- Talon 1000X-4
- Talon 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve
Start with Honda’s two-seat Talon 1000X, then open the experience up to two more passengers, and you end up with the Talon 1000X-4 and Talon 1000X-4 FOX® Live Valve four-seat sport side-by-sides, both of which fully embody Honda’s “Life is Better Side-by-Side” motto. A unique stadium seating arrangement places the rear passengers higher than those in the front to optimize the view and experience. Offering both performance and fun for the family, both Talon four-seat versions feature Honda’s advanced Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), multiple shifting modes, a full sub-transmission, i-4WD traction-aiding technology and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). Taking that performance to the next level and increasing the versatility, the Talon 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve version also features high-tech electronic suspension that adjusts itself to terrain and driving input on the fly, for an incredible ride and unmatched handling—all possible through a working arrangement with FOX and Bosch®, leaders in their respective industries.
DESIGN
Like the two-seat Talon models, the X-4 versions were designed in Honda R&D America’s Torrance, California, office, and are inspired by the CRF Performance line of dirt bikes, with a high bodyline and a body side that has a continuous flow from front to rear. Aggressive-looking, stylish fenders add to the visual appeal and protect occupants from dirt, mud and water spray, and the lightweight body panels are painted to ensure long-lasting, high-quality good looks. LED headlights have a long life and feature high and low beams for a bright, uniform spread of illumination.
The door handles are inset for a tactile reference point, and both X-4 models come standard with full front and rear side nets, featuring rigidly mounted buckles to make latching simple and quick, even with one hand. For a positive owner experience, the lids on the hood, bed cover, battery cover and fuse box can all be opened without tools, simplifying checks and service.
Interior
A great deal of engineering went into integrating rear passengers in the riding experience. Considerations for rear ingress/egress include an opening that is wide enough even while wearing bulky winter gear, and the elimination of sharp edges or protrusions that could snag clothing; grab points are provided.
Both Talon 1000X-4 models elevate the level of performance, refinement, comfort and quality, thanks to a “stadium seating” layout that offsets the rear seats 50 mm inboard and 75 mm higher compared to the front seats, improving visibility and enabling a more engaged experience for rear passengers, while also situating them away from tire spray. The backs of the front seats slope so as to provide rear passengers with best-in-class legroom and knee space, and there’s a full-length rear grab bar that has an incorporated guard to protect fingers from being pinched by the rear of the front seat. Rear drink holders, an accessory power socket and inboard door handles are provided as well.
The driver and front passenger get the innovative cockpit-style interior featured in the two-seat Talon models, including adjustable, wide, weather-resistant sport seats separated by a full center console. The steering wheel is infinitely adjustable for tilt, while the front passenger has a rattle-free grab handle with quick-release telescoping adjustment, plus foot platforms in the floor that the passenger can brace against during aggressive driving.
The standard roof completely covers the full driver-passenger area, and a front lip prevents water from pouring onto occupants, even under braking in heavy rain. Standard front and rear side nets provide protection, and all seats include three-point seat belts and come ready to accept four-point restraints.
CHASSIS
In adapting the Talon chassis to a four-seat application, Honda retained its high-performance characteristics.
Frame
Like the two-seat Talons, the four-seat platform’s frame was developed incorporating knowhow and technology from Honda’s automotive division, and although it is 28.6 inches longer, it still features a one-piece construction with optimum rigidity characteristics—attributes that result in exceptional handling in high-speed, rough terrain. Designed with optimal levels of stiffness and compliance to ensure consistent geometry—including camber, caster and wheel toe alignment—the frame delivers a precise driving experience.
Suspension
The Talon 1000X-4 and 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve feature double-wishbone front suspension with 14.6 and 14.4 inches of travel, respectively, while rear suspension comprises Honda’s 3 Link system, which incorporates a trailing arm for maximum ground clearance while providing 15.0 inches of wheel travel. Shock bodies are 2.5 inches front and rear on the Talon 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve, whereas the Talon 1000X-4 has 2.0 inch shock bodies on the front.
For the ultimate off-road ride, the Talon 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve features advanced electronic suspension that incorporates all facets of the driving experience into a unified system that elevates performance. The result of a collaboration between category leaders FOX and Bosch, with significant input from Honda’s Powersports and Automotive divisions, the system produces a dramatically improved, no-compromise, thrill-ride experience.
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 shocks accordingly, delivering optimal handling and performance that is appropriate for the selected drive mode.
The system makes adjustments every 60 milliseconds (less than one-fifth the blink of an eye!), resulting in exceptional ride quality with reduced lateral roll and longitudinal pitch—but with no need for a ride-compromising stabilizer bar, and improved tracking and steering response. Two suspension modes—Normal and Sport—are operated independently of the Talon’s selectable engine drive modes and have different characteristics. In Normal, the shocks stay subtler to absorb small irregularities, while in Sport 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.
The Talon 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve has 2.5-inch body Fox Podium shocks at all four corners.
Like its two-seat sibling, the standard 1000X-4 four-seater utilizes 2.0-inch FOX Podium Quick Switch 3 front shocks, whereas the rear shocks have 2.5-inch bodies; all feature dual-rate springs for progressive action and a responsive ride. Each shock has simple-to-use, three-position adjusters for Normal, Sport and Aggressive/Loaded settings, and each position changes the compression damping by 20%, for a total adjustment range of 40%. The large, easy-turn dials provide a quick visual check that all corners of the vehicle are on the same setting.
Wheels / Brakes
The 28-inch tires, mounted on 15-inch aluminum wheels, were developed through a joint effort between Honda and Maxxis for the ideal blend of traction, feel, impact damping and durability.
The braking system utilizes 34 mm calipers (twin pistons in front, single piston in the rear), as well as 250 mm rotors at all corners. For optimal braking feel and control, a 4.6 ratio brake pedal actuates a 17 mm master cylinder and delivers through low-expansion hoses. The brake-pedal pad is positioned 110 mm to the left and 32 mm back from the accelerator pedal for seamless foot transition between controls. The brake-pad material was developed specifically for the Talon family, providing optimal performance without sacrificing durability, even in muddy or aggressive driving conditions. To minimize distracting brake noise (a common complaint with side-by-sides), there are rubber shims between the pads and pistons.
Thanks to Honda’s advanced Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), braking power is strategically applied to reduce rear-chassis lift and rear-wheel lockup under heavy deceleration.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
Honda’s proven, performance-tuned 999cc water-cooled, parallel-twin engine features 92.0 x 75.15 mm bore and stroke and is known for its performance and endurance. Thoroughly updated for the sport side-by-side application, and rubber-mounted to minimize vibration, the semi-dry-sump power plant brings a heightened excitement through its quick-revving character and thrilling exhaust note. With a focus on strong acceleration, smooth delivery and precise modulation of output, the Talon engine delivers a thrilling driving experience.
Valve Train
Featuring a 10 mm cylinder offset for reduced friction, the engine has a four-valve-per-cylinder Unicam® valve train with shim-under-bucket direct-cam actuation on the intake valves and roller-rocker arms actuating the exhaust valves. This design, which comes from Honda’s legendary CRF450R motocrosser, allows for a compact engine with minimal reciprocating mass in the engine’s head.
Intake / Exhaust
Utilizing advanced simulation software, engineers designed the Talon’s intake-port shape for ample airflow at the point of cylinder entry, simultaneously maximizing power and fuel economy. Coupled with large fuel-injection nozzles and throttle body, the reliable system produces performance-tuned power levels. The exhaust is tuned for a high output of smooth, usable power and strong torque at all rpm ranges. Frequency-tuned resonators on the intake create a powerful, exciting note as the power plant pulls in air, and twin headers feed into an exhaust-resonance chamber.
Lubrication System
The engine’s dry-sump design pulls oil from below the crank into an integrated tank, and oil flow remains consistent during all driving conditions, including climbs, descents, whoops and aggressive cornering. Oil is sprayed directly on the underside of each piston through two multi-point jets, efficiently lubricating and cooling the engine.
Cooling
To keep the engine operating within its optimum temperature range, the cooling system has been tested and proven in hot, harsh conditions and uses the highest-capacity cooling fan and radiator of any Honda ATV or side-by-side; the radiator is 1.1 inches thick, and its face measures 15.7 inches by 14.2 inches. Increasing efficiency at the low speeds common in technical sport side-by-side driving, a 13.4-inch, eight-blade fan pulls air through the radiator.
Drivetrain
Historically, drivetrain strength has been a weakness for sport side-by-sides, but that’s not the case with the Talon models, which feature robust drive shafts and U-joints for good impact survival, torsional strength and durability. Because of the four-seat models’ longer chassis, a cam damper is fitted to the driveshaft, smoothing torque delivery and minimizing spline chatter and drivetrain rattle noise. A spiral bevel gear is used at the rear for reduced whine compared to a straight-cut gear.
Protection
Both versions of the four-seat Talon come with integrated, injection-molded skid plates to protect components and help the vehicle glide off of obstacles. The rear skid plate has labeled access holes for the tow hook and engine-drain bolts, so removal of the plate isn’t necessary during oil changes.
The driveshaft boots, traditionally components that are susceptible to damage in off-road driving, are well-protected on the four-seat Talon models, as outboard guards provide maximum coverage, even during turning and through the full range of suspension travel, whereas inboard boots are positioned behind the suspension A-arms.
A number of protective parts are available as Honda Accessories, including a choice of aluminum or steel front and rear bumpers; steel nerf bars, rubber floor mats. The available rear A-arm guards, trailing-arm guards, frame and skid plates are all made in high-molecular-weight polyethylene, known for its high impact strength.
DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION
Honda debuted the Dual Clutch Transmission for production powersports use on the 2010 VFR1200F sport-touring motorcycle, and in the decade since, has offered it on adventure bikes, touring machines, ATVs and side-by-sides, accumulating experience and improving the technology along the way. While similar systems can be found in a number of high-performance sports cars, DCT remains a Honda exclusive in powersports.
The innovative, six-speed system keeps multiple gears simultaneously engaged and incorporates dual eight-plate clutches (one clutch controlling even-numbered gears, the other odd-numbered gears), which work alternately to connect only one gear to the crankshaft at a time.
This durable, geared, electronically actuated system uses no belts, and it achieves smooth, fast gear changes with maximum efficiency, providing a direct, connected feel and driving experience, and transferring more power to the wheels with maximum efficiency. DCT also allows true engine braking, which is useful on descents and corner entry.
Honda’s DCT is the side-by-side market’s only gear-driven transmission with a high/low sub-transmission, effectively doubling the number of gears; the Low range lowers final drive, maximizing engine torque and engine braking for precise control in technical conditions.
The DCT and its advanced features add a thrilling experience of racing through the gears with a visceral, audible climbing-speed sensation. As for durability, the transmission has been extensively tested in harsh conditions, and there’s a warning light for clutch temperature.
Drive Modes
Honda’s DCT opens the door to multiple options: drivers can select between two fully automatic modes—Drive (for more relaxed driving) and Sport (which holds gear changes later for aggressive, higher-rpm driving). In addition full-manual shifting is possible via steering-column-mounted paddle shifters; the driver can use the paddle shifters to manually override while driving in an automatic mode. (Automatic shifting resumes after several seconds.)
Advanced Logic
In fully automatic mode, the transmission uses data provided from sensors measuring throttle position, throttle input, braking input, engine rpm and vehicle speed to adapt to trail conditions or driving style. During relaxed driving, the transmission prioritizes shift smoothness and keeps rpm lower, but when inputs are more aggressive, the DCT speeds each shift and keeps the engine in a higher rpm range for maximum acceleration and responsiveness. The system minimizes gear “hunting” during abbreviated throttle applications and enables engine braking by selecting lower gears when descents or increased brake-pedal force are detected; during acceleration, the ignition feedback control system reduces torque, further speeding and smoothing shifts.
TECHNOLOGY
Honda Talon side-by-sides boast a number of technological features—some of which this model introduced to the sport side-by-side market.
Honda’s i-4WD is the powersports industry’s first and only off-road Brake Traction Control System (BTCS), and it has been specifically adapted to sport side-by-side use for the Talon. The i-4WD and the DCT work together to allow a seamless, on-the-fly transition between two- and four-wheel drive, even during wheel-spin. The system manages the amount of slip between left and right front wheels, applying torque to the wheel with greater grip. The result is excellent traction and tracking performance in tough off-road conditions, with reduced steer effort and kickback compared to a standard differential lock.
The system also incorporates an Electronic Brakeforce Distribution system, which strategically applies braking force to optimize stability under braking, minimizing rear-chassis lift when in two-wheel drive.
To simplify re-starting after stops on ascents, a Hill Start Assist button (HSA) on the dash can be pressed to temporarily hold the vehicle in place, without the need to use the brake pedal, freeing mental bandwidth for tasks like throttle modulation, to resume motion.
The Talon 1000X-4 FOX Live Valve features Launch Mode—a first for side-by-sides with automatic transmission. Activated via a dash-mounted switch and a simple sequence of shift-paddle and accelerator-pedal movements, Launch Control enables wide-open-throttle starts from a dead stop, working with the automatic transmission to speed acceleration. Once forward movement is initiated, a control program monitors the sensors at all four wheels and automatically reduces torque to low-traction wheels to minimize yaw and keep the vehicle tracking straight, even on surfaces with uneven traction between the left and right tires. Launch Mode will automatically turn off only after an extended period, giving the driver plenty of time to prepare for and execute a start.
Electric power steering reduces steering effort while still allowing precise feedback and feel for optimum control, feel of front-wheel traction and driving experience.
HONDA ACCESSORIES
- 40” LED Light Bar
- A-Arm Guards
- Accessory Sub-Harness
- Aluminum Doors (Front and Rear)
- Aluminum Front Bumper
- Aluminum Rear Bumper
- Aluminum Roof
- Audio System
- Auxiliary LED Lights
- Cargo Bag
- Cargo Box
- Center Storage Bag
- Corner Storage Bags
- Fabric Rear Panel
- Fabric Upper Doors
- Flag Kit
- Floor Mats
- Frame Skid Plates
- Front Bumper
- Full Poly Vented Windscreen
- Glass Windshield
- Half Cargo Box
- Half Wind Deflector
- Horn Kit
- Horn Kit Wire Harness
- Intrusion Bar
- Lower Door Panels
- Lower Door Panels (rear)
- Lower Door Storage Bags
- Nerf Bars
- Power Harness
- Steel Rear Bumper
- Steel Front Bumper
- Rear Panel
- Rear View Mirror
- Roof Storage Bags
- Side Mirrors
- Side Skid Plates
- Storage Cover
- Switch Plate with Volt Meter
- Trailing Arm Guards
- Winch
- Winch Mount Kit
- Windshield Wiper Washer Kit
- Particle Separator
Because we are so confident in the quality of each of our Honda Accessories, we are pleased to offer one of the best warranties in the industry. One-year warranty begins on the day accessories are purchased by the customer.
*Final accessories are TBD and are subject to change without notice.
Meets current EPA and CARB off-road emissions standards
Recommended for riders 16 years of age and older
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