Honda’s ATV History

Honda ATV History

1970s – present

 Ever wonder where the ATV came from? Here is a brief summary of how Honda pioneered the concept:

1970s:

Honda first introduced the concept of the ATV in the 1970s when they produced the world’s first ATC (all-terrain cycle) named the ATC90. The three-wheel vehicle sent it’s 7 horsepower through a dual range four speed gearbox with automatic clutch. Honda expanded the range with a smaller ATC70 and then later in the decade updated the ATC90 into an ATC110. Though, it’s primary use was a recreational vehicle through the 70’s farmers were beginning to see the ATC as a tool to make their lives easier.

1980s:

Honda’s first four-wheel ATV was brought to market in 1984. The TRX200 was powered by a durable single-cylinder four-stroke engine running through a five-speed dual-range transmission with shaft drive and reverse. The introduction and popularity of the four-wheel ATV brought an end to the ATC three-wheeler range. On the eve of the ’90s, Honda introduced the 1988 FourTrax 300 and FourTrax 300 4×4, the revolutionary pair of hard-working Honda quads would ultimately become the most versatile, most popular ATVs in history. Combining an ideal balance of size, weight, power and capacity, powered by a 282cc air-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder engine, the FourTrax 300 sent its 20 horsepower through a five-speed transmission, automatic clutch and maintenance-free shaft drive. An ultra-low first gear helped it tow up to 850 pounds. Tough steel racks let it carry up to 66 pounds in front and 132 pounds in the rear.

1990s:

Throughout the 1980s, more and more people saw the ATV as a vehicle capable of getting thousands of different jobs done faster and easier. By the time the ’90s rolled in, the Honda FourTrax had become an essential part of peoples’ work life and nothing on wheels had ever been as versatile, reliable, efficient and affordable, on the job or on the weekend, as the Honda ATV.

In Ireland, having a Honda quad makes a host of jobs more efficient. In countries without our infrastructure, manpower and financial resources, the Honda ATV’s reliability and efficiency handled jobs that simply couldn’t be done before. Folks on other parts of the planet were discovering what Ireland had discovered, and began putting Honda ATVs to work, performing all manner of work that was either impossible, impractical or both. Whereas Honda ATVs were largely a domestic phenomenon before 1990, they were currently working in more than 35 different countries worldwide.

The 1995 Foreman 400 4×4 introduced the working world to the strongest, most efficient Honda ATV yet. Powered by an innovative longitudinal engine design that positions the crankshaft perpendicular to its axles, the ’95 Foreman’s front and rear drive shafts transfer power to all four wheels with fewer power-robbing directional changes, fewer parts, less weight and a lower center of mass.

In 1997 Honda introduced the advantages of its longitudinal power train to a broader circle of ATV users with the FourTrax Recon, a mid-size 2WD ATV that works hard and can scurry down a trail better than anything in its class.

In 1998 Honda debuted its Electric Shift Program (ESP) on an all-new 450cc ATV, the Foreman ES. Combining the convenience of an automatic with the control of a manual gearbox, ESP allowed Foreman ES riders to shift up or down with push-button ease. Honda’s meticulous approach means the only thing harder than building the toughest ATVs on earth is improving them. Improving the single most popular ATV model, the FourTrax 300 series, was a truly difficult undertaking.

2000s

Honda further improved the range when bringing to market the powerful efficiency of the 329cc longitudinal-powered drive train in an all-new chassis creating a better version of what was arguably the most versatile multipurpose ATV ever created.

 

Present:

The present Honda ATV range offers a variety of ATVs to suit the needs of the Irish population. Honda TRX250 range will make light work of everyday tasks. The compact and agile TRX250 2wd is ideal for light and medium duty work and a great choice for yard, security or equestrian use. The TRX250 is available in both manual and electric shift. The Honda TRX420 ATV is a true all-rounder, a mid-size ATV with class leading power, performance and efficiency. With rugged next generation styling it offers exceptional pulling power, quick starts and great acceleration. Available in both manual and electric shift. The Honda TRX500 is a heavy-hitting ATV built for hard work and big loads – day in, day out. The TRX500 will work for you, with it’s low-down torque to it’s liquid cooled engine – It will help you tackle really rough terrain, as well as the big towing jobs. It’s an ATV you can rely on. Choose various transmissions and options including independent rear suspension and power steering.

 

Honda Ireland currently have a special offer running on the ATV range, contact your local dealer to place an order while stocks last, 0% finance available.

 

 

 

 

New CRF1100L Africa Twin information released

Alert for all you Africa Twin fans! Today September 23rd 2019 Honda have announced details on the all new CRF1100L Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports:

  • Honda’s celebrated adventure machine gains wide-ranging performance and technology upgrades
  • New Euro5-compliant 1100cc parallel twin engine produces top power of 75kW and maximum torque of 105Nm – increases of 7% and 6% respectively
  • 5kg lighter, with 10% improvement in power to weight ratio, thanks to weight reduction in areas including engine, frame and swing arm
  • All-new 6.5” TFT Multi-Information Display incorporates Apple CarPlay® and Bluetooth connectivity, with touchscreen functionality
  • Four pre-set riding modes – plus two user-selectable options – offer scenario-specific tailoring of Power, Engine Braking, Honda Selectable Torque Control, (HSTC), Wheelie Control and Cornering ABS settings
  • HSTC, plus new Cornering ABS, Wheelie Control and Rear Lift Control functions are now managed by a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit; Cruise Control is standard fit
  • CRF1100L Africa Twin itself has even sharper off-road focus
  • CRF1100L Adventure Sports is more ready than ever for the long haul – and now available with cutting-edge Show EERA™ suspension as an option
  • Unique Dual Clutch Transmission still available on both models

The Africa Twin has evolved. Lighter, more powerful and bristling with cutting edge technologies, both the Africa Twin itself and its ‘Adventure Sports’ sibling have been thoroughly updated – with even clearer distinct identities – to give riders the optimal equipment to tackle any True Adventure from an off-road trail to a continent-crossing marathon.

Frame and engine

Set to arrive in Europe within 2019, the Africa Twin will now be powered by a new Euro5-compliant 1084cc parallel twin engine (up from 998cc). Comprehensive revisions to the engine, including revised valve lift, aluminium cylinder sleeves and a new exhaust control valve, bring even stronger performance, while meeting the stringent new Euro5 regulations for 2020. Maximum power output increases by 7% to 75kW @ 7500rpm, with maximum torque up 6% to 105Nm @ 6250rpm, while the motor retains its silky-smooth power and torque delivery and distinctive ‘throb’.

The power unit is held in a new frame with aluminium sub-frame – bolted rather than welded to the main frame. The all-new, lighter aluminium swingarm is based on the same design as the CRF450R moto-crosser, for even better rear wheel traction and rider feel.

Electronics and instrument panel

A comprehensive electronics package managed by a new six-axis IMU includes Ride by Wire and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) plus new features including Cruise Control, Cornering ABS, Wheelie Control, Rear Lift Control and Emergency Stop Signals. Six riding modes are available: four have pre-set levels of power, engine braking and ABS characteristics for different riding scenarios: Tour, Urban, Gravel and Off-road; two User modes allow the rider to set their own preferred combinations of these parameters.

The CRF1100L Africa Twin comes equipped with a 6.5” TFT Multi Information Display touchscreen as standard. The level of information shown on the easy-to-use, sleek and slender unit can be customised to the rider’s preference; information is displayed clearly and concisely, digestible at a glance at any time of day. The TFT touchscreen is also compatible with Apple Carplay®, allowing riders to get directions, make calls, receive messages, and listen to music via the applications on their phone.

CRF1100L Africa Twin

Further sharpening its genuine off-road capabilities, the new CRF1100L Africa Twin itself has been slimmed down even further, with new striking rally-style body work, slimmer fuel tank and 40mm narrower seat, adjustable between 850mm or 870mm.

The low screen allows the rider to move forward and backward freely, whether seated or standing up; compact handguards and sump guard complement the sharper look, while also contributing to the overall 4kg weight reduction. The 10% increase in power to weight ratio brings a new level of dynamic performance.

CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports

Now sharing the same riding triangle as the Africa Twin itself, the CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports is fully equipped for the long haul.

The larger 24.8L tank with range of over 500km, broader front fairing, five stage adjustable screen, standard-fit heated grips and ACC socket bring even greater comfort and practicality.

Further rider-focussed technology upgrades come in the shape of new three-stage cornering lights – which create a wider beam of light as the bike leans over – and the option of Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment (EERA) suspension.

Aligned to the four pre-set riding modes, and adjustable at will in the two User modes, the Showa EERA has three rear preload pre-sets, and utilises the six-axis IMU and balance-free valve technology in the front forks to provide the perfect suspension response no matter the terrain.

Dual Clutch Transmission

Honda has sold over 100,000 DCT-equipped motorcycles across Europe since the system – still unique in the motorcycle industry – first appeared as an option on the VFR1200F in 2009, and approximately half of Africa Twin customers choose it as an option.

The system has evolved consistently over the last decade. On the new Africa Twin’s DCT, the system’s ‘cornering detect’ function is operated through the IMU, allowing even more natural shift patterns when in automatic ‘D’ or ‘S’ mode.

Colours

The CRF1100L Africa Twin will be available in Grand Prix Red and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic, both of which include a striking new red sub-frame. The Adventure Sports version comes in Pearl Glare White Tricolour – reminiscent of the original classic XRV650 – and Darkness Black Metallic.

Over 87,000 Africa Twins have been sold worldwide since 2016. With this comprehensive round of upgrades – the development of which involved 21 new patent applications – Honda is aiming to attract thousands more customers to the myriad life-affirming experiences made possible by its ‘True Adventure’ flagship machine.

Honda Ireland expect the new Africa Twin to be available here in the next few months. 

Peter O’Mahony teams up with Honda Ireland

Peter O’Mahony is one of Ireland’s leading professional rugby players, representing  Munster and Ireland. Honda Ireland are delighted to announce we have teamed up with Peter for his other passion – his garden!

 

Peter is currently in Japan ahead of the World Cup, preparing for Ireland’s first game against Scotland this Sunday 22nd September at 08.45am, Peter is an integral part of the Irish side. However when he’s home in Cork he loves nothing better than spending time in his beautiful garden, what you’d call a self confessed garden enthusiast!

As Peter has become the brand new Honda Brand Ambassador, he will be using some of our most popular lawn machinery, including the Honda HRM3000 Miimo, our robotic lawnmower. Use of this product will ensure his grass is kept an optimum height and condition when he is away from home. Safe for children and pets, this robotic lawnmower is the perfect model for a busy young family, such as Peters.

To tend to the bushes and other growth Peter will be using the Honda UMK425ELE, straight shaft brushcutter. Robust and durable this tool will help Peter tame the areas of the garden where needed.

You can keep up to date on how Peter finds the products through his social media channels – Instagram and Twitter. 

To celebrate this very special partnership you can win a limited edition World Cup Jersey and rugby ball signed by the man himself over on the Honda Ireland Facebook page. Enter before September 27th to win.

 

Peter is pictured with Colin Lynch, Honda Ireland. September 2019. 

Last lap brilliance in Misano moves Marquez ahead of Hailwood with 77 victories

A 77th career victory makes Marquez the fourth most successful rider in Grand Prix history, bringing fans to their feet on his way to winning a thrilling San Marino GP as Jorge Lorenzo claimed more points.

After a promising morning Warm Up session where Marc Marquez finished first and Jorge Lorenzo finished 1.5 seconds behind, the Repsol Honda Team entered the 27-lap San Marino Grand Prix with confidence.

Marc Marquez made a flying start to the race and moved to fourth by the first corner, quickly progressing up to third just a few corners later. Muscling past Viñales on lap four, the World Championship leader set about closing down the almost one-second lead of Fabio Quartararo. The Frenchman’s advantage was soon reduced to just two tenths, Marquez electing to wait for his moment to attack. As the laps ticked down, the reigning champion began to edge closer and put increasing pressure on the young French rider.

The start of the last lap saw Marquez’s RC213V roar past Quartararo heading into Turn 1, the pair briefly sparring before Marquez made the move stick later in the lap. Crossing the line 0.903s ahead of Quartararo, Marquez returned to the top step of the podium after back-to-back second place finishes. The win moves him 93 points clear of title rival Andrea Dovizioso in the MotoGP World Championship standings with six races remaining. Taking the 77th win of his career, Marquez also moves ahead of Mike Hailwood to cement himself as the fourth most successful rider in Grand Prix history.

Jorge Lorenzo was author to a consistent race, able to steadily advance up the order. Ultimately taking 14th, Lorenzo marks his return from injury with back-to-back points finishes. The five-time World Champion was unable to achieve his target of finishing within 30 seconds of the race winner due to reduced grip come the race on Sunday. Suffering from less discomfort after the race was an encouraging sign for Lorenzo who will look to fight back in Aragon.

Honda leave Misano extending their advantage in the Manufacturer Championship to 60 points over closest rivals Ducati while the Repsol Honda Team close the deficit to the Ducati Team in the Team Championship to just 25 points. With Round 14, the Gran Premio Michelin®  de Aragon, taking place on September 22 the Repsol Honda Team are keen to carry their momentum forward as they return to Spanish soil.