Has what i thought was a Moose (or quadboss) roof, but on further inspection, seems to be a decently done home-made job. Sounds like cats fighting, so will need some foam on the roll cage.
Been doing a ton of reading about this thing, but any input is welcome...
Sharp eyes will note that someone put rear tires/wheels on the front to get them all the same size, but the front track is noticeably wider...which threw me, since i thought the backspacing was the same (someone on FB confirmed that it IS wider stock). The look drives me nuts, so maybe some spacers on the rear (input on what size?) to make it even.
Hard to get out of 1st at the dealer (cold). Once home, it really shifted like s***...but i knew the secret. Adjusted the clutch, and a HUGE improvement, BUT...still stubborn at times to come out of 1st unless you make sure and unload the drivetrain. I'm guessing its just the nature of the beast. "The Beast" being Honda's with super-low 1st. My old Foreman was the same way, esp cold. I've also driven 1 other 500 that seemed to do the same. Some T6 will help.
The other thing is the clutch re-engagement sometimes has a delay that seems worse under heavy throttle. It grabs hard, but its like the 'puter is keeping it disengauged longer than it needs to. I've never been a fan of Honda's ESP, and stuff like this is why. My foot always worked way better than their programming, but obviously, that isn't a choice here.
After test riding around the yard a bit, i got the distinct smell of coolant. I'm actually OK with taking a new-to-me-machine apart...i like to see what's where. So, down to the engine we went. The metal coolant pipe clamp right under the center hump was leaking just enough to make it damp and no more. Prob always done it, but joe the average owner doesn't know what coolant smells like. Just tightened the clamp...same as i had to do on the 700, and Fixed. Also...love me a good seat belt buckle enima...
Who has chopped/made removable that section behind the ECU so you can get to the oil filter without pulling the plastic? (really, Honda?) Looks like it might be easier to do valves than the 700. Engine also seems more mechanically quiet than a 700.
Since it has plenty brake pedal, thinking of adjusting it in so i have to raise my foot less to hit it (big guy, small machine...how do you do it @100Acre ).
I thought the tires on the 700 were OK. These tires really suck. Really suck. Have to do for a bit, though.
A quick and very limited test ride on not very proper terrain shows that this is a very different machine than what i was used to. It will take some time and understanding that this machine is NOT 60" wide, and will require different calibrations. Some aspects i know i will really like. Others...we'll have to see...
I can go download owners manuals for most brands right from their respective websites. Why do i have to pay $30 for one from Honda? If someone could tell me the exact oil check procedure, I'd be appreciative.
Service manual PDF anywhere?
Had to dust off my old quad bags and cooler (latter is like old enough to drive now). I'm sorry, but the rack sucks. It just does.
A 1.25" hitch. Ain't that cute...
On a good note, all the fluids are nice and clean, and other than some scrapes, it looks to have lead a good life. Skid plates are even intact.
Ride report soon...
