So far after 650 miles in everything from the dust, mud, rock and snow our machine has been 100% rock solid. It sounds like we may ride in a similar manner to you in our X4 LV. I love this machine, it will go anywhere I can fit it. My two complaints would be the ride is too stiff and the turning radius is too big. 32s with beadlocks aired down to 12 psi has softened the ride considerably. I wouldn't buy a live valve if I had it to do over. I would use that extra $2k for shock therapy and bigger tires. There is not a fix for the poor turning radius, but the 2 seater is much more nimble than the 4. I am very happy with our purchase and wouldn't trade it for anything else currently on the market at any price point.
New member. Considering buying a 2021 Talon 2 Live Valve!
Hi Talon Owners,
I’m in the market for a new sxs. I own a 2017 YXZ ss. With out getting into reasons to far I had some mechanical issues and the time was right to look at something new. It’s my wife and I. We are not aggressive riders but I’d say not cruisers either. Want a car that will be good in the whoops, reliable, enough power and fun. We are looking at the KRX in comparison. It appears a great riding rig but under powered arguably. Any feedback and problems or concerns about the Talon? I know it’s a tough place to ask the questions but we are just checking. We are ready to pull the trigger! Thank you in advance.
Bob
Ps. I know there is always the rare break downs that occur with anything.
I hear Live Valve is definitely worth the extra dough. Thoughts?
I’m in the market for a new sxs. I own a 2017 YXZ ss. With out getting into reasons to far I had some mechanical issues and the time was right to look at something new. It’s my wife and I. We are not aggressive riders but I’d say not cruisers either. Want a car that will be good in the whoops, reliable, enough power and fun. We are looking at the KRX in comparison. It appears a great riding rig but under powered arguably. Any feedback and problems or concerns about the Talon? I know it’s a tough place to ask the questions but we are just checking. We are ready to pull the trigger! Thank you in advance.
Bob
Ps. I know there is always the rare break downs that occur with anything.
I hear Live Valve is definitely worth the extra dough. Thoughts?
1 - 20 of 33 Posts
Thank you. I have heard lots of guys swearing by the Live Valve. I guess I could order from shock therapy and put the shocks on or have my local lift guy do it. I’m really trying to keep it out of a dealer! My car has been in more than I’ve had it. Really frustrating. I’ve watched 25 YouTube videos on the 2021 R w/live valve and guys seem to love it. You’re opinion is save the money and order and tune the non live valve. I wonder what the cost for the shock therapy upgrade would be. I’d really rather go that route. Did you pipe it? Thank you for the advice!! I have been going round and round.So far after 650 miles in everything from the dust, mud, rock and snow our machine has been 100% rock solid. It sounds like we may ride in a similar manner to you in our X4 LV. I love this machine, it will go anywhere I can fit it. My two complaints would be the ride is too stiff and the turning radius is too big. 32s with beadlocks aired down to 12 psi has softened the ride considerably. I wouldn't buy a live valve if I had it to do over. I would use that extra $2k for shock therapy and bigger tires. There is not a fix for the poor turning radius, but the 2 seater is much more nimble than the 4. I am very happy with our purchase and wouldn't trade it for anything else currently on the market at any price point.
I literally just picked up my Talon X LV on Thursday, took it riding on Saturday, so exactly one day of riding, about 30 miles of seat time, Arizona rocky desert, climbing, some fast dirt road. First response, I LOVE IT. Certainly pros and cons with every ride for sure. For context I have a 2012 RZR 900 (top of the line at the time) which I really like, handles great, rides a bit rough with stock suspension, but a really good sled, the Talon will replace this one. I also have a 2015 RZR 1000XP Fox Edition. The Fox is super soft at low speeds, and reasonable but probably too soft at high speeds, needs better springs for sure, will keep this one as my second ride and will upgrade the suspension.
For the Talon, on the Pro side:
1) Fit and Finish is really good, I am really impressed with the quality, it is a Honda.
2) The transmission (the main reason I bought this ride) is simply awesome, I like it substantially better than the belt/clutch system of the RZR. (there is a con below) You can run fully automatic, automatic where you override on occasion using the paddle shifters, or fully manual with the paddle shifters. I only did overrides when descending and wanting to have additional engine braking with a lower gear.
3) The Live Value. I really liked how it just dealt with all the situations I had while driving it. The X had 2" shocks without LV, with Live Valve it gets the same 2.5" shocks as the R, I like that as well.
3) the Sound, it sounds great.
4) the driving position is good, comfortable with adjustable tilt wheel and seat for and aft.
5) Climbing, riding over rocky terrain, fast dirt roads, downhill with engine braking...it was all good to great, overall better than the RZR in my opinion. I did not get a chance to run whoops with it, I am pretty excited to try that out.
On the Con side:
1) As many have said here, the ride is a bit rougher than I would like at slow speeds and over washboard. It isn't terrible and frankly I don't mind it that much. My girlfriend who has had one ride in the RZR Fox and then the Talon said she enjoyed the RZR much more because is was softer, not as rough. By comparisons I would say the Talon is in between my two RZR's. Softer than the 900 with stock Fox suspension and stiffer than the 1000XP Fox Edition with the super high end Fox shocks. But of course, this ride characteristic is influenced mostly by the springs. I ran a fairly high tire pressure on this first outing, so I imagine I can soften it a bit with lower pressures.
2) 2" cage - Why is this bad? It is in theory safer... by going with a 2" cage versus the RZR 1.75" you lose out on all the RZR upgrades and have to depend on 3rd parties who are going to support the larger role bar diameter (for accessories that attach to the roll bar). I have found most everything I wanted, but usually with less choice and sometimes at higher cost. And in general accessories are less available and more expensive. Honda is super proud of their accessories (way expensive) which doesn't help.
3) The Transmission (remember it is why I bought this sled) at slow speeds (like going over rocky terrain) at constant throttle it is sometimes gets a bit jumpy...something I have not experienced with the Belt drives. I attribute this to the direct nature of the transmission and figure as I learn to drive it better this will smooth out, but I did notice it.
4) No good place to put accessory switches. I will add both a light bar and lighted whips...need places to put the switches. Honda makes a plate that covers up a storage areas on the dash, and comes with a wire harness so this is likely the route I will take, but I would expect this to be stock.
5) This con is unique to me, but the wheel offsets and lug pattern is different than the RZR so I can't share a spare tire between the two. This is a bit of a bummer, with the 900 and the 1000 I upgraded the 900 to use the same wheels as the 1000 so only needed one spare.
6) They are kind of hard to come by right now and I am hearing Honda isn't catching up anytime soon.
So overall, with limited experience I love it. I am accessorizing now and have already started thinking...do I just sell both my RZR's and get another Talon, maybe a used X without Live Value?
For context of what I am doing to my machine, here is what I have bought so far to add to it.
1) mounting bracket for my Magellan TRX GPS (I never go off-roading without it, best accessory hands down).
2) Side Mirrors and Rear View Mirror (the dealer installed a "Street Kit" with Rear view mirror, horn and license plate holder, it is all crap...)
3) Full front windshield, that can be closed, tilted with a small opening for air flow or fully open.
4) 4 point harnesses (and Honda's seats are designed support through the seat harnesses, but comes with 3 point belts)
5) Lower Door inserts. they are great for winter riding here in AZ where is can get chilly. And you can take them off so summer driving where added air is critical.
6) Storage bags for doors for phones, gloves, masks, goggles, etc.
7) Lighted LED whips
8) LED light bar (the headlights are not great for night riding)
I am looking for a really good trunk storage solution, Honda had a nice one but it appears to be discontinued. Haven't found a good third party one yet.
As with everything on these forums, these are just my opinions and your mileage may vary.
For the Talon, on the Pro side:
1) Fit and Finish is really good, I am really impressed with the quality, it is a Honda.
2) The transmission (the main reason I bought this ride) is simply awesome, I like it substantially better than the belt/clutch system of the RZR. (there is a con below) You can run fully automatic, automatic where you override on occasion using the paddle shifters, or fully manual with the paddle shifters. I only did overrides when descending and wanting to have additional engine braking with a lower gear.
3) The Live Value. I really liked how it just dealt with all the situations I had while driving it. The X had 2" shocks without LV, with Live Valve it gets the same 2.5" shocks as the R, I like that as well.
3) the Sound, it sounds great.
4) the driving position is good, comfortable with adjustable tilt wheel and seat for and aft.
5) Climbing, riding over rocky terrain, fast dirt roads, downhill with engine braking...it was all good to great, overall better than the RZR in my opinion. I did not get a chance to run whoops with it, I am pretty excited to try that out.
On the Con side:
1) As many have said here, the ride is a bit rougher than I would like at slow speeds and over washboard. It isn't terrible and frankly I don't mind it that much. My girlfriend who has had one ride in the RZR Fox and then the Talon said she enjoyed the RZR much more because is was softer, not as rough. By comparisons I would say the Talon is in between my two RZR's. Softer than the 900 with stock Fox suspension and stiffer than the 1000XP Fox Edition with the super high end Fox shocks. But of course, this ride characteristic is influenced mostly by the springs. I ran a fairly high tire pressure on this first outing, so I imagine I can soften it a bit with lower pressures.
2) 2" cage - Why is this bad? It is in theory safer... by going with a 2" cage versus the RZR 1.75" you lose out on all the RZR upgrades and have to depend on 3rd parties who are going to support the larger role bar diameter (for accessories that attach to the roll bar). I have found most everything I wanted, but usually with less choice and sometimes at higher cost. And in general accessories are less available and more expensive. Honda is super proud of their accessories (way expensive) which doesn't help.
3) The Transmission (remember it is why I bought this sled) at slow speeds (like going over rocky terrain) at constant throttle it is sometimes gets a bit jumpy...something I have not experienced with the Belt drives. I attribute this to the direct nature of the transmission and figure as I learn to drive it better this will smooth out, but I did notice it.
4) No good place to put accessory switches. I will add both a light bar and lighted whips...need places to put the switches. Honda makes a plate that covers up a storage areas on the dash, and comes with a wire harness so this is likely the route I will take, but I would expect this to be stock.
5) This con is unique to me, but the wheel offsets and lug pattern is different than the RZR so I can't share a spare tire between the two. This is a bit of a bummer, with the 900 and the 1000 I upgraded the 900 to use the same wheels as the 1000 so only needed one spare.
6) They are kind of hard to come by right now and I am hearing Honda isn't catching up anytime soon.
So overall, with limited experience I love it. I am accessorizing now and have already started thinking...do I just sell both my RZR's and get another Talon, maybe a used X without Live Value?
For context of what I am doing to my machine, here is what I have bought so far to add to it.
1) mounting bracket for my Magellan TRX GPS (I never go off-roading without it, best accessory hands down).
2) Side Mirrors and Rear View Mirror (the dealer installed a "Street Kit" with Rear view mirror, horn and license plate holder, it is all crap...)
3) Full front windshield, that can be closed, tilted with a small opening for air flow or fully open.
4) 4 point harnesses (and Honda's seats are designed support through the seat harnesses, but comes with 3 point belts)
5) Lower Door inserts. they are great for winter riding here in AZ where is can get chilly. And you can take them off so summer driving where added air is critical.
6) Storage bags for doors for phones, gloves, masks, goggles, etc.
7) Lighted LED whips
8) LED light bar (the headlights are not great for night riding)
I am looking for a really good trunk storage solution, Honda had a nice one but it appears to be discontinued. Haven't found a good third party one yet.
As with everything on these forums, these are just my opinions and your mileage may vary.
BTW, I have read many posts saying just updating the helper springs on the LV Talon's deals with the rougher ride. I wouldn't give up the automatic adjustments that the LV gives you if you ride varied terrain.
Wow!BTW, I have read many posts saying just updating the helper springs on the LV Talon's deals with the rougher ride. I wouldn't give up the automatic adjustments that the LV gives you if you ride varied terrain.
thank you for taking the time to write all that out. That’s just the kind of information that helps when you are putting some serious money down. Thank you very much. My wife got fed up with our local dealer and driving to LA to buy it. He got pushy with her. She called another dealer and is in her way. I’m getting the R version of it. I’m stoked!!
I was exactly where you are about 2 weeks ago and finding good information was hard. Glad it helped! My Toy Hauler won't handle the extra width of the R. Plus I mostly run desert trails so having the tighter turning radius was important to me. I hope you are going to love it, they are great machines. I really like the color scheme of the R LV, the grey and blue is really great.
The LV is most noticeable at higher speeds not slow. Shock therapy gets better results when reworking the LV shocks then the non LV from everything I’ve read on it and tender springs will help along with lower air pressure in the tires. Ride On!
Thank you! I’ve watched every possible YouTube and shock therapy video out too! Shock therapy beat it up on ride quality but the several hundred you tube tout the ride as great! I can watch the car in the videos and see it does well. We all know to gain something sometimes you give up something. I think overall the car is perfect. As you pointed out I too will seek shock therapy! What the heck. I’m deep anyway! Thank you for your input I really appreciate the feedback.The LV is most noticeable at higher speeds not slow. Shock therapy gets better results when reworking the LV shocks then the non LV from everything I’ve read on it and tender springs will help along with lower air pressure in the tires. Ride On!
You might want to check out the Yamaha Wolverine RMAX 1000.
Thank you! I had a 2017 Yamaha YXZ SS. a Wolverine was something I did look at. I had lots of issues with my Yamaha and wanted to get something else. We liked our YXZ power, sporty drive w paddle shifters and Talon was a great mix of everything it seems. We bought a 2021 Talon R with Live Valve. We are so excited. My YXZ Is still in dealer since Halloween. Done! Talon will give us cruising and getting after it too. With every sxs you give something up to get something. After looking at all the pros and cons of an exhaustive search Talon R came out on top. If everything holds up it should be everything we need. We are excited to be part of this Forum. The guys have been really helpful and friendly. Not found in other forums. Thank you! Keep you all posted.You might want to check out the Yamaha Wolverine RMAX 1000.
If you or your wife don't have any serious back issues, you both will love it. I have some disc issues and am no longer able to ride my 2021 Honda X Live Valve 2 seater.Hi Talon Owners,
I’m in the market for a new sxs. I own a 2017 YXZ ss. With out getting into reasons to far I had some mechanical issues and the time was right to look at something new. It’s my wife and I. We are not aggressive riders but I’d say not cruisers either. Want a car that will be good in the whoops, reliable, enough power and fun. We are looking at the KRX in comparison. It appears a great riding rig but under powered arguably. Any feedback and problems or concerns about the Talon? I know it’s a tough place to ask the questions but we are just checking. We are ready to pull the trigger! Thank you in advance.
Bob
Ps. I know there is always the rare break downs that occur with anything.
I hear Live Valve is definitely worth the extra dough. Thoughts?
I'm 61 years old I've been running the talon for 18 months. You will love the machine. It's a very comfortable riding machine in any terrain it has plenty of power.Hi Talon Owners,
I’m in the market for a new sxs. I own a 2017 YXZ ss. With out getting into reasons to far I had some mechanical issues and the time was right to look at something new. It’s my wife and I. We are not aggressive riders but I’d say not cruisers either. Want a car that will be good in the whoops, reliable, enough power and fun. We are looking at the KRX in comparison. It appears a great riding rig but under powered arguably. Any feedback and problems or concerns about the Talon? I know it’s a tough place to ask the questions but we are just checking. We are ready to pull the trigger! Thank you in advance.
Bob
Ps. I know there is always the rare break downs that occur with anything.
I hear Live Valve is definitely worth the extra dough. Thoughts?
My wife has back issues and she didn't really have a problem with the suspension even when it was stock....but now that the G-Force has done my suspension she says it's is so plush and comfortable! Love this Talon...spent Thanksgiving weekend in Tennessee and and it just goes everywhere and takes a beating! Enjoy!!)
I haven't heard of GForce. Can you give any details about what they did to your shocks and what the cost was? Thanks!My wife has back issues and she didn't really have a problem with the suspension even when it was stock....but now that the G-Force has done my suspension she says it's is so plush and comfortable! Love this Talon...spent Thanksgiving weekend in Tennessee and and it just goes everywhere and takes a beating! Enjoy!!)
G-Force Racing Technologies and Suspension in Johnson City Tennessee. Gary is the man!! He is basically the East coast version of Shock Therapy and in my opinion is better at it. Not saying shock therapy is bad or starting a debate just giving you my opinion there. My machine is a 2020 Talon X on 32s. He did springs, valving, and full range high/low compression adjusters. I don't know the exact cost breakdown of each thing I had done but shock therapy and most seem to do the springs and valving but the QS3 is a limiter in the equation also, It doesn't flow as well as a full range adjuster does. So that is an upgrade to the flow of the shock also. I wanted full adjustments because I ride aggressively when by myself and plush it out when my wife is with me. My suspension literally does it all now. When by myself this thing still thrashes through corners and soaks up all the rough stuff. With my wife in it we travel slow and she described it as a Cadillac now when I set it up for her!) Gary at G-Force will be my only suspension call. I am sending him my YXZ suspension also to get done! If you want to private message me I can give you my number and we can talk over the phone if you have specific questions or riding terrains, etc. I can tell you that the Honda Talon with suspension work done is a complete beast! Set it up to the way you ride and like it and you will not be disappointed!I haven't heard of GForce. Can you give any details about what they did to your shocks and what the cost was? Thanks!
Thanks a lot for the information. I'm not yet ready to send mine out but want options when I do. I travel to Johnson City for work so that would be ideal. I have an X4 Live Valve, do you know if they are able to revalve them?
My short answer is yes they do the Live Valve also but I didn't ask much about it since I don't have that!Thanks a lot for the information. I'm not yet ready to send mine out but want options when I do. I travel to Johnson City for work so that would be ideal. I have an X4 Live Valve, do you know if they are able to revalve them?
They are also going to do the suspension on my 2021 Talon X Live Valve shortly.
Sorry, forgot to mention this is a 2 seater X with Live Valve.
1 - 20 of 33 Posts
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