|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ATV Buyer's Guide 2009
|
 |
|
Meet the sweetest rides yet for getting anglers and hunters to exactly where they want to be
|
|
|
By George Gruenefeld, photos courtesy of manufacturers
|
|
|
|
|
KNOX OUTDOOR PRODUCTS - Hoot ETV
When Bob Neary, a retired teacher from Atlantic Canada, set out to address the shortcomings of traditional quads, he created a prototype six-wheeler capable of doing most anything a quad can do, while doubling as an amphibious machine. Enter Tennessee's Andrew Davis, who brought the design to market under the Hoot moniker. This is a rugged ATV-or ETV, for Extreme Terrain Vehicle-that deserves notice for its innovative designs. For instance, rather than using a conventional transmission, power from the 15-horse Kohler engine is transferred to the ground by an automatic torque grip mechanism. And the skid-steer mechanism makes it possible to snake your way through boulder fields where others would be hard pressed to follow. As for on-the-water duties, the operator sits inside a well for a dry crossing, while the six wheels provide the propulsion, as well as additional buoyancy. A touch heavy at 725 pounds, the Hoot measures 48 inches wide and 92.5 inches long.
Learn more: (731) 243-4668; www.knoxoutdoorproducts.com
KUBOTA - RTV500
From the time Kubota introduced its first utility side-by-side in 2004, it's been a foregone conclusion the company's stable would eventually include a compact, bring-everywhere, go-anywhere offering. That finally happened last September with the unveiling of the RTV500, designed for getting away from the pack. Using the 1100 as a model, Kubota engineers cut back the length to 105.9 inches and trimmed the width to 52.5, making it easier to transport. They also downsized the engine to a 465cc version capable of generating 15.8 horsepower, while electronic fuel injection feeds the twin cylinders for a dependable start, even in cold weather. Another smart move was installing a variable hydrostatic transmission-there are no drive belts to replace, and there's positive traction in any situation. When the going gets tough, your extra ace is the rear axle lock differential. This one was worth waiting for.
Learn more: (905) 294-7477; www.kubota.ca
KUMCO - MXU 375 4x4
Taiwan-based KYMCO, one of the top manufacturers of motorbikes and scooters worldwide, is poised to make inroads into Canada's ATV market with three utility quads and a side-by-side. Its latest offering is a mid-range ATV that's priced right and appears to be well conceived. The engine, KYMCO's own four-stroke model fed by a Keihin carb, sits in a steel chassis and can generate 26 horsepower. Gearing options are high and low in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive to handle just about any situation. Look for 24-inch tires and disc brakes front and back. The front and rear racks are steel, and an accessory plug is available.
Learn more: (864) 327-4744; www.kymcousa.com
MIDWEST MOTORSPORTS - Roughneck WRX 500i
The latest addition to Midwest's growing lineup of ATVs and side-by-sides is a mid-size 471cc quad promising performance at a price point that definitely merits a second look. Built in China by one of seven manufacturers used by the Alberta-based company, the 500i runs on a liquid-cooled engine and offers an electric start (with a pull-start for backup). Shifting between two- and four-wheel drive is electronic, as is the locking differential. Other features include the LCD instrument read-out, steel racks and a 12-volt power outlet. The machine measures 82.7 inches long and 44.5 inches wide, with a seat height of 34 inches. It comes in red, blue and black.
Learn more: 1-866-899-7979; www.midwestcanada.com
|
|
 |
|
| 1. Arctic Cat, Can-Am, Club Car, CMI |
|
| 2. Cub Cadet, E-Z-Go, Honda, John Deere, Kawasaki |
|
| 3. Knox Outdoor Products, Kubota, Kymco, Midwest Motorsports |
|
| 4. Polaris, Suzuki, Sym, Yamaha, |
|
| 5. ATV Specs |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
