The Talon 1000 is a vehicle resolutely designed for performance. The presence of the vehicle’s design and the menu of the technical sheet are in line with the services we have had at the wheel.
First of all, the appearance of the vehicle leaves no doubt about its vocation. The well-set wheels at the end of long suspension arms, the wide fender clearances, the sculpted design of the bucket seats exude performance.
Honda has housed the heavily revised Pioneer 1000’s 999cc parallel-twin engine under the hood that produces a convincing 104 horsepower. The engine has been revised both in terms of admission and electronic injection management. The transmission mated to the engine is also that of the Pioneer which has been tuned for more aggressive operation. This six-speed dual-clutch transmission allows gear selection via paddles behind the steering wheel or letting the system work automatically. Optimal management allows you to know your driving style by analyzing the data obtained by the position of the accelerator, the engine speed, the speed and the force of application of the brakes. I-4WD four-wheel drive is operated by a button on the dash. As for the braking system, it is Traction Controlled (BTCS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) gives more braking power to the wheel that has more traction. Finally, the vehicle is equipped with a high or low range.
The suspension systems are different according to the versions. The 1000X has an overall width of 64 inches and features an independent double-wishbone front suspension with FOX Podium 2.0 QS3 hydraulic shocks and a long-travel 371 mm (14.6 in.) stabilizer bar. At the rear, there’s a three-link swingarm suspension with FOX Podium 2.0 QS3 hydraulic shocks and stabilizer bar that gives 384 mm (15.1 in.) of travel.
On-board comfort has also been the subject of particular attention. Wide, high-back seats are comfortable and provide good lateral support. They are suitable for drivers of good size. The driver’s seat is adjustable as well as the tilting steering column. The ergonomics of the dashboard are excellent and offer some fully usable storage spaces. Side doors and roof are standard with the vehicle.
Although the horsepower figures are less impressive on paper than the tenors, the engine-transmission combo gives performance that borders on perfection and propels the vehicle to indecent velocities quickly. Fortunately, the suspensions under the vehicle effectively maintain contact with the ground and transmit engine and brake power to the trail. The steering, surgical, places the vehicle exactly where you want.
What’s new?
Nothing for 2025
We appreciate:
- The quality performance delivery offered by Honda. The Talon marks a strong comeback of the manufacturer in the niche.
- The cohesion of all the mechanical elements working in unison.
- Despite the power of the 104 horsepower engine, the vehicle is very fast on difficult terrain.
We dislike:
- The FOX Podium 2.0 QS3 suspension is no longer part of the equipment.
Skills:
