Ask the Editors: Why Isn’t My Quad Faster?
Prepare to break the sound barrier.
According to our own testing, on a flat surface with a fairly light rider in the saddle, we could achieve top speeds to the tune of 42mph (this being the 2-wheel drive incarnation of the machine).
With the 4×4 and given the fact that the machine is likely wearing nearly 20-years of use, achieving speeds of 30-35 up top aren’t too ridiculous.
A lot of this has to do with the stock gearing of the machine as well- while it boasts a 386cc, oil cooled SOHC engine with an 8:6:1 compression ratio, the gearing was deliberately kept extremely low for purpose of towing, working and exploring. In fact, part of the brochure appeal at the time was that the 5-speed, rev., auto clutch transmission boasted a super-low 1st gear feature.
Ordinarily we would recommend simply gearing the machine up by either putting a sprocket with less teeth on the rear or more on the countershaft but this machine is, of course, shaft driven. Essentially the only gearing changes you’d easily be able to accomplish would be to swap out the 25-inch tires for something larger.
If you’re looking for more top speed still, you’ll likely want to part ways with the ol Bear and pick up any one of the newer breed of bigger bores.
