Kubota RTV-X900 Reviews

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Kubota RTV-X900 utility vehicle

The RTV-X900 utility vehicle from Kubota

The Kubota RTV-X900 (See Specs) was introduced for model year 2014 and was an update to the RTV-900 which had been on the market for a number of years. Key improvements compared to the older model include changes to many physical dimensions and capacities to improve ergonomics and increase towing, tipping capacity and improve off-road comfort and performance. The variable hydraulic transmission (VHT-X) was also updated with a wider torque band from the engine with larger oil coolers to boost performance and durability. The wider torque band results in a a two speed (High,Low) drive compared to the previous three speed drive that required more shifting. The new drive also provides finer throttle control for operation on extreme terrain or under heavy loads.

There are three versions of the RTV-X900 the General Purpose in Kubota orange, the Worksite in Kubota orange and the Worksite in RealTree AP Camo. The Worksite version includes a hydraulic rather than manual bed lift, a brush guard in the front, a spray-on bed liner option and the camo paint option. Pricing ranges from around $13,500 to $15,000 depending on the model.

Kubota RTV-X900 Feature Walkthrough – This video walkthrough is from Kubota in the UK and points out some of the key features.

  • 21 hp diesel engine
  • New front design
  • 60/40 bench seats
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Adjustable steering
  • Easy to reach parking brake
  • Glove box and underseat storage
  • Wider cargo bed than previously
  • Independent rear suspension added to independent front suspension
  • Adjustable susension

ATV.com – A day riding the full RTV X series lineup of vehicles including the RTV-X900.

  • Plenty of legroom and comfortable throttle pedal
  • The RTV-X line in general has heavier vehicles made for work with engines that deliver torque but not quick acceleration
  • Dynamic braking works well and makes steep descents worry free
  • The power steering is “the lightest we ever tested”, even at low speeds. Should reduce driver fatigue after long work days.
  • Vehicle feels planted
  • Turf tires had difficulty on muddier climbs
  • RTV-X900 only has lap belts instead of 3-point seat belts

Tractorbynet.com User Forum – Owner comments on the RTV-X900

  • Seating is comfortable.
  • H & L ranges are appropriate for most use.
  • Not fast, but strong.
  • Good storage under both seats. Glove box with door.
  • Good instrument panel.
  • Shifter is extremely hard to move between L H N R. Takes a lot of muscle to move it.
  • Shifter can become stuck in reverse when stopping on incline. Engine won’t restart if stuck in reverse, needed another piece of equipment to take pressure off reverse linkages before shifter would move and restart engine.
  • Dump bed must be raised to check oil, therefore starting engine before checking oil.
  • Factory supplied battery is very small, doubt it would have enough power to heat glow plugs and still start motor in freezing weather.
  • Engine seems to labor and slow down on inclines, let off & full on gas and resumes original speed.
  • Shifting problem was an issue that came up but other commnenters noted that the driver needs to brake while shifting which is tied into a release valve for the hydrostatic pressure. This valve may also require some adjustment.

www.agriculture.com – For four days a team of 12 experienced riders put eight of the newest UTVs through their paces in the Successful Farming Ultimate UTV Evaluation.

  • Hydrostatic transmission and hydraulics allow for easier driving, PTO accessories and engine-braking
  • Excellent downhill control but heavier weight can be an issue on inclines
  • Not built for speed
  • Can carry a heavy load and the suspension handles the load well so the vehicle maintains drivability
  • Nice features – Adjustable driver seat, tilt steering and horn

STOVs Role In Future Transportation

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Yamaha Drive2

Is there a role for golf car type fleets off the course and in the urban centers of the future?

My colleague Stephen Metzger has written an article on the role of small, task-oriented vehicles (STOVs) in future transportation systems given potential trends towards more urbanization, increasing road traffic and evolving transportation technology. These trends intertwine with specific mobility trends such as electrification, shared mobility and driverless vehicles. He posits that golf car type vehicles are well suited to play a role in the urban transportation systems of the future. Learn more:  Smallvehicleresource.com

Can-Am Adds Defender HD5 To Side-by-Side Lineup

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Can-Am Defender HD5 side-by-side

Can-Am Defender HD5 is new for 2017 and features a mid-size engine and lower price point.

Can-Am has expanded their more work-oriented Defender side-by-side product line with the Defender HD5. The Defender HD5 features a mid-sized engine and a lower price point with an $9,999 MSRP for the base model. Key features of the vehicle include:

  • CVT with engine braking
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential
  • 25″ Maxxis tires on 12″ wheels
  • 10″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • 10.5″ of ground clearance
  • 600 lb. capacity tilting cargo bed
  • 1,500 lb. towing capacity
  • VERSA-PRO bench seat than can flip up for more cab space
  • Dynamic Power Steering model available
  • Available in three colors including optional Mossy Oak Break-up Camo
  • See specs for Base and DPS models

The following is the full press release from BRP

VALCOURT, Quebec, Canada, Oct. 26, 2016– BRP (TSX:DOO) has expanded its line of Can-Am Defender utility-recreational off-road vehicles with the launch of the new Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle. The Defender platform is now available with a mid-size engine, offering both value and performance while maintaining the Defender vehicle’s highly touted tough, capable and clever design.

“The 2017 Can-Am Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle provides full-size functionality and unmatched versatility at an attractive price point,” explained Marc-André Dubois, Global Marketing Director, Can-Am Off-Road. “This addition of the handy Defender HD5 packages helps us expand the Defender family lineup to meet market demand and also grow the Can-Am footprint in the highly popular utility-recreation segment of the industry.”

TOUGH
The 2017 Can-Am Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle is every bit as tough as its larger siblings. The Rotax HD5 engine has been calibrated to supply excellent power and torque for work on the farm and in the field. The engine requires no break-in service and remains maintenance-free for one year or up to 1,865 miles (3,000 km) or 200 running hours. Additionally, the durable CVT comes equipped with engine braking, drive belt protection and a work-ready low range as standard equipment.

CAPABLE
The Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle is equipped with a dependable high-strength, low-alloy steel chassis. A double A-arm front suspension, unique Torsional Trailing A-arm (TTA-HD) rear suspension and twin-tube, gas-charged shocks supply 10 in. (26.7 cm) of travel, front and rear. The Can-Am HD5 side-by-side vehicle also has a 10.5-inch (26.7-cm) ground clearance, selectable 2WD / 4WD Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential and 25-in. (63.5-cm) Maxxis tires on 12-in. (30.5cm) wheels for superior off-road capabilities.

The Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle also delivers impressive capacities, with its ability to tow up to 1,500 lbs. (680 kg) and a payload capacity of 1,200 lbs. (544 kg). The heavy-duty cargo box has intuitive adaptability to go with its 600 lbs. (272 kg) rated capacity, tilting bed and fully functional tailgate. It also has the industry’s largest fuel tank, at 10.6 gal. (40 L), meaning more time for work and less time spent refuelling.

CLEVER
A roomy, intuitive cockpit is designed to be fully functional and comfortable with cab pillars pushed forward, an open-dash configuration and a truck-inspired VERSA-PRO bench seat that accommodates up to three adults and flips up for added space in the cab. The Defender DPS HD5 package features up to 10.4 gal. (39.5 L) of onboard storage with its cup holders, under-dash storage and industry-exclusive, water-resistant toolbox. The cargo box presents additional usefulness with its integrated design elements like the LinQ quick-attach system, built-in anchors and tie-down points and many recesses for easy box separator solutions.

The 2017 Defender HD5 side-by-side vehicle is available in two packages (base and DPS) and up to three available colors, including an optional, water-dipped Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo finish. The Defender family of side-by-side vehicles is also highly adaptable with a line of 160 genuine Can-Am accessories, giving owners numerous customization choices.

The tough, capable and clever 2017 Defender HD5side-by-side vehicle is an exceptional value complete with full-size accommodations designed to improve comfort and convenience for simplifying tough jobs.

About BRP
BRP (TSX:DOO) is a global leader in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems. Its portfolio includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am all-terrain and side-by-side vehicles, Can-Am Spyder roadsters, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. BRP supports its line of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business. With annual sales of over CA$3.8 billion from over 100 countries, the Company employs approximately 7,900 people worldwide.
www.brp.com

Comment:  This is another example of a continuing trend in the side-by-side market of new value priced models being introduced. The slower growth in the overall side-by-side market and the rise of less expensive smaller brands has led a number of the larger brands to launch lower priced models around the $10,000 price point. With an economy that looks like it will continue to grow relatively slowly and weakness for side-by-sides in oil/gas and agriculture segments, the move to bolster lower priced offerings is likely to continue and competition could become fiercer in the $8,000 to $11,000 price range.

Polaris Announces Q3 2016 Results

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The Polaris RXR XP Turbo is being recalled because of a potential fire hazard.

Recalls of vehicles like the Polaris RXR XP Turbo were a drag on the company’s financial performance for the quarter.

Polaris Industries announced their financial results for Q3 2016 with third quarter sales down 19% to $1.18 billion as impacts of massive vehicle recalls are still being felt. CEO Scott Wine stated that the company is prioritizing “…recall execution and quality validation and delay the launch of many of our model year 2017 Off-Road Vehicles.” The following are highlights from the earnings call as they relate to the small, task-oriented vehicle market.

  • Off-road vehicle industry retail declined modestly (down low single digits%) for the quarter with oil/gas and agriculture segments remaining weak
  • ORV and Snowmobile segment sales declined 23% in Q3 to $923.4 million driven by weak industry dynamics and delayed model year 2017 shipments as products were revalidated
  • RZR retail dropped precipitously in the first two months of the quarter but improved significantly in the third month along with overall side-by-side retail driven by promotions and better product availability
  • Management reports that RZR recalls have now passed the 50% penetration rate for both the RZR 900/RZR 1000 recall and the more recent Turbo recall and the majority of the recalls should be completed by year end
  • Gross margins were negatively impacted by higher promotional and customer appreciation costs to bolster confidence and credibility with our Off-Road Vehicle owners
  • The Ranger 1000 has shown good early signs for sales
  • Management reports that RZR market share is nearly 2.5 times all competitors combined and Ranger share over 2 times the next largest competitor
  • Global Adjacent Markets segment revenue increased 6% to $78.5 million in Q3 driven by the prior Taylor-Dunn acquisition
  • Sales in the Defense business and Work and Transportation businesses were lower quarter-over-quarter due to delayed military orders and weak rental and B2B sales
  • RFM inventory management system will be aggressively rolled out next year and should improve ORV dealer’s ability to replenish vehicles, manage inventory and make models available to customers
  • Guidance for full year 2016:
    • ORV and Snowmobile sales are expected to be down high single digits to low double digits percent but should show some retail growth in Q4
    • Defense and Work and Transportation segment sales are expected to be up high single digits for the year

Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com (earnings call transcript)

2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R Reviews

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The new Yamaha YXZ1000 targets the "pure sport" side-by-side segment, with an eye toward dune riding.

The Yamaha YXZ1000 targets the “pure sport” side-by-side segment, with an eye toward dune riding.

Yamaha introduced the YXZ1000R in September of 2015. The launch marked Yamaha’s entry, or some would say re-entry, into the pure sport segment of the side-by-side market. The YXZ1000R was the first side-by-side with a manual 5-speed sequential-shifting transmission as opposed to a CVT. The vehicle is powered by a 998cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline three-cylinder and produces about 112 HP. YXZ1000R also features FOX 2.5 Podium shocks and a boatload of suspension travel. (Full specs) For drivers less experienced with a manual transmission, a Rekluse clutch option is available so the clutch pedal does not have to be used.

For 2017 the base model and the SE models remain essentially the same except for some body color changes. The biggest addition for the 2017 model year is the SS variation that has paddle shifters, which avoids the need for using a clutch pedal while shifting. As is noted in the review comments, the original YXZ has more appeal to drivers with manual transmission experience. The paddle shifters should widen the appeal of the YXZ to riders with more varied driving experience.

With the importance of Yamaha’s entry into the sport segment and unique manual transmission, there are quite a few expert reviews of the YXZ1000R. Most of the reviews are based on day long test drives.

Not surprising for a high-end side-by-side, the reviews are generally very positive. Some of the key takeaways across all reviews:

  • Designed for the desert rider
  • Manual transmission requires more experienced driver but those drivers will really like the unique driving experience
  • Shifting is smooth and precise
  • Downshifting and engine braking are great for downhill runs
  • Engine works better at higher RPMs and suspension is better at higher speeds
  • Vehicle feels planted and has limited body roll and steering is precise
  • Comfortable seating

The following are some of the key comments from individual reviews.

UTVUnderground.com – Day long test drive in dunes at Glamis.

  • From the outside the YXZ isn’t the most appealing UTV on the market.
  • The seating position is the best of any UTV I have driven. The seats lean back and are comfortable.
  • Seats should have a 4 or 5 point harness instead of the standard 3 point seat belts
  • Overall the interior is good.
  • The design of the YXZ is unique – particularly the hood design which gives a different feel while driving than other UTVs.
  • Rear Suspension – The lower arm is much like a trailing arm but unlike what you see on a RZR or Wildcat it also has an upper control arm which really helps the rear of the car to stay stable and planted to the ground.
  • The factory setup is designed for the desert rider
  • Rear wheels feel planted and there is minimized body roll. The ride may be considered stiff.
  • Handled all of the riding conditions encountered.
  • The torque felt great; shifting allows the driver to deliver the power where they need it and while it can be tricky to remain in the right gear, once you master it you can control the YXZ unlike any other UTV on the market.
  • You really need to run it up in the RPM to get the most of it, especially in the dunes.
  • The 5-speed gear box was what I was most impressed with on the YXZ. I had been expecting a very loose feeling shift and weak clutch but what I got was a real performance minded feeling of a tight shift and instantaneous engagement.
  • You can’t really up the size of your tires without drastically reducing your performance.
  • The Yamaha is very limited as it pertains to setting up for other types of riding, it was designed to be a pure sport desert machine.
  • While it will be tricky to drive for the average Joe, for anyone with any sport or performance driving / riding experience, they will love the YXZ!
  • We drove 20 plus units with over 500 miles on them and not one machine was towed in or broken at the end of the day.

Dirtrider.com – Day long test drive in dunes at Glamis. This reviewer comes from more of an off-road motorcycle background.

  • There is a built in safety light that will tell you to shift when absolutely necessary.
  • In 2nd gear you’ll climb the steepest dunes, 3rd gear will lug around most open trails and 4th and 5th are for blasting whoops and racing friends.
  • Shifting is smooth and precise
  • Gas pedal reach may be an issue for shorter riders with the stock adjustable seats.
  • Downshifting with actual engine braking, gives the Yamaha a very dirt-bike-like feel
  • This isn’t the best option as a family rock-crawler.

UTVDriver.com – This test drive involved the YXZ1000R SE which had Silver Metallic and Blaze Red Metallic painted exterior and interior with color matched seats, A-arms and beadlock rings.

  • The exciting YXZ experience is more like riding a sport quad, but it takes much more effort than a CVT-equipped High Performance UTV.
  • The Rekluse clutch prevents the YXZ from stalling when coming to a stop. It has no effect on shifting whatsoever. The Rekluse clutch is a great purchase for new drivers or those spending their time rock crawling, mud bogging or on tight woods trails.
  • Top speed near 80 mph
  • Brakes as good or better than anything currently on UTVs.
  • The engine braking and manual transmission helped on downhills.
  • The vehicle was stable and predictable.
  • The shocks and suspension work better at faster speeds
  • It is hard to bottom out the suspension

YXZOwners.com – These comments are a summary of a long discussion on a YXZ owners forum about the clutch and manual transmission of the YXZ.

  • The consensus is that it takes more effort to drive
  • The machine can handle other terrain besides dune and desert like tight trails, rocks and mud with some driver skill.
  • A less experienced driver may ruin the clutch before its time.
  • Many posters reported driving hundreds of miles with no clutch problem

UTVGuide.net – Day long test ride at Sand Mountain Nevada with the YXZ1000R SE

  • Flimsy plastic skid plate
  • Zerk fittings, properly routed wires, lines and cables, the fit and finish on this machine takes it to the head of the class from the get go.
  • Very comfortable adjustable seating
  • Engine sounds fantastic
  • I found the YXZ to shift as easily and positively as any manual transmission I’ve ever operated.
  • Engine works better at higher rpms
  • Engine is smooth and strong
  • Stiff suspension with factory settings but adjustments can be made.
  • Feels planted and rode better at higher speeds with little body roll.
  • Very good brakes
  • Front locking differential worked well on technical climbing sections but the YXZ requires more skill and effort to operate in these conditions than a UTV with a CVT.
  • The manual transmission is good for downhill runs. I can’t emphasize enough how much better the YXZ handles downhill runs with it’s manual transmission, it’s a huge plus.
  • Shifting is a huge part of what makes the YXZ so much fun to drive and make no mistake, Yamaha’s flagship sport UTV is a seriously fun machine to operate.

Lanesplitter.jalopnik.com – Review of YXZ1000R after day long test ride in desert conditions.

  • Driving in the sand with a real manual transmission adds to the experience in a special way, allowing you an entirely new level of control.
  • Handled bumps really well, a very smooth suspension
  • Good cornering
  • Precise steering
  • Attention to detail
  • Some heat coming from engine and transmission when pushing it.

User Review – This is a user generated video. They take the YXZ1000R out for a short ride in a gravel parking lot.

  • Doors – smooth on the outside so nothing catches
  • Really like the cabin
  • Really smooth shifting
  • Yamaha makes best power steering – easy steering

User Video – No comments, just a video montage of theYamaha YXZ 1000R in action on various terrain.

2017 Maverick X3 Reviews

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The Can-Am Maverick X3 X ds package

The Maverick X3 X ds package features different shocks, slightly larger wheels and different paint options (Shown here in Triple Black)

In August, 2016 Can-Am introduced their new Maverick X3, the latest salvo in the battle for supremacy in the sport/high performance recreational side-by-side market. Continuing the horsepower wars, this latest model is powered by a 154 hp, three-cyclinder, 900cc, turbocharged Rotax ACE engine with EFI. It delivers 113 lb-ft. of torque at 7,000 rpm and propels the X3 from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds according to Can-Am. Another key feature of the lineup is the large amount of suspension travel, from 20″ to 24″ depending on the model. Besides the base model X3,  there is Maverick X3 X ds and the top-of-the-line Maverick X3 X rs designed for dune riding. The MSRPs are $22,999, $24,999 and $26,999 respectively.

Not surprisingly I was able to find a number of expert reviews of the new Maverick X3. They were uniformly very positive about the vehicle and believed it has set a new standard in the industry. Some of the common positive impressions across the reviews include:

  • Powerful engine
  • Great suspension
  • Good handling
  • Comfortable and adjustable seating
  • Good cockpit ergonomics

The following are some of the key impressions from the reviews. Some of the reviews were based on a limited test run at a dealer event, while others were based on a lengthier one or two day events with many hours of riding.

UTV Underground – Based on short ride at dealer event on demo track

  • Comfortable and highly adjustable seats with both fore and aft adjustment and the ability to lower the seat another two inches
  • Excessive chassis roll but still feels planted in the corners
  • Handles very deep and rough terrain better than any factory side-by-side

UTVguide.net – Extended test of the Maverick X3 X rs at UTV Invasion event in Idaho.

  • Low seats and plenty of legroom but shorter drivers may have issue with over-the-hood visibility
  • Comfortable seats, good pedal position but somewhat long steering wheel reach
  • 4-point harness would be better
  • Rear rack would need accessories to add storage but inside storage good
  • Slight delay as turbo spins up but powerful when it does
  • The torque is silky-smooth, allowing you to drive hard with your right foot while still maintaining traction easily under hard cornering loads.
  • Lots of power
  • The steering feel produces zero feedback through the wheel
  • Steering is neutral with only some understeer
  • The suspension is great providing a solid ride under even extreme conditions
  • “We have officially entered a new era of suspension performance with the X3, as the X rs packs as much usable wheel travel as the Commander and original Maverick COMBINED.”

 UTVGuide.net – Tested all three Maverick X3 models in Mexico over two days.

  • Quick ratio steering and Dynamic Power Steering great
  • “I found myself using the power often during the next two days to lighten the front end instead of stabbing the brakes for an obstacle. … Anywhere from 30 MPH to 70 MPH acceleration is violent and addictive.”
  • CVT worked well in transferring power
  • CVT and engine intakes are behind the driver’s head which may be annoying after several hours because of the noise.
  • The front differential lock is not good for rock crawling.
  • “Can-Am has raised the bar in the sport UTV market segment, especially when you look at the Maverick X3 X rs. Factory long travel with 22/24 inches of travel is amazing in a 102-inch wheelbase for the desert. And although the horsepower comparison between the RZR XP Turbo at 144 HP and the Maverick X3 Turbo at 154 HP isn’t all that much on paper, when you get behind the wheel of the X3 you can feel the difference and it is exhilarating.”

ATV.com – Short test run at dealer event.

  • Standing on the gas pedal gives a thrilling response
  • “This rig just seems to soak up the impacts one right after the other”
  • Braking seemed a little soft but more than adequate
  • “The suspension of the new Maverick X rs Turbo R is unlike anything else offered on a factory UTV.”
  • “On the few slick, flat surface corners we experienced, the Maverick likes to stay semi-flat, but you definitely feel the flexing of the super long travel of the suspension.”

Gearopen.com – Tested all three Maverick X3 models in Mexico over two days

  • Good power transfer
  • The power literally puts you back in your seat if you stab the throttle pedal hard.
  • Very well balanced suspension.
  • Can easily adjust to the three compression settings on the shocks.
  • “It was the Maverick X3 X RS that really stood out as a game changer. This is the first factory long travel UTV that measures 72 inches wide.”
  • Like with the other X3’s, the car feels planted, tracks straight and is ultra plush.
  • Good steering wheel feel
  • Predicatable cornering
  • Good rock crawler
  • “Vehicle feels solid, it’s fast and it feels glued to the ground”

Rockymountainatvmc.com – Tested all three Maverick X3 models in Mexico over two days

  • “Simply put, the turbocharged engine is perfectly suited to the demands of sport UTV driving. It produces instantaneous boost off idle, equating to an absurdly wide powerband…”
  • “The X3 pulls hard at any speed, with no lag or flat spots through its rpm range”
  • “It’s the X3’s handling that really triggers elevated levels of euphoria.”
  • Handles rough terrain very well and the driver feels in control.
  • The vehicle has some chassis roll.
  • The CVT is noisy in the cabin and you will need to replace the transmission belts occasionally.
  • It can handle many types of terrain very wel.l
  • “If you’ve never driven a side-by-side that’s truly “wowed” you, then test drive Can-Am’s latest Maverick.”

Ridenow TV video – The 2017 Can-Am Maverick X3 review was the topic of this week’s RideNow TV episode. We had an exclusive opportunity to have first dibs at test riding the Maverick X3 before they were available to the public and we had an absolute blast! Every single one of us was extremely impressed at the over all package delivered by Can-Am.

  • Comfortable and adjustable seat
  • Smaller steering wheel
  • Fastest side by side
  • Good throttle response – immediate
  • Sleeker looking than previous Mavericks
  • Low center of gravity
  • Great suspension
  • Good through the whoops and smooth as butter,
  • Couldn’t bottom out the suspension

Ridenow TV Walkaround video – Vehicle walkaround and interviews with Can-Am engineers and off-road racers who have test driven the new Maverick X3

  • Trailing arm suspension a big improvement nearly like a trophy truck
  • Excellent driver comfort and ergonomics
  • Different and cool body lines
  • Longer wheelbase and rear placed engine allows you to lower seat, also dropped the cage
  • Designed to be close to a race vehicle right out of the box
  • Used a new high strength alloy to make a lighter but more rigid frame to handle the high horsepower.
  • Other parts beefier as well
  • 3 models for different riding condition including 72″ wide version for dune riding

Rider impressions

  • Amazing
  • As a racer great out of the box, could race with little changes
  • Handling matches the increased power
  • In its own class as a side by side
  • Near ready race car
  • Great lines
  • Race ready

Off-Road Racer BJ Baldwin

  • Really comfortable to drive
  • Goes through obstacles really well
  • Ride really well, much better than other UTVs when going from a trophy truck
  • Even at really fast speeds it still handles well
  • Ergonomics are good as well
  • Did a really good job

4ekolka: A 3D Printed LSV

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4ekolka

The 4ekolka, a prototype electric powered city car.

The 4ekolka is a 3D printed, electric powered vehicle out of Prague from Petr Chladek. The estimated cost to build this prototype vehicle was $12,000 with half of that for the batteries and battery management system. The vehicle is designed for a top speed of 55 km/h or approximately 34 mph. The 9.6 kWh battery pack consists of LiFePO4 batteries with a capacity of 200Ah @ 48V and the estimated range per charge is 200 km or 124 miles. The 4ekolka is expected to consume about 100 Wh compared to 200-300 Wh for most electric vehicles.

The expected market is for intra-city driving and as a secondary car. The designer is also investigating commercial uses. The vehicle is currently being tested on roads in Prague. Learn more:  Electrek.co

Maverick X3 Development Process

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Can-Am Maverick X3 X rs side-by-side

The Maverick X3 X rs package is designed for riding the dunes or occasionally above them.

An article in PowerSports Business provides some details of the product development process for Can-Am’s recently launched Maverick X3 side-by-side. The process started from scratch and early on the company researched trophy truck, sandrails and dune buggie markets for design input. Side-by-side users have been migrating from these markets. Based on this research, Can-Am engineered a large trailing arm and up to 24″ of rear suspension to the Maverick X3 lineup. The wider 72″ X3 model will also appeal to the dune riding crowd. Another critical design element is the low center of gravity for the passengers.

The overall design revolved around the words defiant, precise and powerful. Since the X3 was positioned as the top of the product line vehicle, Can-Am wanted it to be a statement vehicle with an aggressive and bold look. Precise refers to the suspension and handling characteristics and powerful refers to the turbocharged engine.

According to Can-Am dealer response to the Maverick X3 has been enthusiastic. The MSRPs for the line were less than they expected given the vehicle features they had heard about, and they liked that they can prep the vehicles and put them in their customer’s hands within an hour. The key demographic for the X3 is men in their mid-40s looking for an exhilarating adrenaline rush and most will be migrating from ATVs or replacing another side-by-side. Learn more:  Powersportsbusiness.com

Cub Cadet Challenger 700 Reviews

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Cub Cadet Challenger 700

Cub Cadet Challenger 700

Cub Cadet introduced their Challenger UTV line in early 2015 with the Challenger 500 and Challenger 700 models. The models are similar with the main difference being a larger sized engine in the 700, 686cc vs. 471cc. The models are positioned as offering excellent value for the price with a host of standard features including a hard-top roof, quick-release windshield, winch with remote, alloy wheels and digital display. The MSRP for the Challenger 500 is $8,499 (see model specs) and the Challenger 700 is $9,499. SVR interviewed the Marketing Director and discussed at length the new Challenger line and future development plans.

I found fewer reviews for the Challenger 700 but did find an expert review from UTV Action. The had tested the Challenger 500 at Moab’s Rally on the Rocks. Some of the key takeaways from their test drive:

  • The Challenger 700 can reach speeds up to around 60 mph in high gear and above 40 mph in low gear but can take time to reach those speeds.
  • The transmission and 4WD worked well with quick engagement and smooth operation.
  • It corners well in 2WD but steering gets heavier in 4WD without EPS. The relatively short wheelbase and torsion bars are good for tight trails.
  • The relatively low 7.3″ of suspension travel limits it ability on more challenging terrain but it handles typical trail obstacles satisfactorily.
  • “Excellent in rocks and good in mud”
  • Very strong brakes for steeper terrain.
  • Good ergonomics in the cockpit and nice creature comforts.

Overall, they seemed to have pushed the Challenger 700 hard and came away with a positive impression for the vehicle.

There was limited user generated reviews but I did find some comments on a UTV forum.

  • Overall the two users seemed satisfied with the Challenger 700.
  • A-arms needed to be greased upon first purchasing.
  • Exhaust valves needed to be adjusted.
  • Top speed of 55 mph reported.
  • The hitch is “quirky” because of existing pin hole placement.

If you are looking to purchase this model please note that Cub Cadet recalled some of these vehicles in early 2016 because of an issue with the parking brake cable failing.

If you have had any experience using this vehicle, please leave a comment below.

Hustler Turf’s New MDV UTV

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The new MDV utility vehicle from Hustler with a unique cargo bed technology.

The new MDV utility vehicle from Hustler with a unique cargo bed technology. Photo:  Pinkston’s Inc.

Hustler Level Lift technology

More information on the Level Lift technology used in the Hustler MDV.  Photo:  Pinkston’s Inc.

Hustler MDV utility vehicle

A frontal view of the Hustler MDV. Photo: Pinkston’s Inc.

Hustler Turf Equipment, a manufacturer of zero-turn mowers for residential and commercial customers, has launched a new utility vehicle, the MDV (Maximum Duty Vehicle) with Level Lift technology. Level Lift technology allows the user to move the cargo bed from the vehicle to flat on the ground and vice-versa. At any point during this movement cargo can be lifted, lowered or dumped. The Hustler MDV was recently shown to dealers at a Hustler company event in Nashville and will be on display at the GIE+EXPO in Louisville, KY later this month. Learn more:  Pinkstons

Comment:  This is another example of a power equipment company trying to take advantage of their unique distribution network. The turf and lawn care UTV market is seeing big name UTV brands using partnerships and contract manufacturing deals to reach this market, as well as, outdoor equipment brands develop their own products. It will be interesting to see how the level lift technology does in the market and whether other manufacturers will develop something similar. It could be popular in larger institutional or other settings where there might be interest in trying to limit work place injuries due to lifting cargo in and out of vehicles.