ATV Sport articles from May 2005

ATV Sport archives from May 2005

Muddy waters.(all terrain vehicle racing)(Editorial)
May 1, 2005... In this issue, we feature a new form of racing that is growing more popular by the day. Mud racing, or simply muddin', transforms an ATV hobby and gives it a competitive edge. One particular event, the High Lifter Mud Nationals, pits rider and...

Riding and writing.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... We gave an ATV Sport subscription to our son and he really likes it! Thanks. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The O'Briens Downingtown, Pa.

How in the world did you do that?(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... I'm sending a photo of a YFZ stuffed in the back of an Isuzu Trooper. Gibber, a friend of mine, uses his Trooper as a mobile trailer for his Yamaha when he goes riding. Somehow the YFZ fits with the Trooper's back seat removed. Bert99 ...

YFZ sticker search.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... I have a question about the September 2004 issue, the article "Battle Of The Budget Racers." I wish to acquire the stickers presented on the Yamaha YFZ450. Can you give me the coordinates of the company which sells the stickers? Montulet...

Yamaha 750.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... Here's a picture of a new breed of ATV. It's a homemade quad that uses a 660R Raptor frame with a Yamaha Genesis 750 engine. It also has a 2005 YFZ450 front suspension. This ATV has a lower center of gravity than a Raptor and a Cadillac-like...

Pro Armor confusion.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... I was reading a Pro Armor advertisement that said "The Best Armor Available." After reviewing their products, I decided to purchase its nerf bars for my YFZ450. Pro Armor told me I have to be a racer of the ATVA to purchase its product. I told...

Conversion version.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... I was reading the March 2005 issue of ATV Sport and noticed, in the Wrench This section, someone asking about a wheel conversion kit for a 1984 Kawasaki 250. Mike Penland is correct: The guy who made these conversion kits is now retired and...

New York riding.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... I own a Honda 250EX and I am wondering if there are any good places to ride near Canandaigua, N.Y. I have heard of a place in Pennsylvania. Aaron Barton Canandaigua, N.Y. Aaron, your best bet is to travel to Pennsylvania. You will...

Crowd pleaser.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... Here is a picture of our son Hunter jumping the finish line on his 50cc Merkat at our local track in Boyd County, Ky. He rarely wins against the larger 90cc quads in his class, but he always wins the crowd. Thanks. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]...

Solid endorsement.(Letter to the Editor)
May 1, 2005... I like ATV Sport because it is only about sport ATVs. All the other magazines have both sport and utility quads. I own a 2004 Honda 250EX. Andrew Fernandez Mountain Home, Pa. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Send us your comments,...

Dune clean-up.(WHAT'S UP)(SandLakeDuners.com)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Some of Oregon and Washington's ATV population are doing their part to keep the dunes a clean and safe environment for all. Since its beginning in the fall of 2002, people associated with SandLakeDuners.com (SLD)--a Web site for dune...

www.quadtech-ATV.com.(Web Corner)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Quad Tech, maker of carbon-fiber ATV products, has given its Web site a facelift. QuadTech-ATV.com features a product section, which has information and descriptions on various products, as well as photos and pricing. Products can be purchased...

www.bansheehq.com.(Web Corner)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Banshee HQ is devoted to Yamaha's two-stroker and claims to be "The Internet's No. 1 Banshee Resource." With a claimed 10 million hits per month and some 13,000 members, we won't disagree with them. News, forums, galleries, chat rooms and...

Honda delivers.(what's up)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... In a gesture that mimics the early days of factory ATV sponsorship, American Honda delivered two brand new TRX450Rs to John "Ironman" Natalie at Glen Helen Raceway prior to the start of the Moose/ITP MX ATV Nationals. Natalie, who, as of press...

Suzuki title sponsor of GNCC series.(what's up)(Grand National Cross Country)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Suzuki joins the Grand National Cross Country Series as the first title sponsor of GNCC Racing, christening the series as the Suzuki Grand National Cross Country Series. "Suzuki has a diversity of product, from supersport bikes, to...

DuVall diagnosed with cancer.(what's up)(Chad DuVall)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... According to the Duncan Racing Web site, pro ATV racer Chad DuVall will miss the first round of the 2005 Grand National Cross Country season. In February, DuVall was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The site went on to...

Digger and Dozer[TM].(WHAT'S UP)
May 1, 2005... presented by www.DougGust.com [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] [c]2005 Eddy Graphic Design, Inc. Visit www.DougGust.com for more cartoons and Digger and Dozer...

Maxxis and WORCS.(what's up)(World Off Road Championship Series, Maxxis International)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Maxxis is once again the official motorcycle and ATV tire of the World Off Road Championship Series. The 2005 season marks the fifth year of Maxxis' partnership with WORCS racing, and Maxxis says it looks forward to the excitement that the next...

Iowa series.(what's up)(all terrain vehicle racing)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Site of a Loretta Lynn's Amateur Nationals qualifier, The Farm MX course in Indianola, Iowa, will host the inaugural Mid-America Quad Challenge. The two-day event will be held Saturday, April 9 and Sunday April 10. It will combine motocross...

OMRA series schedule.(what's up)(Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association)(Brief Article)(Calendar)
May 1, 2005... The Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association has wrapped up its first ATV "test" series, which was popular among participants. The 12-round ATV racing series that features Grand-Prix style racing and one cross-country race. Also included in the...

'ATV Sport TV' schedule.(what's up)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... We been getting hounded with questions regarding the second season of "ATV Sport TV". Here is an update for 2005. ATV Sport TV will now air on the Outdoor Life Network--the same network where our sister magazine's show, "ATV Magazine TV."...

Internet poll results.(what's up)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... In a recent poll question on www.atvsport.com, we asked our visitors: [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] "Who will win the MX opener at Glen Helen?" Only a little more than 27 percent felt Tim Farr had the best chance to win. Of those who...

AMSOIL powersports air filter.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... AMSOIL's claims its powersports air filter traps and holds more dirt than conventional surface-type filters and improves air flow for better performance. AMSOIL says the air filter provides a consistent, tight seal between the filter and...

E Line carbon-fiber pipe guard.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... Manufactured with carbon-fiber composite and high-temperature silicon based coating, E Line says its pipe guards function as a heat barrier. E Line claims the guards are lightweight and offer protection from pant burns. E Line offers heat...

Motonation adventure boots.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... These Set Up Adventure ATV boots from Motonation are constructed from top-grain leather and are fully lined with a waterproof membrane. The boots, available in sizes 8 to 13, feature a three-buckle adjustable closure system and replaceable...

Duncan racing vortex ignition.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... Duncan Racing's Vortex X10 CDI for the Honda 400EX claims to allow the user to select up to 10 different power modes as easily as adjusting suspension clickers. The X10 CDI also allows the rider to change the power modes via a handlebar switch....

EVS Vision knee braces.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... For maximum protection and comfort, EVS offers its Vision knee braces in four sizes (S-XL). The knee braces feature thigh-impact panels, dual-pivot hinges, knee cup and calf-impact panels. EVS says the Vision braces include replacement knee...

Pro-Tech Moflow airbox lid.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... This Pro-Tech Moflow airbox lid for the Yamaha YFZ450 claims to be non restrictive, water repellent and improve intake air flow. Pro-Tech says the airbox lid uses stock airbox-lid locks for a tight seal. The airbox lid is anodized black and the...

Performance plus brakes.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... These organic and sintered brake pads are manufactured from man-made aramid fibers and designed to manufacturer specifications. Performance Plus claims the brake pads provide noise-free braking and prevent surface scorching under load. The...

Scott Ultimate Hi Voltage goggle.(HOT PRODUCTS)
May 1, 2005... The Ultimate Hi Voltage goggle from Scott comes standard with a Chrome Fade color scheme and an anti-slip strap design. Scott's goggles also feature a hard-coated chrome lexan lens, no-sweat face foam, ram air ventilation, black nickel strap...

Lid test.(the good test)(helmets)(Product/Service Evaluation)
May 1, 2005... Helmets mean a lot to the modern-day, off-road rider. The first and most obvious reason is the protection a helmet offers. Second, helmets give a person identity and, depending on how far someone wants to go, they can be customized to the...

First-time buyer, long-time reader.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q Mike, I've enjoyed your column over the years. Hopefully, you can help me make a big decision. I'm going to buy my first quad, but I don't know what to get. I'm 34 years old, 6-foot-3 and 221 pounds with limited riding experience (I've only...

Trail Blazer upgrades.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q I own a 2002 Polaris Trail Blazer that runs well. The only modiifications I've made to the bike are a DG Performance exhaust and carb kit. Do they make a cluch kit or a manual tranny for the Trail Blazer? What else should I do to really make...

Prairie setup.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What is a good trail racing setup for a Kawasaki Prairie? What quiet-tuned muffler and mud-and-snow tires do you recommend? So far, I only have a K & N filter. We are starting our own ATV park, mud bog and drag strip that's near...

Mechanic tips.(wrench this)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Installing a tether kill switch is a simple task most ATV owners can accomplish in less than an hour, but if it's rushed, it can become the source of major problems. A tether kill switch kit--a requirement at most races and a good idea for...

Raptor tires.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What are a good brand of rear tires for a Yamaha Raptor 660R? My rear stock tires are like running slicks because they are worn out so bad. Anonymous via the Internet A That depends on what kind of riding you do. If it's on the...

400EX Silent Pipe.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What would be a good quiet muffler for a Honda 400EX? I am concerned about how loud it is because noise is an issue where I ride. Jacob Kotz Dubuque, Iowa A Jacob, from me personally, thanks for being concerned about noise and...

400EX Silent Pipe Part II.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What is the best pipe for my Honda 400EX? I want better throttle response and more top-end power. Would I need to buy a complete system or can I buy only the silencer? Cost isn't an issue. Ranae Birmingham via the Internet A...

Carb intake.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What type of carburetor is best for my Honda 400EX? How big of a carb should I get? Also, what would I need to do to my 400EX after I get a carb? Bud Matus Vernon, Texas A If your 400EX is stock, just bolting on a carb won't...

Craving Z250 power Part I.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q I own a 2004 Suzuki LT-Z250 and I want it to be faster so I can race this year. I have already bought a pipe, but I am struggling to find other parts. All the aftermarket parts I'm interested in aren't offered for my ATV. Do any companies...

Craving Z250 power Part II.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q I own a Suzuki LT-Z250 and want more power or torque. Could you please point me in the right direction? James Le Veque La Verne, Calif. A Again, try the companies I previously mentioned. Other than that, I don't really know of...

Bent KFX400 frame.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q My Brother purchased a 2004 Kawasaki KFX400 this summer and he severely bent the frame after catching a small tree stump with the left A-arm. A friend of his who repairs motocross bikes told him he could fix the frame, which led to more...

Honda hiccups.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q When I try to start my 2002 Honda 400EX, the engine turns but it won't start. When I pull on the choke, it starts for 5 seconds and, when I turn off choke, it turns off. I cleaned out the carburetor and jets, but I'm still having the same...

KFX700 exhaust.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What is the best exhaust kit for a 2004 Kawasaki KFX700? I feel like the bike is too slow and it needs more low- and top-end power. Michael Chacon via the Internet A I'd try HMF, Big Gun and Yoshimura. All of those pipes should...

Blaster pipe.(mechanic tips)(all terrain vehicles)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Q What is the best pipe for a Yamaha Blaster in terms of horsepower and performance? Anonymous via the Internet A I like Vito's, Trenga, CT and Trinity Racing exhaust systems for that bike. There are a lot of other options,...

The middle class shootout.(machine test)(Product/Service Evaluation)(Cover Story)
May 1, 2005... The talk nowadays is all about the screaming MX quads (like the 450R and YFZ) and the really big guys (like the Raptor 660, DS650, KFX700, Scrambler 500 and Predator). But there's a class of four-stroke sport machines that are just a little...

Flight of the Phoenix: Polaris' low-priced, entry-level four-stroke.(machine test)(Product/Service Evaluation)
May 1, 2005... Named after a mythical bird of fire reborn from its own ashes, the 2005 Polaris Phoenix's name suggests it's one hot model. It's not necessarily blazing because of a mind-blowing performance package, but prized because it actually exists. ...

Special order: we test the 2005 Special Edition Yamahas and GYT-R-prepped quads.(machine test)(Product/Service Evaluation)
May 1, 2005... Yamaha has found a way to appeal to the ATV masses much like the burger joints across America. Many people buy ATVs stock and enjoy them that way. Other consumers have other ideas of what makes a good quad. Much like the fast-food industry,...

Peugeot Quark: futuristic fuel-cell quad for the road.(first look)(Brief Article)
May 1, 2005... Peugeot has unveiled a prototype two-person four-wheeler powered by fuel-cell technology. Named "Quark," the vehicle runs off electric motors located on the hub of each of the unit's four 17-inch alloy wheels. The motors are fed through a...

The long haul: this Polaris Predator kept going.(performance project)
May 1, 2005... Polaris is known world-wide for its tough, hard-working utility machines. The 4X4s love to haul, plow and climb. The Predator, however, is the black sheep of the family. It just wants to play all day. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] ...

Pipe down: sound off ... legislative pressure forcing change.(quite pipe buyer's guide)(all terrain vehicles)(Buyers Guide)
May 1, 2005... Shhh... quiet down out there! It's a phrase that's heard all-to-often by ATV enthusiasts, whether it's on the track or trail. Noise regulation and enforcement is becoming a popular issue among non-riding residents, state forest personnel and...

Hot-air adventures.(going places)
May 1, 2005... Located 35 minutes south of Albuquerque, N.M., David and Deanna Shuckhart, (a.k.a. Mr. & Mrs. Adventure) operate an adventure-vacation destination. How many times have you been planning a vacation, only to hear from the kids or wife, they'd...

Mud racin': winning gets downright dirty.(special report)
May 1, 2005... It's a crazy activity born out of truck competitions. But the origins of mud boggin' go back much further to a much more primitive urge: to get muddy! In the deep South, serious mudders climb aboard radical 4X4 quads and go in search of the...

Serious YFZs: Temecula Motorsports builds a motocross race team.(Hot Wheels)(all terrain vehicles)
May 1, 2005... There are a handful of teams that are always noticed in the pits, on the track and at the races. From big rigs to nice bikes, there's always something about these teams that attracks attention. Temecula Motorsports is one of those teams. It has...

Still chargin': Gary Denton on the past, present and future of GNC racing.(Grand National Championship )(Interview)
May 1, 2005... There isn't much that can be written about Gary Denton that hasn't been written before. The "Chino Charger," as he is affectionately called, is a legend in ATV racing. His eight national Pro GNC championships from 1987 to 1994 have not been...

Formula USA Pro Quad Series: 40,000 fans can't be wrong; Natalie wins Phoenix Pro Quad; makes it three of four.(On Track)(John Natalie)
May 1, 2005... The Formula USA Pro Quads Series has become the most watched ATV racing series with more than 40,000 spectators at each of the five rounds. In the past, ATV racing was just a sideshow for the Monster Trucks. That's not the case anymore, thanks...

Worcs: Arizona works; World Off-Road Championship opener.(On Track)
May 1, 2005... As we reported in the March issue, the 2005 World Off-Road Championship Series will have an ATV only schedule. That's right, no more having to share the pits with those egotistical dirt bike riders! Just kidding dirt bike guys, we love you. No...

Brakes & Braking FAQs ATV.(all terrain vehicle maintenance)
May 1, 2005... Q. I just bought organic brake pads and wore them out in one weekend. Can I find longer lasting brake pads without paying too much? [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] A. There are a lot of factors that contribute to brake wear such as riding...

Thrilled & chilled: unlimited outlaw quads on ice!(On Track)
May 1, 2005... International Championship Events series promoter Gary Densford found a way to put ATVs and powersports under the spotlight without skating on thin ice. With the National Hockey League season a waste and the owners in lockout mode, something...

Mr. Elka: making a comfortable product.(mind probe)(Martin Lamoureux, Elka Suspension )(Interview)
May 1, 2005... Five years ago, Elka Suspension didn't produce ATV products. Back then, the Canadian-based suspension manufacturer was involved in snocross and endurocross motorcycle racing. It also dabbled in shock maintenance, service and part production....