A selection from the Honda line-up

Press, 24 July 1987, Page 13

A selection from the Honda line-up

Four-wheelers are more stable than three-wheelers for rolling country, and being heavier, as well, they are better for towing. The lighter weight and “greater manoeuvreability of three-wheelers can be an advantage on flat terrain, while for hill work — such as mustering — two-wheelers are ideal.

Talking first of the Honda TRX2SO, Mr Alister Thomas, of Whiting Honda, points out that the four-wheelers can straddle pot-holes and shingle ridges on tracks and roads more easily than threewheelers can, yet they are still cheaper to run than "utes” and 4WD vans. They are also able to go more places than these can. A shaft drive gives good ground clearance and reliability. The TRX2SO comes with an electric start but

a kick start can be provided if required. Other good features are sealed brakes, a big storage bin beneath the rear carrier, and a headlight that is readily removeable.

The headlight has a couple of metres of flex so it can be used as an independent spotlight, and the machine also has an accessory power point. The heavier tyre tread on the latest model is better for mud conditions and is more puncture resistant.

The total price for the TRX2SO is $6490, which includes $590 GST. The price of the Honda 350 is just under $BOOO, but even at that, the demand outstrips supply, with the four-wheel drive and limited-slip differential being major drawcards.

Both machines are excellent in wet-weather conditions. On hill-country farms — for checking or rounding up stock, for example — two-wheelers are the most suitable. For this sort of work, the CT2OO Auto-Ag is a popular machine. It has an electric start and a centrifugal clutch, unusual features for a two-wheeler but excellent when opening gates in a hurry or catching lambs. Another popular twowheeler is the XLIBS, which supercedes the XL2OO Superfarmer. A much cheaper machine which also has a wider resale market than its predecessor, it is normally supplied with compromise tyres.but can be fitted with mud wheels if desired, at no extra cost, at which time the gearing can also be lowered if this is preferred.