We really liked all three machines that we
got a chance to test. They all have some good
points, as all Rancher models are equipped with
a nice digital display, power steering, and
a decent amount of power. As usual, Honda has
put out machines that are well built, reliable,
and of good quality. The addition of power steering
is hands down one of the best improvements they
could have made to their Rancher lineup. While
we think Honda did a great job on these quads.
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Honda
is known for producing easy to maintenance
ATVs and the Rancher is no different with
the airbox easily accessible by removing
the seat and a few clips. Also, the radiator
fill, battery, fuses, and tool bag are
located under the seat and rear pop off
fender cover. The Rancher also features
a 3 chamber stainless steal exhaust without
any packing, so it is virtually maintenance
free and surely will last the life of
the ATV
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There are still a couple minor things we hope
to see them improve on with future updates of
the Rancher because lack storage space, and
the rear storage area is quite small. We also
would like to see the addition of a fuel readout
to the digital display as you still have to
check your gas level the old school way. As
we said, all of these things are relatively
minor and we think Honda has done a great job
on their Ranch Utility Quad line up for 2009.
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| The
handlebar mounted digital display is easy
to read and works fine, but it would be
great if the fuel gauge was included along
with a digital clock |
We
were only able to fit a bottle of water,
rag, and a few snacks in the rear storage
compartment because the taillight takes
up most of the storage space
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Our overall opinion was that we liked the all
new Rancher AT the best out of the three models
we had the opportunity to ride, and it offer
all the features like EPS, IRS, which are typically
only found on big bore utility ATVs. We felt
that its ease of use was superior and that it
is well suited and fun for all levels of riders,
including those that are new to the world of
ATVs and want a smaller size ATV with a bunch
of features. The Honda Rancher AT would be an
excellent choice for a first utility quad for
just about any adult rider. The Rancher ES model
is also a good choice for just about anyone,
and those looking to save some money might want
to consider the Rancher ER with manual shifting
because it also performed extremely well, and
with 8 different Rancher ATVs available there
is surely a feature combination that is perfect
for everyone.
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Whether
for work or play, the Rancher ATV is right
at home
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After two long days of hitting the trails, we
must say that we had a great time. Honda has kept
in their tradition with the Rancher ATV models
of making quality machines that are well suited
for just about anyone. However, we couldn’t
help but take notice that it appears Honda may
be taking a different direction from other manufacturers.
While the others seem to be concentrating their
efforts on the sport market, Honda looks as if
they may be taking the trail a little less traveled
and paying more attention to the casual rider
by giving them a wide variety of quality machines
to choose from, which is probably why they have
sold over a million of these units already, but
no matter what direction Honda chooses, we can
be certain that the Rancher ER, Rancher ES and
the all-new Rancher AT live up to Honda’s
exceptional standard of quality and reliability
that they are known for.
