BRP Recalls Can-Am Defender UTVs

Posted on January 20, 2017 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

The 2016 Can-Am Defender is part of the recall.

BRP has issued a recall for about 780 model year 2016 Can-Am Defender utility vehicles because the vehicles can unexpectedly roll away when in the “park” position. The recall includes Defender, Defender DPS and Defender XT models. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact a BRP dealer to schedule a free repair.

This recall is on the small size compared to what is typical in the industry. Luckily, no injuries have been reported.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units: About 780

Description:

This recall involves model year 2016 Can-Am Defender, Defender DPS, and Defender XT model side-by-side off-road vehicles. The vehicles were sold in various colors and have four tires, two seats and a cargo box on the back. “Can-am” is printed on the side of the cargo box and the model name is printed on the side of the front of the vehicle beside the headlight. The model name and vehicle identification number (VIN) are printed on a label under the glove box. Contact BRP or a BRP dealer to verify VINs included in the recall.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received six reports of the vehicles moving when in the “park” or “P” position. No injuries have been reported.

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

Sold At: Can-Am dealers nationwide from October 2015 through December 2016 for between $10,000 and $15,700.

Importer(s): BRP U.S. Inc., of Sturtevant, Wis.

Manufactured In: Mexico

Consumer Contact: BRP toll-free at 888-272-9222 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET any day or online at www.can-am.brp.com and click on the Off-Road website and then the “Owners” tab at the top of the page and then “Safety” and then “View Notices” for more information.

Textron Specialized Vehicles Recalls Bad Boy UTVs

Posted on January 11, 2017 by Marc Cesare

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Polaris GEM Issues Recall

Posted on January 9, 2017 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

The 2016 GEM e2 is part of the recall.

GEM, owned by Polaris, has issued a recall for 2016-2017 e2, e4, e6, and eL XD models because the drive mode switch can send an incorrect signal, causing the vehicle to go in the opposite direction than intended. This is a fairly large recall for GEM in relation to their annual sales. It seems few Polaris brands can escape recall issues of late.

The following information is from NHTSA.

Campaign Number: 16V884000

Manufacturer Polaris Industries, Inc.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 1,644

Summary

Polaris Industries, Inc. (Polaris) is recalling certain 2016-2017 GEM e2, e4, e6, and eL XD electric vehicles manufactured May 29, 2015, to November 18, 2016. The drive mode switch can send an incorrect signal, causing the vehicle to go in the opposite direction than intended.

Remedy

Polaris will notify owners, and dealers will replace the drive switch, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in December 2016. Owners may contact GEM Consumer Service Department at 1-855-743-3436. Polaris’ number for this recall is L-16-01.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Learn more: NHTSA Recall

Polaris Announces New UTV Models

Posted on January 9, 2017 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

The Polaris General 1000 EPS Ride Command Edition Black Pearl headlines the mid model year UTV additions.

Polaris announced a number of new utility vehicles across their General, Ranger and RZR product lines. As is typical for these mid-year additions, the models are variations of existing vehicles and many are new color options.

Most notable is the Ride Command edition of the General 1000 EPS, the General1000 EPS Ride Command Edition Black Pearl. Ride Command was launched last year on a limited edition RZR XP 1000 EPS and met with enough success to carry over the technology to the General line. Ride Command “…enables riders to connect with other riders and provides centralized, seamless device control, including integration with mobile phones, cameras and audio.”

The RIDE COMMAND system includes the RIDE COMMAND mobile app and a weather-resistant, glove-touch RIDE COMMAND 7-in. display. The centralized display is the central hub for GPS mapping, listening to favorite music through Bluetooth® or AM/FM radio, controlling a GoPro® camera and to receive texts. In tandem with the RIDE COMMAND app, the display allows riders to track other riders in their group without needing to physically see them. The app also enables riders to map routes in advance, as well as track and share their ride directly to their social feed.

The Polaris GENERAL 1000 EPS RIDE COMMAND Edition Black Pearl features the RIDE COMMAND 7-in. display and several accessories that integrate into the system including front and rear cameras, and a MTX® Premium 8-Speaker Audio system. Other standard accessories include a front bumper, Polaris HD 4500 lb. Winch, Poly Sport Roof and FOX® QS3 Shocks.

The MSRP for this model is $21,499.

The Ranger XP 900 EPS in Silver Pearl.

A Ranger XP 900 EPS Silver Pearl option has also been added and features automotive style paint, aluminum wheels and electronic power steering (EPS) with an MSRP of $13,999. For the Ranger 500 a Sage Green color option was added with the MSRP remaining unchanged at $8,999.

For the RZR product line the new additions consist of new color options for various models with no changes to MSRPs compared to similar models. New color options include:

RZR S 900 EPS Titanium Metallic
RZR 4 900 EPS Titanium Metallic
RZR S 1000 EPS Spectra Orange
RZR XP 1000 EPS White Lightning with Reflex Blue
RZR XP 4 1000 EPS White Lightning with Reflex Blue

It is not surprising that there aren’t any big additions to their line-up. Not only is it mid model year but Polaris has been putting a lot of resources toward fixing their recall issues with Rangers and RZRs. The recall issue also impacts dealer inventory which Polaris is trying to closely manage and any major additions would require adding to dealer inventory. While Polaris is not likely to stop launching significant new models, they will probably be launched mid calendar year by which they hope to have resolved a majority of the recall issues.

Learn more: Polaris.com

Intimidator UTVs Added To SVR Database

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Intimidator utility vehicles just have been added to the Smallvehicleresource.com vehicle database. Intimidator UTVs are manufactured in Arkansas and include a Classic, Truck and Crew series of vehicles. Depending on the series a range of powertrain options are available including a 1000cc Kohler diesel engine, a 750cc Kohler gas engine, Intimidator’s own 800cc gas engine and a 48V AC electric motor. While the Intimidator UTVs are designed for work and trail riding, the feature set and lower top speeds indicate they lean more towards work applications. However, they do feature 27″ tires, 10″ of suspension travel and 12″ of ground clearance that should work nicely on trails. There is also an Enforcer model more targeted at trail riding which will be detailed later.

Intimidator Classic UTV

The Classic series includes all four powertrain options and includes features such as a 1,200 lb. capacity cargo bed, 2,100 lb. towing capacity, 27″ tires with steel wheels, 12″ of ground clearance, dual A-arm suspension, hydraulic disc brakes and front brush guard.

Intimidator Crew UTV

The Crew series includes all the powertrain options except for the electric powertrain. This series has similar features to the Classic series but seats six.

Intimidator Truck UTV

The Truck series is available with either Kohler powertrains and has similar features as the Classic series but is outfitted with a 6-foot cargo bed that can fold-down into a flat bed.

Intimidator Enforcer UTV

The Intimidator utility vehicles vehicle is designed for trail riding. With a SxS Gear portal lift the Enforcer features 4″ gear lift, 30% gear reduction, 32″ motoboss 6-ply tires, true beadlock MSA wheels, 18″ ground clearance, wide track width, Elka shocks and power steering. This model is powered by Intimidator’s own 800cc gas engine with EFI and 65 hp for a top speed of 55 mph.

A number of Intimidator dealers have also been added to the SVR Dealer Directory. If you are already in our directory you can create an account, link to your directory listing and enjoy a free trial of SVR’s Request for Quote service. If you aren’t in our dealer directory then join our directory and signup for SVR’s Request for Quote service for free.

Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Reviews

Posted on December 12, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

The Ranger XP 1000 EPS in Nara Bronze.

This past summer Polaris introduced the Ranger XP 1000 lineup for model year 2017 that featured a 80 hp engine. The lineup includes a 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. 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. Key features of the Ranger XP 1000 include:

80 hp, 999cc ProStar engine with EFI
True On-Demand AWD/2WD/ VersaTrac Turf Mode
10″ of front/rear suspension travel
12″ of ground clearance
Hydraulic disc brakes
25″ tires on steel wheels
1,000 lb. cargo box capacity
2,000 lb. towing capacity and 2″ receiver hitch
3 person capacity
Tilt steering

The EPS models include the following:

EPS
26″ tires on aluminum Black Xcelerator wheels
Pro-Lock On-Demand AWD/2WD/ VersaTrac Turf Mode
Adjustable driver seat

www.texasoutdoorsnetwork.com – Video walk through, first drive and review of the Hunter Edition which adds camo bodywork, winch, cut and sew seats, gun scabbards and active descent control.

Tilt bed has standard tailgate like a pickup truck
Industry leading horsepower
Engine behind the seat makes it less noisy and cooler
Lots of storage

Video review – Dealer walkthrough of Range XP 1000 Ranch Edition. More of a walkthrough than a review. The Ranch Edition includes:

4,500 lb. winch
Brush guard
Rear view mirror
In cab gun mounts
Poly sport roof
Maxxis tires
Headache rack
Wire spool
T-post hauler
Self-leveling suspension
Rear brush guard
Pro-Lock On-Demand AWD/2WD/ VersaTrac Turf Mode

Polaris – Video comparison of Ranger XP 1000 and Honda Pioneer 1000. This is produced by Polaris so obviously it shows the Ranger in a better light. More interesting is some of the comments left by users. First though, some of the advantages of the Ranger XP 1000 as pointed out by Polaris.

More horsepower
Better acceleration
Easier to use on-demand all-wheel drive
More leg room
Better throttle control
Better sealed cab system

As users point out, the comparison is between the three person Ranger vs. the 5-person Pioneer instead of the 3 person Pioneer, which users think is an apples to oranges comparison. Other comments include:

No mention of Honda Pioneer’s paddle shifters and dual clutch system which avoids blown belts and some consider more fun to drive
Some consider Honda to be more reliable and longer lasting
Shorter wheelbase of Pioneer 1000-5 vs. the Crew version of the Ranger XP 1000 and thus better maneuverability on trails
No comparison of towing, fuel or storage
General comments about Polaris skewing the comparison

Kawasaki Adds Government/Fleet Section To Website

Posted on December 9, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Vehicles like the Kawasaki Mule SX 4×4 XC are being marketed to government and fleet buyers.

Kawasaki recently added a section on their website specifically for government and fleet sales. The fleet sales section includes links to information on their work and recreational side-by-sides as well as ATVs. The government section includes motorcycles and personal watercraft in addition to side-by-sides and ATVs. There is also contact information for Michael Jacobs, Kawasaki’s government and fleet sales manager.

This is another indication of side-by-side manufacturers trying to target to additional markets and in particular commercial and work related markets. In many cases, manufacturers with a strong presence in the recreational and crossover market segments are moving more aggressively into the utility segments in search of sales growth. They are accomplishing this by several methods including developing new models or whole product lines for the market, partnering with other equipment manufacturers to access different distribution networks and/or developing new and targeted marketing programs and sales teams. Learn more: Kawasaki.com

Kawasaki Mule Pro FX Reviews

Posted on November 30, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

2016 Kawasaki Mule Pro FX on test ride at Paso Robles, CA

Kawasaki introduced the Mule Pro FX line for model year 2016 and it includes four models: the base model, an EPS model, an EPS model in Camo and a LE or limited edition model. A Ranch Edition was added for the 2017 model year. Features on the base model include:

812cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke, 3-cylinder, engine with fuel injection
Selectable 4WD with dual-mode rear differential
CVT with high and low range
4-wheel double wishbone suspension
8.7″/8.5″ of front/rear suspension travel
25″ Maxxis tires
Hydraulic disc brakes
10.4″ of ground clearance
1,000 lb. cargo bed capacity
Fits full-size pallet
2,000 lb. towing capacity
Multi-function digital display

The 2017 models are similar to 2016 models. Prices range from $11,999 to $14,999 for the FX Ranch Edition.

Overall the reviews of the Kawasaki Mule Pro FX are very positive. Some of the common takeaways across the reviews include:

Good suspension delivers a comfortable ride
Powerful engine with smooth response and minimal noise
Large cargo bed
Comfortable cabin
Good brakes
Power steering is very good
Seating could be improved
Tilt steering with EPS model is preferred
Good work vehicle that is also capable on the trails

www.utvdriver.com – Test ride in Pasa Robles, California hills

Spacious cab
Wide perforated brake medal for wet or muddy conditions
Tilt steering only available on the EPS model
Comfortable
More seat bolstering needed
“The power delivery is very linear as well as effective yet it seems to have reached its peak by half to three quarter throttle so this might be an additional request.”
“…many great features and is sure to be a very useful tool…”

www.rideapart.com – Test ride in Pasa Robles, California hills of Mule Pro FX EPS and FXT Ranch Edition (FXT is a six passenger version)

Interior is comfortable and well laid out
Like the tilt steering wheel
“In two-wheel rear wheel drive mode, both vehicles are a hoot.”
4WD drive worked well up steep inclines and through water
Overall good power steering but a “tad loose for performance driving”
Smooth and linear power delivery
Top speed of about 45 mph
26″ Duro off-road tires (EPS model) provided good traction
Hydraulic disc brakes worked well in emergency stops and downhill but engine braking could be better
Could not bottom out suspension
Mule Pro FX preferred because of lighter weight, better acceleration, bigger cargo area, versatility and lower cost
Mule Pro FXT Ranch Edition better for more work oriented applications

www.fieldandstream.com – Test ride in Pasa Robles, California hills of Mule Pro FX EPS

Responsive engine
Easy access for engine maintenance
Like the built-in dividers and headache rack in the cargo bed
Cabin is comfortable but bolstered seats would be better
Engine noise is minimal and even less with cab system
No trouble handling rougher terrain and handled unexpected obstacles well
Good brakes

www.atvillustrated.com – Test ride in Pasa Robles, California hills of Mule Pro FX EPS

Like the styling – “The overall look is tough and ready for business.”
Half doors are nice but could open a little further for easier ingress/egress
Spacious cabin with well laid out controls and nice display
Plenty of storage space
Molded seats would be better than flat bench
Tight turning radius makes it nimble on trails
Improved suspension over previous Mules is better for trail riding
“On the trail the mule is so easy to drive it could almost be called intuitive.”
Capable climber and plenty of engine power for steeper gradients but some slippage on loose material
Excellent power steering
“…good balance between the fully loaded and unloaded ride characteristics”
Good tracking in rough terrain and absorbs large bumps well
Overall a good work vehicle that also performs well on the trails

www.outdoorhub.com – Test ride in Pasa Robles, California hills of Mule Pro FX EPS

Good throttle response and lots of torque
Large cargo bed
Good engine braking
Air filter remained clean under dusty conditions
4WD and 26″ Duro tires worked well on steep sections
Top speed close to 45 mph
Good farm or ranch work vehicle but also capable on the trails

Video walkaround/review from Mainland Cycle Center

Great suspension and ride
Large cargo capacity and huge cargo bed
Convenient and easy to open half doors
Top speed 46 mph
Great running motor, good power and we have had no troubles with this model
3 year warranty

Hunters Forum

Nice ride – better than older Mules
Large cargo bed
Good power
No problems reported
“Only complaint I have is the darn thing is so comfortable everybody wants to take it.”

Polaris General 1000 EPS Reviews

Posted on November 22, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

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

The base model General 1000 EPS is Indy Red with an MSRP of $16,299.

The Polaris General 1000 EPS was developed by Polaris to fill the void between the RZR lineup designed for recreational riding and the Ranger lineup designed primarily for work or utility applications with some recreational use. The General sits in the middle as more of a true recreational-utility crossover vehicle.

The General 1000 EPS is powered by a 100 hp, 999cc ProStar engine with EFI and engine braking system standard. It also has On-Demand True AWD/2WD/ VersaTrac Turf Mode. The high performance close ratio AWD will automatically engage all four wheels when more traction is needed and then revert back to 2WD when more traction is no longer needed. Other features include:

Broad torque range – 65 ft. lbs. of torque
Electronic Power Steering
12.25″/13.2″ of front/rear suspension travel
12″ of ground clearance
Front and rear sway bars and dual rate springs to maintain clearance under load
4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
27″ Maxxis Coronado tires
Cast aluminum wheels
600 lb. capacity dump cargo bed
1,500 lb. towing capacity
LED lighting
Half doors
Bolstered bucket seats
Tilt steering
Adjustable drive seat
MSRP: $16,299

Compared to the Ranger XP 1000 EPS the General offers less cargo and towing capacity but more horsepower, more speed, more suspension travel, half doors and larger tires.

The following are some of the comments from various expert and user reviews of the Polaris General 1000 EPS. Some common themes across the reviews include:

General is a good crossover vehicle that handles both trail riding and work applications
Powerful and fast with good torque
Interior comfort and ergonomics better than RZR and Ranger with nice seats and instrument cluster
Doors protect against the elements well and allow for easy ingress/egress
Good suspension and ride

www.utvguide.net – Test ride for a day in New Mexico

Suspension borrowed from RZR S 900/1000 works well and many aftermarket parts are available for customizing
Good engine power and torque and placement behind cab limits noise
Comfortable and roomy seats
Well proportioned bed for the range of crossover uses
Doors work great and offer protection from elements
Well positioned instrument cluster
No turf mode (Note: This doesn’t seem to be true as the specs list Versa Trac Turf Mode)
Would prefer a larger tire size for rock crawling and clearance in the desert or mud riding
Better equipped versions like the Deluxe edition are pricey
Overall the General fills a hole in Polaris offerings and the overall feature set is better than competitors.

www.fourwheeler.com – Day of test riding near Santa Fe, New Mexico

“Great for dirt sport enthusiasts who need a versatile, all-wheel-drive utilitarian side-by-side.”
Low-range gearing worked well on steep inclines and rocky trail conditions
Speed reached 60+ mph even at elevation
AWD “terrific” for trail riding
“…Quite capable of traversing snow, mud, sand and other terrain and doing so with ease…”
Agile, powerful and fun to drive
Roomier interior than the RZR or Ranger
Comfortable seats
Seats and center console an improvement over the RZR and Ranger
Doors provide good protection from the elements and offer better ingress/egress than the RZR or Ranger
Solid at soaking up bumps on the trail
Rides level and has sway bars to reduce body roll
Engine Braking System performed well
Hydraulic assist dump bed is selling point
Really good choice for a crossover vehicle

Dirttraxtelevision Video – Review of Polaris General 1000 EPS Deluxe

Deluxe version with FOX QS3 is great because of the easy to adjust 3-position shocks for soft, medium or firm.
Rides great – plush suspension but avoids bottoming out
Awesome power and excellently tuned clutches
Good torque
Close to 80 mph on top end
Seat position more upright than RZR but more laid back than Ranger
Easy ingress and egress with doors
Instrument panel moves with tilt steering
“Highest quality and best laid out interior from Polaris, ever” and more car like than any side-by-side on the market
Center console cover is not padded and is slippery as an armrest
Performs both recreational and work applications well

User Video – Polaris General 1000 walk around and short drive

Tops out at 71 mph
Comments on video
- 0-60 mph took 7.0 seconds
- Good crossbreed between RZR and Ranger
- Better seating and more legroom than RZR

www.polarisgeneralforum.com – Comments from various users on General and in comparison to Honda Pioneer 1000. It is the 2016 Polaris General being discussed.

Car like dash and controls
Better seats than Pioneer – feel like you are sitting in the seat rather than on it
Quick
Sportier than Pioneer
Nicer than the RZR 900
Long discussion on the Polaris AWD system with auto-locking front differential vs. manual locking front differential in the context of more difficult riding such as rock crawling

BRP Unveils Race-Inspired Can-Am Maverick X3 at Phoenix International Raceway

Posted on November 16, 2016 by Marc Cesare

The new Can-Am Maverick X3 with Daytona Package.

From BRP Press Release

BRP unveiled a race-inspired Can-Am Maverick X3 Daytona Package during the Can-Am 500, the NASCAR Sprint Cup race being held at Phoenix International Raceway this week-end. Inspired by race fans, the vehicle combines leading Maverick X3 performance and design characteristics along with a distinctly stock-car appearance.

“It’s a privilege to welcome BRP, a world leader in the powersports industry, to Phoenix International Raceway with its strong Can-Am brand,” said Joie Chitwood III, Chief Operating Officer of International Speedway Corporation. “Can-Am has made a solid commitment towards motorsports and the unveiling of the Can-Am Maverick X3 Daytona Package is another evidence of this commitment.”

The defiantly-designed, precise and powerful Can-Am Maverick X3 side-by-side vehicle is built to conquer even the most demanding terrain. With its 154-hp turbocharged inline 3-cylinder Rotax engine and the ability to go from 0 to 60 mph in less than five seconds, the vehicle is all about performance, which is something all race fans appreciate.

“With the Can-Am Maverick X3 vehicle, we set a goal to deliver a clear leader in the sport segment, and our teams worked together and produced a bold vehicle with incredible looks, agility and performance,” said José Boisjoli, BRP’s president and CEO. “We believe race fans will enjoy this dedicated Daytona-inspired look.”

Sponsorship renewed for the 2017 and 2018 seasons

BRP’s Can-Am brand will be present on the NASCAR circuit for the next two years through its collaboration with the GoFAS No.32 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team, in association with the Kappa and Cyclops Gear brands. The agreement provides Can-Am with the opportunity to sponsor 36 races, 13 as primary sponsor.

The agreement includes two race title sponsorships– the Can-Am Duel at Daytona and the Can-Am 500 in Phoenix for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

Learn more: BRP.com

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Information on the small, task-oriented vehicle market

Category Archives: utility vehicles

BRP Recalls Can-Am Defender UTVs

Textron Specialized Vehicles Recalls Bad Boy UTVs

Polaris GEM Issues Recall

Polaris Announces New UTV Models

Intimidator UTVs Added To SVR Database

Polaris Ranger XP 1000 Reviews

Kawasaki Adds Government/Fleet Section To Website

Kawasaki Mule Pro FX Reviews

Polaris General 1000 EPS Reviews

BRP Unveils Race-Inspired Can-Am Maverick X3 at Phoenix International Raceway