ATV

| ATV F R E E E A S I T R A I N I N G W I T H T H E P U R C H A S E O F A K A WA S A K I M U L E U T I L I T Y V E H I C L E O R B R U T E F O R C E AT V

EASI®, the European AllTerrain Vehicle Safety Institute, is a not-for-profit organisation which provides safety training courses for ATV and side-by-side utility vehicles.

EASI's UK operation is sponsored by the leading manufacturers such as Kawasaki and delivers a programme of specialist ATV and side-by-side operator training courses which are designed to improve operator skills, safety levels and awareness of the capabilities of ATV’s. EASI training is important to anyone buying a new machine to ensure responsible use and understanding of the vehicle, thereby reducing the number of accidents and injuries that may results from improper operation.

EASI offer a generic loading, towing and reversing course in addition to the introductory safety training course for users who frequently use their utility vehicle to carry large loads. The course involves sourcing and identifying individual machine-recommended front, rear and combined loading weights, in order to practice different driving techniques to experience the effects and different handling characteristics once your machine is loaded. You will also practice how to secure carrying loads safely, safe hitching and reversing with a trailer. These skills help to keep your utility vehicle in the best working condition and minimising damage to your vehicle, as well as ensuring your safety and others around you.

Buyers who purchase a new or used Kawasaki MULE utility vehicle or Brute Force ATV are eligible for FREE or highly subsidised EASI operator training, subject to qualifying terms, conditions and availability. Contact your local Kawasaki dealer or visit the Kawasaki website for more information.

D e a l e r I n t e r v i e w – M K M A g r i c u l t u r a l L t d

Q: How long have you been a Kawasaki dealer? customers are looking for in a side-byside utility vehicle or ATV? Q: What are your customers preferred cab options and accessories?

A: MKM Agricultural Ltd took on the Kawasaki franchise in 2015

Q: What kind of industries in your area rely on utility vehicles and ATV’s?

A: The list is huge, Farmers, Gamekeepers, Estates, large homeowners, military, emergency services, beach patrol, security, pest control, hospitals, racing teams, the list is endless

Q: Which Kawasaki model is most popular with your customers?

A: All of them

Q: Why do you think that model is so popular?

A: They all offer fantastic value for money and reliability

Q: What is the most important thing your

For more information

A: It needs to be practical; these machines are built to go to work.

Q: Do your customers prefer petrol or diesel models... and to which markets in the territory?

A: Our customers are all different. If you are looking for speed and you don’t have access to a red diesel tank then petrol is often the choice, the MULE Pro-MX. If the customer has access to red diesel, they are not worried about slightly slower speeds and they would like a higher payload then they will choose a diesel, a MULE Pro-DX or MULE Pro-DXT

Q: What is the typical terrain type in your area? A: Most will have a cab of some description, I would guess it would be a 50/50 split between a full cab or half cab.

Q: What would you say to someone who is considering purchasing a new Kawasaki?

A: If you are looking for a practical reliable workhorse and good value for money the Kawasaki wins hands down. The machine may not have all the bells and whistles some of the competitors have but it also doesn’t carry their kind of price tag.

Anthony at MKM Agricultural Ltd in Bedford

A: We are relatively flat here in Bedfordshire and the surrounding counties although the soil type (or should I say clay) can be very heavy going.

www.mkmagri.com

01234 768889

Images may include accessories or features not fitted as standard or only available within the US market.

Southam Agri. Services

Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk

| ATV I n t e r v i e w – T H W h i t e A g r i c u l t u r e

Q: How long have you been a Kawasaki dealer?

A: Sometime in the early 90’s

Q: What kind of industries in your area rely on utility vehicles and ATV’s?

A: This area consists mostly of farming and shooting.

Q: Which Kawasaki model is most popular with your customers?

A: The MULE Pro-DX is the most popular, however the MULE Pro-MX is selling really well especially to equine customers and female owners or operators.

Q: Why do you think that model is so popular?

A: The MULE Pro-DX is rugged , reliable (great engine), a huge load capacity, VERY stable and not expensive. The MULE Pro-MX is light, compact and joyful to drive, it’s also quite nippy! Q: What is the most important thing your customers are looking for in a side-byside utility vehicle or ATV?

A: The most important factor has to be reliability.

Q: Do your customers prefer petrol or diesel models... and to which markets in the territory?

A: Farmers mostly prefer diesel, as they have red diesel on the farm and it is easily accessible. The private, shooting and equine customers are less concerned, they like the fact that the petrol engine on the MULE Pro-MX is quieter.

Q: What is the typical terrain type in your area?

A: Our area is hilly, arable and big acreage. We are surrounded by Cotswold brash that drains well.

Q: What are your customers preferred cab options and accessories? A: Most customers buy a half cab, although the full cab is becoming more popular.

Q: What would you say to someone who is considering purchasing a new Kawasaki?

A: You will be delighted with it, it will more than cope with your daily tasks and it will always start! It has a pedigree of course too!

Tim at T H White Agriculture in Toddington

www.thwhiteagriculture.co.uk

01242 620211

A l l t h e b e s t f e a t u r e s i n a c o m p a c t p a c k a g e

Honda’s Pioneer 520 side by side UTV combines the advantages of a compact and light conventional ATV with the load and passenger carrying capability of a larger UTV, and the new model is expected to prove popular with farmers and agricultural contractors as well as gamekeepers and for equestrian use.

The Pioneer 520 complements the existing Pioneer 700 which was launched almost five years ago. Power is from an economical 518cc petrol engine which combines exceptional performance with user comfort, without

exposing users to the vibration and noise levels typical of competitors’ diesel-powered models. It has an efficient mechanical transmission and shaft drive to the wheels, so there are no belts or chains to slip and maintain. Two seats are standard, and a sturdy rear load bed carries up to 204kg while an optional hitch allows trailers up to 454kg to be towed.

Compact but practical

The main difference between the Pioneer 520 and the Pioneer 700 is its smaller size including an overall width of only 1,270mm, making it ideal for operation in areas where space is limited including in woodland away from established tracks, and for accessing fields through narrow gateways. It is also easier to transport between work sites by trailer than a full-size UTV.

The Pioneer 520 has a tough ladder chassis, and independent double wishbone suspension at each corner with 5.8 inches of travel at the front and 5.9 inches at the rear. The rear shock absorbers are adjustable to suit the terrain and the load. Large 24-8-12 front tyres and 24-10-12 at the rear provide plenty of grip and spread the weight over a large area to minimise

ground damage. Impressive 215mm ground clearance means challenging terrain will be tackled with ease.

Powerful and reliable

The engine is longitudinally mounted for efficient drive to the front and rear axles and located low in the frame for maximum stability. The 518cc power unit has electronic fuel injection and liquid cooling, and the engine coolant circulates through a radiator below the front fender where it is protected from dust and mud.

User-friendly transmission

manual, automatic and semi-automatic operating modes ensures smooth gear changes and progressive drive take-up for a comfortable ride.

A dashboard-mounted rotary switch selects manual or automatic operation, and in manual mode paddles behind the steering wheel are used to change up and down through the gears. The paddles are also used to select reverse, but an additional safety switch must also be activated before the gear is engaged.

Automatic mode allows the user to pay full attention to the terrain and

conditions while gears are selected and changed automatically by the engine and transmission management system. The semiautomatic mode allows the user to override the automatic gear selection by operating the paddles to change up or down a gear. This is handy for situations demanding extra control or when additional power might be needed such as for tackling a steep slope or travelling through soft mud. As soon as conditions return to normal, automatic mode is reselected.

Two- or four-wheel drive selection is through Honda’s proven Traxlock which allows drive to the front wheels to be engaged and disengaged on the move, using a dashboard-mounted lever.

Safe and comfortable

The rider and passenger are protected by a substantial roll over protection frame with half-height doors. Fabric nets above the doors give additional protection from overhanging branches or can be fastened back when not required. Three-point, inertia-reel seat belts and padded head rests ensure safety and comfort, and for added protection the Pioneer 520 is limited to just 15kph if the seat belt isn’t fastened.

Options to improve rider and passenger comfort include a Perspex front windscreen and a plastic roof.

Simple maintenance

Daily checks and routine maintenance are easily carried out and the seat base and back can be quickly removed providing great access to the engine. Filling the 15.5-litre fuel tank is quick and convenient through a large cap on the side of the machine. Like the best-selling range of Honda ATVs and the popular Pioneer 700, the new Pioneer 520 is designed for demanding work environments. Plenty of ground clearance and generous suspension travel make the new Pioneer ideal for use on challenging farm terrain such as ploughed fields or along deep rutted tracks. The powerful 518cc engine has plenty of power to climb steep slopes with ease and the powerful 200mm front hydraulic disc brakes and single 170mm rear disc ensure efficient stopping power, even when fully loaded and working in muddy or wet conditions.

The load bed is fitted with strong tiedown points and the rear tailgate is fastened by two heavy-duty latches and opens to a flat position for easy loading and unloading.

The cab is spacious and comfortable and the floor is flat and easy to keep clean. All the controls are sturdy and designed for operation by users wearing working gloves. Visibility all around is excellent including down to the front where the short, low bonnet makes it easy to watch for obstructions. Powerful front work lights are standard.

Attractive package

The Pioneer 520 is extremely versatile and will appeal to all sizes and types of farm. For those currently using conventional ATVs, its ability to transport two people and larger loads will be tempting.

Stocks of the new model started arriving in showrooms in late April, and many dealers are already offering demonstrations. The price is competitive at £9,200, including a full two-year parts and labour warranty. For a limited time, purchasers can also receive a Datatool TrakKing Adventure tracking system free of charge with just a £9.95 monthly subscription to pay for the service.

To find out more about the new Pioneer 520 as well as the Pioneer 700 and Honda’s best-selling range of conventional ATVs just contact your local authorised dealer. See www.honda.co.uk/atv

Pioneer 520

• Engine - longitudinally mounted 518cc, single-cylinder petrol with fuel injection and liquid cooling.

• Transmission - mechanical with five speeds and reverse. Manual, automatic and semi-automatic operating modes.

• Drive - shaft to the front and rear axles and to the wheels. Traxlock selectable 2/4wd.

• Suspension - double wishbone with dual rate springs and shock absorbers. Travel 5.8-in front and 5.9-in rear with adjustable dampers.

• Dimensions (L/W/H) - 2.66m/1.27m/ 1.81m.

• Wheelbase - 1,850mm.

• Tyres - 24-8-12 front. 24-10-12 rear.

• Unladen weight - 483kg

• Load bed size (L/W/H) - 66cm/ 98cm/25cm

• Load bed capacity - 204kg

• Max towing weight - 454kg

• Recommended retail price £9,200 + vat

| ATV P o l a r i s C h a l l e n g e M o r o c c o a n n o u n c e d f o r 2 0 2 1

Polaris distributor in Morocco, YMF Extreme Motors, in conjunction with Carta Rallye, a well-known rally organiser in Morocco, has announced a new Polaris side-byside event to be held this year; the 2021 Polaris Challenge Morocco.

To be hosted at the gates of the Sahara Desert in M’hamid El Ghizlane, the first edition of the 2021 Polaris Challenge Morocco will take place from 16th October to 23rd October this year. The routes have been specially selected with side-by-side vehicles in mind, providing Polaris owners with the exclusive opportunity to exercise their passion for off-road adventure and adrenaline over five days of intense riding.

Inviting riders from all over Europe, Middle East and Africa to enjoy the trails and dunes that Morocco has to offer, the Polaris Challenge Morocco will combine strategy, off-road driving ability and fun with its unique concept of point-to-point GPS navigation. Each day will bring a new route covering 150-200 kilometres per day. The challenge is to reach the end of the course each day in a given number of hours, while also trying to find the most direct route to minimise distance travelled; riders will need to alternate between tracks and off-road routes to find the right balance between speed and distance.

“We’re so excited to be hosting this new experience for Polaris customers – not just for our local community, but also for customers across the globe,” said YMF Extreme Motors management. “No matter the language we speak or country we’re from, we’re all united by a common passion in off-roading and this is the perfect opportunity to share this experience. We’ve designed the event so it’s suitable for both seasoned RZR riders as well as thrill-seekers who are completely new to the rally or racing scene. It’s the perfect place to push riding skills outside of their comfort zone and see the full potential of the Polaris line-up. It’s going to be an unforgettable event.”

The event will be open to all Polaris owners across Europe, Middle East and Africa, and registration will include accommodation, meals, public liability insurance, safety and medical teams, tracking devices, and free servicing provided by Polaris Morocco (parts not included). To make it as easy as possible to attend, the organisers are offering transport solutions for customer vehicles and equipment via set collection points across Europe, as well as airport/ hotel transfers for the event*.

“The original concept is different from the typical timed rally race or discovery raid. We are co-organising this with the Carta Rallye team who already run the Carta Rally and Baja SSV Morocco; they have extensive international rally experience, so riders will get the level of support, logistics and service that you would expect from a world-class event.”

Registration for the event is now open and closes on 17th September. 2021 Registration fees will be €2,490 (£2,200) for each driver, and €1,490 (£1,320) for each codriver.

*Vehicle transportation and airport to hotel transfers for attendees at extra cost. Flights not included in registration fees.

R a n g e r E V c o n t i n u e s t o s e r v e C a n n o n H a l l F a r m

Six months on from the delivery of the Ranger EV to Cannon Hall Farm, Farmers Robert and David and dad Roger are utilising all aspects of their new electric utility vehicle…

Featuring on Channel 5’s Friday on the Farm back in October, the Ranger EV has since become a regular guest star on the show, and behind the scenes too, helping with day-to-day farm life.

Robert Nicholson, from Cannon Hall Farm, said: “We’ve been really pleasantly surprised by the versatility of the Ranger and it is used every single day around the farm for various tasks. It surprised us by how brilliantly it handled off-road, it is really good in wet conditions and it makes life so much easier for us as it means we can get anywhere on the land without having any problems.”

At just 147cm wide, the Ranger EV is the perfect utility vehicle for fitting through gates and storing inside a barn or garage. Not only that, its smooth, silent motor means it will not spook any animals whilst in operation.

“We’ve used it way more than we thought we would because it is so adaptable – we have even got a tow bar on it now,” continued Robert. “It is used regularly for transporting animals, for training Pip and for checking the stock in our 125 acres of land. It’s been particularly useful in the snow if we’ve needed to bring any animals back to the farm. We’ve even used it to help Farmer David’s fitness regime –he wasn’t quite ready to pull a lorry so the Ranger EV was perfect.” towing capacity, along with 227kg bed box capacity for hauling things like animal feed and tools. Cannon Hall Farm’s Ranger EV has been fitted with a livestock canopy from TFM Engineering, which optimises the cargo bed for carrying livestock and for Cannon Hall Farm’s dog, Pip.

Given to Roger as a late birthday present last year, Cannon Hall Farm’s Ranger EV is well suited as an accessall-areas vehicle around the land with its on-demand all-wheel-drive technology to give it more forward traction when needed – especially helpful in muddy or slippery conditions – as well as ample space in the cab so Roger can easily get in and out.

Spot the Ranger EV on the latest season of This Week on the Farm on Channel 5, and catch up on-demand on My5.tv.