Honda's throwing its hat into the ultra-competitive sports side-by-side category with the Talon 1000R, an all-new machine which will go on sale in Australia from mid-2019.
The Talon 1000R has a 999cc parallel-twin engine and one-piece frame, double-wishbone front-suspension and a four-link torsional trailing arm on the rear. The shocks are Fox Podium QS3 with a massive 449mm and 510mm of front and rear suspension travel, respectively.
There’s a six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with high-low settings as well as automatic and manual modes. There is on-the-fly changing between 2WD and 4WD via a dash-mounted switch.
Technology includes Honda’s off-road brake traction control system, which manages the amount of slip between the front wheels and applies torque to the wheel with greater grip. Honda claims the system produces excellent traction in tough off-road conditions, as well as reduced steering effort and kickback compared to a standard differential lock.
There is also hill start assist.
More information will be made available in the coming months, including price. For more information, visit https://motorcycles.honda.com.au/SXS_Sport/TALON_1000R.