ATV – Honda’s Rincon, Sport Quads Get a Boost for 2006

American Honda Motor Co. released more details on its 2006 ATV lineup at its dealer meeting in Las Vegas in early September. Company officials announced that the Rincon, TRX450R, TRX250EX and TRX90 would be returning with some changes.
The new FourTrax Rincon/FourTrax Rincon GPScape (starting at $7,799) continues to be Honda’s largest displacement ATV. Plus, it gets even bigger for 2006, with engine displacement increased from 649cc to 675cc.
The big news, though, is the addition of electronic fuel injection, which is a first for the company’s ATV line. The 40mm injection system improves starting and makes rejetting a thing of the past.
The Rincon also gets other updates. New dual front disc brakes with built-in scrapers on the calipers ensure crisp braking. The brake pads are thicker, and Honda says they are more durable in muddy situations. In addition, the brake pads feature an internal scraper that gives an audible warning when the pads are worn and need to be replaced.
To help improve the ride, Honda revalved the rear shocks and added a new exhaust system. Also new on the Rincon, is an 18-amp battery, low-fuel warning light, Dunlop tires and a washable air filter. For 2006, the Rincon will be available in red, olive and a new Natural Gear camouflage color.
SPORT QUADS
Honda’s popular TRX450R ($6,799) gets a host of updates for 2006. For those who like the convenience of push-button starting, it’s now available on the 450R. However, a kick start version can still be purchased as well. From a visual standpoint, the 450R gets an updated headlight that changes the look of its front end.
Other changes include a new 40mm Keihin FCR-type carburetor for better performance, a forged slipper piston design that is claimed to be lighter and allows the engine to rev faster and an increased compression ratio. The ratio has been increased from 10.5:1 to 12:1. In addition, the maximum engine rpm was increased from 7,500 to 9,850. Honda also revised the cylinder head port specs.
The airbox was redesign for improved airflow and an increase in power. The quiet exhaust system has been redesigned to increase flow. The radiator is larger and the fin pitch is different for better cooling.
Also, the transmission ratios were designed for racing and trail applications, and Honda increased the length of the swingarm and changed the linkage ratio on the rear suspension. Other suspension changes include new A-Arms, knuckles and spindles.
Overall, Honda says the front and rear suspensions are lighter, and the rear suspension travel was increased from 9 to 9.3 inches. For a lower center of gravity, the riding position was lowered 8mm.
The TRX250EX ($3,699), meanwhile, gets the race-inspired styling of the 450R and a few other changes. One of the most notable additions is the Honda SportClutch. The SportClutch allows for manual shifting much like the 450R, but without the worry of the engine stalling when slowing down or stopping.
The 250EX is pwoered by a 229cc air-cooled OHV longitudinally mounted single-cylinder four-stroke.
Other changes to the quad include revised front and rear suspensions, a brighter headlight and a new brake light.
Honda’s smallest TRX – the TRX90 ($2,649) – not only gets an updated look via TRX450R inspired bodywork, but also the ease of electric start. Other changes to the unit, which is powered by an 86cc air-cooled SOHC single-cylinder four-stroke, include a new handlebar design for more comfort, repositioned front brake lever, new suspension settings, mudguards and a revamped plastic skid plate.
The unit will be available in black and red with black.

-Eric Skogman