Farming Monthly National October 2017 | Page 53

| ATV Honda ATV The ideal solution for outdoor stock care this winter With winter approaching and the challenge of looking after livestock outdoors the Honda Pioneer 700 utility vehicle will be a very welcome addition to any farm fleet. he new utility vehicle offers the same go- anywhere ability as Honda’s range of conventional ATVs and has a powerful 675cc petrol engine driving through an efficient torque converter transmission allowing it to carry and tow heavy farm loads with ease. Independent suspension front and rear with an impressive 27cm ground clearance makes it ideal for rutted field gateways or farm tracks, and selectable 4wd with locking differentials ensures a firm grip on slippery grass slopes, or for travelling through deep mud or snow. The Pioneer’s petrol engine is quieter and smoother than diesel engine-powered alternatives. This advantage has proved especially popular with gamekeepers and other users spending long working hours on the machine. Excellent fuel economy from the low-revving power unit keeps running costs low and a large 30-litre fuel tank allows long operating periods without refuelling. The compact engine and transmission is centre- mounted, low down in the vehicle, helping ensure excellent stability which is essential for safe hill farm operation. The large rear load platform can carry up to 386kg of feed or bedding and, where even larger T www.farmingmonthly.co.uk quantities are needed, the optional rear hitch provides up to 680kg towing capacity. Another benefit of the Pioneer over a conventional ATV is its ability to carry up to three passengers almost anywhere safely, including areas inaccessible to road-going 4x4s or tractors. This makes it ideal for tasks such as livestock handling away from the yard, where its ability to transport people and equipment wherever needed offers significant time and cost savings. Comfortable, supportive seats and standard power steering along with well laid out controls make the new model easy and fun to drive and reduces driver fatigue during extended operating periods. A range of weather protection options is available for the Pioneer including a full cab with ‘proper’ doors and even an effective heater to help clear windows of ice and condensation, and keep occupants warm and dry. Powerful work lights are standard, ideal for travelling to and from work areas and checking stock after daylight hours. Honda’s conventional ATV line- up is a firm favourite with farmers and includes utility models from 250 to 680cc with manual or automatic transmission. Sharing many proven design features, the new Pioneer 700 complement the range, offering a practical option for those with larger or heavier loads to carry or personnel to transport around the farm. Like the full range of Honda’s conventional ATVs, the Pioneer comes complete with free-of- charge operator training through the industry’s EASI scheme helping ensure users drive safely and get the best from their machines. The same 2-year manufacturer’s warranty provides peace of mind for owners and your local main dealer will have fully trained sales and service staff ready to look after your requirements. October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 53