Category Archives: side-by-side

CFMoto Introduces New Engine & 50″ Trail Side-by-Sides

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The new 500HO high output engine from CFMoto.

The new 500HO high output engine from CFMoto.

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

CFMoto recently announced two new trail side-by-sides for 2016, the ZForce 500HO Trail and the ZForce 800 Trail. The ZForce 500HO Trail is powered by their new 500HO high output engine. The single-cylinder, four-valve overhead cam, liquid-cooled engine features BOSCH electronic fuel injection for instant starts, crisp throttle response and improved fuel economy. The new engine delivers 15 percent more power and 10 percent more torque than the 600 engine it replaces. The two new trail friendly models will be available at dealers in mid-January. The 2016 lineup will also feature new Sumitomo electrical connectors to improve performance in wet conditions and more durable front differentials as part of an effort to improve the overall durability of CFMoto’s side-by-sides. The MSRP for the ZForce 500HO Trail is $8,799 and for the ZForce 800 Trail it’s $9,999. Learn more:  Powersportsbusiness.com

Comment:  While the press release notes the vehicles being 50″ wide, on a couple of dealer websites I checked have the vehicles are listed as being 52″ wide. Nevertheless, this introduction is an indication that no segment in the side-by-side market is escaping increased competition. While the 50″ trail riding segment has largely been the battleground of major brands such as Polaris and Arctic Cat, the entrance of a value brand such as CFMoto indicates both the sales potential of the segment and the determination of companies to grab a piece of the pie.

Kubota Recalls Thousands of Utility Vehicles

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Kubota is recalling approximately 11,500 RTV-X1100C utility vehicles due to a potential fire hazard.

Kubota is recalling approximately 11,500 RTV-X1100C utility vehicles due to a potential fire hazard.

Kubota has issued a recall for model year 2013, 2014 and 2015 RTV-X1100C diesel-powered utility vehicles. Debris can make contact with the exhaust manifold on the vehicles and potentially catch fire. There have been seven reports of debris-related fires but no injuries. The recall involves approximately 11,500 vehicles sold from October 2013 to October 2015. Consumers should stop using the vehicle and contact their local Kubota dealer for free inspection and repair.

Comment:  This is a significantly larger recall than most utility vehicle recalls which typically involve one thousand to four thousand vehicles. However, the fire hazard due to debris interacting with hot parts of the vehicle has been a fairly common cause for recalls in the industry.

 

The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission follows:

Recall Summary

Name of product:  Utility Vehicles

Hazard:  Combustible debris can make contact with the exhaust manifold and ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Remedy:  Repair

Consumer Contact:  Kubota Tractor Corp. toll-free at 800-752-0290 between 8a.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 consumers directly.

Recall Details

Units:  About 11,500

Description:  This recall involves model year 2013, 2014 and 2015 Kubota RTV-X1100C series diesel-powered utility vehicles. Recalled utility vehicles come in the colors orange and camouflage and have serial numbers ranging from 10001 to 23172. The model number 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 seven reports of debris-related fires. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles, park them away from combustible materials and contact an authorized Kubota dealer for a free inspection and free repair and should follow their directions. Kubota is contacting consumers directly.

Sold at:  Authorized Kubota dealers nationwide from October 2013 to October 2015 for between $21,000 and $22,000.

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

Manufactured in:  United States

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Winterizing Your UTV for Work or Play

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A Polaris Ranger with Glacier Pro plow system.

A Polaris Ranger with Glacier Pro plow system.

With the winter months approaching some UTV owners may have thoughts of winterizing their vehicle for either winter work, such as plowing or traversing farm or ranch land, or for recreational use such as trail riding or traveling to and around winter camps. To discuss some of the options and accessories you might consider, as well as winter maintenance and other tips, I spoke with Rolly who works in the Mies Outland service department.  Mies Outland is a Polaris dealer located in Watkins, MN, so the personnel there have some experience with cold and snowy winters. I also priced out some of the typical winter options and accessories for models from Polaris and a few other brands. Full article

 

Polaris General: A New UTV Product Line is Launched

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The base model General 1000 EPS is Indy Red with an MSRP of $15,999.

The base model General 1000 EPS in Indy Red with an MSRP of $15,999.

The premium model General 1000 EPS Velocity Blue with an MSRP of $17,499.

The premium model General 1000 EPS Velocity Blue with an MSRP of $17,499.

The Polaris General 1000 EPS Deluxe Orange Burst with an MSRP of $19,999.

The Polaris General 1000 EPS Deluxe Orange Burst with an MSRP of $19,999.

Polaris Industries is launching the Polaris General, a new product line positioned between the Ranger and RZR product lines, that is designed for work and recreational use. “Today is a great day at Polaris! Once again, we are launching a game-changing new product,” said Tim Blinkhorn, GM, RANGER & Polaris GENERAL. “This vehicle is the most versatile sideby-side ever built, made for those who want to battle it all. Whether it’s dominating any trail, or conquering any job, The Polaris GENERAL delivers.”

The General product line initially features three models, a base model in Indy Red with an MSRP of $15,999, a model in Velocity Blue at $17,499 and a Deluxe model in Orange Burst priced at $19,999. The price points and features such as one of the more powerful Polaris ProStar engines indicate a higher-end crossover UTV. Some of the key figures across all models include:

  • 100 hp ProStar 1000 engine
  • Electronic Power Steering
  • High Performance Close Ratio On-Demand AWD/2WD
  • Engine Braking System
  • 12.25″ of front suspension travel and 13.2″ in the rear
  • Front and rear sway bars
  • 12″ of ground clearance unloaded and 7.4″ when cargo box is loaded
  • 600 lb. cargo box capacity
  • 1,500 lb. towing capacity
  • Full-body skid plate
  • Factory installed doors with armrests
  • Dual bolstered bucket seats with adjustable driver seat
  • Space-optimized foot rests
  • All-new customizable digital/analog instrumentation cluster that tilts with the steering wheel
  • 23 liters of integrated storage
  • 27″ tires
  • 30 brand new Polaris Engineered Accessories™ and 90-plus common fit items

The Velocity Blue model features:

  • Automotive-style paint
  • Sport low profile front bumper
  • Polaris HD 4,500 lb. winch
  • 14″ Matte Black cast aluminum wheels
  • Eiight-ply, 27″ GBC Dirt Commander Tires

The DeluxeOrange Burst Model has all the features of the Velocity Blue model plus:

  • Adjustable Fox Podium X 2.0 QS3 shocks
  • Pro-Fit Lock & Ride Sport Roof
  • Rear-view mirror
  • MTX Premium Soundbar with eight speakers and blue-tooth connectivity

The Velocity Blue and Deluxe Orange Burst models will be available at Polaris dealerships starting in December. The Indy Red will be available in March 2016. Learn more:  Polaris.com

Comment:  While Polaris Ranger and RZRs are certainly used as crossover UTVs, the product lines are delineated with the Ranger for work applications and the RZRs for recreation. The General provides Polaris with a more targeted line of crossover UTVs. The launch is another indicator of the continued high level of competition in the UTV market. The General provides Polaris with more models to directly compete with John Deere’s XUV line, the Honda Pioneer line, the Yamaha Viking line and Can Am’s Commander line. The Polaris General, given the model price points and features, appears to be targeting a higher priced end of the crossover market. As these product launches continue in the market, most of the major brands are building out specific product lines for work, recreation and crossover applications.

Arctic Cat Reports Q2 2016 Financial Results

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The 2016 Wildcat 4X, a higher priced ($20,999 MSRP) model in the Arctic Cat lineup is expected to improve the company's revenue in the rest of the fiscal year.

The 2016 Wildcat 4X, a higher priced ($20,999 MSRP) model in the Arctic Cat lineup, is expected to improve the company’s revenue in the rest of the fiscal year.

Last week Arctic Cat reported their financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2016, which ended on September 30, 2015. Arctic Cat reported quarterly revenue of $211.2 million and net earnings of $11.2 million compared to $262.5 and $15.4 for the prior year quarter. Management noted currency headwinds, especially in Canada, a competitive market and softer than expected retail sales in the ATV/UTV market. Therefore, the company’s management lowered their fiscal 2016 full year guidance. The following are some the highlights from the earnings call related to the side-by-side/utility vehicle market.

  • Sales of ATVs and ROV side-by-sides increased 1.7% to $70.8 million from $69.6 million in the year ago quarter driven by Wildcat side-by-sides.
  • A key marketing initiative was started with a five year product development and marketing agreement with racer Robby Gordon and Todd Romano, and their SPEED RMG brand. The initiative specifically targets technology development for the Wildcat side-by-sides to produce new products and accessories.
  • For full year fiscal 2016 management expects ATV/side-by-sides sales to increase mid-single digits percent.
  • For the quarter, the industry retail sales were flat to up low single-digits for ATVs and side-by-sides and Arctic Cat was similar overall but with more strength in side-by-sides.
  • Year-to-date Arctic Cat was up low double digits for side-by-sides retail sales.
  • Management is terminating under-performing dealerships while adding dealers in open territories.

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (Earnings call transcript)

Comment:  Both Polaris and Arctic Cat have reported slower than expected growth in the side-by-side market, as well as, increasing competitiveness. While the market is still expected to grow, the rate of growth may be more mid-single digit percent rather than double digits or even high single digits.

Jacobsen Launches New Professional Series of Utility Vehicles

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The following is a summary of the key vehicle features:

The Truckster MS/MX are two of the newly launched Jacobsen models.

The Truckster MS/MX are two of the newly launched Jacobsen models.

Truckster MS/MX

  • Engine:  13 hp, 4-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled Kawasaki engine
  • Engine:  CVT transmission
  • Speed:  MS – 16.5 mph; MX – 17 mph
  • Payload Capacity:  MS – 1,200 lbs; MX – 800 lbs
  • Cargo Bed Capacity:  MS – 800 lbs; MX – 500 lbs
  • Ground Clearance:  MS – 4.3″; MX – 5.3″
  • Width:  MS – 49.5″; MX – 48.5″
  • Available lifted suspension on the MX provides added ground clearance
The electric powered Jacobsen Truckster MS-E.

The electric powered Jacobsen Truckster MS-E.

Truckster MS-E/MX-E

  • Motor:  22.4 hp, 72V AC induction electric motor
  • Speed:  MS-E 13 mph programmable to 19 mph; MX-E 16 mph
  • Payload Capacity:  MS-E 1,000 lbs; MX-E 900 lbs
  • Cargo Bed Capacity:  MS-E 600 lbs; MX-E 500 lbs
  • Ground Clearance:  MS-E 5.5″; MX-E 7.0″
  • Width: MS-E/MX-E 49.8″
Truckster LS-LX

The Truckster LS and LX feature a polyethylene cargo bed.

Truckster LS/LX

  • Engine:  13 hp, 4-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled Kawasaki engine
  • Speed:  LS/LX 17 mph
  • Payload Capacity:  LS/LX 800 lbs
  • Cargo Bed Capacity:  LS 500 lbs; LX 400 lbs
  • Ground Clearance:  LS/LX 4.3″
  • Width:  LS 49.5″; LX 48.5″
  • Polyethylene cargo bed
  • Available lifted suspension for the Truckster LX

Learn more:  Jacobsen.com

John Deere Announces XUV 825i Special Edition Gator

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The new XUV 825i Special Edition Gator with two integrated tool boxes.

The new XUV 825i Special Edition Gator with two integrated tool boxes.

The special edition model also features LED roof lights.

The Special Edition model also features LED roof lights.

John Deere used the GIE+EXPO to announce a new 2016 special edition Gator utility vehicle. The XUV 825i Special Edition Gator features two integrated cargo tool boxes and LED roof lights. The two cargo boxes are situated on the driver and passenger side. The driver’s side box opens from the top and has two divided compartments with a removable tray. The passenger side box opens from the side and features one open compartment. Both tool boxes have a 75 lb. capacity.

Additional features include a 50 hp, 812cc, electronic fuel injected gas engine that delivers a 44 mph top speed, on-demand four-wheel drive, power steering, Operator Protective System with nets, 27″ Maxxis Big Horn tires, 11″ of ground clearance and a 1,000 lb. deluxe cargo box with a polyurethane liner. The 2016 XUV 825i Special Edition Gator will be available in December 2015 with a MSRP $16,799 compared to $13,159 for the standard XUV 825i Power Steering model. Learn more:  UTVguide.net

Comment:  Compared to the standard model, the Special Edition model includes the cargo tool boxes, the LED roof lights, side nets and the Maxxis Big Horn tires.

John Deere Expands Horicon Facility For Gator Production

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John Deere has broken ground on an expansion of their Horicon, WI manufacturing facility to increase their production capacity for Gator utility vehicles. The 388,000 square foot addition will allow the company to move Gator production in-house from a contract facility, which will improve manufacturing efficiency and facilitate more vehicle customization. John Deere is investing $42.9 million in the expansion and receiving $2 million in tax credits from the state of Wisconsin. The Horicon plant currently employs 1,100 people and will add 80 more when the expansion is finished at the end of the 2016 or beginning of the 2017. Learn more:  JSOnline.com

Comment:  Earlier this year Kubota also moved ahead on an expansion of their utility vehicle manufacturing facilities in the US. Both Kubota and John Deere compete in the farming market segment and other markets for work utility vehicles. These investments indicate that the UTV market is growing and that major manufacturers expect it to continue going forward. The John Deere expansion may be an indication that increased vehicle customization is a trend moving forward.

Polaris Reports Q3 2015 Results

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Polaris Industries reported financial results for the third quarter of 2015, with sales increasing 12% to $1.45 billion and income increasing 10% to $155 million. The following are some of the key points from the earnings call related to the utility vehicle market:

  • From CEO Scott Wine “…the off-road vehicle space is quite healthy, as competitive activity is more intense than in any time in my seven years with Polaris.”
  • ORV sales which includes UTVs and ATVs grew only 3% in the quarter
  • Market headwinds from the oil and agricultural sectors as well as Canada
  • ORV sales were led by global RZR shipments and stronger U.S. sales, partially offset by continued weakness in Canada, along with unfavorable international currencies.
  • ORV sales were up 5% year to date
  • Polaris gained share in both UTVs/side-by-sides and ATVs
  • Side-by-side retail grew low single digits which slightly outpaced the industry
  • New product introductions from many manufacturers is intensifying competition
  • The sport utility market has been stronger than the recreational utility market for side-by-sides for Polaris and the industry
  • Global Adjacent Market third quarter revenues increased 10% and year-to-date revenue is up 4%.
    • European Work and Transportation declined mid-single-digits percent, due primarily to currency weakness and some softness in Goupil and Mega.
    • The European quadricycle industry remains flat year-to-date with Aixam retail up modestly and increasing market share.
    • Third quarter defense revenue increased over 50%, driven by strong momentum for MRZRs and increasing international demand.
    • Year-to-date defense sales are up high-20%s.
  • International revenue increased 1% in the third quarter with strong growth in Indian and RZR brands and in the Latin American region, but somewhat offset by weak currencies, which led to revenue declines in Europe and Australia.
  • Multix, the new product through a joint venture with Eicher Motors, is now in market and initial consumer satisfaction is encouraging.
  • Construction of the the Huntsville, AL ORV manufacturing plant is on schedule to start production in Q2 2016 with a focus on creating production capacity for the Ranger product line.
  • From CEO Scott Wine, “While competitive offerings and promotional efforts expand, we anticipate slightly slower growth in the powersports industry in general, and the side-by-side segment in particular.”
  • Global Adjacent Markets will look for appropriate acquisitions.

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (Earnings call transcript)

Road Use Regulation Roundup – October 2015

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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 July 2015. Some trends in this latest regulation roundup:

  • Many of the ordinances cover the use of golf cars, UTVs and ATVs on public roads while others only involve UTVs and ATVs. 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 and state or provincial level as well.
  • While most of the regulations are in favor of allowing public road use, there is still some resistance from those with safety concerns.

Parsons, KS – The local police chief is pushing for a change in utility vehicle registration rules because of safety concerns arising from utility vehicles being used on local roads. Vehicles such as the Polaris Razor are considered by city staff as worksite utility vehicles, which are legal under an ordinance approved in 2009 as long as they are tagged by the police department after passing a safety inspection. Utility vehicles have been seen on roads where they are not allowed.

Gallipolis, OH – Increased interest in golf cars from residents is driving the city commission to discuss their use on city streets. The city manager notes that they have to be registered to be used on the streets and need turn signals, headlights, brake lights, a license plate, and rear view mirrors.

Houston, TX – The city of Houston passed an ordinance allowing the use of golf cars and utility vehicles on city streets as long as the driver is licensed and insured and the vehicle is registered with the police.

New Braunfels, TX – Driven by increased resident interest and use, the city council is looking at the legality of using golf cars on local streets for trips beyond going to and from golf courses. They are also looking on which streets can golf cars and NEVs be legally driven.

Lynchburg, VA – Local colleges presented a draft ordinance to the city government that would allow the colleges to drive golf cars and utility vehicles on certain local roads near their campuses. There are some safety concerns being raised by council members.

Chillicothe, IL – The city council, in response to a petition, is considering the use of UTVs on public roads but there is significant opposition on the council because of concerns about safety and what type of vehicles would be included by an ordinance. The town already allows golf cars but some feel the regulations are not clear on what is lawful or not.

Osawatomie, KS – The city council is considering an ordinance allowing golf cars and special-purpose vehicles such as UTVs, ATVs and micro-trucks on city streets. Golf carts would be limited to daylight hours, and ATVs would be required to be equipped with lights and reflectors as required for motorcycles. Work-site utility vehicles also would be required to be equipped with lights and reflectors as required for motor vehicles.

Benton County, IA – County supervisors are considering an ordinance that would allow UTVs and ATVs on certain county roads. The rule would set a 40-mph speed limit, require both the drivers and the vehicles to be properly licensed, and prohibit anyone from under age 16 from using county roadways.

Clay County, IA – County supervisors have passed an ordinance that would allow the use of ATVs and UTVs on county roads. Residents who would like to use their all-terrain and off-road utility vehicles on county roads must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and have their vehicle registered with the Department of Natural Resources through the Clay County recorder.

Surprise, AZ – The city is reconsidering their plans to have NEV and bike lanes on Bullard Avenue. The four-lane stretch of road was reduced to two and the other two lanes were used to create a combination of bicycle and NEV lanes, in part to create traffic calming for the three school zones along the road. However, backlash from residents has the city rethinking the plan.

Wasaga Beach, Ontario – The city council has passed an ordinance allowing ATVs and UTVs to be driven on the shoulder of municipal roads from April through November. Riders will have to be insured, helmeted and have a licensed vehicle. The speed limit will be 20 km/hr for the vehicles and they cannot be driven on the beach.

Nashville, TN – A lawsuit stemming from a golf car overturning is prompting the local licensing commission to review the safety of low-speed vehicles. The golf car belonged to the Joyride taxi service and the driver had two prior DUIs and numerous traffic violations.

Milford Village, IL – The village board voted to ban golf cars and low speed vehicles within town limits.

Quebec, Canada – The provincial government wants to allow LSVs on public roads as part of a five year plan to have 100,000 electric and hybrid vehicles on the road by 2020.

Des Moines, IA – The Des Moine Register published an editorial against allowing ATVs and UTVs to be used on public roadways. Pointing to on-road crash statistics for the vehicles as well as statements from a number of safety related organizations, the editorial takes the position that the vehicles are unsafe when operated on local roads. The editorial is in response to a growing number of laws at the municipal level that allow ATV use on roads. Similar legislation at the state level has failed to pass.