Category Archives: side-by-side

Polaris Ranger vs. Kubota Comparison

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The Polaris Ranger 4×4 570 being put to the test. Credit: Horticulture Week

Horticulture Week out of the UK features a comparison of the Polaris Ranger 570 to the Kubota RTV-X900 by several testers as they put the vehicles through their paces on varied terrain that included fields, college grounds and a quad bike training facility with steep hills. The three testers included a groundskeeper, gardener and forester.

As is noted in the review, the vehicles are both UTVs but quite different with the diesel powered Kubota geared more towards heavy duty work and the Ranger providing more speed. Some key specifications for comparison.

________________Kubota RTV-X900          Polaris Ranger 570

Engine                  21.6 hp Diesel                44 hp Gas

Top Speed            25 mph                         50 mph

Transmission        Hydrostatic                    Variable Transmission

Steering               Hydrostatic Power         No Power Steering

Cargo Capacity   1,102 lbs.                       1,000 lbs.

Towing Capacity  2,204 lbs.                       1,500 lbs.

Ground Clearance    10.4″                          10″

Drive System

Kubota:  Front: limited-slip differential; Rear:
foot-operated differential lock

Polaris:  On-demand true AWD/2WD/VersaTrac Turf Mode

Some of the testers’ takes on the Kubota:

  • The hydrostatic transmission may require a learning period but works well once you’ve adapted
  • Smooth riding and feels safe
  • Feels durable
  • Can go anywhere
  • Dynamic engine braking most impressive
  • Hydraulic dump bed works quickly
  • Good protection for vulnerable parts of the vehicle
  • Wide range of applications

In general the Kubota received positive reviews.

The reviewers testing of the Ranger 570 produced the following reaction:

  • Most noticeable is the speed of the vehicle, a result of the 44 hp ProStar engine. One tester easily reached 80 km/hr.
  • Seat belt sensors that govern the vehicle’s speed until the seats belts are engaged was a well received feature.
  • Easy to use multiple drive settings – 2WD/4WD/Turf
  • Smooth and responsive
  • Feels light and not always secure particularly in tight turns
  • Perhaps too much plastic to remain durable in really rough terrain and driving
  • Easy access for typical maintenance
  • Good for use in applications that requires the operator to cover a large area where its’ speed could save time. A good replacement for quads on farms and such where more hauling capability and/or the ability to carry a passenger is needed.

In general the Ranger received positive reviews as well. The most important determinant in choosing one vehicle over the other would be how the vehicle would be used. If you have heavy duty hauling in difficult terrain but in a more limited area then the Kubota would be more appropriate. If you need to use a vehicle over a wider range and with not as much heavy duty hauling then the Ranger would be the best.

Learn more:  Hortweek.com

Road Use Regulation Roundup: August 2016

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The following is a summary of some of the road use regulations for golf cars, LSVs, ATVs and UTVs that have been passed or are being considered at the state, county and city levels since May 2016.

Some trends in this latest regulation roundup:

  • The ordinances were roughly split half and half between those dealing with golf cars and LSVs and those related to ATVs and UTVs.
  • ATV/UTV ordinances allow for higher vehicle speeds compared to golf car and LSV ordinances.
  • Regulatory activity is happening primarily at the town or city level, but there is some action at the county level as well.
  • Most of the regulations are in favor of allowing golf car, LSV, UTV or ATV access. Those towns restricting or prohibiting use tend to be concerned about vehicle congestion on particularly high use roads.

Georgia Tech University, Atlanta, GA – A new low speed vehicle and golf car policy was passed requiring that any Georgia Tech unit owning or purchasing LSVs or golf carts must ensure these vehicles are street legal and register each of them with Georgia Tech Fleet Services. LSVs must not be driven on high-speed streets (above 35 mph), and golf carts must not be driven on streets with speed limits above 25 mph.

Grayson County, TX – Grayson County Commissioners approved a resolution Tuesday to allow golf carts or similar utility vehicles to operate on some roadways in unincorporated areas of the county. Licensed drivers will be allowed to operate the carts on public roadways with speed limits of 35 mph or less. The resolution is only for unincorporated areas of the county, not inside city limits. Utility vehicles are defined as being designed for off-highway utility work, not for recreation.

Poth, TX – The City Council is considering adopting an ordinance currently being used in Rockport, which requires annual inspections of neighborhood electric vehicles at a cost of $10, and insurance coverage. Each vehicle must have headlamps, tail lamps, reflectors, parking brakes, rear view mirrors, turn signals, seat belts, and a flag, mounted on a 6-foot pole, attached to the rear.

Panama City Beach, FL – A regulation was passed in May preventing the registration of LSVs unless they can prove they had ordered them before May 12. The city is concerned that the increasing number of LSVs, which grew from 93 to 194 in the past year, will become a road hazard on Front Beach Road. Many of the LSVs are from LSV rental businesses.

Canton, IL – A new ordinance allowing golf cars and UTVs generated more interest than expected as the city quickly went through the original 20 permit stickers they purchased in the first month. Utility vehicles must be issued a $50 annual permit by the city, renewable mid-year, and provide proof of liability insurance that has at least the same limits of coverage required by law for regular cars. Operators must also be at least 16 years old and licensed drivers.

Landis, NC – The town board passed ordinances that would allow low-speed vehicles on public roadways. Lowering the speed limit on a key roads for LSV travel was required. The Police Chief supported the ordinance.

China Grove, NC – The town passed an ordinance that would allow golf cars and low speed vehicles to travel between China Grove and nearby Landis. Insurance, drivers license and permit are required to the drive the vehicles on local streets but an operator would not need a permit from both towns. Lights are needed to drive the vehicles at night.

Wake Forest, NC – Town leaders are considering allowing golf cars on some city streets at the urging of local residents. The local police department is against the ordinance for safety reasons.

Red River, NM – The town repealed an ordinance allowing ATVs and UTVs to access certain roads because of concerns over safely operating ATVs at high speeds on road rather than off-road. Manufacturers state that ATVs shouldn’t be operated on paved roads. The town expects to pass a new ordinance that will prohibit ATVs but allow UTVs on certain roads and at speeds up to 45 mph.

Ames, IA – The town started issuing ATV and UTV licenses in August. ATVs/UTVs are able to travel on gravel roads during daylight hours but cannot exceed 45 mph. The vehicles must have front and rear lights and the owner/operators must be insured, over 16 and have a valid driver’s license.

Peosta, IA – The City Council shelved an ordinance regarding the use of golf cars, ATVs and UTVs on city streets . There is concern over vehicle congestion on the already highly trafficked streets that the vehicles would most likely use.

Girard City, KS – The City Council voted down a ordinance that would have allowed the use of golf cars, ATVs and UTVs on city streets.

Squamish, British Columbia, CA – District of Squamish staff is drafting a bylaw, which, if passed by council, would see low-speed, zero-emissions vehicles allowed on Squamish neighborhood streets. Staff is also investigating the possibility of a future bylaw to allow medium-speed vehicles. A low-speed bylaw would allow the vehicles to travel as slow as 40 kilometers per hour, while a medium-speed bylaw would cover vehicles that travel 60 kilometers per hour.

Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, CA – Premier Christy Clark has announced a pilot project that will allow golf carts on local roads (but not major highways) in the Township of Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island and the Village of Chase in the southern Interior. The move, which starts in September, is intended to give senior citizens another method of transportation around town to run errands.

Arctic Cat Recalls Arctic Cat 700 HDX UTVs

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2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX

The 2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX Hunter Edition is part of the recall.

2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX XT TAG

The XT models like the 2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX XT shown in Team Arctic Green are included as well.

2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX XT

The 2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX XT in black.

The 2017 Arctic Cat 700 HDX Crew model is also part of the recall.

The 2017 Arctic Cat 700 HDX Crew model is also part of the recall.

Arctic Cat announced a recall of approximately 4,500 utility vehicles involving all model year 2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX and model year 2017 Arctic Cat 700 HDX Crew models. This includes the 2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX XT variations as well. The throttle cable can stick and prevent the throttle mechanism from returning to an idle position upon release of the throttle and cause the rider to lose control, posing a crash hazard and risk of injury. So far only one injury has been reported, a wrist injury. The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units:  About 4,500

Description:  This recall involves all model year 2016 Arctic Cat 700 HDX models and model year 2017 Arctic Cat 700 HDX CREW models within the vehicle identification number range of 300001 through 301280. The recalled utility vehicles have four wheels with side-by-side seating for three or six people. They were sold in a variety of colors including green, black, fire red, true timber camo and other colors. “Arctic Cat” is printed on the sides, front and rear of the utility vehicles. “HDX” is printed on the sides of the front fenders. The vehicle identification number on the 700 HDX CREW models is stamped into the upper frame tube under the rear of the cargo box.

Incidents/Injuries:  Arctic Cat has received 14 reports of the throttle cable malfunctioning, including one report of a wrist injury.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled side-by-sides and contact an Arctic Cat dealer to schedule a free repair. Artic Cat is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Sold at: Arctic Cat dealers nationwide from April 2015 through July 2016 for between $14,500 and $16,000.

Manufacturer(s):  Arctic Cat Inc., of Thief River Falls, Minn.

Manufactured in:  U.S.

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Martex Global Launches War Horse Line of Electric UTVs

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War Horse 4x4 All Electric.

The new War Horse 4×4 All Electric is part of a new electric product line from Martex Global Enterprises.

War Horse 4x4 Crew All Electric

There is also a crew version of the 4×4 All Electric.

Martex Global Enterprise, LLC of Fort Worth, TX, is introducing an all-electric and hybrid line under the War Horse™ brand. The company, under the direction of Ben King, President and CEO,has for many years manufactured and sold the HuntVe™ line of all-electric 4 X 4 hunting vehicles.  The War Horse is similar to the HuntVe, as a four-wheel drive vehicle, but as King explains, “Unlike the HuntVe 4×4 line which is marketed to, and targets only, the hunting industry, the War Horse 4×4 has a broader appeal and speaks to commercial/ industrial/ government applications as well as the general trail riding and outdoor loving consumer.” There are four models in the line, two all-electric, one of which is a crew-type vehicle, seating four, and two are hybrid vehicles, a two-seater and a four-seater crew model.

 

War Horse 4x4 Hybrid Maxx

The War Horse 4×4 Hybrid Maxx features a 64 volt electric power train and 460cc gas engine for range extension.

War Horse 4x4 Hybrid Crew Maxx

There is a hybrid crew version as well with theWar Horse 4×4 Hybrid Crew Maxx.

The hybrid models, as well as the all-electrics, feature dual, 38 hp, direct drive motors. As King explains, “We considered moving to a single motor with drive shaft like most of the electric 4×4 competitors, but despite the cost savings, found that a single motor electric 4×4 will not perform to our expectations, and it makes so much more noise.” The expected range extension comes from a 480 cc gas generator, which can extend the range by approximately 30 miles. The War Horse specs call for a 20 mile off-road range in electric mode which looks very conservative for the vehicle when not in an off-road environment. Via the convenient on-board charger, the generator will keep the batteries charged for the extra mileage and can be used to recharge the batteries when not driving. In fact, the recharge time from a flat state of charge is only two hours, according to King.

The all electric models feature:

  • 72-volt high performance electric system
  • 38 hp dual direct drive motors
  • On-board charger
  • 4-wheel independent suspension
  • Switch on the fly 2WD/4WD
  • 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
  • Protective side doors
  • Head, tail and brake lights
  • 11″ of ground clearance

The hybrid models feature:

  • 64-volt high performance electric system
  • 38 hp dual direct drive motors
  • 460cc gas engine
  • 4-wheel independent suspension
  • Switch on the fly 2WD/4WD
  • 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
  • Protective side doors
  • Head, tail and brake lights
  • 11″ of ground clearance

The MSRPs for the models are as follows:

  • War Horse 4×4 All Electric $14,799
    War Horse 4×4 Crew All Electric $15,799
    War Horse 4×4 Hybrid Maxx $16,499
    War Horse 4×4 Hybrid Maxx Crew $17,299

To learn more about the vehicle’s development see our article in our Buying Guide section.

Arctic Cat Reports Q1 2017 Results

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The new Arctic Cat HDX 700 Crew XT for model year 2017.

The new Arctic Cat HDX 700 Crew XT for model year 2017 helped drive sales for the quarter.

Arctic Cat recently reported financial results for fiscal year 2017 first quarter which ended June 30, 2016. Management reported sales of $104.9 million and a loss of $0.81 million for the quarter compared to $134.4 million and $1.1 million for the prior year quarter.

The following are highlights from the earnings call related to the utility vehicle market.

  • Management reported progress on expanding their dealer network, adding 17 top tier dealers in underrepresented territories during the quarter. The goal is to add 75 top-tier dealers for the FY.
  • Dealer inventory was reduced during the quarter
  • A new state-of-the-art R&D facility expansion in St. Cloud, Minnesota, which will become home for all new wheeled product development, was finished
  • Sales of ATVs and ROVs (side-by-sides) in the 2017 first quarter totaled $43.7 million, down 17.3% compared to prior-year sales of $52.9 million.
  • Sales of ROVs including Wildcat were strong while core ATV sales decreased
  • Arctic Cat ROV retail sales declined high single digits versus a ROV market up low single digits compared to prior year quarter that had tough comparables. ROV retail picked up towards the end of the quarter driven by new products.
  • New models were introduced including the 6-passenger HDX Crew UTV and the entry priced Prowler 500
  • Key marketing initiatives include Arctic Cat 360 where virtual reality headsets allow consumers visiting Arctic Cat event displays and dealerships to feel the thrill of riding an Arctic Cat Wildcat side-by-side in a realistic 360-degree world, and Wildcat stadium side-by-side races.
  • Management reports a strong rebate and incentive environment. Pricing is competitive unless you have a “hero” product that can sustain a premium price.
  • Product mix indicates some shifting to lower priced vehicles
  • Guidance for the full fiscal year includes sales of $635 million to $655 million with second half sales driven by new product launches.  ATV/ROV sales should be flat to up low single digits.

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (Earnings call transcript)

John Deere Recalls RSX860i Gators

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The RSX860i utility vehicle being recalled by John Deere.

The RSX860i utility vehicle being recalled by John Deere.

John Deere has announced a recall of their RSX860i Gator utility vehicles. The fuel hose could leak or separate when the fuel system is pressurized, posing a fire hazard. No injuries have been reported related to this issue. The recall is small, involving only about 240 vehicles manufactured in June 2016.

The following recall information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission

Recall Summary

Name of product:  Utility vehicles

Hazard:  The fuel hose could leak or separate when the fuel system is pressurized, posing a fire hazard.

Recall Details

Units:  About 240

Description:  This recall involves John Deere High-Performance Gator™ RSX860i TB and RSX860i TE utility vehicles manufactured in June 2016 with serial numbers beginning with 1M0860T. The recalled utility vehicles are four-wheel with side-by-side seating for two people and have a green hood and yellow rims. A complete list of serial numbers included in this recall is on the firm’s website. The model number is printed on the hood and John Deere is printed on the cargo box. The serial number is located on the frame at the rear of the machine above the hitch.

Incidents/Injuries:  None reported

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles and contact a John Deere dealer for a free repair. John Deere is contacting all registered owners of the recalled utility vehicles directly.

Sold at:  John Deere dealers nationwide from June 2016 through July 2016 for between $12,300 and $14,000.

Manufacturer(s):  Deere & Company, of Moline, Ill.

Manufactured in:  U.S.

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This is a pretty small recall compared to typical industry recalls, and it appears they caught the problem fairly quickly. It is another case where a component of the fuel system in a utility vehicle is the issue. The RSX860i was introduced in June 2015.

Polaris Introduces 2017 Side-by-Sides

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Polaris announced new model year 2017 side-by-sides along with their new Ride Command technology.

New RZRs

MY2017 RZR XP 1000 Gold Matte Metallic LE

The new MY2017 RZR XP 1000 Gold Matte Metallic LE from Polaris.

Polaris is introducing the new RZR XP 1000 EPS Gold Matte Metallic Limited Edition with a new 55-percent-lower low gear, all-new Xtreme Performance All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, and a factory-installed, and turnkey accessory package with premium trail and rock accessories such as high clearance A-Arms and rear radius rods, rock sliders, a premium HMW skid plate and Pro Armor Crawler XG tires with beadlocks. The MSRP for this Limited Edition model is $23,999.

At a lower price point is the new RZR S 570 EPS in Indy Red.

At a lower price point is the new RZR S 570 EPS in Indy Red.

For those on a smaller budget there is the new RZR S 570 EPS, a 60″ wide side-by-side with a 45 hp engine, electronic power steering and a $12,999 MSRP.

The Ride Command display for the new Ride Command technology from Polaris.

The Ride Command display for the new Ride Command technology from Polaris.

Polaris is also offering their new Ride Command technology as standard equipment on the RZR XP 1000 EPS Velocity Blue Limited Edition model. Ride Command uses an app and a weather-resistant Ride Command 7-inch display to connect people to their machines and people-to-people for a more social off-road experience. Users are able to map rides in advance and transfer waypoints from their phones to the display via Bluetooth, plan and share their ride stats and track their friends’ locations while riding. In addition, drivers can integrate devices such as mobile phones to receive messages and play music, control their go GoPro and sync Sena headsets to talk to passengers all through the Ride Command 7-inch display. The Ride Command display is available as an accessory for other models for $1,499.99

New Rangers

The Ranger XP 1000 EPS in Nara Bronze.

The Ranger XP 1000 EPS in Nara Bronze.

The Northstar special edition version of the new Ranger XP 1000 lineup features EPS and a full cab with HVAC.

The Northstar special edition version of the new Ranger XP 1000 lineup features EPS and a full cab with HVAC.

Polaris has added new 80 hp Ranger XP 1000 and Crew XP 1000 models. There is one Ranger XP 1000 base model priced at $13,999, three EPS models at $15,999 and four special edition models with MSRPs ranging from $16,999 for the Hunter Edition to $23,699 for the Northstar HVAC Edition. The latter comes with a full cab and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. There is also High Lifter Edition model for mud riding and a Ranch Edition for work.

The High Lifter special edition Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS for mud riding in Titanium Matte Metallic.

The High Lifter special edition Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS for mud riding in Titanium Matte Metallic.

The base model Ranger Crew XP 1000 in Sage Green.

The base model Ranger Crew XP 1000 in Sage Green.

Similarly there is a new lineup of Ranger Crew XP 1000 models including one base model priced at $15,199 MSRP, three EPS models at $16,999 and High Lifter and Northstar HVAC Editions priced at $20,499 and $25,999 respectively.

New Generals

The new four passenger General 4 1000 EPS.

The new four passenger General 4 1000 EPS.

Also new for model year 2017 is the General 1000 EPS Hunter Edition in Polaris Pursuit Camo.

Also new for model year 2017 is the General 1000 EPS Hunter Edition in Polaris Pursuit Camo.

For model year 2017 the General lineup adds the four-passenger General 4 1000 EPS with a $20,999 MSRP and a Hunter Edition in Polaris Pursuit Camo priced at $18,999. Other two-passenger models are upgraded with VersaTrac Turf Mode.

New Polaris ACE

At the high end of the ACE lineup is the new 900 XC with a 78 hp engine.

At the high end of the ACE lineup is the new 900 XC with a 78 hp engine.

At the entry level is the Polaris ACE 500 with a 32 hp engine.

At the entry level is the Polaris ACE 500 with a 32 hp engine.

For model year 2017 the Polaris ACE lineup adds a more powerful and affordable entry-level model and a new 78 hp Polaris ACE 900 XC. The latter is priced at $12,999 and includes electronic power steering, Walker Evans compression adjustable needle shocks, 27″ GBC Commander tires, performance tilt steering wheel, blue tooth capable instrumentation, and a cut and sew seat. The Polaris ACE 500 features a 32 hp, 500 cc EFI engine and has a $6,999 MSRP.  Learn more:  www.polaris.com

Polaris Industries Voluntarily Issues Stop-Ride/Stop Sale Advisory For MY2016 RZR Turbo Off-Road Vehicles

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2016-Turbo-RZR-e1469541717288From Polaris press release:

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (July 25, 2016) – Polaris Industries (NYSE: PII) is issuing a stop-ride/stop-sale advisory, pending a formal recall, for MY2016 RZR Turbo off-road vehicles, due to a potential fire hazard.

Polaris is currently evaluating a comprehensive repair solution. Once validated, repair instructions will be issued to Polaris dealers and vehicle owners will be notified that they can contact their dealer about scheduling a free repair. Until then, owners should not ride, and dealers should not sell, MY2016 RZR Turbo models.

All owners of affected vehicles are being contacted directly. In addition, updates will be posted on the RZR Recall page: http://www.polaris.com/en-us/company/rzr-recall.

Owners can also contact Polaris at 800-765-2747 or online at www.polaris.com.

About Polaris
Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader with annual 2015 sales of $4.7 billion. Polaris fuels the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts with our RANGER®, RZR® and POLARIS GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; our SPORTSMAN® and POLARIS ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; VICTORY® and INDIAN MOTORCYCLE® midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; SLINGSHOT® moto-roadsters; and Polaris RMK®, INDY®, SWITCHBACK® and RUSH® snowmobiles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories sold under multiple recognizable brands, and has a growing presence in adjacent markets globally with products including military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. www.polaris.com

Polaris Reports 2016 2nd Quarter Earnings

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2015-RZR-XP-4-1000-eps

The very large recall of RZR vehicles impacted Polaris 2nd quarter side-by-side revenue.

Polaris Industries reported fiscal year 2016 second quarter earnings with sales increasing 1% from the same quarter last year to reach $1,130.8 million. Net income was down 29% to $71.2 million, reflecting approximately $25 million in warranty, legal and recall costs. Here are some of the highlights of the earnings callrelated to small, task-oriented vehicles.

  • ORV (ATV and UTV) sales decreased 6% in the quarter with Ranger shipments flat and RZR/ATV shipments down
  • RZR retail was down significantly more than RANGER and that was anticipated given the impact from the recall
  • North American (NA) ORV inventory was down 8%
  • Demand for the new General line of UTVs is exceeding company expectations
  • The Huntsville, AL plant is ramping up Ranger and Slingshot production
  • NA retail market for side-by-sides was flat and declining for ATVs
  • Management reports losing a few points of side-by-side market share attributable more to their product lineup in the utility segment in a competitive environment
  • NA retail market for side-by-sides was flat and declining for ATVs
  • Polaris NA retail was down double digits for ORV for the quarter impacted by the large product recall as well as weakness in the oil  and ag markets with side-by-side retail down high single digits
  • Product recall costs have been approximately $27 million for the first half of the year. The company has had a 30% response rate so far and the Consumer Product Safety Commission is targeting a response rate close to 80%
  • Global adjacent market sales increased 14% in the second quarter to $91 million including PG&A, driven by market share gains in Aixam and the added sales from the Taylor-Dunn acquisition.
  • Management reports that Taylor-Dunn’s “performance out of the gate, it’s been one of our best acquisitions yet” and they like what is essentially a made to order model along with synergies for the people mover segment with other global adjacent brands
  • The defense business was up over 30% and our PG&A related sales for the global adjacent division increased 21%.
  • Defense sales were up with the DAGOR vehicle gaining traction
  • Multix early sales have been disappointing but transmission issues were fixed during the 2nd quarter and the distribution network is expanding
  • Polaris will begin transitioning their RZR and Ranger lines to their retail flow management system to improve lead times and inventory management
  • ORV and Snowmobile sales are expected to decrease mid-single digits
  • Global Adjacent markets which includes GEM, Aixam, Goupil, etc. is expected to be up mid teens for the year with strength across brands

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (Earnings call transcript)

Kawasaki Recalls 28,000 Mule UTVs

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One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

Kawasaki announced the recall of approximately 28,000 of their Mule UTVs because the front floor cover can be punctured by a foreign object, posing an injury hazard to riders. There has been one report of debris striking an operator’s leg. The recall covers a wide range of Mule models for model year 2015, 2016 and 2017 including the PRO-FX, PRO-FXT, PRO-DX and PRO-DXT models and related configurations. specific models affected are described below. Towards the end of last year Kawasaki recalled a large number of their Teryx recreational UTVs for a similar floor issue.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units:  About 28,000

Description:  The recall involves 2015, 2016 and 2017 model year side-by-side recreational off-highway vehicles. The recalled models are 4-wheel side-by-side seating for three to six people and automotive style controls. The vehicles come in various colors. The model name is printed on the right and left front fender. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is located on the steel frame between the right front lower A-arm mounts.

Screen Shot 2016-07-08 at 9.33.55 AMScreen Shot 2016-07-08 at 9.34.21 AMIncidents/Injuries:  Kawasaki has received two reports of debris coming up from the floor cover, including one report of debris striking an operator’s leg.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact their local authorized Kawasaki dealer to schedule a free repair.

Sold at:  Kawasaki dealers nationwide from July 2014 through June 2016 for between $12,000 and $16,900.

Manufacturer(s):  Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. of Foothill Ranch, CA.

U.S.

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This is a large recall and combined with the previous Teryx recall for the same reason brings the total number of vehicles involved to 47,500. What is disconcerting is that it seems to be a basic design flaw in that the company did not engineer the front floor boards to be strong enough to withstand normal use. On the heels of major recalls from Polaris, there are now almost a quarter million UTVs being recalled from two of the most prominent brands in the market, most from the last several model years.