2013 Highlights – Off-Road Dirt Bikes, ATVs and UTVs

Sep. 07, 2012 By Josh Burns, Photos Courtesy of the Manufacturers
There are a lot of exciting vehicles for off-roaders in 2013. Whether your preference is get dirty on two wheels or four, there are quite a few new and updated models hitting showroom floors later this year (or maybe even now).

Although there are still some new models to be introduced in the coming weeks (next week, Can-Am and Kawasaki are expected to make announcements), plenty of new or updated dirt bikes, ATVs and UTVs have already been announced for the new model year. Whether you’re looking for something for the track, trail or open desert, there are plenty of vehicles to drool over in 2013.

Honda CRF450R
The CRF450X is the off-road champion that earns Honda notoriety at the Baja 1000, but the CRF450R is the one making headlines on the motocross track, and it got some serious changes for 2013. Honda says the new air-fork front suspension is nearly two pounds lighter on the 450R, offers easy adjustment, less internal friction and provides improved handling. The company also added an all-new twin-spar aluminum frame to the bike that is designed to complement the new fork. A new twin exhaust system helps distribute its weight closer to the bike’s center of mass. The engine also gets a new piston, cylinder porting and valve timing that, combined with more compression, produce more power. If you’re in the market for a new track bike, the CRF450R deserves a closer look. 

Yamaha Raptor 700R
In a market segment that has not seen a lot of new vehicles in recent years, Yamaha jumped out in 2013 and updated the popular Raptor 700 lineup. Yamaha is actually offering three different Raptor 700 models for ’13, including the 700, 700R and 700R SE. Every model offers new features but each has a lower price tag than last year. For the new Raptor, the front plastics are swapped out and the front fenders pushed forward for rider comfort. A new dual-piston rear brake caliper is also equipped on the 700, and new Maxxis tires can be found on the ’13 model. The fully adjustable piggyback front shocks are equipped on the 700R unit (but not on the 700 to cut costs), and there are no changes to the 686cc engine or the unique frame design that consists of a steel front, cast-aluminum rear and subframe. Lower prices and an updates machine make the Raptor more appealing in 2013.

Other 2013 New Model Stories:
Polaris Announces 2013 ATV and UTV Lineup

2013 John Deere Gator RSX850i Review

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