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MotoSport Alloys Platoon M8

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Press Release –

Now you can color code match your factory blue, black and red plastics to your wheels with the new Platoon M8, one of many new styles by MSA featuring incredible new styling, a new engineered cap and backed by a full lifetime structural warranty.

The Platoon is available in a wide variety of fitments for all ATV manufacturers.

Available worldwide, get your hands on a set now.

The Platoon is available in the following sizes:

12×7” with a +10mm or –47 offset.
14×7” with a +10mm or –47 offset.

FITMENTS (Black):

4×110 | 4×115 | 4×137 | 4×156

FITMENTS (Red and Blue):

4×110 Only

Run one of the finest built, unique styles in the industry, run MotoSport Alloys. You have options. Color outside the lines.

The Patriot M9 and the rest of the MSA collection is online at www.motosportalloys.com or on myspace at www.myspace.com/motosportalloys

For the dealer nearest you call toll free (800) 734-4890.

Creagan and Prowler Begin 2009 On Podium

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Press Release –

Team Arctic racer Jim Creagan isn’t kidding when he calls the Arctic Prowler, “The toughest UTV in the desert.” At the opening round of the Best In The Desert (BITD) off-road series in Parker, Ariz., Creagan dusted off his team’s 700 XTX EFI that finished second in the Baja 1000 just two months ago, put a heavy foot on the gas and raced to a strong third place.

“This season our goal is to win the UTV class championship, which required a good finish at the Parker 250,” said Creagan. “We will campaign a Prowler 1000 XTZ in the remaining races, but it wasn’t ready for Parker. So we freshened up our Baja-worn 700, rode at the ragged edge and proved that we could once again put a stock Prowler against all the fully modified racers.”

In truth, Creagan and his team have little to prove in the rough world of off-road desert racing, having finished first and second in the side-by-side UTV class in the 2008 Baja 1000.

It marked the first time a UTV has ever finished the grueling race and highlighted the performance and durability of the race-winning Prowler 1000 XTZ, as well as the second-place Prowler 700 XTX EFI.

Creagan (of Yacott, Wash.) and his son (and co-driver) Tabor Cresap followed a very different strategy for the Parker 250 than they used at the Baja 1000.

“To finish 1000 miles of Baja, you have to ride smart and in control,” Creagan said. “Parker was a 170-mile sprint against fully modified machines with powered-up engines, aftermarket suspensions and long-travel kits. Our 700 XTX had a stock engine, stock chassis and stock suspension.

“So I put my foot down on the gas and rarely lifted during the entire race. The Parker course was typically brutal, with rocks, sand washes, high speed sections and technical areas. We were absolutely thrashing our machine, but there were no problems. It was just gas-and-go at the fuel stops.”

Creagan and Cresap finished the race in four hours and fifty-five minutes, thanks to their hard driving and expertly executed fuel stops by crew members Chris Fallon and Mark Vories.

Both driver and co-driver anticipate higher finishes at the six remaining BITD events, thanks to the higher top-speeds from their soon-to-be-complete Prowler 1000 XTZ.

“The 1000 XTZ will be fast enough to out-run our competitors’ modified machines,” said Creagan. “We’re optimistic about climbing a step or two up the podium.”

The team is sponsored by Arctic Cat, Wired Energy Drink, Vision X Lighting, GBC Motorsports and King Shocks.

Their next race is at the Terrible 250 in Primm, Nev., April 17-19.

About Arctic Cat – Arctic Cat Inc., based in Thief River Falls, Minn., designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and snowmobiles under the Arctic Cat® brand name, as well as related parts, garments and accessories. Its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ National Market under the ticker symbol “ACAT.” More information about Arctic Cat and its products is available on the Internet at www.arcticcat.com.

Yamaha Reaches Milestone For Ducks Unlimited

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Press Release –

Yamaha Leadership in Outdoors Promotes Conservation and Access for Hunting and Recreation

Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., has reached a significant milestone supporting hunting and wetland conservation through a long-standing relationship with Ducks Unlimited (DU).

As an official licensee of DU since 2004, Yamaha Outdoors has contributed more than $1 million in support of DU’s wetland conservation efforts.

“Yamaha is more involved in the outdoors industry than any other ATV manufacturer, and that’s because of our commitment to the people who use our products,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s ATV/Side by Side (SxS) group marketing manager. “We’re proud of our long-standing relationships with important organizations like DU and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). This $1 million mark with DU is symbolic of Yamaha’s commitment to outdoorsmen, habitat preservation, and to keeping lands safe and open for hunting and recreation.”

Yamaha has supported DU on a number of levels over the past five years including cash and product contributions.

Additionally, Yamaha offers special edition DU models which include the top-selling Grizzly 700 FI ATV and Rhino 700 FI SxS vehicle. For every DU-Edition Yamaha vehicle sold, a portion of the sale is contributed to DU for conservation efforts.

“Our partnership with Yamaha is truly a model program and one of the most integrated partnerships that DU has,” said Jim Alexander, DU director of licensing. “Yamaha’s support of DU stretches from local grassroots events to the retailing of DU Special Edition Grizzlies and Rhinos. We are proud to recognize Yamaha for over $1 million in contributions to DU’s ongoing conservation efforts across North America. Corporate support is vital to the success of our conservation mission, and Yamaha is leading the way.”

In addition to DU, Yamaha supports the NSSF, Safari Club International, the National Rifle Association, Buckmasters, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and National Hunting and Fishing Day, and continues to be a leader in the off-road community by promoting conservation, safe and responsible OHV riding access, and introducing new generations to the outdoors.

BEST IN CLASS AWARDS: Best UTV

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WINNER: Arctic Cat Prowler 550 Flat Deck

Yet again the Arctic Cat Prowler takes charge and pulls out on top. The new 550 Flat Deck takes Prowler work-ability to a whole new level.

A new EFI equipped 550cc mill runs strong and pulls hard and the new electronic diff switch makes getting out of almost anything even easier.

The flat deck feature means that more people can do more things with this versatile UTV, and with a two and a half inch lower loading height, the flat deck is easier to drag stuff onto.

Opt for the wooden side stake inserts and you can still keep untied cargo safe.

When it comes to hauling a big load, the super strong steel deck is ready for the task with a tough perimeter frame and big bracing.

We love this UTV because it’s priced right and opens up the market to floods of new people and possibilities.

RUNNERS-UP: Polaris RZR S, Yamaha Rhino 700

POLARIS: If we had a class called Best Sport UTV, the RZR S is so out front it would require us to create a third category.

This buggy-like off-roader has the showroom appeal of a Ferrari and the behind-the-wheel thrill of a fully prepped pre-runner truck. Its 800HO mill delivers 30 percent more power than the stock RZR, and, yes, it’s definitely noticeable.

Stretched out suspension with Fox Podium gas shocks and huge tires provide a 10-inch wider stance and incredible ground clearance. If you’re looking strictly for sport, there’s nothing better.

RHINO: The Rhino suits the balance between work and play like no other UTV.

Multiple option packages will take you from a hardcore outdoorsman to a tricked-out desert rider in style while still retaining your factory warranty.

Typical Yamaha classy execution and tight engineering make the Rhino experience seamless while blingy features like LED taillights, chrome shift knobs and piggyback shocks will satisfy the most demanding off-roader.

Add to this its potent 700 EFI mill and you’ve got a sporty ride that can still work the yard, farm or construction site.

BEST IN CLASS AWARDS: Best 2-Up ATV

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WINNER: Can-Am Outlander Max 800R LTD

We neglected this category last year but the popularity of 2-up riding is rapidly growing and we think there should be some kudos spread around.

Can-Am invented this category and the company’s understanding of what consumers want is impressive.

In this case, the consumer gets everything: A powerful EFI 800 V-twin, amazing Visco-Lok auto locking differential, a 3000 lb winch on the Max LTD and enough comfort to satisfy a constipated retiree from Miami.

There’s an unmistakable, confidence-inspiring overall feeling as far as balance and maneuverability goes with Can-Am’s 2-uppers in every engine configuration.

The beauty of this product is it offers complete satisfaction whether being ridden with one person or two.

This year, a more powerful, upgraded engine and a bulletproof CVT makes the experience even more satisfying.

RUNNERS-UP: Polaris Sportsman Touring, Arctic Cat TRV 1000 H2 Cruiser

SPORTSMAN: If it were all about ride, the Sportsman would win hands down. Its rolled IRS offers the driver and passenger incredible comfort and its list of amenities is right there with the competition.

Frankly, you can’t go wrong with any of the three choices in this class and the Touring is a perfect example of an ATV that offers virtually everything a family can ask for in a 2-upper. We’re especially hooked on the extra storage area under the front rack.

ARCTIC CAT: Talk about the ultimate 2-up experience! The 1000 Cruiser is likely the fastest way to go off-road on an ATV with two people and offers an elaborate menu of comfort features including a full fairing with, get this, built-in cup holders for the driver.

Included are driver and passenger adjustable handwarmers, special storage areas and an incredibly comfortable 2-up seat. This 4-wheeler is like a big comfy couch with retro rockets underneath. Truly unique!

BEST IN CLASS AWARDS: Best Value ATV

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WINNER: Polaris Sportsman 500HO

Value is tough to quantify. Is it just about price? Hmm. If something is cheap and has little or no appeal, does it really represent good value?

The Sportsman 500 wins this class because it delivers true, gold plated value. Yes, the price is right but its equipment list is staggering.

Not only that but it rides, performs and handles like ATVs costing much more.

You could argue it’s now old technology, moved onto the back shelf by the new Sportsman XP series and it’s carbureted in lieu of EFI. Fact is, this 4-wheeler offers some other equipment the competition has yet to match.

True 4WD with auto-locking hubs, composite racks with great built-in storage, incredible ride compliance and a legendary 500cc powerplant are all part of the deal.

When the rubber hits the trail, it’s tough to beat the Sportsman 500. Go ahead; count the green still left in your wallet.

RUNNERS-UP: Arctic Cat 366 4×4, Honda TRX Rancher 4×4

ARCTIC CAT: The Arctic Cat 366 follows the same formula to get a very high value rating: Lots of premium features and a price that impresses.

Its slightly smaller dimensions make it a hit with young riders and women.

Although its engine output isn’t in the same league as a 500, it’s a tough grunter that works extremely well in harmony with its excellent 4×4 system and IRS to deliver great utility and more important… tons of fun!

HONDA: Over the years no other manufacturer has produced as many legendary models as Honda.

The company’s record of reliable service and great trade-in has simply been unparalleled.

The TRX Rancher is a stellar example of this kind of long term value. It features a class leading liquid cooled 420cc single with EFI and an excellent 4WD system.

Although it does not offer IRS, its fair pricing is a reflection of the market it targets.

BEST IN CLASS AWARDS: Best Trail Sport ATV

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Polaris Outlaw 525 IRS

Staying true to last year’s BIC pick, the independently suspended, KTM powered Outlaw returns for an encore.

While the Sport ATV Trail class is flooded with great products, nothing else compares to the capabilities the Outlaw IRS system offers buyers in this segment.

Its incredibly potent KTM powerplant is aggressive enough to counter-rotate the earth.

It’s interesting to note the KTM mill does not have EFI but still delivers a copious reservoir of muscle over a broad powerband.

The IRS system displays an appealing tendency to remain stiff when playing on the track then softening when ridden hard on trails where independent wheel action is really needed.

With a large list of bodywork tweaks and ergo changes for 2009, we’re confident Polaris will continue to dominate with this IRS equipped sport rooster.

RUNNERS-UP: Yamaha Raptor 700 EFI, Honda 700XX EFI

RAPTOR: Arguably the original Sport Trail ATV, the Raptor has seen more consecutive years of sales dominance than any other Sport Class ATV currently built.

Year to year changes and, more recently, a total overhaul, including an EFI mill, have kept the Raptor at the top of the sales and popularity charts.

A commitment to quality without compromise has made the Raptor legendary for resale appeal and overall durability.

Continuing to push the envelope, Yamaha offers the Raptor in SE trim, netting trick graphics, better shocks and other cool amenities.

HONDA: A 700 EFI sport ride with IRS? Yep, that got our attention. While the initial suspension calibration didn’t turn us on too much, the style in which only Honda can execute an idea did.

Typically, the handling here is precise and predictable. Amazing quality, perfect fit and finish are the starting point for a wild, multi-tasking sport ATV.

An ultra stiff anti-sway bar and an oversprung rear end lends the XX more to high speed track and dune riding than playriding and long distance trail excursions.

POLL RESULTS

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Our last poll asked you what your choice for Best In Class Big Bore Sport Ute would be. From 449 entries, the results were as follows:

39.42% – Polaris Sportsman 850 XP (177 votes)
25.17% – Yamaha Grizzly 700 with EPS (113 votes)
21.83% – Can-Am Outlander 800R (98 votes)
13.59% – Suzuki KingQuad 750AXi (61 votes)

Take part in our latest poll:

My choice for Best In Class Mid-Range Sport Ute is:

1. Yamaha Grizzly 550FI no votes
2. Polaris Sportsman 550XP no votes
3. Suzuki KingQuad 450 no votes

SPOT Assist Satellite-Based Roadside GPS

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Press Release –

Consumers Can Now Benefit From the Safety and Peace-of-Mind Associated Satellite-based Roadside Service over the Inherent Limitations of Cellular-Based Offerings

SPOT LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globalstar Inc. (NASDAQ: GSAT) and a leader in personal satellite messaging and emergency communications, today announced SPOT Assist, a new roadside GPS safety service for its award-winning SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger.

SPOT Assist offers the world’s only roadside assistance that operates solely on satellite technology for virtually seamless coverage independent of cellular networks.

SPOT is showcasing its products and new services this week at the Consumer Electronics Show in booth number 5218 in the Tech Zone located in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SPOT Assist’s roadside service will offer complete 24 hour assistance 7 days a week in the Continental United States and Canada later this spring. By simply activating SPOT Assist with the “Help” button on the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger, users can instantly alert a national roadside response center of their GPS location.

Backed by a leading provider of national roadside assistance, SPOT Assist services include roadside towing, auto-accident assistance, fuel services, tire repair, battery service, lost key and lockout.

Unlike conventional services, such as OnStar, that relay positioning through cellular networks, SPOT Assist combines a GPS receiver with satellite communications technologies to deliver location-based messaging independent of cellular coverage.

The SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger is a small, rugged and hand-held GPS unit that can access a world-wide satellite network system to keep you connected virtually anywhere you roam. The SPOT Assist roadside service is expected to be available in other countries later in 2009.

“Our customers have been using SPOT primarily off-road and outside of cellular range to check-in with loved ones or to get help in a real emergency resulting in increased safety and security for outdoor enthusiasts,” said Tom Colby, COO of Globalstar and President of SPOT LLC. “SPOT Assist is an innovative extension of the SPOT product portfolio, and represents one more in a growing list of ways in which SPOT is continuing to deliver services that help to ensure the personal safety and security of our customers around the world at a very modest cost.”

Now with SPOT Assist roadside service, SPOT customers can benefit from a complete GPS safety system which includes four functions that transmit messages based on varying levels of need:

. Help notifies the SPOT Assist roadside response center or others of your GPS location
. Check In lets contacts know where you are and that you are okay
. Track Progress sends and saves your location and allows contacts to track your progress using Google MapsT
. Alert 9-1-1 notifies an emergency rescue coordination center of your GPS location

Since its introduction in December 2007, the SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger has helped initiate close to 100 rescues, many which resulted in lives saved, and has transmitted more than 5 million “peace-of-mind” and “track me” messages world-wide.

SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger retails for $169.99 SRP Customers will be able to purchase SPOT Assist for $129.99 per year at www.findmespot.com. SPOT Assist will include national roadside assistance and unlimited basic SPOT service including Check-in and 9-1-1 emergency response messaging. SPOT Assist is scheduled to be available for purchase in spring 2009.

About SPOT LLC The SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger, the world’s first satellite messenger, uses both the GPS satellite network to determine a customer’s location and the SPOT network to transmit that information to friends, family or an emergency service center. SPOT LLC., a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. (NASDAQ: GSAT), provides lifesaving communications technology that allows users to communicate from remote locations around the globe. Thanks to this affordable, cutting-edge personal safety device, the company offers people peace of mind by allowing customers to notify friends and family of their location and status, and to send for emergency assistance in time of need, completely independent of cellular phone or wireless coverage. For more information on how SPOT LLC is helping users live to tell about it (SM) – from disaster preparedness to outdoor adventure purposes – visit www.findmespot.com.

JOHN DEERE TO INTRODUCE SPECIAL EDITION GATOR

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Press Release –

Midnight Black and Metallic Silver Editions Available in January 2009

This month John Deere will add to its award-winning family of Gator™ utility vehicles by introducing two unique, special edition model XUVs. The Special Edition XUV 620i models are offered in either Midnight Black or Metallic Silver.

“With the release of these special edition models we are meeting the demand from a growing audience of outdoor enthusiasts, interested in custom vehicles,” said Kevin Lund, utility vehicle group product marketing manager for John Deere. “These new models provide our customers with unique vehicles they can further customize, depending on how they use their vehicle and what they want their vehicle to say about them. John Deere utility vehicle dealers are a great resource to understand all of the options and accessories available to our customers that make these vehicles their own.”

The Midnight Black features a carbon-fiber pattern that is professionally applied through the exclusive Final Finish® process for a long lasting and realistic appearance on the hood and steering wheel cover.

It also sports premium SLX polymer high gloss black fenders that deliver an automotive painted look in a mold-through color that has superior UV fading and mar resistance. The Metallic Silver Edition includes automotive quality paint on the hood, fenders, cargo box and tailgate.

The new special edition models also feature five-spoke alloy wheels, special 21 inch high-back sport seats, billet aluminum controls and a special edition nameplate on the front fenders.

Custom options include adventure lights, a high-performance slip-on exhaust, a heavy-duty brush guard, heavy-duty fender guards, several windshield options and more!

The Gator XUV 620i is the most advanced and performance-oriented Gator utility vehicle ever produced. It has true 4WD, electronic fuel injection and independent rear suspension for a high quality comfortable ride. With a 30 mph top speed and superior acceleration the XUV will get you to where you are going faster.

John Deere (Deere & Company – NYSE: DE) is the world’s leading provider of advanced products and services for agriculture and forestry and a major provider of advanced products and services for construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation.

John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe.