Home Blog Page 294

POLARIS INTRODUCES RANGER RZR XP 900

0

RANGER RZR Introduces a Whole New Class of Side x Side

To ring in the New Year, the RANGER RZR family welcomes a whole new class of Side x Side, introducing the RANGER RZR XP 900!

The RANGER RZR has the only family of Sport Side x Sides with Razor Sharp Performance for all types of recreation. It all started in 2008 when Polaris introduced the only trail-capable Side x Side, the RANGER RZR 800.

In 2009, came the only true-sport Side x Side, the RANGER RZR S 800. With the introduction of the RANGER RZR 4 800 in 2010, Polaris introduced the world’s only four-seat sport Side-by-Side.

For 2011, the family adds the RANGER RZR XP 900, a whole new class of Side x Side that continues to offer the ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility and takes it to the extreme.

Built for razor-sharp, Xtreme performance, the RANGER RZR XP 900 has a new 88 horsepower, 900 Twin, Electronic Fuel Injected (EFI) engine, a new 3-Link Trailing Arm Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) with 13-inches of ground clearance and 14-inches of travel, and is light weight with a low center of gravity for unmatched cornering. These features make the RANGER RZR XP 900 the only extreme performance Side x Side on the market.

“The RANGER RZR family delivers the ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility,” said Matt Homan, vice president and general manager of Polaris’ Off-Road Vehicles Division. “When we set out to design the RANGER RZR XP 900, we wanted to create a ground-breaking, high performance vehicle to complement our current, best-selling RANGER RZR line. The result is simply incredible.”

The ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility starts with power. At the heart of the RANGER RZR XP 900 is the all-new, 88 horsepower ProStar 900 Twin EFI engine that was built specifically for an extreme-performance Side x Side.

The engine features Dual OverHead Cams (DOHC), four big valves per cylinder and a 180-degree crankshaft for balanced performance and fast throttle response for groundbreaking acceleration. The combination of 88 horsepower with the vehicle’s light weight provides acceleration that is 29-percent quicker than the next quickest Side x Side on the market.

To complement the potent power plant, the RANGER RZR XP 900 features an all-new, lightweight, compact and durable transmission, also designed specifically for extreme Side x Side performance.

Efficiency has been maximized by eliminating all right angle drives to the rear axle resulting in less friction and more power delivered directly to the rear wheels. And, the simple and efficient design also provides a very quiet transmission.

In order to handle the massive power of the new engine and keep the ride smooth, Polaris designed the all-new, 3-Link Trailing Arm IRS.

The 3-link design consists of two extra-long radius rods and a far forward-connecting trailing arm resulting in a strong, yet lightweight system. The RANGER RZR XP 900 also is outfitted with adjustable, premium 2-inch body Fox Podium X 2.0 shocks.

Its monstrous 14-inches of terrain-absorbing rear travel and 13.5-inches of front travel soak up the rough stuff and deliver a smooth, precise ride, while its astounding 13-inches of ground clearance gives the machine the ability to tackle any obstacle in its way.

For razor-sharp agility, RANGER RZR XP 900 has no equal. Even with its incredible ground clearance, the unit still features a low center of gravity for the ultimate ride over rough terrain. The patented, engine-behind-the-seat design and rear weight bias deliver extreme, razor-sharp agility and performance, while the race-inspired rear suspension maximizes traction and power in the corners.

To provide precise cornering, the suspension’s radius rods extend deep into the wheel hubs and feature an uneven link geometry that optimizes camber.

Tires lean into the corner through the suspension travel, and plant more tire surface on the ground for maximum control. The trailing arms also minimize wheel scrub for superior straight-away power to help the driver stay true to line.

A premium vehicle needs premium features, and the RANGER RZR XP 900 has many. The machine features the industry’s first factory LED headlights that shine a high-intensity beam to turn night into day and throw light forward beyond conventional halogens.

For ultimate stopping power, the RANGER RZR XP 900 has performance brake calipers and large diameter, ventilated rotors on all four wheels.

To complement the new suspension, the RANGER RZR XP 900 is outfitted with completely adjustable Fox Podium X 2.0 shocks on all four wheels. The Fox Podium X 2.0 shocks have a 2-inch body with piggyback reservoirs that provide adjustable pre-load and compression dampening.

For high performance riding, ITP 900 XCT tires provide a unique, directional lug pattern for exceptional cornering and straight-line traction capabilities.

To maximize cooling capacity, the unit features a massive grill opening and a front air dam for improved air flow. For safety, the RANGER RZR XP 900 has a certified roll-over protective structure (ROPS).

The RANGER RZR XP 900 is offered in Indy Red and a White Lightning limited edition model, and will be available at Polaris dealerships in January. More than 70 PURE Polaris accessories, including cargo boxes, winches and protection also will be available at launch.

2010 Yamaha Raptor 125 Test Ride

0

Luke Lester is out on the trails on Yamaha’s Raptor 125. Just wait and see how potent this small-bore race rocket really is!

Visit youtube.com/dirttraxtv for more great segments.

Custom GNCC Outlander Xxc Put To the Ultimate Endurance Test!

0

Get ready to witness AJ’s adrenaline-fuelled journey as he takes on the ultimate challenge in the Ironman GNCC two-hour endurance race riding his customized Can-Am Outlander X xc that he worked on in the Dirt Trax TRAIL TECH shop and fine-tuned with expertise from the Warnert Racing team.

New Report Shows Decline in ATV Related Fatalities

0

Industry Remains Committed to National Safety and Training Programs

All-terrain vehicle injuries involving youth under age 16 have declined a statistically significant 14 percent according to a report released today by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC 2009 Annual Report of ATV Deaths and Injuries”).

According to the CPSC, total ATV-related injuries in 2009 decreased 2.4 percent from 2008. The report also estimates the third consecutive decline in the total number of deaths in the three years 2006 through 2008 (2009 data collection is ongoing), a 16% decrease over that period.

The CPSC also reported that the risk of injury per 10,000 four-wheel ATVs in use declined by five percent from 2008 to 2009.

This is the eighth straight year that injury risk for ATV riders has decreased – a downward trend that the CPSC also describes as statistically significant – and it is now lower than at any time since CPSC began calculating this injury risk in 1985.

Four-wheel ATVs have become increasingly popular with the number of vehicles in use more than tripling since 1998 to over 10.5 million.

“The commitment of the member companies of the ATV Safety Institute (ASI) to rider education, parental supervision, and state legislation is reflected in the continued decline of ATV injuries and fatalities as reported by the CPSC,” said Paul Vitrano, executive vice president, ASI. “Since 1984, the major manufacturers and distributors of ATVs in the United States have worked closely with the CPSC to implement ongoing safety initiatives.”

In 2009, the industry’s voluntary ANSI/SVIA standard was made mandatory as a result of federal legislation.

The legislation requires all ATV manufacturers and distributors, regardless of where the product is manufactured (imported or U.S.), to adhere to the same safety standards and training programs established and followed by the ASI member companies for more than two decades.

This includes newer companies in the U.S. market that had previously elected not to participate in safety programs developed by established manufacturers and in some cases targeted inappropriate models to youth riders.

Under the legislation, all ATV manufacturers now must certify that their products conform to the mandatory standards, and file safety action plans with the CPSC.

“CPSC studies have found that approximately 90 percent of injuries to youth under 16 occur on adult-sized ATVs,” said Vitrano. “We will be redoubling our efforts in the new Congress to enact legislation as soon as possible to end the effective ban on the sale of youth model ATVs and motorcycles.”

The ATV industry is committed to the safety of its customers and will continue to promote and enhance its multi-tiered efforts to increase awareness of the proper operation and use of ATVs.

Unfortunately, more than 92% of ATV-related fatalities involve one or more behaviors that the industry strongly and visibly warns against in its rider education programs, in all its literature, and on the vehicles themselves.

To that end we urge all ATV enthusiasts and their families to follow the ATV Safety Institute’s Golden Rules:

1. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.

2. Never ride on paved roads except to cross when done safely and permitted by law – another vehicle could hit you. ATVs are designed to be operated off-highway.

3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV, and no more than one passenger on an ATV specifically designed for two people.

5. Ride an ATV that’s right for your age.

6. Supervise riders younger than 16; ATVs are not toys.

7. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.

8. Take a hands-on ATV RiderCourseSM; and the free online E-Course. Visit atvsafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute develops rider training programs and promotes the safe and responsible use of ATVs. The ASI works to reduce crashes and injuries resulting from improper ATV use. Formed in 1988, the ASI is a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourseSM nearest you, visit atvsafety.org or call 800.887.2887.

New Dates for Glen Helen Raceway Events

0

Glen Helen Raceway has announced that the final round of the 2010 Baja Cup Challenge Series and the ITP Six Hour Quad Endurance will now take place on January 8th-9th of 2011, after being forced to reschedule the events due to severe weather.

Fans and racers planning to attend the rescheduled races can expect excitement and thrills as Glen Helen kicks off another great year of racing action at Southern California’s premiere off-road racing facility!

Riders and drivers planning on participating in either event can pre-register online at www.glenhelen.com, or sign up on race-day. Camping space is available for racers who want to stay over and participate in both events.

Sunday’s ITP Six Hour Quad Endurance Race and the previously scheduled Old Timer’s MX race will run at the same time, with the MX running on the USGP track, and the quad race on a specially designed course that covers most of Glen Helen’s facility.

For the latest updates and discounts on events at Glen Helen Raceway, become a fan on facebook at www.facebook.com/glenhelenraceway

NEW ADDITION TO RZR FAMILY

0

Polaris teased our brains with a very cryptic posting on its website yesterday. Looks like the industry can expect something big in the Polaris RZR lineup to show its face on January 1st, 2011.

This has our heads spinning and wondering just what Polaris has up its sleeve, which we will speculate on after some further discussion.

Something of interest for any enthusiast though is the opportunity to win your very own Polaris Ranger RZR.

This one’s very easy, just click on one of the banners you see on this page or on the link below, fill in your contact info and click the “Submit Entry” button. No trick questions or convoluted forms to fill out, just sign up and you’re done.

This contest is worth a look even if Polaris isn’t your brand. Who wouldn’t appreciate new metal occupying prime real estate in their garage, right?!

Click here for contest details.

NEW STUFF FROM CAT REVEALED

0

Arctic Cat recently pulled the sheets off three new ATV models and the interesting part is these are completely new ATVs designed to nail segments the company has only dabbled with in the past.

Underlying this strategy is the desire Arctic Cat has to deliver ATVs that are fully equipped yet really affordable for the marketplace in the current economy.

The first segment covered is what Cat calls the “Crossover” market. ATVs in this category are targeted at the off-roader who wants the lightness and agility of a semi-sport quad but still wants to play in the mud. Certainly, fully featured 4-wheel drive is a must-have.

Next, Cat has targeted an area where it has had huge success in the past. Remember the big-selling, overachieving 366 4×4? Arctic Cat has expanded on this platform and kept the pricing low.

The new Arctic Cat 350 and 425 are slightly downsized sport utility ATVs with a full load of equipment including 4×4, Duramatic CVT trannies, independent front and rear suspensions and all the racks and utility features you need for getting to the hunt camp or just playing in the mud.

Never forget: The price is paramount here and these two deliver a ton of bang for low bucks.

We’ll be featuring each of these new models on atvmag.com over the next few days. Keep checking us out.

SuperClamp ATV Tie Down System

0

This is the new SuperClamp ATV tiedown system from the inventors of the original SuperClamp Snowmobile tie down.

No more straps to deal with, no more trying to find a spot to hook your tie downs, these clamp the tires at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions to secure your ATV or UTV.

Visit www.SuperClamp.net for more information.

My Brutally Honest GOOGLE Experiment

0

After my recent, glowing evaluation of Yamaha’s Raptor 125 some skeptics wrote me asking how honest my opinions of this ATV actually were. Was I just sucking up to an advertiser? What about all the other four-wheelers in this class?

It got me thinking. So I did what every discerning ATVer would do in this situation, I GOOGLED it. I started my experiment by typing in “Best 125cc ATV” into the GOOGLE search box.

I figured that for sure I’d find at least a handful of reports on the new Raptor. Wrongo. In fact the first recommended web page was a link to… wait for it… an off-shore ATV website that’s out of business! Does anyone get the irony here?

It seems to me that the Chinese ATV industry is more focused on getting its websites near the top of GOOGLE rankings than actually producing top quality ATVs in this class.

The first GOOGLE page is filled with links directing you to sites where you’ll apparently find the best 125cc ATV. Funny thing is, we’ve tested a bundle of the ATVs listed on these offshore websites and none of them deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as the Yamaha Raptor 125.

Furthermore, many of the 125cc ATVs found on these sites are of poor quality. Truthfully, I wouldn’t consider putting Justin Bieber on one of these things, let alone my own child. How’s that for honesty?

Take the following advice with a grain of salt:

If you can’t pronounce the name – it’s likely crap!
If you can buy it for under a grand – it’s likely crap!
If the seller won’t accept American cash – it’s likely crap!
If you can drive the living daylights out of it for 6 hours at a time – it’s likely a Yamaha Raptor 125!

Arctic Cat XC450i Enters Crossover Segment

0

The all-new 2011 XC450i 4×4 is a newentrant into a category Arctic Cat likes to call – Crossover.

This growing segment is for consumers who demand the capabilities of 4WD, but alsowant a sport-inspired ATVwithout the premiumprice.

Powered by the smooth, consistency of the potent 443cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, the XC has the ultimatemid-range performance via Electronic Fuel Injection that tunes the engine for any temperature, elevation and humidity no matterwhat the riding condition.

Dominating the trails is effortless via the ultra-tough, featherweight chassis featuring A-armfully independent rear suspension (FIS) and double A-armfront,with 5-way preload adjustable shocks and 7 inches of suspension travel.

A rear-mounted swaybar keeps the rear of the XC450i planted during aggressive cornering while ground clearance is an industry leading 10 inches so any performance trail rider can tackle gnarly terrain with confidence.

An electronic 2WD/4WD switch on the right hand controlmakes going in/out of 4WD an easy processwhile the sport inspired painted bodywork provides ample mud protection and is available in metallic black.

Standard equipment includes attractive, 12-inch cast aluminum wheels, 2-inch “automotive style” receiver hitch with a 1,050-lb. towing capacity, digital instrument pod and Start-In-Gear capability.

Visit www.arcticcat.com for more information.