UTV Reviews

2009 Kawasaki Teryx 750 FI – First Drive We were fortunate enough to be invited to the Kawasaki Dealer show in Dallas, Texas. As we all know, everything is bigger in Texas and the Dealer show was no different. Following the Kawasaki Dealer meeting, we had the opportunity to test out the new 2009 DFI Teryx. Many of the editors headed to a bus to be taken to a test track that Kawasaki set up in a pasture.  They made the track one mile in length with lots of tight turns. There were a couple of areas where they piled rocks or 4 x 4 lumber to test… Continue Reading »
2009 Honda Big Red MUV 700 There’s no doubt that the UTV and side-by-side market is still exploding given all the recent updates and new introductions by nearly all the manufacturers. In going to all the press intros, there’s been one common thread from all the OEMs: This market appears to be here for good, and it’s the only category with double-digit sales even in our down-turned economy. The other amazing thing is that UTV and side-by-side buyers are still buying lots of aftermarket products within the first year of ownership. How much, you ask? Well, it’s an average of over $5,000, which is roughly half… Continue Reading »
2014 Kawasaki Teryx4 800 2014 Kawasaki Teryx4 800 For 2014, Kawasaki stepped up their game substantially with a host of updates and changes for the 2014 Teryx4. Now don’t for a second let your mind wander off to an XP900 killer or Wildcat slayer, but imagine a side-by-side that will offer everything you can ask of it, and maybe more. This flagship UTV of the green camp is designed for a class all its own which, in this writer’s eyes, is the “do everything well” class. Come with us to Utah as we put this machine through its paces in some of the most beautiful riding country in… Continue Reading »
2014 Honda Pioneer 700 2014 Honda Pioneer 700/700-4 It’s always worthy of our attention when Honda releases new products, especially now as they begin a new trek into the UTV market. Before diving into Pioneer, which is their latest release, it’s important to understand a little Honda history. We live in an “it’s not my fault” culture these days, much like the 1980’s. I know I’m not the only one who remembers the unfair rap Honda received back then from the sharks of a famed television who delivered a damaging report portraying Honda’s 3-wheeler line as dangerous. In the end, these undeserved attacks led to countless lawsuits, the… Continue Reading »
2014 Can-Am Maverick Max X rs DPS 2014 Can-Am Maverick Max X rs DPS In one short decade, side-x-sides have evolved from trail friendly utility machines to pure-sport, race-worthy, high performance vehicles. Everything about them -- engines, suspension travel, width, length, speed, acceleration..have one common evolutional characteristic: Bigger is Better Can-Am’s new Maverick MAX is no exception. At the 2014 Can-Am model press intro, the Maverick’s gigantic size was teamed with an equally large engine growl and muscle car appearance. The suspension looked wide, wicked and ready to tackle a war zone. We couldn’t wait to slip behind the wheel and mash the gas pedal. Super Stretch! The Maverick MAX is a very long… Continue Reading »
2014 Can-Am Maverick 1000R X xc DPS 2014 Can-Am Maverick 1000R X xc DPS From every corner of the country, and in between, editors and test riders from North America’s most prominent side-by-side publications convened on a private stretch of land in upstate New York -- 2,000 acres that housed miles of tight and densely wooded trails. At first, and for all of us in attendance, it seemed like an odd place for Can-Am to host a sport side-by-side press introduction... ...but it couldn’t have been more perfect. Redefining “Tree-Hugger” The new Can-Am Maverick XC does just that. In a nutshell, it’s a Maverick with narrower width and retuned suspension, designed to master highly… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat X 2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat X [m] The new Wildcat X brings a revised 951cc V-twin 4 stroke engine to the table, providing exceptional power and a new, responsive clutching setup. The Wildcat X is ready to take on even the biggest hills with its Maxxis Bighorn tires, Fox Podium shocks, plenty of storage, and dual LED headlights /taillights. We love the way the Wildcat X’s suspension devours everything in its path- you will find yourself taking the rough road just for grins. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Rapid Response Clutch with High, Low, Park, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 4X 2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 4X [m] Arctic Cat is offering the Wildcat 4 in both standard and X performance levels this year. The X package denotes a higher state of tune from the engine and a Team Industries Rapid Response clutch system for increased acceleration. Compared to the standard Wildcat, all of the X models offer a big increase in performance. The X also comes with Maxxis Bighorn tires, which are a nice upgrade from the Duros on the base machine. Four comfortable bucket seats and additional handholds make this behemoth of a machine one plush ride. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission:… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 4 2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 4 [m] With the Wildcat 4 priced at $19,599, we can’t see many buyers choosing it over the 4X. However, it has shown to be a comprehensive UTV with a smooth-running 5-link rear suspension, high back bucket seats for all 4 passengers, Fox Podium shocks and Duro Kaden tires. The Wildcat 4 Limited Edition comes with painted front and rear aluminum bumpers, custom graphics and matching seats, and is sure to turn heads! Under the bed lies a 951cc V-twin engine. The Wildcat 4 Limited edition also includes Fox Podium shocks and Duro Kaden tires. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction:… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 1000 / 1000 LTD 2014 Arctic Cat Wildcat 1000 / 1000 LTD [m] The Wildcat 1000 (non-X) includes Fox Podium shocks with 23- position compression adjustment, Duo Kaden tires, and race inspired bucket seats. With a 951cc V-twin engine and electronic power steering, the Wildcat 1000 is ready for any terrain. Checking the “Limited” box nets painted front and rear aluminum bumpers, custom graphics and matching seats. Riding in style was never so easy! To back up those looks, it has a 951cc V-twin engine, electronic power steering, Fox Podium shocks and Duro Kaden Tires. More power, increased stability and a look to match, what more could you ask for? Wildcat 1000 SPECIFICATIONS:… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 700 XTX 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 700 XTX [m] The Prowler 700 XTX comes equipped with electronic power steering, storage under the hood, front and rear receivers, a tilting cargo box and a parking brake. Plus, for close to $300 more you can blend in with the best of nature with the custom painted camo edition! SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS and High, Low, Park, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD with electric front differential lock  Suspension: Front: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel; Rear: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel  Length/Width/Height: 118.8/61.5/79 inches  Wheelbase: 75 inches  Ground Clearance: 10 inches … Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 700 HDX Limited 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 700 HDX Limited [m] The Prowler 700 HDX Limited edition has three seats and comes equipped with a 695cc single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection. The 700 HDX Limited also features a transformable tilting rear cargo box. This cargo box can haul up to 1,000 lbs. and converts to a flatbed in minutes, allowing you to haul a full pallet. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 695cc, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS and High, Low, Park, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD with electric front differential lock  Suspension: Front: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel; Rear: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel  Length/Width/Height: 129/60/79… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 550 XT 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 550 XT [m] Featuring a 545cc, liquid cooled single-cylinder EFI engine built in the USA, the Prowler 550 XT is as American as it gets. It comes equipped with Duro Kaden tires, fully independent suspension, storage under the hood, front and rear receivers, and a dumping cargo box. Its efficient 550 EFI mill has proven to put out enough power for the trail or the farm. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 545cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS and High, Low, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD with electric front differential lock  Suspension: Front: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel; Rear:… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX [m] Equipped with a small, yet powerful 443cc single-cylinder engine, the 500 HDX is great for work. The engine produces a wide torque curve and smooth power delivery thanks to the EFI. With seating for three, a transformable tilting rear cargo box, and a dashboard-mounted shift lever that includes park, the Prowler 500 HDX is great fun on the trail, but is a workhorse on the job site. SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS and High, Low, Park, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD with electric front differential lock  Suspension: Front: Double… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX XT 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX XT [m] The Prowler 500 HDX Limited features electronic power steering that is automatically activated and allows you to use minimal effort to steer the machine even at the slowest speeds. Both the HDX XT and the HDX Limited feature a 443cc single-cylinder EFI engine, fully independent suspension, Duro Kaden tires, a transformable tilting rear cargo box and can seat three people comfortably! SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS and High, Low, Range, Park, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD with electric front differential lock  Suspension: Front: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel; Rear:… Continue Reading »
2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 1000 XTZ 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 1000 XTZ [m] With under-hood storage, front and rear 2-inch hitches, a tilting cargo box, and a 951cc V-twin 4 stroke engine, this vehicle means business. It has fully independent suspension that keeps your tires on the ground at all times, making this Prowler 1000XTZ great for the job site and the trail! SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 951cc, V-Twin, SOHC, 4-stroke  Induction: EFI  Transmission: Automatic CVT with EBS and High, Low, and Reverse   Final Drive: 2WD and 4WD with electric front differential lock  Suspension: Front: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel; Rear: Double A-arm, 10 inches travel  Length/Width/Height: 118.8/61.5/79 inches  Wheelbase: 75 inches  Ground Clearance:… Continue Reading »
2012 Kawasaki Teryx 4 750 4x4 2012 Kawasaki Teryx 4 750 4×4 Twice as much of a good thing is always better, right? Absolutely. So you knew Kawasaki would eventually double the Teryx’s substantial fun and function factor by adding two seats – enough for more friends, extra help or the whole family. The result is the all-new 2012 Teryx 4 750 4x4 – a top-of-the-line four-seat RUV with truly amazing capabilities. Of course, Kawasaki didn’t just bolt two extra seats to the Teryx 750’s chassis and call it a day. Engineers figured out exactly what was needed to do the four-seat Rec/Utility concept right, redesigning the entire machine from tip to… Continue Reading »
2011 Polaris Ranger RZR 570 2011 Polaris Ranger RZR 570 Since 2008, Polaris has introduced a new Ranger RZR model every year and Model Year 2012 will be no different, introducing the new Ranger RZR 570, the second trail-capable side-by-side in the Ranger RZR family. Priced at $9,999, the single-cylinder unit offers a value trail machine that stays true to the Ranger RZR family promise of being the ultimate combination of power, suspension and agility. “The launch of the Ranger RZR 800 introduced the industry to the first trail-capable Side-by-Side,” said Matt Homan, vice president and general manager of Polaris’ Off-Road Division. “With the success of the Ranger RZR 800,… Continue Reading »
2011 Arctic Cat Wildcat 1000i H.O. 2011 Arctic Cat Wildcat 1000i H.O. A race-inspired, pure-sport ROV that’s made in America Inspired by the unforgiving terrain of the Baja 1000, engineered to attack the gnarliest obstacles with precision and control, and crafted in America by a company dedicated to performance and quality, the all-new Arctic Cat Wildcat V-Twin 1000 H.O. debuts as the most potent pure-sport recreational off-road vehicle (ROV) ever built. With industry-leading suspension travel, 13 inches of ground clearance, a full-perimeter frame and the largest displacement engine in its class, the Wildcat is a full-production version of what was previously reserved for off-road race vehicles. “The Wildcat has no equal. Period,”… Continue Reading »
2010 Polaris Ranger EV 2010 Polaris Ranger EV New for 2010, Polaris is introducing the company’s first electric vehicle, the RANGER EV. The RANGER EV encompasses a smaller, two-seat chassis, that fits in the back of a pickup truck, with many of the hardest working, smoothest riding features of their full-sized counterparts: On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive with VersaTrac, Independent Rear Suspension, heavy duty front end protection, high ground clearance and the longest suspension travel in their class. Sharing the same chassis as the Midsize RANGER 400, the all-new RANGER EV electric Side-by-Side is a first for Polaris. The unit features the largest battery pack in the industry (11.5… Continue Reading »