneer the load capacity to haul 1000 pounds or tow 1500 pounds.

It will be available in three colors—Red, Green, and the new Honda-designed and trademarked Honda Phantom Camo.

A full line of more than 50 accessories will also be available when the Pioneer hits Honda’s dealer network later this year.

Stay tuned for more information coming in May.

About 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.

For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com

2013 Arctic Cat Wildcat X Preview

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Dirt Trax Television got an early spin aboard Arctic Cat’s ultra-potent Wildcat X. Here’s a little taste of what’s ahead…

Outlander Oil Light Won’t Shut Off

Dear Motorhead:

I have a 650 Can-Am and when I change the oil the “Change Oil” light keeps coming on.

I have called the dealer where I bought it and they want me to bring my machine in and they will reset the light for $40 so every time I change the oil I have to go see them, which I believe is just a money grab.

Can I reset this light myself as they will not tell me how to reset it? I may have to resort to covering the light with tape. 

Any info pertaining to this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanking you in advance for your time. 

John MacIsaac

John!

Thanks for your email!

I apologize for the delay in getting back to you, however I needed to contact my sources at Can-Am to get the correct answer for you.

Yes, there are certain models and years of Outlanders that have a service light that illuminates when service is required.

This light does require you to return the vehicle to an authorized Can-Am dealer with the proper diagnostic link to reset the light, which could preclude any savings from DIY oil changes – unless your dealer is accommodating.

You might find your dealer willing to reset the light if you at least purchase your oil and filter from them. That would be my suggestion.

Good luck!

Motorhead Mark

BEST IN CLASS: Best Pure Performance SXS

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WINNER: Arctic Cat Wildcat

This selection should come as no surprise.

We more or less rocked the SxS world earlier this summer when we shot-out the Polaris RZR 900 XP and the new Wildcat and gave the Wildcat the nod. Were we nuts? We think not.

This has nothing to do with the RZR XP’s competency. It has everything to do with the new kid on the block landing with a loaded gun.

The new Wildcat is a closed course, high speed, fire-road weapon of no small stature. Its longer wheelbase produces inherent directional stability (Read: High speed confidence) and aerial prowess rivaled only by serious, full size off-road desert buggies.

The Wildcat’s CG is silly low. The seats are literally mounted on the floor pan. It comes with standard EPS. The driver’s cockpit is ergonomically correct and exceptionally comfortable.

It would be hard to fault the assets of Arctic Cat’s first effort in the Pure Sport SxS category. However, we will mention a couple issues we think need addressing.

Clearly the 1000 V-twin is not in the same league as the XP’s 900 Pro-Star powerplant or the Maverick’s 101-horse reactor. The Wildcat needs more jam.

The underlying reason we picked this vehicle in this segment is rooted in its more stable, longer wheelbase. This extra length is a two-edged sword – it also contributes to the Wildcat’s enormous turning circle and too-big feel on tight trails.

However, when it’s all said and done, the Wildcat has made an indelible mark on the Sport SxS segment – first try.

RUNNERS UP: Polaris RZR XP 900 & Can-Am Maverick

You can’t go wrong with the RZR XP 900. We cannot and will not take anything away from this immensely capable, outperforming, unbelievably well mannered first-in-segment vehicle.

It is way fast, well suspended and amazingly settled on any surface. The Polaris Pro Star engine is the most sophisticated, purpose-built SxS motor in the industry and has proven itself, at 88-hp, to be both consistently reliable and extremely versatile, producing solid low end grunt and imposing top end thrust.

We’ve had limited time to evaluate the Maverick thus far, but this vehicle is so impressive we’re quite literally blown away by its arrival but we do not have a PR unit on the ground.

The Mavericks we drove in Nevada were all pre-production models, so here’s where we sit with the all-new, mind boggling, 101-horsepower Maverick. It is fast and powerful beyond description.

It is amazingly competent off-road – so competent we predict it will quickly occupy a lofty place in this fast growing segment.

We couldn’t give it the BIC this year because we simply have not had enough time with a full-on production vehicle. Stay tuned. This will get interesting.

TWO WHEELS OR FOUR?

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There’s been this weird division in the offroad world where dirt bike guys and ATV guys can’t seem to see eye-to-eye, but how many of our ATV/UTV riders here actually own a dirt bike as well?

Seems there’s more prejudice from the 2-wheelers towards the quad community than there is the other way around, but why?

It’s strange as there are lots of ATVers that have 2-wheelers themselves to do cross training and to help with fitness goals for racing or simply to get out and have a different experience on a motorized vehicle. Doug Eichner for example, was known for pre-running the Baja 1000 course on his Honda dirt bike.

I started riding dirt bikes way before the 4-wheelers came around in the mid eighties and it’s really how I came to love the offroad.

I personally own an old school 2002 Yamaha YZ125, which is way too small for me, but displacement wise it has explosive power and I love it. I haven’t had the chance to ride it nearly as much as I’d like lately, but it doesn’t mean I don’t value it and it sure as heck doesn’t mean I’d snarl at an ATVer on the trail if I was riding it.

Not really sure why there’s this animosity between our two segments. Makes me think of an old saying that still rings true – Can’t we all just get along?

MOTOVAN OGIO’S Canadian Powersports Distributor

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Motovan Corporation, Canada’s leading distributor of Powersports parts and accessories, adds another outstanding brand to its offering. From now on, throughout its dealer network, Motovan will be able to share the unique benefits that Ogio offers.

With a wide range of backpacks, travel bags and kit bags infused with multiple functions, Ogio creates products ideal for Motorcycle, MX, ATV and Snowmobilers. Founded in 1987, Ogio alone revolutionized the design of powersports bags.

Motovan is proud to be the new distributor of OGIO’S products. “For Motovan to add a recognized brand such as Ogio will no doubt lead to a successful partnership!” Says Michael Paladino, Marketing Director of Motovan; “This addition is consistent with Motovan’s quest of becoming a one stop shop for our dealers. Ogio products complement our extensive offering perfectly.”

Furthermore, Motovan will be exhibiting at the Motorcycle shows in 2013 throughout Canada, starting with the one in Calgary from January 4th to January 6th.

About Motovan Corporation – Motovan focuses on building and maintaining the largest Canadian dealer network, strong leadership and customer service excellence. These key elements, paired with exclusive Canadian distribution rights on some of the most prestigious brands recognised in the powersports industry are what have ensured Motovan’s position as the industry leader for the past 30+ years.

All reference material, catalogs, industry information and product features can all be found on-line for your convenience at: www.motovan.com.