I did not know that even in either of the two automatic drive modes that the system can still be overridden via the paddle shifters. The Talon will automatically return back to automatic within seconds of a shift.
POWERFUL 999cc TWIN-CYLINDER ENGINE
Sport side-by-sides need power, and you’re sure to find the new Talon 1000R offers plenty of it. The Talon 1000R’s 999cc liquid-cooled inline twin delivers the kind of powerful torque and quick-revving horsepower you’d expect from a flagship sport model, but is equally responsive in lower revs and in the critical midrange too. Set longitudinally in the chassis and managed by Honda’s sophisticated PGM-FI engine-mapping system, it delivers the kind of refinement no other side-by-side can match.
UNICAM CYLINDER HEAD DESIGN
The Talon 1000R’s 999cc liquid-cooled inline twin uses the same proven Unicam® cylinder head design found in our championship-winning motocross bikes. That helps make the engine more compact, which lets us position it for optimal weight distribution and ground clearance.
ROLLER ROCKER ARMS
Roller-tip rocker arms in the Talon 1000R’s valve train help reduce engine friction, facilitate higher, faster revs, and contribute to more efficient engine operation and power. They’re another example of Honda refinement you may not see, but that you’ll feel with every ride.
CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION
The Talon 1000R’s refined, high-performance chassis forms the basis for its superior handling and stability. From there we add long-travel independent front and rear suspension and generous ground clearance. Plus, the Talon 1000R gets premium, FOX Podium 2.5 shocks with QS-3 quick adjustors on all four corners.
4+ LINK REAR SUSPENSION
On the Talon 1000R, Honda’s 4+ link rear suspension is one of the secrets to its superior handling. Controlling wheel geometry is difficult with so much travel, but with the Talon 1000R’s suspension, even with 20 inches of travel, the rear-wheels’ toe varies only 0.3 degree throughout entire stroke for better chassis stability under extreme suspension deflection.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE DISC BRAKES
A high-performance side-by-side needs high-performance brakes. The Talon 1000R’s power, chassis and suspension travel helps take these side-by-sides to the next level. Front and rear the Talon 1000R features 250mm discs, with 34mm twin-piston calipers in front and 34mm single-piston calipers in the rear. Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) optimizes front and rear braking power under dynamic chassis conditions in two-wheel drive.
AUTOMATIC SIX-SPEED DCT TRANSMISSION
The convenience of an automatic with the strength, control, and efficiency of a manual, Honda’s DCT lets you drive the way you want. Choose between manual mode or fully automatic. Plus, the addition of Sport Mode increases the fun, shifting at higher RPMs for a spirited, full-performance driving experience. DCT puts you in control as to what engine speed you want, and what gear ratio. Or you can let it do all the thinking for you. In addition, you also get genuine compression braking and a more efficient power delivery than a belt-driven CVT.
I-4WD
The new Honda Talon 1000R showcases the second generation of our exclusive I-4WD system, specifically tuned to respond quicker and capable of delivering even more drive force. Think “I” for “Intelligent,” because that’s exactly what it is. An industry-first brake-traction control system for side-by-sides, it simplifies operation, increases drivability and optimizes traction. Using proven, advanced technology from Honda’s automotive division, you get the benefits associated with a locked front differential with none of the downsides. That means it maintains front-wheel traction even if one wheel wants to spin on ice or mud or if it’s in a hole. But at the same time, you get the lighter steering, better tracking at high speeds, tighter turning radius, and reduced kickback associated with unlocked front differentials. Special software tunes the I-4WD system for sport use.
RELENTLESS DURABILITY
When it comes to strength and toughness, the Talon 1000R leads the way. The oversized 87mm CV joints, beefy 39.7mm propshafts and strong U-joints are all built to survive the loads that low-speed rockcrawling can generate—and which cause driveline failures in so many other side-by-sides.
DRIVER/PASSENGER PROTECTION
The Talon 1000R’s Occupant Protection Structure uses large-diameter tubing, and meets ROHVA’s rollover protection standard. The standard-equipment hard doors and quick-clip side nets help keep debris from entering the cabin. Auto-style three-point seatbelts are equipped with an emergency locking retractor mechanism, to help optimize passenger security. (The Talon 1000R’s seats are also four-point compatible for competition use.)
ADJUSTABLE DRIVER’S SEAT
Honda has a ton of data and experience on seats, thanks to our auto division. And while just about every sport side-by-side has an adjustable driver's seat, only the Talon gets it this right. Designed to fit a wide range of operators, it also locks positively in position without wobble, helping make you feel more connected to the vehicle.
PAINTED BODY
Why paint and not color-molded plastic? Because the Talon 1000R’s painted body parts resist scratching better, and we know that where you’re going to be driving this side-by-side, you won’t want to slow down for a little brush by the side of the trail. Plus, they just look better—the first time you see a new Talon 1000R in person, we’re sure you’ll agree.
most reviews I've seen favor the paddle shifters but when its been common and also praised in most legal passenger vehicles, aka cars, its rare that a similar setup applies to machines like this would disappoint.I did not know that even in either of the two automatic drive modes that the system can still be overridden via the paddle shifters. The Talon will automatically return back to automatic within seconds of a shift.
even though that's true everyone will focus on the Honda as its a first for the brand, wait for the hype to dieThe YXZ1000RR SS has paddle shifters as well, which they have called Sport Shift technology. I don't know if Honda has mentioned it but that model also has a launch system, for high acceleration from a standstill.
I honestly hope they build these even with all-electric powertrains in mind. Its already happening elsewhere in the industry and bound to end up in something more demanding like these Talons.Good to know that the Talon has been purposely designed with future turbo models in mind. Don't really care too much about a launch mode but am curious to see how much of a different that will make for acceleration off the line compared to rivals.