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The Honda Rancher EPS system now has three mounts for better durability
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To add even better steering, Honda redesigned their EPS mounts on the chassis to include three mounts instead of two for increased strength and more precise steering. The next generation Honda EPS features new setting for improved steering response.
Also parried with the chassis are new suspension components including longer travel shocks and a redesigned swingarm. The new shocks feature new dampening characters with adjustable preload that allows for quick suspension tuning to better suit your load or riding conditions.
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A redesigned swingarm was developed to add more durability and rigidity |
The rear drum brake to the inside of the right wheel for better protection |
The new swingarm design was developed to add more strength and rigidity to the chassis. In addition, the new swingarm design incorporates an enclosed axle design that allows the rear sealed mechanical drum break to be moved inside the right rear wheel for better protection and increased ground clearance. Giving the new Honda Rancher more stopping power, Honda added larger dual hydraulic disk brakes up front.
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The new 2014 Honda Rancher 420 Utility ATV is at home on the farm for work or play |
We got a chance to spend several hours testing each Honda Rancher Utility ATV on a nice mixture of trails at TRC. At first, it we had to get used to each transmission set up; whether you prefer a semi-manual transmission and shift with your foot, shift with a simple push of a button (ESP), or simply prefer to be fully automatic depends on which model you choose. There is seven variations of the 2014 Honda Rancher Utility to help better suit each customers wants and needs.
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Honda makes seven different versions of the Honda Rancher 420 Utility ATV |
Starting from the most basic model is the two-wheel drive Honda Rancher that comes with a five-speed semi-manual transmission with optional Electronic Shifting Program (ESP). There is also a Honda Rancher that comes with TraxLock 4x4; the Honda Rancher 4x4 ES and the Honda Rancher 4x4 Automatic DCT that comes with the option of a fully automatic transmission or ESP that can be changed with a flip of a switch. Each of these models is also available with Electronic Power Steering (EPS).
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The Honda Rancher has plenty of power to take you where you need to go along the trail |
After putting in some time on each model, we were pretty impressed with the power and performance of the all-new Honda Rancher. The 420cc electronic fuel injected engine provides a peppy yet very controllable platform for both work and play. The plush new seat paired with the new suspension provides a comfortable ride all day and with the added EPS option we never experience any arm pump even while riding aggressively. We really enjoyed trying out all seven variations of the Honda Rancher and we feel there is a Rancher well suited for every rider.
Be sure to check back on ATVriders.com as we will have a full long term review on the all-new 2014 Honda Rancher Utility ATV in the near future!
