[Hookedup]

Would have preferred to see more of the machine and less of this guys face, but it does give us a first look at the Talon in action. While Honda is a bit late to the party, I think this new Sport sxs is going to give Polaris and Can Am a run for their money.

 

[BajaRunner]

videos like this of the Talon SxS out in the wild do its design some real justice!

 

[Eagleye]

Shame that this video still features camo'd models, though I know it was shot awhile back. Love that the test driver noted that "the chassis works so much better, the faster it goes."

 

[DeeCeeTee]

What are your guys thoughts on them skipping out on a turbocharged model? I feel like this was mostly done for reliability reasons, as I have seen a fair share of issues on the Turbo S RZR. No belt slip is a huge win for Honda.

 

[BajaRunner]

What are your guys thoughts on them skipping out on a turbocharged model? I feel like this was mostly done for reliability reasons, as I have seen a fair share of issues on the Turbo S RZR. No belt slip is a huge win for Honda.

Its to secure sale which of course comes down to Honda sticking by what they do best, reliability.
This is a new segment for Honda and the last thing they do is sabotage a vulnerable launch product.

 

[Hookedup]

I don't think anyone was expecting Honda to set a new benchmark with the Talon's engine output. 104hp should be plenty for most scenarios and the factory setup sounds great imo.

 

[BajaRunner]

If guys using these in competition are after it (which I assume) and will make up the most passionate of Honda's customer base then what they did here will help them on that end. Honda builds them to last and increased output will be prioritized.

 

[Eagleye]

People need to focus less on the paper numbers and actually get some seat time in the Talon before making any criticisms over power. You'll see where the value lies come long term reviews.

 

[BajaRunner]

People need to focus less on the paper numbers and actually get some seat time in the Talon before making any criticisms over power. You'll see where the value lies come long term reviews.

simple metrics like its power to weight ratio sort of proves how well Honda spec'd the Talon.
its also another reason why I ask for a smaller version because it could mean a lighter vehicle with better power-to-weight, although lacking in other performance related areas.

 

[DeeCeeTee]

I don't know if Honda plans on releasing a turbo variant of this powerplant but Polaris has gone that route with their new RZR XP. They've managed to produce an impressive 168hp with the new 925 engine. Who knows what impact that will have on maintenance and reliability though. Would be neat to hear the forced induction through the range.

 

[BajaRunner]

Honda is usually slower to adopt systems that increase complexity so I wouldn't depend on it right away although on the automotive end they have been working with turbos for quite a few years. Not sure how different it would be in a side by side application.