Legacy. It's a term often used to describe the cycle of engineering that yields Honda products of incomparable design and execution. In the world of Honda ATVs, this unending quest for excellence has produced legendary machines like the FourTrax 300s (TRX300/FW) and their worthy descendants, the FourTrax Ranchers (TRX350TM/TE/FM/FE). For 2007, the saga continues with the all-new TRX420 FourTrax Rancher line.

honda-fourtrax-rancher

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: honda-fourtrax-rancher

2007 Honda FourTrax Rancher

Specifications
  • Engine/Motor: iquid-cooled fuel-injected OHV wet-sump longitudinally mounted single-cylinder four-stroke
  • Transmission: 5-speed
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

When a company sells more than one million of the same ATV model family-as Honda did with the TRX300 and Rancher series-many would question the wisdom of tinkering with success. After all, for ranchers, farmers, hunters, and utility and industrial users, the Honda Rancher has become the perfect tool for the job at hand. Yet the Honda Way demands a constant process of improvement, and in the case of Honda's bread-and-butter Rancher models, the time had come to build a better tool. The result? A healthy infusion of technology has produced a new class leader that sacrifices none of the essential value-oriented goodness of the TRX350 line.


Even though the 2007 Rancher is all-new, the same four popular platforms are offered: the 2WD TRX420TM (manual shift) and TRX420TE (with ESP(TM), Honda's Electric Shift Program) and their 4WD cousins, the TRX420FM and TRX420FE. The major changes include:


  • An all-new 420cc OHV longitudinally mounted engine
  • Liquid cooling for sustained power and long engine life
  • Electronic fuel injection (EFI) for increased power and lower emissions
  • TraxLok(R) for convenient 2WD/4WD operation
  • Self-cleaning front-wheel disc brakes


Rancher Engine


When the decision was made to increase displacement by 70cc, add EFI and switch to liquid cooling, the Rancher engine was essentially made from a clean sheet of paper. The engineers wisely began with a longitudinally mounted engine layout, an exclusive Honda design that first appeared on the multipurpose Foreman 400. By positioning the engine's crankshaft and output shaft in line with the driveshaft, this Honda signature configuration achieves very high efficiency. Compared to conventional designs, the new 420cc Rancher mill retains more power en route to the driving wheels by avoiding additional high-friction 90-degree gearsets.


To gain added cylinder volume, the bore was increased by 8mm to 86.5mm (vs. 78.5mm) and the stroke was increased by 3.5mm to 71.5mm (vs. 68.0mm). A 7.2-liter airbox (29 percent larger) feeds a significant amount of cool air past the fuel injector and into the two-valve cylinder head. Larger valves ensure that the added air/fuel volume gets into the big combustion chamber. The intake-valve diameter is now 1mm larger than before (35mm vs. 34mm), and the exhaust-valve diameter increased a substantial 7 percent to 30mm (vs. 28mm). With a bore-stroke ratio of 1.2:1, the design yields a torquey powerplant that produces maximum horsepower at 6000 rpm-500 rpm below the older design.


Liquid cooling stabilizes operating temperatures and permits closer manufacturing tolerances within the engine. The result is more efficient combustion (for increased power and lower emissions) as well as longer engine life. And with the addition of Honda's trouble-free Keihin EFI system-proven in the top-of-the-line Rincon-engine performance is maximized across a broad range of operating conditions, including cold weather and changing altitudes. The spent gasses are exhausted through a stainless-steel header and a 4.8-liter canister-one liter larger than the TRX350's-to minimize backpressure and ensure quiet operation.


The net result for the TRX420 is impressive. With a 28 percent bump in displacement, torque increased 30 percent (23.8 lb/ft at 5500 rpm) and horsepower jumped 27 percent (26.2 bhp at 6000 rpm). To keep all of this newfound power in the comfort zone, the engineers rubber-mounted the engine to the frame and employed a gear-driven counterbalancer to reduce unpleasant vibration.


A 15.8kw radiator with a cooling fan was added to maintain favorable engine temperature under adverse conditions. Since the oil cooler was no longer needed it was eliminated, saving weight. Power is transmitted to the driving wheels through a durable clutch that now has seven friction plates instead of six. A beefy five-speed gearbox with an ultra-low First gear and Reverse makes sure the right gear is available at all times.


Another notable enhancement is the use of a 343-watt alternator, which replaces the 245-watt unit to provide plenty of power for accessories such as winches and auxiliary lights.


Rancher Driveline


The ES versions of the Rancher models (TRX420TE and TRX420FE) feature Honda's reliable Electric Shift Program (ESP). Made popular on the first-generation Rancher series and the Foreman 450 ES before it,electric shifting is simply and precisely accomplished with just the press of an upshift or downshift button mounted on the left handlebar. Gear-engagement speed varies according to rider style: The transmission shifts more quickly when riding style turns sporty. A Neutral lockout at speeds greater than 2 mph ensures available engine braking when descending hills. To maintain smooth shifting, the transmission cannot be shifted from Neutral to First gear or Reverse at engine speeds above 3000 rpm. ESP is incredibly durable and not battery-dependent, operating whenever the engine is running. Should the rider ever need to shift manually, he or she can use an auxiliary shift lever equipped in the toolkit.


New for the 2007 Rancher is the inclusion of TraxLok, Honda's proprietary 4WD/2WD shifting system. When it debuted for 2003 on the FourTrax Rincon, TraxLok was an immediate hit with riders. On the Rancher, a tough mechanical switching mechanism is ready to engage/disengage when conditions permit. It provides a "natural" feel that is not present in many systems.


Rancher Chassis and Suspension


The 2007 Rancher drapes an all-new, sturdy steel frame around the powerful engine and versatile running gear. A full-length, high-impact resin-type underframe guard protects the engine, transmission and gear case and wraps up the front of the frame, acting as a skidplate as well. Tough new tie-rod ends withstand the bump-and-grind of the trail, and redesigned protective boots resist the harshest riding conditions. To maintain its high level of rider comfort, the Rancher employs an independent double-wishbone front suspension with premium shock absorbers, providing 6.3 inches of plush suspension travel. The steel swingarm and rear shock absorber provide 6.3 inches of suspension travel out back. Heavy-duty tires-24x8-12 front, 24x10-11 rear-provide excellent traction and handling and contribute to an overall ground clearance of 6.5 inches.


The 2007 Rancher line now has dual front hydraulic disc brakes. The disc covers incorporate a patented built-in scraper system that removes mud and snow from inside the front wheel to minimize the buildup of debris between the caliper and the rim. With a nod to ease of servicing, a small window in the cover permits the brake-pad thickness to be inspected visually. Sealed mechanical rear drum brakes keep out contaminants for consistent stopping power.


The Rancher's Modest Price Is Big on Value


What makes the Rancher such a success is the outstanding value it represents in the marketplace. Despite the significant gains in power and overall performance offered for 2007, each Rancher model is priced with the budget-conscious buyer in mind.


Rancher 4x4 ES (TRX420FE) - $5,499 (Yellow, Olive, Red); $5,849 (NaturalGear(TM) Camo)

Rancher 4x4 (TRX420FM) - $5,299 (Yellow, Olive, Red); $5,649 (Camo)

Rancher ES (TRX420TE) - $4,699 (Olive, Blue, Red)

Rancher (TRX420TM) - $4,499 (Olive, Blue, Red)


Assembled in Timmonsville, South Carolina, the Rancher comes standard with a transferable six-month limited warranty, and extended coverage is available with a Honda Protection Plan. Purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda ATV by an individual retail user in the U.S. qualifies the owner for a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Rider's Club of America(R) (HRCA(R)). Benefits include online access to the Honda Common Service Manual, six issues of the bimonthly Honda Red Rider(TM) magazine, travel discounts and trip routing, plus access to the HRCA Web site at www.hrca.honda.com.


With more than a million units already in its history, the all-new Rancher series looks ahead to even greater success in the marketplace; harder working, easier to maintain, more powerful, better handling and more fun to ride, the legendary Rancher once again sets the pace for all-around capability at a great price.


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2007 Honda FourTrax Rancher feature


The all-new 420cc fuel-injected Rancher 2WD models--available with manual shifting or Honda's exclusive Electric Shift Program--are here and ready to take the legendary Rancher to a new level of performance.


New for 2007

New, larger 420cc liquid-cooled engine for increased power.

New fuel-injection system for consistent performance at high altitude, improved cold-weather starting, and increased power.

New dual front disc brakes for improved braking performance in all conditions.

New body style incorporates flowing fenders with integrated headlights and LED taillight for a rugged adventurous look.

New Blue color.


Unique features

Brand-new, rugged OHV liquid-cooled fuel-injected 420cc longitudinally mounted engine allows direct driveshaft alignment to rear wheels for improved drivetrain efficiency.

Large radiator with cooling fan ensures optimal engine cooling under difficult operating conditions.

Closed crankcase vent system safeguards against engine oil contamination.

ES model features Electric Shift Program (ESP(TM)) for push-button upshifting and downshifting. The rider shifts simply and precisely with the press of the upshift or downshift button mounted on the left handlebar. An onboard electronic control module (ECM) monitors information from four sensors--engine rpm, countershaft speed, gear position and shift spindle angle--to control the speed of the electric shift motor's gear and clutch engagement. Gear engagement speed varies according to rider style: The transmission shifts more quickly when riding style turns sporty. A neutral lockout at speeds greater than 2 mph ensures available engine braking when descending hills. To maintain smooth shifting, the transmission cannot be shifted from Neutral to First gear or Reverse gear at engine speeds above 3000 rpm. ESP is not battery-dependent, operating whenever the engine is running. Should the rider ever need to shift manually, the Rancher(R) ES is also equipped with an auxiliary shift lever in the tool kit.

Unique Honda-designed floorboards on all Ranchers allow the rider's feet to grip the footrests while keeping mud and debris away.


Engine/Drivetrain

All-new 420cc longitudinally-mounted engine boasts more horsepower and torque and eliminates 90-degree power transfers.

Overhead-valve design provides compact engine dimensions for improved ground clearance while maintaining a broad, easy-to-use powerband.

Keihin fuel-injection system provides crisp performance and ensures trouble-free operation in cold conditions and changing altitudes.

Rubber-cushion engine mounting and gear-driven counterbalancer reduce vibration.

Super-heavy-duty automatic clutch with a low engagement point for excellent driveability and towing capability.

Five-speed transmission with Reverse includes an ultra-low first gear.The manual-shift model uses a foot-operated pedal. The Rancher ES model incorporates Honda's exclusive ESP for easy shifts with the push of a handlebar-mounted button.

Convenient electric starting with optional recoil starter and an automatic internal decompression system.

Washable air filter for easy maintenance and consistent performance.

Stainless-steel-exhaust header and muffler for superior corrosion resistance.

Three-chamber muffler baffling uses no packing material that can blow out. Provides long-lasting performance.

Full transistor ignition with electronic advance for excellent performance and reliability.

Powerful, new 300-watt AC generator.

Large 7.2-liter airbox with reusable foam air filter provides more air to the engine for increased performance.


Chassis/Suspension

Rugged frame and suspension provide an exceptional 6.5 inches of ground clearance.

Steering-mechanism design features light effort and a tight turning radius of 8.9 feet.

Independent double-wishbone front suspension uses premium shock absorbers to provide 6.3 inches of suspension travel for a plush, comfortable ride.

Steel swingarm and single rear shock absorber provide 6.3 inches of suspension travel for superb comfort and compliance.

Tough, large-diameter 24x8-12 front and wide 24x10-11 rear tires provide added ground clearance while maintaining precise handling.

Dual hydraulic front disc brakes and sealed mechanical rear drum brakes for strong stops.


Additional Features

Engine design produces low emissions and meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) off-road emissions standards.

ES model has multifunction LCD digital instrumentation that is compact, tough and waterproof, featuring large readouts for gear position, speedometer, odometer, resettable tripmeter and hourmeter. Instrument housing includes indicator lights for Reverse, Neutral, oil-temperature and fuel-injection.

Combination LED stop- and taillight.

Optional waterproof accessory socket provides 12-volt, 10-amp power with a built-in temperature-type fuse.

Large cargo racks front and rear allow payloads of 66 and 133 pounds, respectively.

Heavy-duty trailer hitch with towing capacity of 850 pounds.

Large, lightweight plastic fuel tank with 3.7-gallon capacity.

Fuel gauge is standard equipment.

Snorkel-type air-intake system is specially designed to resist water.

Under-seat storage compartment allows access when rack is loaded.

Thickly padded seat provides all-day comfort.

Large fenders give excellent mud protection.

Twin-headlight system with 30-watt bulbs features multireflector lenses for optimal light distribution.

USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler designed for quiet operation without wool packing for long-lasting performance.

Tough 12-amp-hour maintenance-free battery.

Durable, comfortable, easy-to-use controls.

Keyed ignition switch for added security.

Full-length synthetic lower skidplate with integrated front brush guard.

Easy-to-use parking brake.

Handlebar switches, controls and warning labels use easy-to-understand graphic symbols.

Standard equipment includes a tire-pressure gauge.

GVWR is 1034 pounds (TRX420TE)/1032 pounds (TRX420TM).

FourTrax(R) Rancher ES (TRX420TE) and FourTrax Rancher (TRX420TM) assembled in Timmonsville, South Carolina.

Transferable six-month limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.

Purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda ATV by an individual retail user in the United States qualifies the owner for a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Rider's Club of America(R) (HRCA(R)). Benefits include online access to the Honda Common Service Manual, six issues of the bimonthly Honda Red Rider(TM) magazine, travel discounts and trip routing, plus access to the HRCA Web site (www.hrca.honda.com). Look for the HRCA support team at select off-road events across the country. For details on the HRCA, dealers should call (310) 783-3958, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.


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SPECS


Model:  TRX420TE (with ESP) / TRX420TM

Engine Type:  420cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected OHV wet-sump longitudinally mounted single-cylinder four-stroke

Bore and Stroke:  86.5mm x 71.5mm

Induction:  Keihin 34mm throttle-body fuel-injection system

Ignition:  Full transistor with electronic advance

Starter:  Electric with optional auxiliary recoil

Clutch:  Automatic

Transmission: TRX420TE: ESP five-speed with Reverse

Transmission: TRX420TM: Five-speed with Reverse

Driveline:  Direct rear driveshaft

Suspension: Front: Independent double-wishbone; 6.3 inches travel

Suspension: Rear: Swingarm with single shock; 6.3 inches travel

Brakes: Front: Dual hydraulic disc

Brakes:Rear: Sealed mechanical drum

Tires: Front: 24x8-12

Tires: Rear: 24x10-11

Length:  80.9 inches

Width:  46.1 inches

Height:  45.2 inches

Seat Height:  32.4 inches

Ground Clearance:  6.5 inches

Wheelbase:  49.4 inches

Turning Radius:  8.9 feet

Dry Weight: TRX420TE: 525 pounds

Dry Weight: TRX420TM: 522 pounds

Fuel Capacity:  3.7 gallons

Colors:  Red, Olive, Blue

Recommended for riders 16 years of age and older.