The Honda Talon HP (Honda Powersports), which was introduced in 2019, is a newcomer to the sport side-by-side market. It had two models at launch: the agile 1000X and the more powerful, wider-tracked 1000R. Honda entered the sport SxS market late, but despite this, it swiftly rose to the No. 2 position in sales.
Consisting of two main models and multiple sub-trims, the Talon range has become an integral part of Honda’s ATV models. They are praised to be some of the best Honda SXS models of all time. Let’s now explore all about the Honda Talon HP models including their performance and pricing.
- Honda Talon 1000X
- Honda Talon 1000R
- Honda Talon 4-Seater
- Honda Talon Turbo
- 2022 Honda Talon
- Honda Talon Price
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Honda Talon
Honda Talon HP 1000X and 1000R UTVs are excellent vehicles that are still relatively new to the UTV market. Although they’re becoming more common, you’re less likely to see a Talon at a theme park than, say, an RZR. However, does this mean they’re any worse? Here are some of the greatest things Honda packed into their top sport side-by-side –
Horsepower
The 999cc parallel twin-cylinder engine of the Talon is directly derived from the dirtbike industry. Particularly in the design of the cylinder heads – Honda refers to this single overhead camshaft that controls the valvetrain as Unicam.
The Talon shares a family tree with the more practical Honda Pioneer 1000. But has a closer spiritual bond with the potent Africa Twin motorcycle. Its 999cc inline-twin, which produces 104 horsepower, is equipped with a 270-degree crank angle and a Unicam SOHC system.
Both of the Talon siblings are powered by the same powertrain. A 999cc parallel-twin engine resembles the crank of two powerful motorcycle engines connected together.
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It has a Honda Unicam head design, in which the exhaust lobes of the camshaft operate forked rocker arms to open the exhaust valves. This is while the intake valves are opened directly by the camshaft using a cam-on-bucket system.
Compared to a more conventional dual overhead cam configuration, this enables Honda to maintain tight valvetrain control at high RPM with significant size and weight reduction. The engine is smooth as butter and enjoys being revved.
The Talon puts out 105 horsepower in its base trim. However, because of its ingenious drivetrain and low curb weight, it performs a little better than expected.
Transmission
A six-speed dual-clutch transmission and Honda’s revolutionary i-4WD system, are used to transfer power. It uses a front limited-slip unit in conjunction with a brake-based traction system, replacing the conventional front locker. With i-4WD enabled, power is transmitted to the wheel with grip via the LSD when a wheel slips.
The Talon’s transmission is just as advanced as its engine, if not more so. Two parallel shafts with opposing gear ratios and two clutches on the input side make up a dual-clutch transmission.
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The second shaft of the transmission is already spinning and prepared for an upshift when shaft 1 is engaged. There is a shift and the clutches switch places. Due to the ability of dual-clutch gearboxes to shorten the physical gear-changing procedure, shifts occur relatively quickly.
The Talon’s DCT offers complete manual paddle shifting as well as two selectable automatic shift modes (Normal and Sport). We left the Talon in Sport Auto more frequently than in full manual throughout our testing period. The Talon responds fast to severe braking and sudden throttle changes, keeping you precisely in the desired RPM range.
4WD System
The Talon’s 4WD system is referred to by Honda as i4WD because of the extensive sensor integration that has been incorporated into it. The i4WD system regulates traction at all four wheels using individual wheel speed sensors and a very intelligent computer.
The differentials are practically always open, and the computer will apply brake pressure to a wheel when it detects a wheel slide. This limits motion, which causes the differential to increase the torque applied to the wheel with traction.
The Honda’s i4WD technology regulates traction at all four wheels using individual wheel speed sensors and a highly sophisticated computer. When all sensors and computers are functioning properly, the system performs astonishingly well. But we have experienced a malfunctioning sensor that left a Talon locked in 2WD. Overall, they are both magnificent machines and now we will look at them individually and see what differs.
Honda Talon 1000X
It’s difficult to find somebody that will defend a Talon X above an R for UTV Offroaders in the Western states. Technically, it is the deal of the century: for an additional $1,000, you can add a fully factory-engineered long-travel suspension option. So why should someone purchase the X? The X really distinguishes itself as the routes become narrow with their narrower width.
Honda Talon 1000X Suspension
The biggest (and only) difference between the Talon X and R is in regarding their suspension and dimensions. The X employs a more conventional 3-link rear suspension, as opposed to the 4+ link rear suspension seen on the R. Although it is 4.4 inches slimmer than the Talon 1000R, it sonly sacrifices 5 inches of suspension travel in the back.
It nevertheless maintains an incredible 15.1 inches of rear-wheel travel, which is more than enough to easily slam through some significant bumps at a high rate of speed and maintain smooth landings.
Both the X and the R have twin A-arm suspension up front, although the X only gives the R 3.1 inches of travel. The main difference is in the wheelbase of the X, which is 5.1 inches shorter than the R’s. The X turns in sharper and rotates a little more easily, thus this is felt more than any other dimensional adjustment.
The 1000X is ideal for narrower paths and dense woodland because it is slightly narrower and promotes agility over absolute articulation. If you had to choose between the X and the R based solely on a black-and-white comparison, you would choose the X if you want to ride on narrower trails. You’ll adore it. Put down the extra stack for the R if trail width isn’t a big deal.
Equipped with QS3 quick adjusters, Fox Podium 2.0 shocks are standard on the Talon 1000X. The QS3 adjusters do a superb job of keeping things simple enough for most drivers, while ardent suspension fans may prefer a more adjustable shock.
The three levels provide a dynamically adjustable ride quality that can really stiffen up if you want to put the hammer down. They are all immediately discernible from the cab.
2021 Talon 1000X
The most apparent changes to the base-model Talon 1000X are the new Talon graphics and Metallic Orange color with Metallic Gray accents. The Talon 1000X Fox Live Valve Edition, a new X model from Honda for 2021, is exclusively offered in Pearl White with Metallic Blue trim. All four wheels include Fox Live Valve electronic compression damping.
Honda Talon 1000R
The Honda Talon HP 1000R is wider than the Talon 1000X and has substantially more suspension travel because it is intended for open desert and dune terrain. The beltless six-speed dual-clutch transmission gives the driver the option of automatic or manual paddle shifting.
The 1000R costs an extra $1,000 over the 1000X. Arguably, the 1000R appears to be the undisputed winner after driving both vehicles through the dunes, rocks, and whoops. The X’s improved nimbleness pales in compared to the R’s improved travel, compliance, and comfort.
As a passenger, I found the 1000R to be substantially more relaxing and pleasant. The appeal of doing anything with a buddy or partner is crucial to note. The Talon’s fantastic, car-inspired seats, which are genuinely good for all-day comfort, are largely responsible for preventing discomfort and weariness.
2021 Honda Talon 1000R
The most apparent change to the original Talon 1000R is the addition of a pearl white color scheme with red trim and Honda red wing logos. A two-seat Talon R with Live Valve electrically adjustable suspension was made available by Honda for 2021. The upgraded Talon 1000R two-seat models for the 2021 model year have Launch Control and Fox Live Valve shocks.
Given the Talon’s brief existence on the market, Honda carried over the Talon’s drivetrain to 2021. It still shines as a very polished and punchy powerhouse.
The 2021 Talon 1000R is presently only available with the Fox Live Valve option, a $2,100 increase over the Talon R’s 2020 base model. You receive the powerful 2.5″ Fox Podium Live Valve shock package, a Launch Control mode, color-matched frame, ROPS, and more for $2,100.
Don’t be misled; this isn’t merely a suspension update for the Talon. Numerous sensors are included in the Live Valve system, which Honda refers to as the Inertial Measurement Unit as its own brain (IMU). Bosch is the manufacturer of electronic controllers and IMU.
According to Honda, the Live Valve system has the ability to independently, and automatically, alter each shock’s compression damping up to 200 times per second.
Honda Talon 4 Seater
The Honda Talon HP 1000 X4, is a honda side-by-side 4-seater, available in two versions. The base 1000X4 costs $22,000 and the Talon 1000 X4 Fox Live Valve version is priced at $24K.
The 1000X chassis, which measures out to be 64″ wide with A-arms up front and a 3-link suspension system in the rear, is the foundation for both of the models, which are two distinct ones. The 1000X-4 is the entry-level model, and Fox QS3 3-position compression adjustable shocks are standard.
The 1000X-4 Fox Live Valve edition is the higher version. The Live Valve edition has four electrically adjustable Fox shocks, a handy launch control system, and a somewhat more eye-catching paint job with orange accents placed strategically around the car. Both models consist of a six-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission. It gives drivers the option of completely automatic or fully manual operation.
Additionally, a sport mode makes shifting more enjoyable at higher RPMs for a passionate, vintage performance driving feel. The same paddle shifting method from the original two is used in the four-seat Talon, which we adore. The fact that the paddle shifters are not affixed to the steering wheel is our only complaint.
In order to downshift, you actually miss gripping the paddles when turning the wheel quickly. As a result, you are sort of forced to drive a specific way. You must use the paddle to downshift while accelerating into a turn before moving the wheel. This as opposed to having your hands on the driving wheel, where you may downshift instantly is a convoluted method.
Honda Talon 1000X-4 Interior
We adore this ATV’s interior. On the inside, this car is a smooth, lovely, well-designed machine. It feels good on the body. One of the things we really enjoy about the Talon is that it’s upped the conversation about the value of what people should get for $20 to $22K.
Just a few short years ago, if you look at some of the other OEM vehicles in that price category, they weren’t quite as beautifully perfected. In essence, Honda has increased the mid-range bar, which will encourage all the other OEMs to provide more at this price point.
The most significant modifications between the 2- and 4-seat variants are obviously in the interior. The Talon’s back seats are essentially buckets like the ones in the front, which is fantastic. Both the bottom cushion and the rear side of these stock seats have strong side bolstering.
The stadium-style back seats are also strategically positioned so that the people in the back can see over the front passengers and have a clear view of the road in front of them. Additionally, having seats that are slightly inward of the front passengers improves the view.
The Talon’s rear seats provide more capacity than I expected, which is a good thing. The smooth seat backs on the front buckets and the thoughtfully provided space between the front seat backs and the side doors make for a fantastic experience in the back.
However, when we consider their stiffness and fit-and-finish, I can’t say enough wonderful things about these stock doors. Of course, I still wish they came with complete half doors from the factory. Overall, these Talons are made entirely of high-quality components, which is immediately obvious when you sit within.
Honda Talon Turbo
The Honda Talon HP is a big deal in the UTV market, in case you hadn’t noticed. The Talon has already moved up to the second best-selling N/A 1000cc class sport UTV on the market, claim the corporate brains at Big Red. This is an impressive feat given that the statistics are based on sales data from only a few months.
Putting sales figures aside, there are compelling reasons why the Talon has dominated the market. First and foremost, you can tell that this UTV is a Honda as soon as you approach it. When you open the car-style doors, the plastics are firmly fastened, and you can immediately tell that the Honda quality is there.
Our considerable amount of time in the driver’s seat has demonstrated that these Talons are in fact designed for battle. A-arms, trailing arms, and powerplant components all radiate quality from a distance. Simply observe the enormous ball joints that bind the front A-arms to the spindles. Very impressive so far.
Honda Talon Turbo Kit
For 2021, Honda made the Jackson Racing turbo kit available for any Talon. Recently, we had the chance to climb inside the brand-new Talon 1000R Live Valve-equipped turbo and test it out. “The system offers an amazing 60%+ increase in horsepower over stock,” claims Jackson Racing. The Garrett turbocharger unit was built to withstand the rigors of a performance SxS using durable OEM technologies.
The turbo unit is quite compact, and at first sight, you hardly notice that the system is installed. The intercooler installed where the OEM air filter once stood at the front of the cargo bed is the only significant external change to the Honda Talon HP turbo.
The dealer can install the kit for a fee of $5800 while additional labor costs apply. The ECU is re-flashed and handles all tuning parameters using a Jackson Racing ECU tuning tool that is included.
With a minimum of 91-octane fuel, the engine is precisely tuned for proper increased performance and reliability. The Jackson Racing turbocharged Talon has a significant edge on trails and the racetrack thanks to the DCT’s shift schedules that have been tailored to match the turbo feel and performance.
Honda Talon Problems
The Talon has the least ground clearance among its rivals. Although we enjoy Honda’s i-4WD system, we wish it could lock all four wheels completely. You can only get a Talon with a naturally aspirated engine because a factory turbo is not available. However, as we know, this has been sorted out now since the turbo kit is now available to equip.
2022 Honda Talon
According to Honda, new ignition timing maps for the 2022 Talon models smooth out throttle transitions. This should lessen the throttle response’s herky-jerky characteristics. Honda also attempted to keep dirt and debris out of the cockpit by moving the display panel and lengthening the shift paddles. New storage spaces have also been added under each seat.
A more aggressive torque transfer has been added to the i-4WD system to help handle larger aftermarket tires. Additionally, Honda has a standardized Launch mode across the entire range. It was restricted to models with the Live Valve last year. If that isn’t enough, both the Live Valve and non-Live Valve editions come with a fresh color scheme.
Honda Talon Price
Honda Talon 1000X Price
The 2022 Honda Talon HP 1000X has an MSRP of $20,999 while the Honda Talon HP 1000X Fox Live Valve is priced at $22,299. The four-seater, Talon 1000X-4, and Talon 1000X-4 Live Valve versions cost $22,199 and $24,199 respectively.
You’ll be happy with the base-model Talon 1000X if most of your fun involves navigating rutted, rocky, and muddy trails that call for low-range four-wheel drive. But if you enjoy moving quickly, acquire the Live Valve update.
A $2,200 extra is a great deal if you’ve ever priced a new suspension for a side-by-side. The price difference for the Live Valve upgrade is that, and in our opinion, it’s well worth the extra money.
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Honda Talon 1000R Price
The 2022 Honda Talon HP 1000R is priced at $21,099 while the Talon 1000R Fox Live Valve version costs $23,299.
Paying $2,200 extra is still a great deal if you’ve ever considered the price of a new suspension of a side-by-side. In our opinion, it’s well worth opting for the Live Valve version for the suspension system that continuously and automatically adapts to the terrain and your riding style. Additionally, it’s the only way to obtain Launch Mode if you enjoy racing.
Facts about the Honda Talon UTVs
- The Honda Talon 1000X and 1000R are popular sport side-by-side UTVs that feature a Honda DCT transmission.
- The Dual Clutch Transmission is an improvement over a traditional belt-driven clutch setup eliminating the belt as a failure point, shifting smoothly and quickly.
- The Talon also includes a manual transmission mode, enabling reactive gear control similar to high-performance supercars.
- The Honda Talon has an I-4WD solution for an automatic front differential locker that applies individual brakes to each front axle when slippage is detected, rather than truly locking.
- The Talon’s suspension features FOX Live Valve, which adjusts shock stiffness on the fly based on driver input and key points on the machine for awesomely smooth suspension.
- The Honda Talon 1000R is a race-spec model with a 68-inch-wide suspension for high-speed cornering and stability.
- The Honda Talon 1000X is a narrower 64-inch-wide suspension model, more fit for trails, with a 4-seater option available.
- The Honda Talon 1000R and 1000X have a liquid-cooled Unicam longitudinally mounted parallel-twin four-stroke engine with 104 horsepower.
- The Talon 1000R has 17.7 inches of front suspension travel, 20.1 inches of rear suspension travel, and a curb weight of 1,556 pounds, while the Talon 1000X has 14.4 inches of front suspension travel, 15 inches of rear suspension travel, and a curb weight of 1,548 pounds.
- The Honda Talon is equipped with hydraulic calipers with a 250mm discs Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) system and has a wheelbase of 87.6 inches for the 1000X and 92.7 inches for the 1000R.
Conclusion
Now you know why the Talon models are gaining so much appreciation and why they deserve all the praise. There are multiple models and configurations offered by Honda in the Talon range. Hence there is surely something that you would enjoy driving through the wildness or the dunes.
We’ve seen that the Talon range received multiple upgrades and updates over the years. You have the 2-seater versions and 4-seater ones, all of which are extremely capable. Moreover, you can now even boost up your Talon with a turbo kit. Overall, these magnificent machines are sure to provide you with an adrenaline rush.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some popular FAQs:
How Much Is A Honda Talon
The 2022 Honda Talon range starts at $20,999 and goes all the way up to $24,199.
Why Is It Called A Side By Side
Because they often feature two seats next to each other, occasionally with the addition of back seats, they are known as side-by-sides. Even though some smaller UTVs only have one seat, they are still considered side-by-side vehicles.
How Long Is A Side By Side
4-seat side by sides typically measures 135-160 inches in length, compared to 110-125 inches for 2-seat UTVs. On average, youth UTVs are around 85 inches long and 48 inches broad.
Is The Honda Talon Belt Driven
The Honda Talon’s use of transmission without a drive belt is one of its main advantages over other UTVs. The Honda Talon features a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), which does not need a belt, in contrast to those ‘rubber band’ bikes produced by companies like BRP and Polaris.
Is The Honda Talon Any Good
We can’t say that the Talon is the finest option for any particular type of terrain, whether it is dirt, mud, rocks, or sand, but it never lets us down. For the do-it-yourself home mechanic, general maintenance is a simple undertaking.
Where Are Honda Talons Made
Honda’s U.S. Powersports division is in charge of creating and manufacturing the Talon and other off-road vehicles, aside from the engine and transmission. Honda of South Carolina production facilities produces the Honda Talon as well as many other ATVs and SXS products.
