Another feature that the Automatic DCT offers is both high and low range gears. We spent most the time in high range, but when it came to some of the rocky sections we preferred to take advantage of the low range to really make the most out of the bottom end of the machine. Low range can also be used while towing when high speed isn’t required.
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We used the low range on the Honda Rubicon 4x4 DCT when climbings rock & hills on the Rock House trail within the Hatfield McCoy Trail System |
Also new for 2015, is a redesigned reverse lever mechanism that is located on the right hand side of the handlebars. To engage reverse you can simply pull in the reverse lever and the brake lever and shift down when you are in neutral to engage reverse. We found this feature convenient, but you have to make sure you pull in both levers at the same time otherwise reverse will not engage.
On the opposite side of the handlebars is button to engage 4-wheel-drive. We used 4x4 several times when climbing up steep rocky hill climbs to give the tires more grip. In addition, the Honda Rubicon also features electronic diff lock control for those tough situations where you need the most tire grip you can get. You can engage diff lock with a flick of a switch with your right thumb.
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4WD with diff lock is also another option available on the 2015 Honda Rubicon |
To help keep you in the saddle all day, Honda offers Electronic Power Steering (EPS) on both the semi-automatic manual transmission and automatic DCT transmission engine options. The EPS not only reduces the amount of effort it takes to run the handlebars, but it also reduces kickback felt though the handlebars. We could feel a big difference while riding a Honda Rubicon with EPS while going over large rocks. It took much less effort and it didn’t feel like the handlebars were going to be pulled out of our hands.
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Electronic Power steering comes in handy on the Honda Rubicon as it not only helps reduce the steering effort but also reduces kickback |
Doing away with the straight rear axle of the past, the 2015 Honda Rubicon now comes standard with Independent Rear Suspension. The IRS gives the Honda Rubicon a much smoother ride while increasing the suspension travel to 8.5 inches of travel and 9.8 inches of ground clearance.
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The 2015 Honda Rubicon now features Independent Rear Suspension that gives the machine a smoother ride and higher ground clearance |
