Torrance, CA (11/27/2018)
- Further showcasing the unprecedented
growth in the UTV industry, Honda announced
its new Talon 1000X and 1000R Sport UTV models.
The two new SXS Models, which are to be produced
in Honda’s Timmonsville, SC plant, are designed
suit the needs of sport enthusiasts with a
suite of technology, as well as race-bred
features.
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2019
Honda Talon 1000R & 1000X Sport
UTV Models |
The two new Honda UTVs are differentiated
by their intended usage. The Talon X features
a narrower track and is set up for the woods,
rock crawling and more technical terrain,
while the R model has a wider stance, and
a suspension better suited for short course
or flat out desert running.
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2019
Honda Talon 1000R & 1000X Sport
UTV Models |
Each feature specially-valved FOX Podium
Shocks (2.0 on the X model and 2.5 on the
R). Front suspensions are similar, featuring
double wishbones, but the X model features
14.5 inches of travel, while the R has 17.7
inches available. In the rear, the X has a
three-link setup with high clearance trailing
arms and 15 inches of travel. The R model
adds toe links in the rear and sports 20.1
inches of travel. Both feature 44-56 percent
front to rear weight distribution.
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2019
Honda Talon 1000R FOX Podium 2.5 Shocks |
Both feature Honda’s trick 999cc Unicam parallel
twin engine similar to the one used in Honda’s
Africa Adventure motorcycle. The engine uses
a single cam in each head to actuate the four
valves, saving on bulk, and giving it a broad
torque curve. It also features a dry sump
lubrication system with pistol skirt oil jets
to help with cooling. While Honda didn’t publish
power numbers, its makes 94 horsepower and
72 lb. feet of torque in its two-wheel application.
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| 2019
Honda Talon Paddle Shift |
Eschewing the more common CVT belt driven
transmission, Honda further innovates by using
a six-speed DCT transmission. Honda became
the first manufacturer to include a DCT in
a motorcycle this year. Known for lightning
fast shifts via paddle shifters, DCT technology
initially was only found in exotic super cars,
so our hats are off to Honda for using it
in a UTV. It can also be run in fully automatic
mode, and features on-the-fly changes from
two-wheel to four-wheel drive via a dash mounted
switch.
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2019
Honda Talon DCT Transmission |
The frame is produced in one piece, with
all welding and assembly done in the USA,
while the engine and transmission are made
in Japan. Front and rear differentials are
also built stateside.
Both Talons feature a broad collection of
technology, including what Honda calls Electronic
Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Traction
Control System (BTCS). EBD is part of the
ABS system and can individually brake each
wheel to ensure stability during braking.
BTCS works under power to ensure the wheels
with the most grip get the most power sent
to him.
Other features include LED headlights, Hill
Start Assist, oversized radiator and fan,
driveshaft boot protectors, center console,
tuned intake and exhaust, Maxxis Tires, and
all weather seats. A full line of over 40
accessories are also available to allow customers
to tailor their ride to suit their tastes
and needs.
Will Honda race the new machines? With Yamaha
already well established in short course racing,
we’d expect the new machines will go toe-to-toe
with the BluCru. Though GNCC is out of the
UTV racing business, the Talon X seems perfectly
suited for cross country and even King of
the Hammers competition.
While pricing hasn’t been announced, Honda
officials said it should follow “comparable”
models. The similar Yamaha YXZ 1000R starts
at around $19,000 so that would be a good
guess.
Production for the Honda Talon will begin
in January, so units will hit the showrooms
in early 2019, and we can’t wait to take one
for a test drive.
