Honda
has launched updated versions of its market leading Fourtrax 420 and Foreman
500 ATV ranges.
Available
to buy now, these models have benefited from a number of enhancements to
deliver improved performance, usability and versatility, while the Foreman 500
has received an engine upgrade and been renamed the Foreman 520.
The
first change is an all-new forward/reverse skip switch for Dual Clutch
Transmission (DCT) and Electric Shift (ES) models, offering easier and quicker
shift in and out of reverse with just one lever. This fully electronic
operation is perfect for applications such as snow ploughing or yard clearing,
where constant shifting between forward and reverse is required.
DCT
models also get a new manual-override system, allowing the operator to manually
change gear even when in automatic drive, with the transmission reverting back
to fully automatic mode after a few seconds. Such capability gives more control
of speed and power than ever before, ideal for upshifting on descents or
downshifting into corners.
A
further change for DCT and ES models is a new shift map which monitors engine
RPM in real-time during shifting, rather than just before shift, delivering
much smoother transition between gears.
All
models also benefit from an integrated front-mounted 1.9-litre utility box with
weatherproof cover, designed to keep personal items and tools safe and
protected from the elements. The new box is easy to access from the riding
position for added convenience and usability.
Newly engineered front and rear cargo racks on all
models provide greater surface area for carrying larger loads.
All models get new guards covering the full-length of
the suspension arms, providing comprehensive coverage of the driveshaft and
outboard CV joints, for even further trademark Honda durability.
The Foreman 500 has been renamed the ‘Foreman 520’
thanks to an engine upgrade. The new engine delivers 518cc up from 475cc on the
outgoing model. With updated mapping the TRX520 delivers stronger low-mid range
power and torque, for quicker acceleration and better ascent. Other changes for
the Foreman range include the addition of 50 watt LED lights, and a new front
bumper and grille.
Honda’s
Fourtrax 420 and Foreman 520 ATVs set the standard in the utility market and
are built-for-purpose and developed using Computer Aided Engineering at Honda’s
R&D facility in Ohio. Both ranges feature a longitudinally-mounted
liquid-cooled engine to deliver smooth power to the rear wheels, and a
double-cradle steel frame for exceptional durability and handling. All models
also offer Honda’s own Traxlok system, allowing the operator to quickly switch
between the ‘go-anywhere’ traction of 4WD and the increased manoeuvrability and
lighter steering of 2WD.
The
Fourtrax 420 is the UK’s best-selling ATV, a mid-sized all-rounder with
class-leading power and ability, offering a towing capacity of 385kg. It’s
bigger brother, the Foreman 520, is the ultimate workhorse, a heavy hitter for
hard work and hauling big loads and offers a towing capacity of 600kg.
These
new models are available now from Honda’s UK network of Authorised Dealers and
also benefit from the addition of Datatool, the state-of-the-art tracking
equipment, free-of-charge. The TQA-approved TrakKING Adventure package uses GPS
chip set technology to offer theft protection, instant notifications and full
journey history logging. The only cost to the customer is a nominal monitoring
subscription of £9.95 per month or £109 for a year (incl VAT).
