I picked my 700xx up on Friday afternoon (The 2nd). Like I said in an earlier post, this ATV looks very impressive....far better than it does online. Honda really evolved sport ATV technology with this ATV and it shows. Its a very good looking ATV.
Now for the important part. The EFI makes starting a smooth breeze. I have to say I will never buy a non EFI ATV again. The engine has a smooth comfortable idle right from start up. I also own a Raptor 660R and a TRX450er so for a large part, I ride the 700xx and compare it in the context of those ATVs. The first thing that strikes the rider about the 700xx is the very easy to use and wide power band. Sure it has get up and go....in fact its probably a little faster off the line than the Raptor and about equal with the 450er, so bottom line the 700xx has the pick up power that is needed.....but once again its the ease of the powerband that is most impressive. I find myself shifting a lot less as I ride around the property, and the third gear is hugely versatile. Because I'm still in break in, I havn't ran it out yet, but I'm thinking top speed somewhere around the Raptor 660R, which is plenty.
I was frankly a little nervous about the independent rear suspension. I like to side slide and had only ridden IRS with my utlility ATVs. But long story short I'm a convert. I have this steep little bridge that goes over a wet area on my property and when you hit the bridge on an ATV....well it pretty much becomes a ramp. So I've been trying the IRS out on the "ramp" and I love it. Far smoother than any solid axle rear axle ATV. You can really tell the difference. And I bet with some practice, and the power put out by this motor.....that I can learn to slide that rear end. Oh and by the way, an ATV proves its weight in the air.....and this one takes to the air like a champ. Yeah its heavy....but does it matter on trail? I don't think so....yet.
Bottom line....its only three days old but I believe Honda got it right this time. I'm 37 and am ready to evolve my sport ATV expectations. And this ATV exceeded them.
