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Honda debuts new Pioneer UTV

Big news was hiding in Honda’s latest release of new model year information, as the company has unveiled its new Pioneer 700-4 — a versatile side-by-side with seating for up to four and an innovative convertible bed space — all built atop the company’s Big Red platform.

The big scoop is the Pioneer’s seating and packaging, as the roll cage extends beyond the front row of seats and covers the bed, which can function as the tilting cargo hold or a second row of seats, depending on configuration.

In one setup, it’s a typical two-seat UTV with a rear cargo hold. Without using tools, thanks to folding stow-away rear seats, owners can switch between two-, three- and four-seat configurations. The Honda-like twist is that only one rear seat can be deployed, should a third passenger be needed as well as a modicum of bed space. Passenger doors, nets and headrests are standard equipment.

Sporting a fresher, much more aggressive front clip, the Pioneer includes carryover powertrain features like a fuel-injected 675cc-class liquid-cooled OHV single-cylinder four-stroke engine and the Big Red’s still-unique automotive-style three-speed (plus reverse) automatic transmission with a hydraulic torque converter for smooth shifting.

The Pioneer can haul up to 1,000 pounds, and tow up to 1,500, which mirrors the Big Red. Its long-travel suspension offers 7.9 inches in front, and 9.1 inches in the rear and, while details weren’t available at press time, it appears to ride on an extended wheelbase.

Honda says the Pioneer will launch with 50 accessories available through its dealer network, and will be available in red, green and a Honda-designed, trademarked Phantom Camo kit.

Designed, developed and built in the United States, the Pioneer 700 is, in Honda’s words, “the first of a new breed” and will be available in dealerships this summer.

As part of the new product barrage, Honda also released new motorcycle models.

From the release:

“Today we’re announcing the release of the final model for 2013, but we are really excited to give everyone an early look at some incredible new machines for 2014,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. “We introduced a number of terrific new bikes in 2013, and now we’re carrying that momentum forward with even more innovative models that cast a fresh take on riding. These new models are not only exciting in concept, attention grabbing in looks and fun to ride, but they will bring great value for the money.

“First there’s the NC700X, the final model for 2013. When we rolled out this very cool adventure-style bike in late 2012, it received a very warm welcome from the motorcycling press and riders alike, so now it’s back with two color options for 2013: a new Red and Light Silver Metallic.

“More big news is the launch of a whole new line of Honda motorcycles for 2014: the CTX series. These new models introduced today are just the first in a whole new family of CTX products of various displacements and engine configurations that will be rolled out in the future. CTX stands for Comfort, Technology and eXperience—a rider experience that’s unique to these machines because of new Honda technologies that focus on class-leading comfort, easy-to-operate features and versatility. These first CTX machines share the same engine as the NC700X and place a premium on lightweight handling thanks in part to a low center of gravity, ergonomics that translate into day-long comfort, distinctive Urban Roadster styling and fantastic value.

“The CTX700ND is a 700cc-class parallel-twin machine that features a low seat height, along with an automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and Antilock Braking System (ABS) for $7999. That price makes the CTX700ND the most affordable DCT bike ever offered by Honda, and we believe its class-leading features and high level of value will appeal to many riders who have been waiting to begin their riding experience with a full-featured yet affordable automatic-transmission bike. We are also rolling out the CTX700, a fairing-equipped sibling ready for the open road. With the DCT and ABS combination, the CTX700D carries a suggested retail price of $8799.”

Both bikes will also be available with a standard transmission for $6999 and $7799 respectively, and a full assortment of Honda Genuine Accessories will also become available when these bikes land on dealership floors, including saddlebags that expand their touring capabilities.

“Obviously this is great news for enthusiasts all across the riding spectrum,” said Savino. “We believe this new CTX series of motorcycles is going to be a big hit as it cuts across many demographic categories while emphasizing one key theme: the fun of riding, at an affordable price. Also, the new Pioneer side-by-side offers an elevated level of versatility, utility and convenience that establishes new class standards. And this is only the beginning. We will be releasing more information about other great new 2014 models, so stay tuned for more good news from Honda.”

NC700X

Whether you’re new to the sport, a longtime rider or just getting back into the riding scene, the adventure-style NC700X offers the comfort and practicality of an everyday motorcycle that’s also surprisingly affordable. Use it as a day-to-day commuter, country road explorer, two-up getaway machine or perhaps all of the above and more—the NC700X is up to the job. Credit its long-travel suspension, abundant torque and available automatic Dual Clutch Transmission plus Combined Antilock Braking System and more, all of which make the NC700X the bike of choice when a bit of adventure starts calling your name. Price: $7499; $8499 for DCT/ABS model. Availability: spring 2013

CTX700N/CTX700ND with DCT and ABS 

The brilliance of Honda engineering shines once again in the form of the 2014 CTX700N. This is a bike specifically engineered to make motorcycling more approachable, affordable and fun than ever before. Thanks to a low seat height of only 28.3 inches, riders can quickly get acclimated to life in the saddle. Honda’s acclaimed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) provides either a fully automatic mode or the option of more active gear selection via “paddle-shift” type buttons on the handlebar, and the DCT version also comes with Honda’s Antilock Braking System (ABS).

The 670cc parallel-twin engine features cylinders canted 62 degrees forward for better weight distribution and a lower center of gravity for nimble handling. This smooth-running fuel-injected engine pumps out loads of low-end and midrange torque to simplify taking off from stops even with the optional six-speed manual gearbox, and there’s enough power on tap for wherever the road may lead. Beneath the fuel tank cover there’s a handy glove box area, and the fuel is carried beneath that. All in all, the CTX700N/ND are amazingly affordable, friendly and comfortable bikes that are perfect for everyday rides, weekend trips, two-up exploring or just about anything else you can dream up. Price: $6999; $7999 for DCT/ABS model. Availability: spring 2013

CTX700/CTX700D with DCT and ABS

The open road has never looked more inviting than when you’re rolling along on the new 2014 Honda CTX™700. Made for travel with an efficient fairing and windscreen, the CTX700 boasts features that make it an ideal partner for exploring all that the open road can offer. It starts with great rider accommodations, thanks in large part to a comfy seat that’s only 28.3 inches high—a handy aid around town. Then there’s the powerful, smooth-running 670cc engine with its twin cylinders canted 62 degrees forward for better weight distribution and a lower center of gravity for nimble handling. There’s also the option of an easy-to-use automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) or a standard six-speed manual; the DCT allows riders to instantly choose between a fully automatic mode or the option of more active gear selection via “paddle-shift” type buttons on the handlebar. Better yet, the CTX700D also comes equipped with Honda’s Antilock Braking System. With its broad power curve, light and nimble handling, roomy riding accommodations and smooth engine, the CTX700/CTX700D excels at long-range travel, but these qualities also make it a terrific weekend warrior or daily rider. With all this and more, all in a very affordable package, get out and see that destination you’ve wanted to visit—on the Honda CTX700/CTX700D. Price: $7799; $8799 for DCT/ABS model. Availability: spring 2013

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One Comment

  1. I am trying to build a garage to accomodate the new 4 seater Honda Pioneer 700-4 UTV. Can you give me the overall length, width and height?

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