Recon Mission - Honda Recon Utility ATV

 The Honda Off-Road people like to say, "Adventure isn't paved." We couldn't agree more, and in the history of ATVs, we can safely say no other company has played a bigger supporting role in off-road adventure than Honda. They were leaders with ATVs right from the beginning, and although the competition has become extremely good, with some specific models even passing those in the Red Rider’s lineup, Honda is still the major player today.

ATVs have advanced in every way imaginable since the first 4 wheeled ATV rolled onto the trails over 25 years ago. What began as merely a stability enhancing option to the three wheelers of the day marked a watershed change in the sport. Despite offering only very basic suspension, meager power, and almost no extra accoutrements for rider comfort or usability, the four wheeled boom was on. They've come a long way since those days, and today electronic fuel injection, 4WD, and power steering are readily found, and we believe anti-lock brake systems may find their way to some models soon as well. There are times we wonder just how much comfort one needs for a ride through the woods, however, and like many riders, we appreciate models that offer the tools for trail exploration or to get the job done in a rideable, reliable, affordable package.

Recon Patrol

The Honda FourTrax Recon and Recon ES (electric shift) are usually considered somewhat basic as compared to top-of-the-line models today. A little over twenty years ago, they would have been the most powerful and most advanced ATVs ever to hit the trail, but with a displacement of 229cc, the FourTrax engine is less than one cylinder on most 2010 top-of-the-line models. Don't underestimate the Recon, however; it's a capable ATV that will give many models appearing superior on paper a run for their money.

The Recon is a "back to basics” machine that reminds us of why we began riding in the first place. It has the ability to handle most work or trail exploration, but it doesn't offer a lot of extra frills with one exception. The Recon ES is equipped with Honda’s Electronic Shift Program which is operated via thumb buttons, while the standard Recon uses a traditional foot shifter, and either works well. For new riders not used to a foot shifter, the thumb buttons may offer an advantage as they hone their riding skills and learn to keep the engine in the correct part of the power band.Dual A-Arms, a single non-adjustable shock, and hydraulic drum brakes are found at the front of the Recon

Recon Chassis

The Recon chassis is a rugged, double cradle steel design made for long life and plenty of abuse. At the rear is a steel swingarm and shaft drive, with a single shock and 4.9 inches of travel. Dual, front A-arms and front shocks offer 5.1 inches of travel. Brakes on the Recon are one area where Honda could make immediate improvements, and an old-school sealed mechanical drum system is used at the rear, with sealed hydraulic drum brakes at the front. The result is a mushy feeling at times. One feature every rider loves with either model Recon is the light overall weight. Riders find it easy to maneuver the Recon through tight woods, and even when they sometimes find themselves stuck, they're happy to report it is much easier to yank out a lighter ATV like the Recon. Since the Recon only offers rear wheel drive, it definitely will be a little easier to get yourself stuck, so plan water and mud crossing accordingly. You can still tackle the slimy stuff, but any dreams about becoming a Louisiana mud bogger only lead to trouble!

The Honda Engine

Honda is known for their engine technology and reliability and the Recon does not disappoint. The air cooled, 229cc, single-cylinder, OHV four-stroke engine offers enough power for new riders, yet experienced riders will have fun as well.

The longitudinally mounted, air-cooled Recon engine. Notice the easy to access oil dip stick at the front of the engine. Just below are a nice set of solid pegs and a protective foot well that does a great job of protecting your foot, and draining away any water.

Mounting the engine sideways in the chassis offers several advantages, including perfect alignment with the rear drive shaft, more efficient power transfer, lighter weight, and better ergonomics. An on-board electronic control module (ECM) monitors information from four sensors: engine rpm, countershaft speed, gear position 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 more aggressive. A neutral lockout ensures available engine braking when descending hills, and to maintain smooth shifting and prevent damage, the transmission cannot be shifted from neutral to any gear at engine speeds above 3,000 rpm. The ESP is also not battery-dependent and is operating whenever the engine is running. Power output is torquey enough for fun, but predictable and useable.

Ergonomics and Performance

Ergonomics on the Recon are typical Honda, which is to say very comfortable, with all controls well placed. At the center of the steering column is a small panel with a few warning lights, and just ahead is the sturdy steel front rack. A comfy seat insures all day trail rides won't leave you walking like an old cowboy the next morning, and behind the seat is another steel rack system. The bright tail light hides a small storage compartment, and we can always use extra storage on a utility quad. Plastic bodywork on the Honda is the best in the business and fits extremely well all the way down to the full floorboards, which offer excellent splash protection, yet drain well. We applaud Honda for still using an aggressive steel foot peg, which allows your foot to pivot as needed, and other OEMS offering floorboards should take note.

The Recon features a nice display panel at the center of the handlebars, with a choke button to the left. Thumb shift buttons are found on the ES model left hand control pod.

Entry level utility machines aren't usually known for their sporty characteristics, but the Honda Recon is the exception. Steering is light on the trail, and the low center of gravity makes it stable at any speed. The tires will be the limiting factor at high speeds, however, when they begin to get a little bouncy, but when crossing trail obstacles they do a good job of grabbing traction. Serious rock crawling can sometimes grab and bend the skid plates, but for the average trail rider or casual owner working around the yard, they won't be a problem. The Recon gets very high marks for its handling! As with all Honda ATVs, reliability is outstanding, and we're not sure what you would have to do to kill it.

Recon Wrapup

There is a lot to like about the Honda FourTrax Recon ES. It's light, it handles very well, it's easy to ride, and it's just plain fun! Whether a new rider, a weekend explorer, or a home owner looking to do a little work around the yard, the Honda Recon is a very solid, reliable, low maintenance machine capable of both work duty and trail play. After all, adventure isn't paved!