Rider-first design

At the center of every exceptional piece of machinery lies a tale of creativity, where a need was recognized and a solution imagined. For Honda, those needs are human-centered, following their people-first, then machine approach to product development. And it's this methodology that has made us a leader in the world of 4-wheelers.

Long before the intricate web of digital technology and the sophisticated mechanisms of today's designs, Honda recognized a fundamental need. In the early 1980s, an era dominated by pickup trucks and traditional two-wheelers, the world demanded something different. It sought a versatile transport solution, one that could bring utility to those working and navigating the outdoors.

Honda answered this call with the introduction of the All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV). A machine that would not only redefine transport but also revolutionize the powersports industry. This was no mere vehicle, though; it was the manifestation of Honda’s vision to blend the freedom of a motorcycle with the resilience and utility of a 4x4 truck. Basically, a workhorse minus the horse. That's the essence of the original Honda ATV.

Drawing back the curtain

Behind the rugged appeal of a Honda ATV, one discovers a marvel of engineering intelligence. These off-road machines, built for extreme terrains and challenging environments, are no ordinary vehicles. And their excellence is underpinned by a series of technological masterstrokes.

Honda’s longitudinal engine layout, featured in models like the Rubicon 700, exemplifies efficiency and innovation. This design aligns the crankshaft with the vehicle’s travel direction, creating a straight-line power delivery to the wheels. The benefits are numerous: a lighter and more efficient system with 45% fewer parts, a lower center of gravity for improved handling, reduced seat height, and increased ground clearance.

Honda ATVs are renowned for their robust, sealed, all-gear automotive-style transmissions, a design choice that brings multiple advantages. The absence of belts in the transmission means goodbye to common issues like belt slippage and failure, ensuring a more reliable and consistent power delivery in various conditions. The all-gear system also enables genuine engine braking, providing precise control when descending slopes and enhancing safety and vehicle longevity. Moreover, the sealed nature of the transmission blocks against the elements, providing an impenetrable defense against mud, water, and debris.

Honda's take on suspension has shaped the ATV experience since day one, infusing a balance of comfort, control, and traction. The jewel in our crown is the Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) system, available on several models, including the FourTrax Rancher, which provides stellar handling and increased comfort for those long days in the saddle.

Most Honda ATVs employ a dual-disc hydraulic braking system. Such systems are designed to give you heightened control, empowering you to venture into more challenging terrains. On some models, including the FourTrax Rubicon Automatic DCT, its rear disc is tucked up inboard and out of harm’s way, increasing protection, reducing unsprung mass, and improving ground clearance.

Available on select models such as the FourTrax Rubicon 4x4, our front locking differential seamlessly switches between 2WD, 4WD, and an enhanced 4WD with a locking front differential. The system also incorporates a Speed Override mode that can be engaged when the front differential is locked, allowing increased wheel speed under severe conditions such as deep mud. The result: you get stuck far less, and it’s easier to get unstuck when you do.

When it comes to staring down challenging terrains, Electric Power Steering (EPS) is your best friend. Available on several current models, including the FourTrax Foreman 4x4 EPS, it's attuned not just to speed but also torque, minimizing steering effort and those unwelcome jolts through the handlebar—be it ruts, rocks, or relentless hillsides. Moreover, Honda’s bespoke mounting design ensures an added layer of strength and finesse.

The introduction of the automatic Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) in several models, including the FourTrax Rancher, marked a significant milestone for the industry. Developed for both our motorcycles and ATVs, the automatic DCT features seamless gear shifts and power delivery, offering you a newfound level of control and responsiveness. Where the going gets tough is when the DCT really shines, eliminating the need to manage the clutch and shifter, allowing you to focus on the challenge at hand.

As part of the ongoing journey to be at the cutting edge of technology, Honda's dedication to sustainability has led to the introduction of far more efficient ATVs. They have also continued to develop four-stroke engine technology, focusing on reducing emissions and minimizing noise pollution, which has been a benefit for both outdoor sportsmen and wildlife.

The Honda difference

What sets Honda apart in the ATV landscape is an unwavering commitment to creating cutting-edge all-terrain vehicles that cater to a diverse range of people with varying wants and needs. That focus on innovation results in a lineup of technologically advanced four-wheelers that do more than navigate challenging terrain; they make the toughest jobs easier and the biggest adventures more enjoyable.

But what truly distinguishes Honda is its foresight, consistently taking steps to harmonize the performance of these machines with a conscious consideration for the environment. In the world of all-terrain vehicles, Honda is not just a manufacturer—it is a pioneer, leading the way into a new era of exploration and adventure.