[Honda Talon 1000 News]

The Honda Talon marks the brand's first entry to the Sports UTV segment and for launch, there will be two distinct variants to choose from. The biggest difference between the 1000X and 1000R, aside from the width of the machine, is the suspension setup, which modifies overall shock size and travel. As a late contender to the segment, Honda is aiming to capitalize on the growing momentum of the market, having already established themselves with their successful multi-purpose Pioneer UTV line.

The Talon runs on the 999cc Unicam Parallel twin motor that also powers the Pioneer 1000 and the African Twin motorcycle. In this application, it has been tuned to deliver 104 hp, with no official torque numbers just yet. Its been paired to a sport-tuned version of Honda’s six-speed automatic dual clutch transmission, eliminating those finicky belt drives.

The Talon 1000X has been positioned as the trail-ripping version, with more emphasis placed on maneuverability and agility. It utilizes a double A-arm front suspension with 14.6 inches of travel in the Fox QS3 shocks. For the rear Honda developed a three-link trailing arm setup and a trail ready 86.7-inch wheelbase.

Meanwhile, the Talon 1000R sits provides roughly five inches in additional travel and overall width, with a larger footprint that sits at 92.7 inches. This allows it to travel across whoops at high speeds and tackle extreme rock crawling with ease. The 1000R boasts a beefier suspension too, using a 4+ link trailer arm and larger Fox Podium 2.5 shocks.

Pricing for the Talon 1000X starts at $19,999 and the 1000R has been set at $20,999. In comparison, the Polaris RZR will set you back $17,999 and the Can-Am Maverick starts from $17,899.

The Talon is a bold new step in the world of sport side by sides and we expect this is just the beginning of a great new product line.

 

[Eagleye]

Even though the Talon has been set slightly above its key rivals, I think the improvements that they've made on the platform easily justify the price. I would imagine more models will join the range over the next few years as well.

 

[DeeCeeTee]

With two different models to choose from, several different factory finishes and solid aftermarket support for launch, there is a lot of personalization to be had on the Talon. The only real obstacle is finding one, as most dealers only got in handful of models.

 

[Alaskawild]

Dealers will work with you, I had a winch, half windshield, 30” lightbar and Bluetooth stereo put in and total bill came to 21k and change.

 

[BajaRunner]

Even though the Talon has been set slightly above its key rivals, I think the improvements that they've made on the platform easily justify the price. I would imagine more models will join the range over the next few years as well.

I'm actually surprised that Honda didn't dive into the sport ATV segment sooner and with more models.

The Talon is a great start but they've been quiet on what might come next.