Farming Monthly National October 2016 | Page 50

| ATV A genuine Honda ATV for younger farm riders... Honda’s best-selling range of ATVs doesn’t just include models for adults. haring appearance, features and build quality with larger utility versions, the Sportrax TRX90X is designed for younger riders, from 12 upwards, allowing them to safely enjoy off-road riding just as much as older ATV users on the farm. Power is from an 86cc, 4-stroke petrol engine with 12-volt electric key start. It has plenty of grunt, which means it easily handles uneven ground without needing high engine revs, making it easy to control. A 4-speed manual gearbox means there is always a suitable gear to suit the rider’s experience and the terrain, and automatic gear change and drive clutches make operation easy. With no belts to slip, the mechanical transmission makes effective engine braking available when riding downhill, and reliability is second to none. The Sportrax 90 is comfortable and stable off road, with similar suspension to larger models in the range. The seat is large and well padded, and fully enclosed foot S rests provide extra protection. Large flotation tyres operate at similar low pressures to larger models allowing travel over sensitive ground with barely any marking, and maintain stability while providing adequate ground clearance. Controls are typically Honda; 50 | Farming Monthly | October 2016 well laid out with everything easily within reach. The brake levers can be operated by smaller hands, and sealed drum brakes front and rear remain effective even after sustained use in dusty harvest fields or winter mud. Added safety, especially for younger or novice riders, is provided by a thumb throttle with an adjustable limiter, allowing supervisors to set maximum throttle travel and restrict the power available. Most children brought up on farms love helping with daily tasks, and the Sportrax 90 allows youngsters to ride alongside adults on their larger ATVs gaining experience and joining in activities when safe opportunities allow. With an appearance similar to fullsize machines and sharing many controls, riders develop their skills and gain experience for when they are old enough to transfer to more powerful Fourtrax and Foreman utility models. Just like the larger mach