Off Road Xtreme recently had the opportunity to experience the all-new Honda Talon 1000R-4 during a national media drive event. We were hosted at the very awesome MidAmerica Outdoors venue in Jay, Oklahoma, and we will be sharing an extended feature on that for our first drive impressions of Honda’s flagship sport side-by-side UTV.

This all-new four-seater model sits with 68.1-inch track width and a total wheelbase of 118.7 inches. Front and rear suspension travel measurements are 17.7 inches and 20.1 inches, respectively. The naturally aspirated 999 cubic centimeter engine puts tremendous power to the ground through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. But, the frills and thrills do not end there.

We had a grand time getting to know the Honda machine inside and out, experiencing its power and performance over a variety of trails and terrain. This also included very spirited night driving in the woods and also some full-speed rippers around the short-course track with a pro driver. It was action-packed and we cannot wait to bring you that content coming soon.

This first piece will showcase the Honda Talon 1000R-4 as it sits, its performance highlights, and some slick optional accessory upgrades. At first glance, it is an impressive off-road capable machine that can comfortably haul four full-size adults. But first, let us point out what is different about the new 2023 model.

What  Is New For The 2023 Model?

The Honda Talon nameplate was first introduced in 2019 with the 1000R and 1000x in two-seat models only. In 2020, Honda debuted the four-seater variant Talon 1000X-4 and 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve version. The two-seaters received the FOX Live Valve upgrade in 2021 with some styling, interior, and driver interface updates for the whole flock in 2022.

For reference, the Honda Talon X is suitable for family trail driving while the Talon R is optimized for performance driving and offers more suspension travel and a 4-inch wider stance.

The 2023 Honda Talon 1000R-4 Is Packed With These New Features:

• The wheelbase on Talon 1000R FOX Live Valve is 2.7 inches shorter, reducing the turning radius by nearly two feet.
• Full-coverage doors to better protect occupants from mud and water.
• New in-door storage compartments with net covers, as well as retention-device-equipped cup holders, a Honda exclusive in the category. (These are in all four doors in four-seat versions.)
• New power-steering unit with convenient return-to-center function.
• Updated ignition mapping for smooth, strong power delivery.
• Improved accessory integration, with a second ground added to the front of the vehicle for simpler wire routing. (Previously, there was only one ground, at the vehicle’s rear.)
• Stylish new design for aluminum wheels.
• New Kenda tires with thicker sidewalls for increased protection from pinch flats.
• Twelve new Honda Accessories available, including over fenders, rear splash guards, rear speaker pods, a subwoofer, a dome light, a GPS unit, a heater, a switch plate with USB outlet, an Axon winch, a busbar, a fuse box, and a rear reflector guard.
• Painted plastic in exciting new colors (Pearl Red and Matte Navy Blue). All four FOX Live Valve versions have color-matched frame and suspension.

The Honda Talon 1000R-4 Has Proven Power And Performance

The center point on the Honda Talon is the legendary performance-tuned 999cc four-valve Unicam parallel-twin engine. This is the same power plant used in other Honda Vehicles including the Pioneer 1000, Africa Twin, and Rebel 1100. This water-cooled engine features a 270-degree cross-plane crankshaft and was developed in Japan by Honda Motor, and produced at the Kumamoto plant.

The engine is mounted longitudinally in the frame, eliminating unnecessary right angles in the driveline so that an efficient transfer of power to the rear wheels is possible, resulting in strong acceleration. The Talon can be switched between two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive on the fly—and even during situations of wheel spin—via a dash-mounted switch.

To reduce engine vibration transmitted to the chassis, yet also withstand the rigors of spirited driving, the engine is attached to the frame using four rubber mounts.

Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Perhaps the most critical component of driving that power down to the dirt is Honda’s dual-clutch transmission.  Originally developed in 2010 for the VFR1200F sport-touring motorcycle, Honda has offered this reliable gearbox on multiple platforms.

Honda’s adventure bikes, touring machines, cruisers, ATVs, and side-by-sides all share the mechanical manipulating DCT. This proven componentry has enjoyed numerous improvements and technological evolution development along the way. While similar systems can be found in several high-performance sports cars, DCT remains a Honda exclusive in powersports.

As the name indicates, DCT uses two clutches that are controlled by sophisticated electronics and hydraulics. One clutch, which rides on a hollow outer shaft, controls odd-numbered gear sets (1, 3, 5); the other clutch rides on an inner shaft and controls even-numbered gear sets (2, 4, 6). Multiple gears are engaged simultaneously so that the transmission is constantly prepared for the next shift. Data, collected by a series of sensors, is processed by the ECU, which uses an advanced algorithm to determine when the shift-control motor should electronically trigger gear changes.

At those moments, one clutch disengages and the other engages, resulting in shifts that are quick, smooth, and seamless. A geared transmission that shifts automatically, DCT enables a direct, connected feeling between the foot pedal and the wheels, as well as an efficient transfer of power. It also boasts durability, flexibility, true engine braking, and quick, smooth gear changes.

Dual Drive Modes

The Talon’s six-speed DCT comes to life through the use of two fully automatic driving modes: Drive and Sport. Drive mode allows the engine to operate at a lower rpm, for relaxed driving or in situations where reduced load on the drivetrain results in smoother operation over rough terrain. Sport mode is for spirited driving and holds gears longer, shifting up or down at higher rpm for more aggressive driving.

A new low-range Sport mode, new for 2023, enables exciting and responsive power delivery under heavy loads. The low-range Sport mode effectively enables the new Talon 1000R-4 additional passenger capacity.

There’s also a Manual mode that gives the driver full control over the transmission, enabling up or down gear shifting through the steering-column-mounted paddles, for heads-up driving. The long paddle shifters are easy to reach during dynamic steering maneuvers. Even when driving in either of the two automatic modes, the system can be overridden via the use of these paddles, with the transmission returning to automatic mode several seconds after each shift.

During acceleration, the Talon’s DCT provides visceral and audible thrills of running through the gears. You can control the speed and feel the speed with a sport-oriented feel and sound, no matter the selected mode.

What Is FOX Live Valve And What Does That Mean For Honda Talon?

All of this spirited off-road driving means nothing if the vehicle cannot effectively mage the terrain at speed. That is precisely where the FOX Live Valve comes into play. The FOX Live Valve system automatically adjusts damping on each shock independently, for reduced bottoming, pitch, and roll. But it does so much more than that.

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The Honda Talon 1000R-4 suspension system features a front double wishbone design and a stout multilink rear setup. Suspension travel reaches 17.7 inches in the front and 20.1 inches in the rear. Even with the wide stance, long wheelbase, and long-travel suspension, the UTV rides stable at speed through rough terrain.

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Honda Talon 1000R-4 Suspension Highlights:

• Double wishbone front suspension design
• Multilink rear suspension
• FOX Podium shock absorbers
• Intelligent FOX Live Valve system delivers automatic, instantaneous, and independent suspension adjustment
• Plush at low speed
• Stability at high speeds
• Rapid on-the-fly adjustments

The FOX Live Valve Talons deliver quick automatic adjustment via a proprietary control system that can go through the shocks’ entire adjustment range in 20 milliseconds. This means the shocks are constantly evaluating the sample rate 200 times per second. The result is maximizing versatility and determining the best compression-damping setting for each shock based on vehicle conditions and behavior. The system constantly monitors variables including compression speed, steering, braking, throttle position, rpm, vehicle weight, selected gear, vehicle speed, and vehicle orientation. Leveraging advanced algorithms and a sophisticated five-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) offering ultra-fast communication speed through enhanced signal quality, the system electronically adjusts the individual shock absorbers accordingly.

The system delivers exceptional ride quality with reduced lateral roll and longitudinal pitch. The function improves tracking and steering response and requires no need for a ride-compromising stabilizer bar. Two suspension modes—Normal and Sport—are operated independently of the Talon’s selectable engine drive modes and have different characteristics. In Normal Mode, the shocks stay subtler to absorb small irregularities. In Sport Mode, the shocks ride higher in the travel to keep more stroke in reserve for big impacts. The “sting” of deep whoop sections and g-outs is reduced, yet the ride is plush and smooth in uneven, rocky, or rooted terrain.

Honda Talon 1000R-4 Is Technically Advanced And Off-Road Optimized

As the Honda flagship sport UTV, the Talon 1000R-4 was upgraded in areas of most critical focus. The vehicle’s Roll-Over Protection Structure (ROPS) has increased side-pipe tubing thickness from 1.5mm to 2.3mm. A new and improved Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system was also implemented for enhanced durability and drive controls.  In our opinion, the Talon’s responsive handling provides a fun and exciting driving experience.

Steering

• New EPS unit improves performance across the board
•  87% increase in torque assist
• Return-to-center function
• On-center assist with gradient detection

i-4WD

Honda’s exclusive i-4WD system (“intelligent four-wheel drive”), is an effective traction control system. Combining braking, traction control, and torque biasing, the front limited-slip differential manages the four-wheel-drive and differential-locking functions. The result is excellent traction and tracking performance in tough off-road conditions.

With conventional, open four-wheel drive, when one of the front wheels loses traction and starts spinning, the system limits power and torque to both front wheels—including the one that still does have traction. But with i-4WD, brake-traction control manages the amount of slip between the left and right front wheels, automatically detecting wheelspin and stopping it by applying brake pressure to the offending wheel.

The torque-biasing, limited-slip front differential mechanically multiplies the brake force 3.92 times and delivers it as drive force to the wheel with more grip. The are other added benefits of reduced steering effort, minimal kickback, better high-speed tracking, and tighter turning radius.

The i-4WD system has the added benefit of allowing electronic brakeforce distribution technology. When braking abruptly or in limited-traction conditions, the system automatically proportions brakeforce to the wheels with the most grip. The wheels that can use more brakeforce get it, and the wheels without as much braking effectiveness receive less. Since the system works so quickly, it even automatically re-proportions brakeforce as weight distribution changes during a stop. This is a considerable benefit on rough trails and differing loads, and it’s one that locking differentials don’t offer.

Hill Start Assist

To simplify re-starting after stops on ascents, the driver has the option of pressing a Hill Start Assist button (HSA). When initiated, the HSA temporarily holds the vehicle in place without the need to apply pressure on the brake pedal. As a result, more mental bandwidth can be dedicated to modulating the throttle to resume motion.

Launch Control

All Talon versions look fast just standing still, but nothing can compare to the electronic Launch Mode. This standard feature is activated via a dash-mounted switch and a simple sequence of shift-paddle and accelerator movements, Launch Control enables wide-open-throttle starts from a dead stop, significantly reducing acceleration time. The driver can focus on blast-off, and forget about managing upshifts.

The Honda Talon 1000R-4 Is Packed With Many Optional Accessories

Perhaps one of the most attractive junctions of the Honda Talon platform is the dozens of accessories that are available. Cognitive forethought was implemented when it came to accessories. From various bumper configurations to suspension component skids, windshields, and light bars, to buggy whips, speaker pods, and Garmin navigation, Honda has integrated a choice selection of premium wares.

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A total of 12 new accessories have been added for the 2023 model year, including a range of electronics. For convenient installation of electronic accessories, a new ground has been added to simplify wiring. In all, over 60 accessories are available.

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Honda Talon 1000R-4 FOX Live Valve Review Coming Soon

Overall, from our limited time in the Talon, our favorite feature was the Launch Control. I thought “Oh wow, look at that!” when one car jetted off the line from a standstill start. I had a whole other feeling of like “Oh, damn! That was impressive” when it was our turn to blast off in the Honda’s Launch Control.

Stay tuned to Off Road Xtreme for more in-depth coverage of the Honda Talon 1000R-4 and our first drive impressions.