John Deere introduces faster ATV models

John Deere introduced a line of all-terrain vehicles that are the manufacturer’s fastest and most powerful off-road utility vehicles.

John Deere’s three Gator RSX850i recreational utility vehicles (UTVs) have 839-cc,four-cycle, 62-hp Piaggio motorcycle engines. The base, Sport and Trail models have a maximum speed of 53 miles per hour, compared with the 28–44 mph that John Deere’s other crossover UTVs reach.

The Gator RSX850i line also can go from zero to 30 mph in 3 seconds, according to John Deere spokesperson Maureen McCormack.

The Gator RSX850i Sport model has Fox 2.0 Performance Series shock absorbers that are intended to allow the model to handle rocky or sandy terrain and handle corners more effectively than John Deere’s previous UTVs did. The RSX850i Trail model is designed for use in wooded areas. All models start at $12,999, and are available at John Deere dealerships.

For other ATV innovations and ATV Best Buy selections, read “Next-Generation ATVs,” in the March/April 2012 issue.

– K. Fanuko