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ATV Industry News

Preview: 2016 Kawasaki Teryx

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Just this morning Kawasaki released its 2016 model year offerings to the public. While no changes to the ATV lineup have been announced they did bring changes to the Mule and Teryx lineup. Here is a look at the new 2016 Kawasaki Teryx.

Features new for 2016:

  • NEW styling of the hood, headlights and front bumper
  • OPTIMIZED Fox Podium 2.0 shocks
  • NEW tilt steering column with a thicker steering wheel
  • NEW Tool-less driver’s seat adjustment
  • NEW Dash layout with extra accessory switches and storage compartment
  • NEW 14″ aluminum wheels on the Teryx LE model
  • NEW Four LED headlights on Teryx LE and Camo models

The Teryx and Teryx4 does retain the same 783cc V-Twin power plant with engine braking, tilt bed, standard Electronic Power Steering (EPS) on all models, standard hard top on LE and Camo models and Kawasaki’s three year limited factory warranty.

2016 Kawasaki Teryx LE – MSRP $14,999

2016 Kawasaki Teryx LE

2016 Kawasaki Teryx LE

2016 Kawasaki Teryx LE

2016 Kawasaki Teryx LE

2016 Kawasaki Teryx EPS $12,999

2016 Kawasaki Teryx EPS

2016 Kawasaki Teryx4 LE – MSRP $16,999

2016 Kawasaki Teryx4 LE

2016 Kawasaki Teryx4 LE

2016 Kawasaki Teryx4 Camo – MSRP $16,299

2016 Kawasaki Teryx4 Camo

For more details check out http://www.kawasaki.com/.

PREVIEW: 2014 Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr

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If Can-Am has become good at anything it’s looking at what upgrades riders are adding and making them into a factory package. In the southeast United States and other parts of the world, you aren’t riding unless you are up to your seat in mud, a hobby that can require major modifications to your ride. In 2011 Can-Am introduced their X mr package for the Outlander 800R ATV. The X mr package added many commonly found aftermarket accessories including a relocated radiator, snorkels, Gorilla Axle axles and Silverback tires plus much more. As the side-by-side scene has continued to grow and even surpass ATVs, it was only a matter of time before the X mr package became a part of the Maverick line-up as the 2014 Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr.

Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr

Naturally, the beginnings for the ultimate Can-Am 2-person mudder is Can-Am Maverick 1000r. With it’s 976cc, 101-hp, V-Twin engine it’s the biggest power plant in Can-Am’s arsenal and led the industry altogether until very recently. With all the bouncing around of rough terrain we’ve all experienced an unintentional throttle burst. Can-Am has added Intelligent Throttle Control (ITC) to help detect accidental jolts on the throttle. Also helping to keep you in control is Can-Am’s Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering DPS. Finally, the engine’s intake, CVT intake and CVT exhaust have all been snorkeled to what Can-Am determined was the “highest as possible.” They are located at the top of the dash and behind the seats at roughly the same height. Since most aftermarket systems go well above that height, I see there still being some aftermarket upgrades.

Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr

The Maverick X mr includes an industry first suspension system with an onboard air compressor supported FOX Air Assisted Piggyback shocks, offering real on the fly adjustments. The Air Controlled Suspension allows for 4 inches of height adjustment. Ground clearance at full height is about 15.5″, enough to put you in the bucket club (The bucket club is an elite group whose modified machines can straddle a 5 gallon bucket). The compressor also includes an auxiliary hose that can be used to inflate the 30″ Gorilla Axle Silverbacks (who would have guessed?). The Silverbacks are wrapped around 14″ cast-aluminum ITP wheels. Just in case that isn’t enough to get you through your swim hole, the Maverick X mr includes a 4,000 lbs. WARN winch.

Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr

Of course all of this comes at a price. The MSRP of the Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr is $21,499. It’s not a bad package of you look at the Maverick 1000 X rs and then add the upgrades. It also gets the serious mudder from showroom to mud pit without a few days of garage work. For more details on the Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr as they emerge check back here or visit Can-Am Offroad at http://can-am.brp.com/off-road/side-by-side/maverick-1000-x-mr.html. For detail on other 2014 Can-Am Side-by-Side units released earlier this year see here.

Can-Am Maverick 1000 X mr

PREVIEW: 2014 Yamaha ATV and Side X Side Lineup

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It’s that time of year again. The riding season is in full swing and manufacturers are making their announcements for the new year’s models. Yamaha has released their 2014 utility lineup to include an all-new side x side and a few subtle changes to the Grizzly 700 ATV.

2014 Yamaha Viking FI 4x4 EPS

2014 Yamaha Viking FI 4×4 EPS. Yamaha stock photo.

The biggest news in Yamaha’s ORV line is the introduction of the Viking FI 4×4 EPS Side by Side. The days of the Rhino are over with the Viking staking its claim as the exclusive Yamaha Side X Side. The Viking is powered by the newly improved 686cc engine that has been very successful. It uses Yamaha’s Ultramatic transmission and benefits from engine braking in 4WD and reverse. The Viking has a cargo capacity of 600 pounds in its dump bed and a ground clearance of 11.8 inches with steel skid plates.

Perhaps the most notable feature of the Viking is the seating for 3 people. The center seat is set back slightly to help accomodate all three without sacrificing comfort. Even with the added seat, the Viking is only 61.8 inches wide compared to 56.6 inches on last year’s Rhino. All three seats include 3-point seat belts making the Viking the perfect family side x side without being stretched into a dirt limo. The Viking will hit showrooms in Realtree AP HD in August 2013 at $13,249. As the hunting season rush calms down, the Hunter Green ($12,499 MSRP), Steel Blue and Red ($12,699 MSRP) models will arrive in September 2013. Both Steel Blue and Red include soft-top roofs.

2014 Yamaha Viking FI 4x4 EPS

2014 Yamaha Viking FI 4×4 EPS. Yamaha stock photo.

The ATV lineup for 2014 remains very similar to last year. The only change to the Utility line is in the Grizzly 700. The 700 gains low end, mid range and top end performance thanks to a new cylinder head and enhanced engine settings. The compression ratio has also been raised from 9.1:2 to 10.0:1 with the help of a new piston shape. Yamaha also advertises longer front and rear suspension settings and improved steering for better rider comfort. In addition, the EPS models have updated EPS settings for comfort’s sake. Cosmetically the Grizzly 700 also has new graphics on the fuel tank. The Grizzly 700 continues to be offered in three models, FI 4×4 Auto, FI 4×4 Auto EPS and FI 4×4 Auto EPS Special Edition.

2014 Yamaha ATV Grizzly 700

Removed, so far, from last year’s roster are the Grizzly 125 Automatic and Grizzly 300 Automatic models. This makes the Grizzly 350 4×4 Auto the entry level system. Yamaha does continue to offer the Grizzly 450 4×4 in EPS and non-EPS. The Grizzly 550 FI Auto 4×4 is the smallest model with fuel injection and also available in EPS and non-EPS. These models are unchanged.

2014 Yamaha ATV Grizzly 450

To see more details of the 2014 Yamaha ATV and Side X Side lineup check out the Yamaha website at: http://www.yamahamotorsports.com/

PREVIEW: 2013 John Deere RSX850i Side-by-Side

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For over a decade now, John Deere has been on the cusp of the ORV industry. A legend in the agricultural and landscape industry and with their Gator utility vehicle sitting just outside the powersports realm, there was never any doubt whether or not they could do it. It was just a question of when they finally would. With the growing popularity of the side-by-side world encroaching on them they finally decided it was time to make their entrance. Introducing the John Deere RSX850i.

The 2013 John Deere Gator RSX850i Line Up. John Deere stock photo.

The RSX850i enters the power sports world showing it knows what it takes to be considered. It’s powered by a 839cc v-twin that produces 62 hp and 59.5 lb-ft of torque according to Deere. It tops out at 53 mph and reaches 30 mph in 3 seconds. It has fully locking four-wheel drive and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. It’s up for any task with 400 lbs of capacity in the dumping cargo box. The base model RSX850i carries an MSRP if $12,999 and is available in three color schemes including traditional John Deere green/yellow, olive/black and REALTREE HARDWOODS HD camo.

The Gator RSX850i Sport with FOX 2.0 suspension. John Deere stock photo.

For added excitement the Gator RSX850i can be picked up in Sport or Trail packages. The Sport model upgrades the steel wheels to alloy wheels and Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires. You’ll also get a pre-runner front bumper, a sport steering wheel, 35.5 inch sport seats and cargo box rails. To balance out the sport use you’ll get FOX 2.0 Perormance Series shocks on the corners. MSRP on the Sport model is $15,499. The Trail package also has the alloy wheel upgrade, sport seats and cargo box rails. You get an aggressive front brushguard with a Warn winch up front and a rear bumper but lose the FOX suspension. The FOX suspension is an available add-on for the base and Trail models. MSRP on the Trail package is $14,999. John Deere has a full line of accessories available for each model including a huge selection of HELLA lights, cab enclosures, storage, etc.

The WARN equipped Gator RSX850i Trail model. John Deere Stock photo.

Deere tags the RSX850i as “a whole new species of Gator” and it certainly is. And while it may not be revolutionary against the existing competition it doesn’t come in behind either. So next time you’re on the trail don’t be surprised to see a Deere. Get more information on the Gator RSX850i at http://www.deere.com.

PREVIEW: 2013 Polaris Sport ATV Lineup

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Big news is out from Polaris Industries as they introduce their 2013 Sport ATV Lineup with the new Scrambler 850 poster child. The Scrambler enters the market as the only  challenger to the Can-Am Renegade and it certainly looks ready for the fight.

Introducing the 2013 Polaris Scrambler 850 base model. Stock Polaris photo.

The Scrambler 850 replaces the previous Scrambler 500. The 850 is powered by a high-output SOHC engine with twin electronic fuel injectors (EFI). Expect 77 horsepower from this rocket. The new Scrambler also has all new styling and on-demand four-wheel drive that engages when the rear tires lose traction and disengages when it’s not needed. The Scrambler has 12 inches of ground clearance and 10/25 inches of IRS travel. It also has 75 pounds of rack capacity to help make a full day out of your riding adventure. The basic model is found in white and has an MSRP of $9,499.

The 2013 Polaris Scrambler 850 EPS LE. Stock Polaris photo.

The 2013 Polaris Scrambler 850 is also available in an EPS Stealth Black LE with proven FOX Podium 1.0 shocks and Electronic Power Steering. The LE model also adds a digital dash, LED lights, handguards and black cast aluminum wheels. MSRP on the LE is $11,999.

The 2013 Polaris Trail Boss 330. Stock Polaris photo.

Returning for 2013 are the Trail Boss 330, Trail Blazer 330 and Phoenix 200 models. Virtually unchanged from 2012 the Trail Boss and Trail Blazer are basically the same unit simply with or without racks. Both two-wheel drive units carry and MSRP of $4,399. The Phoenix 200 continues to be a stable mid-model for youths too big for entry units but not yet age appropriate for full size. It carries an MSRP of $3,599.

See more details on the Scrambler 850 and other Polaris models at http://www.polaris.com/en-us/atv-quad/sport-atvs.

PREVIEW: 2013 Honda ATV and Side-by-Side Lineup

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Honda fans don’t have much news to be excited about in the 2013 model year. Honda released details and specs on the 2013 models in the utility, sport and side-by-side class with more changes to the price tags then anything else. Some units MSRP for 2013 have not yet been published but, so far, every model has a higher MSRP except for the entry youth TRX90X which stays at $2,999.

New paint on the 2013 Honda TRX450R. Honda stock photo.

The only other mentionable changes for Honda’s offroad line is the seat height on most Rancher units goes up a half inch and the sport lineup will see some changes in color options. It seems that Honda is vastly ignoring the ATV industry due to its declined sales. Honda will have a good bit of catching up to do when they decide to get back in the game.

PREVIEW: 2013 Yamaha Sport Lineup

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Now assembled in the USA! 2013 Yamaha Raptor 700 with the Patriot graphics. Yamaha stock photo.

Yamaha continues a tradition of thrills with their announcement of the 2013 sport ATV lineup, including the redesigned Raptor 700’s. The 2013 Yamaha sport line features a total of 10 different machines, the largest offering in the industry. Only Can-Am even comes close with their 8 sport models.

2013 Yamaha Raptor 700R SE. Yamaha stock photo.

The Raptor 700’s are sporting a new style thanks to resculptured plastics. New stopping power is backed by twin piston rear braker calipers and Maxxis rubber replaces the Dunlop tires that have served previous Raptor models. The all-new base 700 model starts at $7,699. The Raptor 700R gets new piggyback shocks all around and an adjustable front brake lever to tune to your desires for $8,099. The 700R Special Edition (SE) also adds custom graphics and a GYTR front grab bar and heel guards all for $8,799, a $200 drop from last years model. Perhaps the biggest news is the Raptor 700’s are now assembled right here in the USA.

2013 Yamaha Raptor 700R with the Yamaha Sport Front Grab Bar. Yamaha stock photo.

The race ready YFZ450, YFZ450R and YFZ450R Special Edition units return this year virtually unchanged. On the otherhand, is there much you can really improve on in the YFZ line?  The YFZ450R SE and YFZ450R pricetags stay firm at $8,949 and $8,599 respectively while the YFZ450 goes up $100 to $6,899.

2013 Yamaha YFZ450R. Yamaha stock photo.

The Raptor 350, 250, 125 and 90 also go unchanged for 2013 continuing to capitalize on the proven recipe. The Raptor 250 and 90 keep the same price point as last year at $4,599 and $2,699 while the Raptor 350 and 125 each add $100 for $5,599 and $3,499.

2013 Yamaha Raptor 250 with Nebula graphics. Yamaha stock photo.

Last year Yamaha introduced custom graphics packages for certain units that were available in white. That trend continues with new graphics for the YFZ450R, YFZ450, and Raptor 350, 250, 125 and 90.

2013 Yamaha Raptor 350 with skulls and flames graphics. Yamaha stock photo.

PREVIEW: 2013 Yamaha Utility Lineup

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Photo courtesy of Yamaha Motors

Yamaha has released their utility lineup for the 2013 season. This year offers few changes over the 2012 model year, but the lineup will continue to be an industry leader. Most recently, Yamaha released details on the 2013 Grizzly 700 FI Auto 4×4 EPS Special Edition. The change is purely cosmetic; the new edition is a tactical theme with subdued graphics and black aluminum wheels. The 2013 Rhino 700 FI Auto 4×4 Special Edition also gets the same tactical treatment. The pair perfectly suit those preparing for the zombie apocalypse.

2013 Yamaha Grizzly 550 FI EPS in Realtree AP Camo. Courtesy of Yamaha Motors.

The Grizzly 700 continues to offer an EPS and a non-EPS. The Grizzly 450 and 550 also continue to be offered in EPS and non-EPS models. Missing this year is the Big Bear 400. Yamaha has retired the last of the Big Bear series and with its removal has discontinued the last manual transmission utility ATV in their lineup. If you are buying new you’ll be riding an automatic. The 125, 300 and 350 4×4 continue to be available unchanged. The Grizzly 125 and 350 4×4 still have the older body style.

The 2013 Rhino 700 FI Auto 4×4 continues to be the exclusive side by side for Yamaha. There are no major changes for the Rhino beyond the previously mentioned tactical Special Edition.

PREVIEW: 2013 Can-Am ATV & Side-by-Side Lineup

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All new 2013 Can-Am Outlander X mr 1000. Photo Courtesy of BRP.

To the anticipation of many, BRP has released details and pictures of the exciting 2013 lineup. At about 4:10 pm Central time press releases detailing the 2013 ATV and Side-by-Side lines were received via email. Can-Am also posted pictures of the new 2013 Outlander X mr 1000 and other 2013 models on their Facebook page and videos on their YouTube channel. Other big news with the release is the production of 15% more horsepower Can-Am squeezed out of the Rotax 500 engines. This places the class leading engine even further out of the reach of competitors.

2013 Can-Am Outlander MAX. Photo courtesy of BRP.

Highlights for 2013 include the next-generation Outlander MAX family now featuring a second generation Surrounding Spar Technology frame (SST G2). The passenger seat has also been totally redesigned. The Outlander MAX LIMITED is now available in a Pearl White paint.

The aforementioned all-new Outlander X mr 1000 is built on the same new MAX frame. In additional to the traditional Can-Am yellow and black finish the Outlander X mr 1000 is available in an all-new NEXT G-1 Vista camouflage finish. It also benefits from a larger relocated radiator, ITP wheels, restyled dash panel and a rider-adjustable air controlled suspension. The Outlander X mr 1000 is THE mud machine.

2013 Can-Am Outlander XT. Photo courtesy of BRP.

Most of the other Outlander models will see the new SST frame for 2013. Can-Am also has Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) packages available (or standard) for all 500 cc+ models. XT-P packages are now available for the Outlander 800R, 1000 and MAX packages. The sport inspired package adds the new dash, full FOX suspension system, 12-inch aluminum beadlock wheels, exclusive colors and more. The DS450 and Renegade also return but with few changes as of press time.

2013 Can-Am Outlander XT-P. Photo courtesy of BRP.

Can-Am also provided the new DPS package to the Commander Side-by-Side lineup. The DPS package for the Commander includes 27 Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 rubber on 14-inch cast aluminum. The XT and Limited packages include a 4,000 pound WARN winch, half-windshield, premium wheels and an entertainment system with integrated Garmin touchscreen GPS. A couple of new color schemes are also available for 2013. The killer Can-Am Commander setup just keeps getting better.

2013 Can-Am Commander. Photo courtesy of BRP.

Stay tuned for more details as Can-Am releases them or visit the Can-Am Offroad site at http://www.canamoffroad.com/.

September 24, 2012 Update!

2013 Can-Am Outlander 650 X mr. Photo coutesy of BRP.

Can-Am continues the releases with the announcement of the 2013 Can-Am Outlander 650 X mr. A slightly more compact version of the Outlander 1000 X mr, the 650 is not compact on features. Rocketed by a 62 HP Rotax V-Twin engine it’s ready for your challenges. Like the 1000, it features a larger, relocated radiator as well as nearly snorkled CVT intake, CVT exhaust and engine air intake.  It also features the SST G2 frame, Tri-Mode DPS, Visco-Lok QE, preload-adjustable mud shocks and aluminum foot-pegs. 28 inch Maxxis Mudzilla tires on 12 inch cast aluminum wheels will keep you rolling in any terrain. MSRP has not yet been released for the Outlander 650 X mr.

Tread Lightly!

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Tread Lightly! is a non-profit organization originally founded in 1985 by the U.S. Forest Service. The organization’s mission is to “promote responsible outdoor recreation through ethics education and stewardship programs.” Tread Lightly!, in partnership with many federal and corporate sponsors and thousands of individual members, works diligently to give outdoor recreationists an environmentally-friendly reputation and the education to back it up. We here at WeekendATV.com take great pride in preserving our riding areas and keeping our footprint confined only to those locations designated for our use. With this pledge we have proudly become Media Members of Tread Lightly!.

So maybe you are in agreement that Tread Lightly! has a good thing going, but wonder how partnering with them might benefit you directly? Hey, we understand. It’s tough economic times, but a Tread Lightly! membership could actually save you money! Yes, it’s true. Not only will your three year membership of $60 make great strides in keeping our great outdoors explorable to our hobbies and provide you with regular organizational news and store discounts, but you will also get a $100 mail in rebate on select sets of Goodyear Wrangler tires, a discount on insurance from Foremost Insurance Group and a huge discount on Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler vehicles. The automobile discount is 1% below factory invoice! This deal can save you thousands of dollars. If you have any intention of purchasing one of these vehicles then you must take advantage of this offer and join Tread Lightly!. Since beginning their affiliation with Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, their membership has doubled.

Across North America trails are being closed to off road vehicles because of abuse, littering and other environmental damages caused by irresponsible riders. Help preserve our trails by being a responsible rider. See our Responsible Riding page or better yet, become a member of Tread Lightly!.