Bigfoot comes up trumps
Call them what you will, but UTV’s, side by sides or ROV’s have certainly found a place in much of New Zealand’s rural sector.
Described as a premium side-by-side that offers performance, work capacity and comfort, the FXR differs from other models in the range by having a wide-body chassis and a wheelbase reduced by 320mm, compared to its nearest relatives. This is said to increase manoeuvrability, noticed in its tight turning radius of only 4.3m.
The chassis features a classic Japanese theme -- shinari (elasticity). It has a frame that can bend without braking then return to its original shape, much like a hunting bow or a fishing rod. This feature improves performance over difficult terrain, while keeping wheels in contact with the ground and superior comfort for the passengers.
Power comes from a liquid cooled, 3-cylinder petrol engine with 30L fuel capacity. This delivers 48hp and 65Nm torque and is mated to a CVT transmission for stepless speed control and engine braking on the downhill sections.
Suspension is double wishbones front and rear, with twin tube shock absorbers absorbing bumps. Shod with 27-inch tyres mounted on cast-aluminium wheels, the set-up offers 275mm ground clearance, a 34 degree break-over angle to lessen bottoming-out on ridges or climbing over logs, increased rider comfort and superior grip.
Stopping is by disc brakes on all four corners and a park brake system that acts on the rear axle. Electrically actuated 2WD/4WD and a rear diff lock are complemented by electric power steering that is speed-sensitive, as well as acting as a damper to eliminate bump-steering and backlash, particularly in rough terrain.
A wide, comfortable cab area has a three-person, contoured bench seat with seatbelts and a tilt/adjustable steering wheel. There are several storage options -- a glovebox, dashboard pockets and under-seat storage bins, and the essential cup holders.
A high output generator is capable of producing 60 amps to run numerous accessories. These are also catered for with four pre-wired feeds and two DC power sockets. Digital instruments keep the driver informed of all key machine functions, quadruple headlamps point the way to go and the driver is protected by standard doors and a roof overhead.
A robust, gas-assisted tilt bed offers 453kg carrying capacity, and a 2-inch receiver for the tow coupling is rated to 907kg.
