New ATV Utility Products, Day 2: 2004 International Powersports Dealer Expo

Indianapolis, IN

Feb. 01, 2004 By Dean Waters

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Day two moved us upstairs in the Dealer Expo buildings, and then we were overwhelmed by the options available to dealers (and shoppers) today for utility ATV applications. Pack boxes and bags are huge, camo and/or waterproof the hot offerings for 2004. Specialized options to hold axes, chainsaws, buckets, guns and personal electronics are also hot, with mix-and-match and interchangable components key draws. We saw lots of snow blades and agricultural tools, many mounted for easy receiver-hitch installation. Here we go with a few that stand out:

Kolpin
	For ingenuity, we had to hand it to Kolpin on their "Gel-Tech" seat cover. Similar to technology used for years by bicycle riders, the padding and shapes makes for awesome comfort. The ultra-grip fabric prevents slippage and is easy to install with quick-release buckles. Why didn't anyone think of this sooner?
	The Gold Line Matrix Deluxe Contoured cargo bag is designed specifically to hold drinks and food, along with gear. The system has two removable bags attached to a cooler, with a matrix compartment in the bottom for your drinks. It has seperate wet/dry compartments, along with mess water bottle compartments on the outside.
Cycle Country
	Cycle Country already has a plow unit to fit the new Yamaha Rhino. Also new this year is an electric blade angle kit, allowing the driver to swivel the blade from left to right without having to get off the ATV to make any manual adjustments.
Cambridge Metals & Plastics
	Cambridge had this new pro-quad quick release ATV windshield. This uses 1/4 turn fasteners, to allow removal of windshield in less than 10 seconds.
Agri Fab
	Agri Fab had this new ATV tandem axle cart. It has a 1,000# load capacity, independent tandem axles and single lever dump mechanism. Suggested retail will be under $700. In upcoming issues of ORC, we'll have features of more of their farming and ATV work tools.
Pioneer Outdoor Products
	The new Rack Pack from Pioneer Outdoor Products looks to be one of the toughest packs on the market. It's made so you can attach two Junior Packs and two Full Size fuel or water packs. It is lockable, water resistant and a padded back rest. Great features, solidly made.
Tatou
	Your 4x4 ATV really can be used year 'round, with the Tatou track system. Out of Quebec Canada, the company knows the challenges of winter. We watched video of this machine at work and play in deep snow and on icy surfaces - it is truly amazing. Tatou is proud of their track design and the traction it provides, touted as a major advantage over competitors. Just ask 'em!
Transitional Outdoor Power
	Recreational karts of every type and style are exploding onto the market. We found quite the wide variety of offerings displayed at Indy this year - I think the look on the face here says something like..."What the hell?!" In fact, this is the Tarantula, an offroad quadcycle touting four wheel independent vertical swing arm suspension and lever steering. Key safety features include a nylon strap that ties your wrists to the controls. (Never mind your feet and head flopping outside the roll cage...)