First-time writer, long time reader...kidding. Seriously, I have a 2002 Rubicon. It is difficult to steer. Especially turning left. In fact, it veers slightly to the right when riding straight. Have talked to the dealer and they told me that it was normal, the Rubicon is a TOUGH STEERING MACHINE. They also suggested that the air pressure in the front tires might cause the pull to the right. Each tire reads 4 lbs. with the gauge that comes with the Rubicon's tool kit. Any input would be much appreciated!!

Thanks. Scott

 

Scott,

First, your dealer is full of crap. The Rubicon is not tough to steer. Try out a Polaris if you want to see what "tough to steer" is.

If you've double checked your tire pressure and it's still hard to steer or pull to one side, then something is wrong and I'd take it back to the dealer before the warranty ran out.

 

Dealer is way wrong. Out of all the 4x4 quads I have driven, the Rubicon has been the easiest. Sounds to me like your toe-out settings are out of adjustment. This is something that the dealer is supposed to check during their prep service. I have yet to see a dealer actually check it.

 

The one thing that impressed me about the one Ruby I've ridden was how easily it steered.

Your dealer considers you a waste of his time and is hoping you go away. Tell him that you demand satisfaction.

 

What tires do you have? An aggressive tire will make steering much heavier. I have to agree with the others...no way that is normal. Like the guys already said...double check your tire pressure and tow.

 

I don't find my 01 Rubicon hard to steer, how ever, my friends 02 Polaris 500 HO is easier, and another friend's wife just bought a 02 Polaris Magnum and she rode both the Rubicon and Magnum side by side and said the Polaris is way easier.

I just drove a 01 Foreman 450 ES, thats hard to steer. The Rubicon is not the easiest or is it the hardest to steer. Neither my wife or I find it difficult. If you think it is "hard" to steer I do believe it has a problem.
I would recommend you find another one to ride (like at the dealer) and compare it to yours.

I hope you enjoy yours, we enjoy ours.


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Hello, my fellow 4 wheeler friends.

Just a brief note to let you know how much I appreciate all of the responses to my hard-to-steer delimna. I followed up on the suggestion of checking the tow-out using the string method. I found the front left measuring 1-1/16 of an inch, the front right measuring 3/4 of an inch. From there it was as easy as adjusting the tow out to the required 1/4 inch on each side. My initial test ride after the adjustments was like riding a different 4 wheeler!!! Honda Rubicons do NOT steer tough...if they are calibrated correctly. Handles like a dream now! No darting around. No veering to the right. Once again, thanks for all the helful advice and comments. I'll be keeping an eye on the forums. Can't wait to exchange info with everyone!!!!

Thanks. Scott

 

Glad to hear you got it fixed. You are correct they dont steer tough at all. If you add aftermarket tires anytime soon be sure to re-check your toe-out.