2007 Honda Foreman with Power Steering!
I just got big news today from Honda. It looks like they are not going to let Yamaha steal all of the thunder when it comes to industry first innovations for 2007. I reported back on June 25th about Yamaha’s new Grizzly 700 FI with new power steering.
Honda is not too far behind as they are releasing a new Fourtrax Foreman 4×4 ES with a longitudinally mounted 475cc engine, versatile Traxlok 2WD/4WD system and new Electric Power Steering. This system is supposed to provide speed and torque-sensitive steering assistance. Suggested retail price is listed at $7,049.00. I do not have any other photos at this time showing their version of the EPS. There are many comments from my Yamaha Grizzly 700 post regarding the quality and longevity of this new gadget and how it will hold up. I think with both Honda and Yamaha jumping on board the Electric Power Steering, it will quickly become the new feature to have - similar to what EFI (electronic fuel injection) did a couple of years ago.
Here is some information directly from Honda about what they say about their new EPS:
EPS is a unique system consisting of an ECU-programmed electric steering assistance motor and multiple sensors. These sensors measure the handlebar torque applied by the operator as well as the ATV’s speed to determine the correct amount of steering assistance required for all conditions. More assistance is provided in rough terrain and at low speeds to decrease the amount of steering effort required, while less assistance is provided at higher speeds and in smooth terrain. This innovative technology also decreases bumpsteer and kickback through the handlebar in all conditions. The sophisticated Showa system includes separate ECU programming for 2WD and 4WD modes, while spring-loaded steering-motor gears minimize play to increase steering feel and feedback at higher speeds.
I did not get a chance to test ride the new Foreman, but hopefully will be able to get a test unit for a full feature review in a future issue of Hunting Illustrated. However, I was very impressed with Yamaha’s version and if Honda’s is anything similar it should be a great addition. I can only speculate at this time on what this will do performance wise for the Honda. Honestly, I think this could be a real boost for Honda. What I mean by that is, I always felt Honda had too much slip in their front differential four-wheel drive system. I feel the reason for this is Honda is very big on comfort and easy of handling for their customers. This is what makes Honda so great. However, I have never been a big fan of the four-wheel drive system on Honda’s for this very reason - just not tight enough for true digging. I hope with this new EPS system, Honda will get more aggressive on their four-wheel dive system and allow for more aggressive pull from the front wheels and less slip. With the improved rider comfort and handling the EPS will offer while the ATV is engaged in four-wheel drive, hopefully this will come to pass.
6 comments September 7th, 2006
