The New-Generation, 2007 Honda FourTrax Foreman

 





With the introduction of the Foreman® 4x4 with Electric Power Steering (EPS™), Honda has once again added an innovative twist to an industry benchmark—the Foreman line of ATVs.

As one of the best-selling ATVs in history, it was a daunting task to re-create the Foreman in 2005. For months, Honda R&D personnel spent countless hours visiting ATV owners across the country to see how they put their machines to work in a myriad of ways, under an unimaginable variety of conditions: deep mud, freezing temperatures, snowy conditions, dusty farm usage, towing trailers and other work implements, running up and down hills—under all kinds of real-world situations, many of which expanded Honda’s notion of tough usage. From this, engineers drew a bead on where they wanted to go with the next-generation Foreman.

The New Machine Takes Shape

Of course, increased performance was a given expectation in both the engine and chassis departments. Introduced in 1998, the Foreman 450 engine had been derived from the 395cc Foreman powerplant, which dated back to 1995. While each had been a masterful stroke in its time, the new Foreman was due for an all-new engine, and the natural course pointed toward a 500-class machine.

In 2005, Honda engineers gave the Foreman an all-new, air-cooled, longitudinally mounted OHV engine featuring an entirely different cylinder head configuration and valve arrangement. Feeding this combustion chamber is a 36mm carburetor (up from the previous engine’s 32mm mixer) with a throttle position sensor for increased response and performance all through the rev range. This engine features the convenience of electric starting, but with the 500 the starter also operates when the machine is in Reverse for even more ease of operation. This powerplant is also blessed with a five-speed gearbox with Reverse, plus a larger, beefier clutch to handle the increased power output.

Displacing 475cc, the current Foreman engine is only 9.6 percent larger than the 433cc engine used in the TRX450, yet it churns out about 15 percent more power than its precursor. And it’s not just the quantity of the Foreman’s power that sets it apart. This engine is distinctly freer-revving than the previous engine, which gives greater performance and a big boost in the fun-factor department.

Taking the Foreman Chassis Upscale

Naturally, this 500-class engine was housed in a larger, more sophisticated chassis. To accomplish this upward transition, the Foreman borrowed heavily from Honda’s renowned workhorse, the FourTrax® Foreman Rubicon™. As a result, the TRX500 features a wider track front and rear compared to the 450, and it has grown 1.5 inches in overall width to tape out at 46.8 inches. It stretches to 83 inches in overall length, almost 6 inches longer than the TRX450, over a wheelbase of 50.7 inches compared to the former machine’s 50.2-inch wheelbase.

Making It Better, Making It Smarter

The Foreman 500 boasts a fuel capacity of 4.2 gallons; that’s a full gallon more than the 450 used to hold. Dual front disc brakes add significantly to the 500’s stopping power. These disc brakes feature collet-style brake calipers that are self-centering, and the calipers also feature integrated scrapers that eliminate buildup of debris such as mud or ice that might otherwise impede their stopping capacity. The 500 also enjoys large rear drum brakes, which measure 180mm in diameter versus the 160mm drums used on the 450. Knowing that Foreman ATVs are often subjected to heavy-duty tasks in extreme mud conditions, the engineers devised a dual oil-cooler system, with the second cooler mounted high in the fender area where it won’t get clogged with mud over the course of a long, soggy day’s work. Naturally, this bright-think idea for extra cooling is patented, so you’ll see this great idea appear only on the TRX500.

For 2007, the Foreman’s suspension was juggled to accommodate the demands of EPS. Many hours were spent developing shock valving that specifically meets the handling demands of EPS. The high-quality Kayaba shocks, which deliver 6.7 inches of travel front and rear, feature increased spring and damping rates in front and stiffer springs in the rear. The result is a noticeably plush ride that perfectly complements the EPS system, especially in rough conditions.

Other Foreman Innovations

The Foreman with EPS also features four-wheel-drive with Honda’s acclaimed Electric Shift Program (ESP™) for push-button shifting. The four-wheel-drive system features Honda’s lighter, smaller, new-generation version of TraxLok®, which enables the rider to shift between 2WD and 4WD with the simple flick of a switch.

The Proof Is in the Riding

Once again, the 2007 FourTrax Foreman 500 with EPS is positive proof of Honda’s commitment to ongoing progress and innovation. With the introduction of EPS, Honda has revolutionized the ATV riding experience and launched the entire ATV industry into the future.

To learn more visit http://powersports.honda.com

New for 2007

• Honda's revolutionary Electric Power Steering (EPS(TM)) system offers speedand torque-sensitive steering assistance for increased control and comfort under tough conditions.
• Front and rear suspension are revised specifically for the Foreman with EPS.

Unique Features

• EPS is a unique system consisting of an ECU-programmed electric steering assistance motor and multiple sensors. These sensors measure the handlebar torque applied by the operator as well as the ATV's speed to determine the correct amount of steering assistance required for all conditions. More assistance is provided in rough terrain and at low speeds to decrease the amount of steering effort required, while less assistance is provided at higher speeds and in smooth terrain. This innovative technology also decreases bumpsteer and kickback through the handlebar in all conditions. The sophisticated Showa system includes separate ECU programming for 2WD and 4WD modes, while spring-loaded steering-motor gears minimize play to increase steering feel and feedback at higher speeds.
• Traxlok(R) enables the rider to shift between 2WD and 4WD with the simple push of a switch and provides quiet, smooth engagement with shift-on-the-fly capability.
• Torque-sensitive front differential reduces torque steer for less steering effort and, when combined with EPS, provides unmatched 4WD steering effort and precision.
• Dual front disc-brake calipers feature a patented built-in scraper system to remove mud and snow from inside the front wheel. This helps to prevent buildup of debris between caliper and rim and ensures consistent braking performance.
• Brake pads feature thick, long-wear material with improved mud durability, feel and control. Pads have an internal scraper that gives audible warning when pad life is low.
• Standard-equipment oil cooler.

Engine/Drivetrain

• Powerful four-stroke 475cc OHV air-cooled longitudinally mounted engine allows direct driveshaft alignment to both front and rear wheels for improved drivetrain efficiency.
• The overhead-valve arrangement features angled valves in a hemispherical combustion chamber for straighter intake and exhaust flow for improved engine performance.
• Rubber-cushion engine mounting and gear-driven counterbalancer reduce vibration.
• Snorkel-type air-intake system is specially designed to resist water intrusion.
• Integral electric carburetor heater system improves driveability and ensures smooth operation in cold conditions.
• Closed crankcase vent system safeguards against engine oil contamination.
  USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler is constructed of stainless steel.
• Traxlok is easily engaged by pushing a switch on the right handlebar. An electromagnetic mechanical clutch unit located on the center of the propeller shaft engages 4WD with a quiet two-way roller clutch. Traxlok ensures smooth operation by employing a magnetic switching mechanism that engages when front and rear wheel speeds vary by less than 6 mph. A 4WD indicator light on the LCD meter shows "actual" 4WD/2WD engagement status.
• Electric Shift Program (ESP(TM)) provides 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, shift drum angle 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. For 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 ES model is also equipped with an auxiliary shift lever in the tool kit.
• Super-heavy-duty automatic clutch for excellent driveability and towing capacity.
• Convenient five-speed transmission with Reverse.
• Maintenance-free shaft drive with torque-sensing front differential routes power directly from the longitudinally mounted engine without inefficient directional changes.
• Convenient electric starter with auxiliary recoil starter features an automatic internal decompression system.
• Wet-sump engine carries a large 3.2-quart capacity.
• CD ignition with electronic advance for excellent performance and reliability.
• Reusable foam air filter.

Chassis/Suspension

• Rugged frame and suspension provide an exceptional 7.5 inches of ground clearance.
• Independent double-wishbone front suspension uses KYB shock absorbers to give 6.7 inches of travel.
• Steel swingarm and dual KYB rear shock absorbers give 6.7 inches of travel.
• Rugged, large-diameter 25x8-12 front, 25x10-12 rear tires provide added ground clearance while maintaining precise handling.
• Dual 180mm front hydraulic disc brakes combine with sealed 180mm mechanical rear drum for excellent stopping capabilities.

Additional Features

• Engine design produces low emissions and meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) off-road emissions standards.
• Water-resistant left-side glove-box compartment.
• 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 4.2-gallon capacity.
• Unique rear-opening storage compartment allows access when rack is loaded.
• Triple headlight system with single 45-watt upper light and dual 30-watt lower lights with multi-reflector lenses for optimal light distribution plus a 21-watt stopand taillight.
• Multi-function LCD digital meter is compact, tough and waterproof, featuring large readouts for fuel gauge, gear position, speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, hourmeter/clock and oil-change reminder. Meter housing includes lights for Reverse, Neutral, oil temperature and front differential indicator.
• Waterproof accessory socket provides 12-volt, 10-amp power with a built-in temperature-type fuse.
• Uniquely designed floorboards allow the rider's feet to grip the footrests while helping to keep mud and debris away.
• Standard over-fenders give excellent mud protection.
• Thickly padded seat provides all-day comfort.
• Large mud flaps keep dirt and debris off of the rider.
• Two-piece boot guards help prevent damage to CV-joint boots.
• Maintenance-free battery.
• Durable, comfortable, easy-to-use controls.
• Keyed ignition switch for added security.
• Triple skid plates.
• Easy-to-use parking brake.
• Top-mounted choke lever for simple operation.
• Handlebar switches, controls and warning labels use easy to understand graphic symbols.
• Standard equipment includes a tire-pressure gauge.
• 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.

Available Accessories

• Flag Kit.

Specifications

Engine Type:

475cc air-cooled OHV longitudinally mounted single-cylinder four-stroke

92mm x 71.5mm

8.5:1

36mm constant-velocity

CD with electronic advance

Electric with auxiliary recoil

Automatic

ESP five-speed with Reverse

Direct front and rear driveshafts with Traxlok and torque-sensitive front differential

Front: Independent double-wishbone; 6.7 inches travel
Rear: Swingarm with dual shocks; 6.7 inches travel

Front: Dual hydraulic 180mm disc
Rear: Sealed 180mm mechanical drum

Front: 25x8-12
Rear: 25x10-12

83.0 inches

46.8 inches

46.5 inches

33.9 inches

7.5 inches

50.7 inches

10.8 feet

600 pounds

4.2 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve

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