I just finished checking out the news release from the Honda Dealer show in New Orleans. They have announced two new ATVs, the Ranger a 350cc Recon look-alike, in either 2wd or 4wd, with or without Electronic Shifting. Also announced is the new 500cc Foreman Rubicon, with a non-belt-drive, fully automatic transmission. I'm anxious to see some tests on these machines.

Check em out at www.hondamotorcycle.com
If asked for a userid and password, try
HRCA and NEWORLEANS00 (all caps).


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More utility machines, less high performance/sport. I thought the release of the 400ex was suppossed to be the beginnings of an "arms race" between manufactures. Guess not. And with the 650DS, how does Honda ever hope to compete unless they get more power? Honda seems content to let some of the other ATV makers pass them by. The DS 650, the scrambler series. At least I know where i wont have to visit in the next few years..

RoostKing...

 

It all makes sense to me now. I almost forgot about the Hondamatic. It seems like a natural for an ATV. It also explains why Honda hasn't used the same auto tranny design that everyone else is using now. Looks like a lot of us forgot who really innovated the motorcycle engine auto tranny. Too bad for all the belt driven auto trannied quad owners out there. Now you'll have to sell that outdated design you own and go buy a Honda.

 

I'm sure someone will say that Honda stole it from Polaris, Sandmanblue.

The Rubicon looks AWSOME!!!

I am already making room in the garage.

 

I told my wife about the news and she said ( i already know what your thinking, you will have to trade your 400 forman in ) And im thinking yeah right I'll just trade hers in...LOL

[This message has been edited by H400EX (edited 09-09-1999).]

 

heh

 

I just hope Honda puts disc brakes both front and rear.Please,please,please put a better suspension on it than they have on the 450.

 

Well i answered my own question by reading the press release.I won't buy one.My friends 450 es rides like a lumberwagon.How disappointing.Why can't they get over this mechanical drum brake crap.I don't care how good they work they will never be as good as disc's. That being said I could live with the drum brakes but not the rough ride.