Category Archives: side-by-side

Polaris Recalls 43,000 Ranger 570 UTVs

Posted on by
16
The 2016 Polaris Ranger Crew 570 Mid-Size is one of the range of model year 205 and 2016 Ranger 570 models being recalled.

The 2016 Polaris Ranger Crew 570 Mid-Size is one of the model year 2015 and 2016 Ranger 570 models being recalled.

One of the 2015 models being recalled.

One of the 2015 models being recalled.

Polaris has announced the recall of approximately 43,000 model year 2015 and 2016 Ranger 570 vehicles due to a potential overheating and fire hazard. The recall covers a range of model variations for the two model years. The vehicles can overheat during heavy engine loading, slow-speed intermittent use and/or high outdoor temperatures and catch fire. No injuries have been reported due to the problem. This is the second very large recall from Polaris, which in April recalled 133,000 RZR UTVs.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units:  About 43,000

Description:  This recall involves 2015 and 2016 model year Polaris Ranger 570 recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs). They have either two or four seats and a rear box. “Ranger” is printed on the rear box and “570” is printed on the hood. “Polaris” is stamped onto the front grill. The ROVs were sold in several colors. The following models are included in the recall.

Model Year 2015:  Ranger 570, Ranger 570 EPS, Ranger 570 EPS HD, Ranger Crew 570, Ranger Crew 570 EPS

Model Year 2016:  Ranger 570 2×4, Ranger 570, Ranger 570 EPS, Ranger 570 EPS HD, Ranger 570 EPS ZUG, Ranger Crew 570, Ranger Crew 570 EPS

Incidents/Injuries:  Polaris has received seven reports of the recalled ROVs overheating and catching on fire. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ROVs and contact Polaris to schedule a free repair. Polaris is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Sold at: Polaris dealers nationwide from August 2014 through June 2016 for between $10,000 and $12,500.

Importer(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.

Distributor(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.

Manufactured in:  Mexico

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  One very large recall is bad enough but a second in a matter of months could present some significant problems for Polaris. Besides the sheer cost of repairing so many vehicles, there is also the operational difficulties in handling so many repairs in a reasonable amount of time. These are both relatively short term issues, but in the long term the impact on the Polaris brand may be more critical. For a company that prides itself on innovation and engineering prowess, and, in fact, considers such prowess a strategic advantage these recalls may have more of an impact on their brand image. I would imagine they also are generating some internal soul-searching regarding their product development processes as the issues appear to point to an underlying design flaw, as opposed to a faulty part.

What’s Cooking On The STOV: Mining Vehicles

Posted on by
Reply

Highlighting some of the many applications for Small, Task-Oriented Vehicles

The Tomcar LV1 is electric powered and designed for mining operations.

The Tomcar LV1 is electric powered and designed for mining operations.

tomcar-lv1_100556594_lThis November Australian based Tomcar will put into production their Tomcar LV1, an electric powered utility vehicle designed for mining applications. The zero emission, low operating noise and low maintenance powertrain should be an advantge in underground mining conditions. The LV1’s brushless permanent-magnet motor operates continuously at 80 hp and peaks at 135 hp and generates 111 lb.-ft. (150 Nm) of continuous torque or 221 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of peak torque at a maximum 8,500 rpm. The LV1 will be available with battery packs ranging from 12kW to 20kW. Tomcar worked with Engergetique, a EV technology company, to develop the vehicle over the course of two years. Tomcar already produces a line of commercial and consumer-oriented utility vehicles that are gas or diesel powered with an electric motor option available as well. The Tomcar vehicles have evolved from early off-road military vehicles.  Learn more:  Greencarreports.com

Yamaha Reveals New 2017 Side-by-Sides

Posted on by
Reply
Yamaha announced their new side-by-sides for model year 2017.

Yamaha announced their new side-by-sides for model year 2017.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announces its 2017 line of Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles. Leading the 2017 announcement are Yamaha’s new YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift) and an all-new YFZ50 youth model. The new Yamaha 2017 SxS models announced today include: the new YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), new YXZ1000R SS Special Edition (SE) and new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black, new Midnight Blue Metallic SE Viking and Viking VI, new Matte Silver Wolverine R-Spec SE, new Yamaha Blue Wolverine R-Spec and new Wolverine with Electric Power Steering (EPS).

The 2017 YXZ1000R SS in Blaze Orange.

The 2017 YXZ1000R SS in Blaze Orange.

Innovating again this year, Yamaha introduces the new 2017 YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), the first and only SxS vehicle to combine pure-sport driving performance with an exciting and high-tech paddle shifting experience. Boasting the same industry-first 3-cylinder 998cc engine and unparalleled direct-connection feeling as the original YXZ, the YXZ1000R SS features Yamaha’s all-new confidence-inspiring Sport Shift transmission.
The SS technology is defined by a 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission boasting an advanced automatic clutch and pure-sport inspired paddle shifters — eliminating the need for both the clutch pedal and taking your foot off the gas during shifting. The pure-sport inspired paddle shifters on the YXZ1000R SS are mounted to the steering column and are synched to the Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology, an advanced automatic clutch system that eliminates the need for a clutch pedal. This allows a wide range of enthusiasts on a variety of terrain to enjoy the pure sport performance and direct connection of the world’s first and only manual transmission SxS.

The shift sequence — shift up with the right paddle and shift down with the left paddle — is designed to be highly intuitive for drivers, even if they are not familiar with operating a manual transmission. The YXZ1000R SS delivers a fun and exciting experience beyond what one would find in everyday automobiles with paddle shifters. The Sport Shift system incorporates features that complement the overall pure sport SxS experience — an auto downshift feature assists by automatically downshifting to first gear when the vehicle comes to a stop, even if the driver has not done so manually.

Another exciting and innovative feature on the YXZ1000R SS is the all-new “Launch System,” which is exclusive to the Sport Shift experience provides an exciting high-acceleration feeling from stop — similar to “dropping the clutch” in a manual vehicle with a clutch pedal — adding to the direct connection experience and exhilaration.

2017 YXZ1000R in Team Yamaha Blue and White

2017 YXZ1000R in Team Yamaha Blue and White

New for 2017, the Special Edition YXZ1000R and YXZ1000R SS acquire industry-first twin-wall FOX 2.5 Podium X2 Shocks. These unparalleled shocks were developed in tandem with Yamaha specifically and exclusively for the new Special Edition YXZ models. They provide ultimate slow speed comfort without sacrificing performance during aggressive driving situations combined with unprecedented adjustability to suit a variety of driving types and preferences. A new level of performance and comfort are achieved by creating completely independent high and low speed compression and rebound adjustment, combined with huge 16.2-inches of front and 17.0-inches of rear travel. Additional features of the X2 shocks include dual adjusters on the upper cap and twin tube structure, dual rate springs with coupling and crossover adjustment, position sensitive damping, and more.

Making its debut to the motorsports world in September of 2015, the wildly successful and highly anticipated pure sport YXZ1000R is available in exciting new color schemes for the 2017 model year. Augmenting the high-end look and feel, the Team Yamaha Blue / White now comes with a color matched Team Yamaha Blue sun top, colored seat stitching, embroidered seats and race-inspired decals. A new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black shares the same great accoutrements as the YXZ1000R SS SE, including the FOX Podium X2 shocks, yet with the industry-first 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission for ultimate driver-to-vehicle cohesion.

The YXZ1000R was the world’s first pure sport SxS, combining the industry’s first naturally aspirated three-cylinder 998cc sport engine with the first ever 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission. The YXZ1000R is born of Yamaha’s true high-performance DNA — creating a direct connection to the driver and serving up unmatched power and handling characteristics, resulting in a vehicle perfectly positioned as the only choice for the pure sport SxS enthusiast. MSRP on the 2017 YXZ1000R models will be announced this fall.

Additions to the Wolverine Line

2017 Wolverine EPS

2017 Wolverine EPS

2017-Wolverine-R-Spec_Alpine-White-e1465397974772

2017 Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White

The new Wolverine R-Spec SE in Matte Silver features painted bodywork with color-matched seats and springs, convenient under seat storage, and durable injection-molded polypropylene overfenders for increased protection from the elements. Furthering the off-road capability and comfort of the Wolverine RSpec, the new SE adopts a stout yet lightweight full-length, full-coverage aluminum skid plate set — including the front bash plate, center, rear and side frame skids — aluminum a-arm guards, robust 12-inch true beadlock wheels and a new soft grip over-mold steering wheel with a design exclusively developed for ultimate off-road control and handling. MSRP for the new Wolverine R-Spec SE is $14,799.

New for 2017, every Wolverine R-Spec now comes with Yamaha’s proven Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing precise handling through the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the terrain. In addition to the new SE, the Wolverine R-Spec is now offered in Yamaha Blue with machined aluminum wheels. Returning colors include the Alpine White with machined aluminum wheels, Hunter Green and Realtree Xtra. MSRP starts at $13,199.

The 2017 Wolverine is a fun, comfortable and off-road capable SxS for trail and outdoors enthusiasts. The Wolverine offers new and existing SxS customers alike a full-featured, supremely off-road capable option at a value-packed price point starting at $10,999 MSRP. Adding to the Wolverine’s value-packed features, the 2017 is now offered with Yamaha’s durable and reliable EPS system.

Setting the standard in off-road capability and class-leading comfort, all Yamaha Wolverine SxS models feature a new double overhead cam (DOHC), 708cc engine with optimized torque, power delivery and engine character for exciting recreational driving. The Wolverine’s automotive-style cab is designed to provide maximum comfort and confidence for both driver and passenger, especially in extreme off-road environments. Designed and engineered for exploring extreme terrain, the Wolverine features a nimble chassis with a compact design, look and feel, along with Yamaha’s proven core technologies: Ultramatic fully-automatic transmission, On-Command four-wheel drive and EPS.

Additions to the Viking Line

2017 Viking and Viking VI

2017 Viking and Viking VI

With class-leading cab room and comfort, coupled with superior handling and off-road capability, Vikings are the toughest and hardest working utility-based SxS vehicles that are also fun to drive. The 2017 Viking and Viking VI are now offered in a new Midnight Blue Metallic SE with silver cast aluminum wheels, overfenders and silver seats.
Leading the 2017 Viking line is the premium Ranch Edition Viking VI in Copper Metallic painted bodywork with color-matched brown interior and soft sun top, silver cast aluminum wheels, review center mirror, mud flaps, overfenders, underseat storage, a rear bed grab bar, a heavy duty front brush guard, and unique Ranch Edition badging, bringing an all-new level of comfort and convenience to tough off-road work.

Viking enhancements carried up from 2016 include automotive-style two-stage door latches and a parking brake warning buzzer. Noise and vibration reduction features include new rubber damper plates, a more rigid chassis, additional sound dampening materials and an engine-mounted torque rod for a more relaxing quality ride at any engine RPM. The newly reinforced rear steel cargo bed now incorporates mounting points on the bed rails and a rubber cargo bed mat to further reduce sound and vibration, all while improving durability and cargo-carrying options and capacity. Large enough for a fully-loaded pallet, the assisted dump bed can pack up to 600 pounds of equipment and supplies. The standard two-inch receiver hitch is rated to pull 1,500 pounds.

All coming standard with a sun top and at an MSRP starting at $11,999, additional Viking colors include a new Steel Blue with cast aluminum wheels, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra. MSRP for the 2017 Viking VI EPS starts at $13,999, with Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra rounding out the color options. Learn more:  Yamahamotorsports.com

BRP Reports Quarterly Results: FY2017 Q1

Posted on by
Reply
The new 2017 Defender MAX DPS HD8 from Can-Am in Mossy Oak Break-up Camo.

The new 2017 Defender MAX DPS HD8 from Can-Am in Mossy Oak Break-up Camo is expected to help drive BRP’s earnings in FY2017.

BRP, manufacturer of Can-Am side-by-sides, announced results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2017 which ended April 30, 2016. The following are highlights related to the small, task-oriented vehicle market. (Figures in Canadian $)

  • Revenues increased 4% for the quarter to $919.9 from $898.1 in Q1 last year.
  • Net income increased $110.7M, an increase of $27.6M compared to the same period last year.
  • Management reports Can-Am powersports retail outpaced the industry in all geographical markets.
  • Year-Round Products business which includes side-by-sides, ATVs and the Spyder increased 1% to $400.2 for the quarter.
  • Can-Am side-by-side (SSV) retail grew mid-single digits, slightly lower than industry pace.
  • Management reports good early momentum for the Can-Am Defender.
  • Management expects to launch new SSV every 6 months for four years.
  • New models have been more specialized to target specific applications or sub-segments such as mud riding or entry level price points.
  • Management expects Year Round Products revenue to increase 6% to 10% for fiscal year 2017 driven in part by Can-Am Defender shipments, new product introductions and richer product mix.

Learn more:  BRP.com

Can-Am Announces 2017 Side-by-Sides

Posted on by
Reply
Can-Am continues to build out their Defender lineup with the hunter oriented Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition.

Can-Am continues to build out their Defender lineup with the hunter oriented Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition.

Can-Am’s 2017 side-by-side product lineup includes three new models:  the Can-Am Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition, the four-person Can-Am Maverick Max X mr 1000r and the Maverick xc 1000R.

The Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition continues the build out the more work oriented Defender line launched in late 2015 and expanded in early 2016 with crew size models. As the model name suggests, the newest edition is specifically designed for the hunting market segment. Key features of the Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition include:

  • 72 hp Rotax HD 10 engine with electronic fuel injection
  • PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick Response System (QRS), high airflow ventilation and Electronic Drive Belt Protection Extra
  • 4WD with 4-mode traction system
  • Dynamic Power Steering
  • 10″ of front and rear suspension
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 14″ black cast aluminum wheels
  • 11″ of ground clearance
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 1,000 lb. cargo box capacity
  • Seating for three
  • 4,500 lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • Tilt steering
  • Heavy duty steel bumper
  • Full under body skid plate with front aluminum pre-runner skid plate
  • Hard roof
  • Half windshield
  • Headache rack
  • Double Kolpin Stronghold gun boots
  • Side mirror
  • Portable RAM LED spotlight
  • MSRP:  $19,699
The Maverick Max X mr 1000r builds out Can-Am's high performance line with a four passenger model.

The Maverick Max X mr 1000r builds out Can-Am’s high performance line with a four passenger model.

To their Maverick recreational/sport side-by-side lineup Can-Am added the Maverick Max X mr 1000r for mud specific performance. This high end model seats four and is priced at $23,999. Key features include:

  • 101 hp Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection
  • Quick Response System (QRS) CVT with high airflow and Extra low L-Gear
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok QE auto-locking front differential
  • High positioned engine air intake and CVT ineltes/outlets
  • Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)
  • 12″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • FOX 2.5 PODIUM QS3 shocks with compression adjustment
  • 30″ Gorilla Axle Silverback tires on 14″ cast aluminum wheels
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 4,500 lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • 240 W from four 60-W projectors with tail lights / brake lights
  • Anti-theft system
The trail riding line gets an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R.

The trail riding line gets an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R.

To their narrower trail minded lineup Can-Am added an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R. Priced at $15,699, this two-seat model does not have power steering but does include the following features:

  • 101 hp Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection
  • CVT with Zylon reinforced belt and engine braking
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential
  • 12″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • FOX 2.0 PODIUM C Piggyback shocks with compression adjustment
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 12″ cast aluminum wheels
  • 60″ vehicle width
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 240 W from four 60-W projectors with tail lights / brake lights
  • Anti-theft system

Polaris Defense Adds Turbo Diesel MRZR

Posted on by
Reply
The new turbo-diesel powered MRZR-D from Polaris Defense.

The new turbo-diesel powered MRZR-D from Polaris Defense.

Another view of the MRZR-D, which will go into production this year.

Another view of the MRZR-D, which will go into production this year.

Polaris Defense, a division of Polaris Industries Inc., announced the addition of the MRZR-D, a high-performance MRZR turbo diesel to their military vehicle lineup. Polaris Defense will publicly debut the MRZR-D at the 2016 Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC), in Tampa, Fla., May 24-26, and at CANSEC 2016, in Ottawa, Ontario, May 25-26. While many key features – like the dimensions, payload, towing, ground clearance, accessories, handling and other features – remain the same, Polaris improved occupant seating space, ergonomics and sight lines based on user feedback. The turbo diesel increases auxiliary power, improves range and helps with fuel logistics given the large number of diesel fueled military vehicles. MRZR vehicles are helicopter transportable and come in two, four or six person configurations. The MRZR vehicles are used by US Special Forces and other allied militaries. Learn more: Polaris.com

Comment:  The use of diesel fuel is key. SVR previously conducted research on a specialized UTV with potential military applications. Diesel is not only used in many other military vehicles but is often more readily available in potential combat areas. In addition, if improvisation in the field is needed, vegetable oil can be used as well.

 

Road Use Regulation Roundup: May 2016

Posted on by
Reply

The following is a summary of some of the road use regulations for golf cars, LSVs, ATVs and UTVs that has been passed or is being considered at the state, county and city levels since October 2016. Some trends in this latest regulation roundup:

  • Many of the ordinances cover the use of UTVs and ATVs on public roads while others also involve golf cars or sole involve golf cars. Few involve LSVs or NEVs.
  • In many instances the impetus for the regulations started with local residents approaching local council members or city managers.
  • Regulatory activity is happening primarily at the town or city level, but there is some action at the county level as well.
  • The regulations are a mix of those restricting on road use of ATVs, UTVs and golf cars and those allowing the use of these vehicles.

Chillicothe, IL – The Public Safety Committee agreed to send an ordinance prohibiting the use of UTVs on local roads after numerous calls from residents against an initial ordinance allowing the vehicles. Golf cars are still allowed.

Solon, IA – City Council voted against an ordinance that would allow UTVs on some city streets. Concerns were raised about safety given the size and speed of the vehicles and the fact that the city has no police officers of its’ own to enforce the ordinance. The city has allowed golf cars on certain streets since 2011.

Jefferson, WI – The city council unanimously approved an ordinance allowing NEVs on city streets with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. The ordinance pertains to vehicles that conform to NHTSA LSV standards.

Panorama Village, TX – The city approved a golf car registration ordinance to ensure that residents are following regulations regarding use of golf cars on city streets.

Gulf Breeze,  FL – The city council is considering strengthening golf car regulations for street use because of concerns with unsafe golf cart operations including use by children and teenagers, use on pedestrian sidewalks, use on high-traffic streets, excessive occupant loads and use at night with no headlights.

Louisa County, IA – The board of supervisors approved an ordinance allowing ATVs and UTVs on secondary roads in the county.

Barry County, MI – The Board of Commissioners approved an ordinance that opens non-highway roads to off-road vehicles (quads, ATVs, dirt bikes and UTVs) with a speed limit of 25 mph, but bars the vehicles from city and village streets and state roads. It also increases fines for unauthorized use of the vehicles from $60 to $250, with a portion of the revenue set aside for road repairs.

Gardner, WI – Urged by residents, the town board is considering allowing ATVs and UTVs on local and county roads in town. Vehicle users want to establish a trail to connect with neighboring towns that allow the vehicles.

Wadena, MN – The city passed ordinance that will allow permitted use of ATVs, UTVs, golf cars and other types of vehicles that are used for snow removal or other uses in the city. They are also working on an ordinance for recreational use of these same vehicles.

Jacksonville, IL – The City Council is working on an ordinance to allow street legal gof cars and utility vehicles on city roads. Drivers are required to have a valid license, carry mandatory liability insurance, pay a $75 permit fee and be at least 18 years old. Vehicles must have a review mirror, warning devices, seat belts, taillights, brake lights and turn signals.

Delaware County, IA – Delaware County officials are exploring the possibility of allowing all-terrain vehicles on county roads. A group of local ATV enthusiasts recently asked county supervisors to open county routes to the vehicles, as well as utility vehicles. The 100 members of Roads to Trails say there are limited options locally to use the vehicles.

Danville, IL – Danville Township passed an ordinance allowing people to use golf cars and UTVs on township roads after the vehicle has been inspected and an annual $25 fee has been paid.

Fayette County, IL – The County Board did not approve an ordinance allowing low speed vehicles on rural roads in the county. The ordinance pertained to ATVs, UTVs and golf cars.

Panama City Beach, FL – The council directed the city’s legal team to craft an ordinance that will put a moratorium on the registration of any new vehicles — essentially golf carts — until the board decides how to limit the number on the road. The city reports 194 rental vehicles are registered with the city compared to 93 the year before. The city is concerned with the large number of such vehicles on the roads and has already limited the number of scooters used.

Silver City, NM – Silver City is considering allowing ATVs and UTVs on city streets. In their 2016 session, the New Mexico Legislature passed a law allowing ATV use on paved roads in the state, subject to local government approval and stipulations. Any municipality that wishes to adopt this rule has the right to do so, and can also restrict ATV use on their roads in the ways they wish — including establishing separate speed limits for the vehicles.

Kubota Recalls Over 23,000 UTVs

Posted on by
Reply
The Kubota RTV400 being recalled.

The Kubota RTV400 being recalled.

The Kubota RTV500 being recalled.

The Kubota RTV500 being recalled.

Kubota has issued a large recall of their model year 2013, 2014, and 2015 RTV400 and RTV500 utility vehicles. Approximately 23,400 vehicles are being recalled because the steering shaft can break and cause loss of vehicle control. Kubota has received nine reports of shafts breaking and one injury as a result. Owners should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles and contact an authorized Kubota dealer for a free inspection and free repair. The following recall information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Summary

Name of product:  Utility Vehicles

Hazard:  The steering shaft can break and cause the operator to lose control of the vehicle, posing an injury hazard due to risk of collision.

Consumer Contact:  Kubota Tractor Corporation at 800-752-0290 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or online at www.kubota.com and click on More, then Safety, then Safety Notices for more information. Kubota is contacting known customers directly.

Recall Details

Units:  About 23,400

Description:  This recall involves model year 2013, 2014 and 2015 Kubota RTV400 and RTV500 series gas-powered utility vehicles. Recalled utility vehicles come in orange and camouflage and have serial numbers ranging from 10001 to 22042 for the RTV400 and 25083 to 40991 for the RTV500. The model is on the side of the unit and on the data plate on the back of the cab, between the cab and the bed. The serial number is also on the data plate.

Incidents/Injuries:  Kubota has received nine reports of shafts breaking, including one in which a consumer lost control of the vehicle and collided with a barbed wire fence, resulting in a cut on the arm.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles and contact an authorized Kubota dealer for a free inspection and free repair.

Sold at:  Authorized Kubota dealers nationwide from 2010 to 2015 for between $21,000 and $22,000.

Distributor(s):  Kubota Tractor Corporation, of Torrance, Calif.

Manufactured in:  United States

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This is a large recall. Even though the sales period stretches over several years, anything over 10,000 units let alone 23,000 is a sizable number. I would also surmise that this repair might be a more involved and thus more expensive than most recall repairs.

Honda Recalls 2016 Pioneer 1000 UTVs

Posted on by
Reply
The 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000 EPS being recalled.

The 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000 EPS being recalled.

The 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe being recalled.

The 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe being recalled.

Honda has recalled approximately 3,300 model year 2016 Pioneer 1000 utility vehicles due to the front door potentially opening unexpectedly and posing an injury risk. The recall involves both 3 and 5 passenger models. (See specific model information below) Only one incident has been reported and no injuries have been reported. Vehicle owners should contact their local Honda dealer for free replacement of the front door striker plates. The following is recall information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

Recall Summary

Hazard:  The front door can open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in use, posing a risk of injury to occupants.

Consumer Contact:  American Honda toll-free at 866-784-1870 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or online at www.powersports.honda.com and click on Recall Information at the bottom of the page for more information.

Recall Details

Units:  About 3,300

Description:  This recall involves model year 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000 side-by-side recreational off-highway vehicles. The ROVs are motorized off-road vehicles with a steering wheel, a gas pedal, a brake pedal, bucket or bench seats, seat belts and an occupant protection structure. The recalled ROVs were sold in three-seat and five-seat models in red, silver or camouflage color. “HONDA” is printed on the front grill and rear tail gate. “Pioneer 1000” is printed on the sides of the vehicle near the tailgate. The model and serial numbers are on a certification label located at the top rear of the left front wheel well. The following model/types and serial number ranges are included in this recall:

Honda recall model info 5-16Incidents/Injuries:  Honda has received one report of an unexpected door-release incident during a dealer set-up of the vehicle. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact their local authorized Honda dealer to schedule an appointment to have the original front door striker plates removed and replaced, free of charge.

Sold at:  Authorized Honda Powersports dealers nationwide from February 2016 through April 2016 for between $14,000 and $17,200.

Manufacturer(s):  American Honda Motor Company Inc., of Torrance, Calif.

Manufactured in:  U.S.A.

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This recall happened relatively quickly as the vehicles were only sold in the last few months. It is not a very large recall, and not that recalls ever happen at a good time, but, since Honda has been making a stronger push into the side-by-side market in the last few years it’s not the best timing from a marketing standpoint. On a positive note, they seem to have identified the problem fairly quickly.

Textron Targets UTV Market With New Stampede 900 Models

Posted on by
Reply

 

The new gas powered Stampede 900 from Bad Boy Off Road.

The new gas powered Stampede 900 from Bad Boy Off Road.

stampedevehiclepage_gallery05_1600x600Stampede 900 360_v3_00002In search of new growth opportunities Textron Specialized Vehicles is targeting the off-road utility vehicle market with their new Bad Boy Off-Road Stampede 900 models. The vehicles represent a new strategy for the company as they add a gas powered UTV to their Bad Boy Buggie line of electric powered vehicles. At the same time they are re-branding the product line under the Bad Boy Off-Road brand, which now includes the new Stampede 900 models, existing Ambush and Recoil Bad Boy Buggie models as well as Onslaught 550 gas powered ATV models.

The Bad Boy Buggie line has had limited success, as electric powered hunting vehicles are more of a niche market and face competition from lower priced modified golf cars. The new Bad Boy Off Road platform should provide ample opportunities for the company to branch into a range of off-road market segments. However, these markets are increasingly competitive as many manufacturers with strength in certain market segments look to attack other segments.

The Stampede line launches with three different 2-passenger models:  the base 900 model, the 900 EPS and the 900 EPS +. The Stampede 900 EPS adds electronic power steering, a selectable locking rear differential, a Jet Black color option and high beam headlights. In addition to these features, the Stampede 900 EPS+ adds 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires with aluminum alloy wheels, a platinum color option and color accented contoured bench seats. Both EPS models feature a USB port. The following are key features across all models unless noted:

  • 80 hp, 846cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, twin cylinder, SOHC gas engine
  • 59 ft-lb of torque
  • Electronic fuel injection
  • CVT
  • Double A-Arm suspension with performance shocks and front and rear sway bars
  • 9.5″/10.5″ front/rear suspension travel
  • 11.25″ of ground clearance
  • 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
  • 26″ Kenda off-road performance tires with steel wheels (Except for 900 EPS+ model)
  • Extended cab
  • 24-cu-ft of storage
  • 600 lb. capacity tilt cargo bed
  • 2,000 lb. towing capacity
  • LCD Display
  • Contoured bench seat
  • Doors
  • 3-point seat belts
  • Front steel brush guard
  • Steel tube ROPS

The MSRPs for the models are $13,799 for the Stampede 900, $14,799 for the Stampede 900 EPS and $15,599 for the Stampede 900 EPS+. There are over 70 accessories available as well as a Workman’s package and a Hunter’s package. Learn more:  Badboyoffroad.com

Comment:  The Stampede line with the 80 hp engine and other features is clearly a crossover vehicle that can be used for work or recreation. The price points are in the mid-range of the market. The question is how will this new market entrant fair in a highly competitive market. Textron will likely have to expand their dealer network, which has traditionally been golf car dealers and material handling equipment dealers. The existing network is considerably smaller than the dealer networks of other powersports companies. In addition, the network’s existing customer base and geographic locations may not match up well with the target market.