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BEST IN CLASS: Mid Range Sport Utility

Winner: Yamaha Grizzly 550

Yamaha has been gaining ground in the critical areas of both ride and handling with the new Grizzly chassis. We saw it first in the 700 FI and now the 550 FI has done the same thing to our perception of Yamaha ATV’s ride and handling.

In our annual 550 Shootout the Grizz 550 took top honors for ride quality against formidable competition. Handling is still just a touch of sway control away from class leading, however, the inherent goodness of this package is hard to resist.

Power emanating from the grunt-laden 550 EFI mill is simply stunning. Picking your way over gnarly trails or opening it up on fire roads, this is a superb engine and tranny combo.

The availability of Electronic Power Steering on the 550 is a great idea and transforms the light and nimble Grizz into an easy-to-ply rough trail wonder for women and less experienced riders.

Yamaha is onto something here and the market knows it. Yamaha’s sales in this segment are strong and the Grizz 550 is the reason.

RUNNERS UP

Polaris Sportsman 550 XP

Yeah we know, the 550 XP won our 550 shootout earlier this year. So why isn’t it the top runner in the BIC awards? In a word, it’s the motor.

For sure we love the XP chassis and all its many features and innovations. To deny the XP is the most sophisticated platform in the ATV biz would be stupid.

However, two issues kept coming up on the 550 XP – idle and low RPM throbbing. Every other area of performance from the Sportsman 550 verifies it is in a league of its own.

Suzuki 500 KingQuad

Suzuki set us back on our heels this year with this potent ride. The amazing power output of this 500cc 4-valve EFI single left us reeling.

This is clearly an overachieving motor from a company famous for building exceptional off-road 4-stroke engines. The King Quad didn’t quite make BIC status for a couple of simple-to-fix issues.

First, the KQ’s rear suspension needs recalibration to allow for more bump absorption. Secondly, Suzuki needs to re-think its incredibly silly diff-lock RPM limiter.

Other than these issues, this is one strong contender in this segment and it gives away 50cc’s doing it!

BEST IN CLASS: Big Bore Sport/Utility

Winner: Polaris Sportsman 850 XP

Polaris’s calling card in the ATV biz has always been innovation. The first with CVTs, the first to popularize IRS, the first with full floorboards, the first with true shiftable 4×4 – the list goes on.

Last year Polaris re-invented the Sportsman from tip-to-tail. The XP incorporates more newer, fresher thinking than anything else in the Sport-Ute segment in years.

Its longitudinally mounted motor and CVT narrows the rider’s perch while delivering a powerful and throaty 850cc wallop. True, shiftable 4×4 with Active Descent control is the standard by which others must be judged.

The all-new short/long arm double A-arm front end takes Polaris to a new level in ride and handling. Rolled IRS is so plush we had to rate it near flawless. Available brushless power steering takes steering control up a notch, too.

While the Big Bore segment is full of strong players, The Sportsman 850 XP clearly stands out.

RUNNERS UP

Can-Am Outlander 800

Can-Am has been at or near the top of this segment with its formidable 800cc V-twin powered Outlander the past three years. For 2010 BRP has made Dynamic Power Steering available on 800s with the XT package. This move shoots Can-Am ahead, in our critical eye, more than just a notch.

The only nagging issue we’ve had with the mighty 800 OL has been somewhat quirky steering feel and persistent handlebar whip. With DPS now available on 2010 Outlanders, we have virtually nothing, save the Outlander’s squawky front binders, to complain about.

Yamaha Grizzly 700 FI

Yamaha sells impressive numbers of the recently renovated Grizzly 700 for good reason. This is an outstanding ATV that handles and rides better than anything Yamaha has built to date.

We appreciate the gargantuan torque of the 700’s EFI single but, when it’s all said and done, we can see how the smoothness and stronger top end of a multi-cylinder mill is attracting more and more attention to the competition’s showrooms.

Well-thought-out ergonomics, predictable handling and common sense functionality of every system on the Grizz keeps it near the top of the Big Bore segment in 2010.

Dirt Trax Test Rides 2009 Polaris Sportsman XP EPS

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Luke Lester shares his thoughts and opinions about Polaris’ 850 Sportsman XP with electronic power steering.

Check out Dirt Trax Television’s YouTube page for more Test Rides at YouTube.com/dirttraxtv.

Click here to purchase you own DVD set of the Dirt Trax Television season!

SUZUKI LAUNCHES 2011 KingQuad 500AXi PS

American Suzuki is proud to announce the addition of two new models to the Suzuki ATV line up; the 2010 KingQuad 450AXi 4X4 and an early look at the 2011 KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering.

Suzuki has carefully planned the introduction of each and every new machine to the market according to dealer inventory levels and a stabilizing ATV industry.

“We are excited to see the industry stabilizing and moving in the right direction.” Said Steve Bortolamedi, Senior Communications Manager at American Suzuki. “With that, we are excited to introduce more 2010 product and the beginning of our 2011 product line. We feel we have taken the proper steps to release the right product at the right time for our dealers, and ultimately, our customers.” He added. “Our manufacturing facility in Atlanta, GA is getting geared up for a busy year, because these two new class leading units are just the beginning of what is to comprise a robust line-up of Suzuki ATVs, and both of these exciting new machines will be hitting dealer floors this July/August.”

2010 KingQuad 450 AXi 4X4

The Suzuki KingQuad 450AXi stands out in many areas, making it an excellent all-around performer in its class. For 2010, the KingQuad 450AXi will now be available in Suzuki’s famous Champion Yellow in addition to Great Blue and White.

With its class-leading electronic fuel-injection, the 450AXi’s powerful 454cc engine boasts immediate acceleration and plenty of torque to get the job done.

The KingQuad 450AXi features fully adjustable independent suspension, a locking front differential and a sealed, multi-plate rear brake system. A convenient handlebar-mounted push-button control allows the rider to easily select between 2WD, 4WD and differential-lock 4WD.

Some of the other top-line features include digital instrumentation including LCD readouts for speedometer, odometer, twin tripmeters, hour meter, clock, fuel gauge, driving range position and drive mode.

There is also LED indicator lamps for high, low, neutral, reverse and drive — 2WD/4WD and differential-locked 4WD. And looks do matter when it comes to the 2010 KingQuad 450Axi. This machine sports stylish 30W multi-reflector halogen headlights, and a sleek yet compact tail light and brake light.

A high output magneto generator system and large 18-amp maintenance-free battery provides auxiliary power. The MSRP for the 2010 KingQuad 450AXi is $6,999.

2011 KingQuad 500 AXi Power Steering

The 2011 KingQuad 500 AXi Power Steering boasts loads of features that make it the ultimate workhorse to tackle tough jobs. The Advanced Electric Power Steering system gives the KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering light steering and responsive handling.

The KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering is equipped with a powerful 493cc, SOHC, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine with a compact 4-valve cylinder head with large intake valves and straight intake ports for increased cylinder charging efficiency.

This class-leading engine is designed to provide strong, reliable performance. The lightweight aluminum cylinder bore is electro-plated with Suzuki’s own race proven SCEM (Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material) for improved heat transfer and tighter piston clearance. Suzuki’s world-renowned fuel injection system provides excellent throttle response, fuel efficiency and quick engine starts under all operating conditions.

The KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering features a winch-ready chassis with flexible tube routing for wiring from winch mounting space to under the seat.

The independent double A-arm front suspension includes fully adjustable large diameter shock absorbers for a comfortable ride. New for 2011, the KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering features new black rims and wrinkle paint on the front bumper and luggage racks for increased durability and scratch resistance.

The 2011 KingQuad 500Axi Power Steering comes in Champion Yellow and Great Blue. The MSRP for the 2011 KingQuad 500AXi Power Steering is $7,999.

Dirt Days Offer Late Spring Experience

The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System will host its fourth annual “Dirt Days” event at Logan’s Thunder Blast Park, June 9 – 13. The popular 3-Mile curve location will offer a range of events and prizes sure to please the entire family.

A mud pit, drag racing, and poker runs return, along with non-riding events like a ‘Texas hold-em’ tournament, miniature golf competitions and a karaoke challenge. Many of Hatfield-McCoy’s sponsors will be on hand with brand new machines to exhibit and demonstrate.

Polaris is donating a Sportsman 500 ATV to be presented to one of the first 250 persons to register. Participants can also register and compete for more than $1,000 worth of other prizes. Dirt Days packages start at just $89 and include a range of options. Those registering by May 15 will receive a free Dirt Days 2010 T-shirt.

For a complete rundown of the Dirt Days packages and events, visit Trail Events at www.trailsheaven.com, or call Hatfield-McCoy Trails at 1-800-592-2217.

The Hatfield-McCoy Trial System was created by the West Virginia Legislature to generate economic development through tourism in nine southern West Virginia counties. It currently operates six systems with more than 500 miles of trails. Each system is open 365 days a year to ATVs, dirt bikes, select utility vehicles (UTVs), mountain bikes, horses, and hikers. Many of the trail systems also offer community connecting trails that allow visitors to access “ATV-friendly towns” to experience the charm of southern West Virginia.

Dirt Trax Test Rides 2009 DS 450 MX

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Luke Lester puts some air under the tires of Can-Am’s 2009 DS 450 MX.

Check out Dirt Trax Television’s YouTube page for more Test Rides at YouTube.com/dirttraxtv.

Click here to purchase you own DVD set of the Dirt Trax Television season!

Dirt Trax Test Rides 2009 Arctic Cat 550 H1 LE

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Luke Lester hits the trails on Arctic Cat’s 2009 mid class monster.

Check out Dirt Trax Television’s YouTube page for more Test Rides at YouTube.com/dirttraxtv.

Click here to purchase you own DVD set of the Dirt Trax Television season!

Can-Am Heads to ATV National After Winning Weekend

Team Motoworks / Can-Am heads to Danville, Virginia this weekend looking to claim its first Pro-class victory of the young AMA ATV Motocross Nationals season. This after Can-Am had an extremely successful weekend of racing in the GNCC, WORCS and NEATV-MX race series.

“Last weekend saw strong performances and wins for our Can-Am ATV racers,” says Jimmie O’Dell, Racing Manager for Can-Am ATVs at BRP. “We look to continue that momentum heading into the Birch Creek national this coming weekend.”

Team Warnert / Can-Am swept all the 4×4 classes at the Loretta Lynn GNCC race last weekend near Hurricane Mills, Tenessee. While in the Pro class, XC1 racer Adam McGill piloted his Can-Am DS 450 EFI ATV to a strong second place showing in easily the muddiest race of the season.

Out west, the Team Motoworks / Can-Am WORCS team tackled the Adelanto, California race with a strong showing on the Pro-class podium. Josh Frederick and Jeremie Warnia each piloted their DS 450 ATVs to second and third respectively.

Finally, at the NEATV-MX opener near Wallkill, New York, the Pro class saw Can-Am DS 450 racers take an unprecedented five of the top six spots in the class. Can-Am X-Team racer Richard Pelchat and Motoworks / Can-Am racer Joe Haavisto rounded out the Pro podium with a second- and a third-place showing.

BRIMSTONE WHITE KNUCKLE 2010

Press Release –

More than 5,000 OHV riders from multiple states and countries will gather in Scott County, TN for the annual White Knuckle Event to enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere and competitive events.

The White Knuckle Event is Brimstone’s spring main event held annually on Memorial Day. Branded as the “hold on tight” event of the year, we attract off-road enthusiasts from all over North America.

The event is poised to become the “Woodstock of ATV and SXS Events” going on its fourth year with off-road enthusiasts attendance doubling each year.

The event will take place on May 28-30, 2010 at Brimstone Recreation. There will be guided rides with local trail masters, kid’s zone, and a moonshine run. Additional activities include mud bogs, sled pulls, ladies dash for cash, and pole bending.

Friday will kick off with easy, moderate, and difficult guided rides, and end with a meet and greet here in the Huntsville Town Square.

Saturday will start off with the competitive events and end with a live concert by Rhett Akins at the Half Cabin Event area.

The Moonshine Run will bring the event to a close on Sunday evening. And don’t forget the manufacturer demo areas where you can get a feel for the latest machines from Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Can-Am.

“The 2010 White Knuckle Event is going to be our best event yet,” said Brimstone’s Executive Director, Mark Love. “Brimstone Recreation is proud to be teaming up with Yamaha, Tamarack, Grand Vista, Elka Suspension, and GBC Tires in presenting their White Knuckle Event this year,” said Mark Love.

Here’s a look at the 2009 White Knuckle Event by the numbers:

– In 2009, approximately 5,000 attended the event activities over the weekend.
– Over 205 people participated in the competitive events at the Half Cabin Event Area.
– Four thousand people attended the live country concert on the mountain.

For more information about the White Knuckle Event 2010 please visit www.whiteknuckleevent.com. Check back frequently for updated event and sponsor information.

CAN-AM INCHES CLOSER AT AMA ATV MX

Press Release –

Can-Am / Motoworks DS 450 racer John Natalie took the Pro-class holeshot of moto one at this weekend’s AMA ATV Motocross National near Bowling Green, KY and led the entire race from start to finish.

This combined with being the fastest qualifier for the weekend proved Natalie was ready for an overall win.

In moto two, Natalie started right where he left off jumping to third early in the moto and looking to move up. However, a mechanical issue early in the race ended his chances at the overall, forcing him to settle for eight overall for the weekend.

Teammate, Chad Wienen had an impressive ride in the second moto, chasing down the current national champion and passing him on the closing stages of the moto. That impressive pass put Wienen in third, which was good enough for fourth overall on the day.

“This past weekend, the team proved that it has the speed to contend for the championship; we are very confident that we will be ready for the next round in Danville,” says Jimmie O’Dell, Racing Manager for Can-Am ATVs at BRP. “Our team and riders have been working hard and I’m very impressed with their determination and desire to win.”

Four-Stroke B class amateur, Chase Henry, took the weekend overall winning the class on his DS 450.

Cole Henry, who is the older brother of Chase, took second overall in Production A on his DS 450, and finished in the top five of the Pro-Am Unlimited class.

Mark Gehring rode his DS 450 to the Open B class overall winning both his heat race and the main. Merrill Crose finished second in the Vet A 30+ class and Nicole Gates was second in the Women’s C class.

Quotes

“I can’t wait for Danville. They have a really good pro section and I plan on picking up right where I left off on moto one with a win!” – John Natalie

“I’m hoping for a good race at Danville. I had a good race there last year and I’m hoping it goes well again this time. I’m just going to ride smart, try to get good starts and stay consistent.” – Chad Wienen

“I am really excited for Danville. That is my home track, so we will have a lot of support from friends and family there and I really want to take the win for all of them and my team.” – Cole Henry

The next round in the series is May 1-2 at Birch Creek Motorsports near Danville, VA.

For more information on Can-Am racing, the entire 2010 schedule, the 2010 contingency program and DS 450 amateur racer support program, please visit www.can-amxteam.com.