Conquer the backcountry with a completely new ATV model from Honda—the FourTrax Rincon TRX680F. This unit contains a four-stroke 675-cc engine strategically placed at a reduced height for a low centre of gravity that increases stability and handling. Adjusting back and forth from 2WD to 4WD is easy with the flick of a handlebar switch, and a four-wheel independent suspension system with 9.2 inches of ground clearance ensures that this ATV can handle the roughest kind of terrain. Using aluminum material in parts such as rear upper and lower control arms, the rear knuckles and the front and back wheels saves weight on the TRX 680F. Instrumentation includes a tough LCD that displays information on the speedometer, odometer, gear selection and other standard features. Other handy conveniences include a 4-litre storage compartment and an accessory socket that provides 12-volt, 10-amp power.
Gear
Neither rough terrain or even water will stop the amphibious ARGO models from reaching your backcountry destination. The company has debuted two new units for 2011—the 6X6 650 HD and the 8X8 700 HD—which features upgraded transmission technology that gives the vehicles the ability to turn easily in high gear while retaining precision manoeuverability in low gear. The new models were also designed to have a more environmentally-friendly footprint with increased fuel efficiency and a muffler reducing engine noise by 40 per cent. It’s the capability of the ARGO that makes it such an enticing product for people looking to reach those impossible places. Uniquely designed 25-inch tires and heavy-duty axles provide stability and traction in rough off-road conditions. The company carries a number of other models in a variety of colours such as yellow, blue, black and red.
Add a little something to your fuel with the new Quickshot SE from Amsoil. The additive is designed to clean and restore fuel systems and small engines and power sports. Carbon buildup from degraded fuel can lead to rough idling and poor throttle response but the Quickshot SE acts as a fuel stabilizer and helps prevent corrosion. Gumming and varnishing on engine components are a result of a lack of additives in fuel today and Quickshot SE can take care of buildup and deposits on pistons, spark plugs, injectors, carburetors and other combustion parts. Amsoil Quickshot SE can be used in both two and four stroke engines including motorcycles, snowmobiles, personal watercraft, boats, ATV's, edgers, mowers, snow blowers, chainsaws, generators and farm and construction equipment.
Polaris is cranking out extreme performance for 2012 with a new high-output 850 twin EFI engine and upgraded throttle bodies in the Sportsman XP 850 H.O. EPS. Greater power to the ground means 20 per cent quicker acceleration and the SOHC engine delivers a clean fuel burn for smooth power delivery. Pair these up with 12 inches of ground clearance and there won’t be a rock, rut, or log that can keep you down. Variable Assist electronic power steering means better handing on obstacles and at low speeds and the ergonomically engineered vehicle body with 33 per cent wider floorboards and a narrow width at the knees and ankles means toughness on the trail—not on your body. Long dual A-arm front suspension and having the steering axis near the neutral center of the tire radically reduces kickback so you can save your energy for adventure.
The freedom of movement for the digits on the feet is the first thing one notices when wearing Injinji toesocks. The sock form-fits to each individual toe, eliminating skin-on-skin contact to prevent blisters. Designed for breathability, the sock is made with nylon and a moisture-wicking fibre, and is engineered to fit snugly to the foot. This sock was created with runners in mind; Injinji has expanded its toesocks line to include outdoor, yoga and comfort series.
Nothing wrecks a great day of riding or sledding like breathing in and choking on kicked-up dust and fumes. Protect your lungs with the RZ Mask—a neoprene covering with replaceable, carbon-activated filters designed to prevent 99.9 per cent of airborne particles from entering the lungs. Not only is it recommended for dusty conditions, the mask is also good for use in cold temperatures, as it keeps the face warm and won't fog glasses or goggles. The straps are hand-washable and the mask comes in several colours—from camouflage to pink. It is also useful in industries such as farming and construction.
The iPhone is one of the most popular cellphones on the market right now and a big reason for that is the ability to download software applications, or apps. Garafa LLC has developed an app called the GPS Kit that backcountry enthusiasts may find useful. This app can be downloaded on an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad and features a GPS system integrated with wireless technology. Create waypoints and add any metadata such as a sweet riding spot or a cabin to mark the location. Distances to waypoints can been seen in real time and the dashboard is fully customizable—users can set useful fields like time, distance travelled and elevation change. Even outside cellphone range, the GPS Kit functions true to its name.
Stow your gear away in dry bags made by Coghlan’s, a company specializing in outdoor camping accessories. These lightweight nylon bags come in different sizes—55 litres, 25 litres and 10 litres—and the seams are taped and waterproof.
The dry bag can be used to prevent extra clothing or equipment from getting wet or dirty on the back of your ride—whether it be a sled or a quad—though it won’t keep out water if completely submerged.
Budding photographers can get an entry-level professional DSLR camera without breaking the bank in the Canon Rebel T3i. The newest addition to the popular Rebel family, the T3i is a smaller DSLR camera, making it easily portable in your backpack while sledding or quadding. The 18-megapixel-resolution camera can also capture high-definition video and is compatible with all of Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses. A large vari-angle LCD screen is designed so that users can flip the screen for those difficult overhead or low-angle shots. Unique in-camera features include options that allow users to add a soft focus filter effect, a grainy black-and-white filter, a vignetting and colour-shift filter and a miniature-effect filter—all without altering the original JPEG file.
Get dirty with the 2011 Suzuki RM-Z450—the current model reigning over the FIM/AMA Supercross Championship. The RM-Z450 isn’t a brand new model, but the company has taken a formidable machine and tweaked it to improve performance. The 449 cc, four-stroke engine uses an electronic fuel-injected system and features a five-speed transmission. A reduced noise limit at 94 decibels without losing engine output is one of the new upgraded features on the 2011 models. This machine is ready to compete out on the track right on purchase and is a fierce competitor in the world of Supercross.
Wearing safety gear while riding is a no-brainer, and as technology evolves, so does the effectiveness of the equipment. Alpinestars Inc. has developed a bionic neck support that is designed to mitigate severe neck injury. The BNS provides an alternative load path for energy that compresses the neck if a helmet is in contact with it when an accident occurs. While not guaranteed to prevent catastrophic neck injuries, the BNS—along with other safety gear—reduces the risk of such events.
Conquer any kind of backcountry terrain with the new 2011 BRP Can-Am Commander 800. BRP’s first foray into the side-by-side market comes in a few different models that are aimed at consumers and high-performance sports users alike. Base features include a Rotax 800—or 1,000—EFI engine, and a large box in the rear for cargo storage with additional space underneath. A killer suspension system provides exceptional control even through rough terrain and heavy braking. Additional features include creature comforts such as adjustable driver's seats and cupholders.
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Keep your enclosed toy carrier aired out and secure with the GateKeeper CargoScreen made by United Shade. The screen is made from a heavy duty material and comes in automatic or manual versions. When the trailer ramp is down, lower the screen to keep airflow in the unit without the invasion of insects or UV rays. The automatic motor springs, along with side channels and a bottom rail, provide a firm screen that requires no locking mechanism. A manual version is also available, which can also be securely locked.
Garages and trailers can be a cluttered mess but a hanging system called the SuperHangAll—a wall-mounted track with adjustable hooks that slide along to hang gear and other apparel—can save the day. The five- and seven-inch hooks lock into place and the track can be installed at any height. There are multiple holes available for mounting on wall studs. Adding more length and hanging space is simple as track extensions snap on to existing mounted ones. The SuperHangAll can also be installed in enclosed ATV trailers.
When the sun's rays are fierce, you may be tempted to stay indoors and avoid the heat. Fortunately for outdoor-lovers, a new product makes sun protection and comfort easy. The Sport-Brella is a large, easily portable shelter that makes enjoying the summer a breeze.
The Sport-Brella sets up and collapses instantly, thanks to its umbrella-like folding mechanism. At about three metres wide, it can comfortably shade several people. It is suitable for a variety of situations, such as a day spent fishing along a river. It comes with a carrying bag and tethers to provide additional stability. It guards against more that 99.5 per cent of UVA and UVB rays.
The Sport-Brella is compact and can easily be fastened to the back of an OTV.
Give your engine a jolt to boost octane power and stop knocking, pinging and hesitation with the Prolong Fast Fuel Octane Power Boost. When your gas tank is near empty, add the contents of the 12-ounce bottle and fill up—never use without 16 gallons of fuel in the tank. The extra power is ideal for hauling a trailer or boat over long distances and steep inclines. The additive will not damage oxygen sensors or catalytic converters and will help improve performance over time through consistent application.
