The Honda company was one of the very first to create a brand new market with its innovative all terrain vehicle. In 1967, Osamu Takeuchi led a group of Honda engineers to create what would become a sought after recreational and sports vehicle, namely the all terrain vehicle. The result was the Honda US90 ATV.
Developing the idea for a Honda ATV involved a number of components, wherein the group of engineers considered building a two-, four- and six-wheeled configuration. In the end they decided on three wheels because it provided the greatest flexibility and efficiency for the purpose of the vehicle they had in mind.
The very first Honda ATV was the US90. It cost around six hundred dollars and featured an automatic clutch with a four speed gearbox, and was powered by a seven horsepower engine. Farmers were the first group of people to adopt this new vehicle because of its off road capabilities and road stability. However, by the end of 1970s, people started using the earlier Honda ATV models for recreational purposes.
At the start of 1980s, both utility and sports ATV had a major boom in the market. Farmers are still using the utility models by this time. The 1980s were dominated by the Honda ATC185, a powerful ATV with an automatic clutch, five speed gearbox, and a 180cc engine.
Honda was quick to adapt to the needs of the ATV sports users and in 1982 brought out the ATC200E. This was an awesome ATV for its time with a 192cc engine, and dual range 4 speed gearbox, that kicked out far more power than the farmer ATV variety. This exact model was enhanced with a reverse gear and new drive chain for added durability in 1984.
Wherever you go, since the 1980s you can find a Honda ATV in races in the deserts and snow covered landscapes around the globe. Honda as a company is well known for its performance cars and motorcycles, and their ATVs do not disappoint.
During later years, Honda switched their ATV design from three wheels to four wheels for the even greater stability. Continually improving their machines, they opted for the four wheeled version that could provide better suspension and handle more powerful engines.
Whether it is sports or utility ATVs, Honda is one of the first names that come to mind when thinking of innovation and vision. Today Honda has a variety of durable ATVs on the market to cater to the different needs and requirements of the different groups of users.
