Off-Road.com - 2002 Honda Foreman S/ES

Oct. 01, 2005 By ORC STAFF
2002 FourTrax Foreman ES-- TRX450FE2 ($6,399)
2002 FourTrax Foreman S -- TRX450FM2 ($6,199)
The new Foreman ES/S feature TraxLok-Honda's first switch-operated 2WD/4WD system-and a torque-sensitive, limited-slip front differential proven on the Rancher(tm) and Foreman Rubicon(r). These technologies, along with ESP (Electric Shift Program) on the Foreman ES showcase Honda's legendary performance, technology and durability with unmatched ease of operation.

Features & Benefits Unique Features * • TraxLok(tm) enables the rider to shift between 2WD and 4WD with the simple push of a switch. Quiet operation and smooth engagement are key features of the system.

• Torque-sensitive, limited-slip front differential reduces torque steer for less steering effort. Engine/Drivetrain * • TraxLok is easily engaged by pushing a switch on the right handlebar. An electromagnetic mechanical clutch unit (EMCU) located on the center of the propeller shaft engages 4WD with a quiet two-way roller clutch.

Unlike mechanical designs, TraxLok ensures smooth operation by employing a magnetic switching mechanism that engages when front and rear wheel speeds vary by less than 6 miles per hour. • ES model features ESP(tm) (Electric Shift Program) for push-button upshifting and downshifting.

The rider shifts simply and precisely with the press of the upshift or downshift button mounted on the left handlebar. An onboard electronic control module (ECM) monitors information from four sensors-engine rpm, countershaft speed, shift drum angle, 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 sporty. A neutral lockout at speeds greater than 2 mph ensures available engine braking when descending hills. To ensure smooth shifting, the transmission cannot be shifted from neutral to first gear or reverse gear at engine speeds above 3000 rpm.

ESP is not battery-dependent, operating whenever the engine is running. Should the rider ever need to shift manually, the Foreman(r) ES is also equipped with an auxiliary shift arm in the tool kit. • Powerful, rugged, OHV air-cooled 433cc engine is longitudinally mounted for improved drivetrain efficiency. • Overhead-valve design offers a wide, easy-to-use powerband and compact engine dimensions. • Rubber-cushion engine mounting and gear-driven counterbalancer reduce vibration. • Integral electric carburetor-heater system improves driveability and ensures smooth operation in cold conditions. • Snorkel-type air intake system is specially designed for water crossings.

• Closed crankcase vent system safeguards against engine oil contamination. • USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler is constructed of stainless steel. • Super-heavy-duty automatic clutch with a low, 1750-rpm engagement point for excellent driveability and towing capacity. • Five-speed transmission with reverse includes an ultra-low first gear on S model.

• Maintenance-free shaft drive with limited-slip front differential routes power directly from the longitudinally mounted engine without inefficient directional changes. • Convenient electric starter, with auxiliary recoil starter and an internal automatic decompression system. • Wet sump with large, 3-quart capacity. • High-flow oil cooler with cooling fan helps control engine temperatures. • DC CD ignition with electronic advance for excellent performance and reliability.

• Powerful, 326-watt AC generator. • Reusable foam air filter. Chassis/Suspension • Rugged frame and suspension provide an exceptional 7.7 inches of ground clearance. • Independent double-wishbone front suspension uses Showa shock absorbers to give 5.9 inches of travel. • Steel swingarm and dual Showa rear shock absorbers give 5.9 inches of travel.

• Rugged, large-diameter, 25 x 8-12 front, 25 x 10-12 rear tires provide added ground clearance while maintaining precise handling. • Tires designed for the Foreman ES/S provide excellent traction and durability. • Steering mechanism design features light effort and a tight turning radius of 11.5 feet. • Dual sealed front hydraulic drum brakes and sealed mechanical rear drum. Additional Features • Engine design produces low emissions and meets California Air Resources Board (CARB) off-road emissions standards.

• Large cargo racks front and rear allow payloads of 66 and 133 pounds respectively. • Heavy-duty trailer hitch with towing capacity of 850 pounds. • Large, lightweight plastic fuel tank with 3.2-gallon capacity. • Fuel gauge is standard equipment. • Unique rear-opening storage compartment allows access when rack is loaded. • Triple-headlight system with single 45-watt upper light and dual 25-watt lower lights.

• Multi-function LCD digital meter is compact, tough and waterproof, featuring large readouts for gear position, 4WD indicator, speedometer, odometer, tripmeter, and hourmeter/clock. Meter housing includes LED lights for reverse, neutral, and oil temperature warning indicators. • Waterproof accessory socket provides 12-volt, 10-amp power with a built-in temperature-type fuse.

• Uniquely designed floorboards allow the rider's feet to grip the footrests while keeping mud and debris away from the rider's feet. • Standard over-fenders give excellent mud protection. • Thickly padded seat provides all-day comfort. • Large mud flaps keep dirt and debris off of the rider. • Constant-velocity-joint boot guards help prevent damage to boot covers. • Maintenance-free battery. • Durable, comfortable, easy-to-use controls. • Keyed ignition switch for added security. • Triple skidplates. • Easy-to-use parking brake.

• Top-mounted choke lever for simple operation. • Handlebar switches, controls and warning labels use internationally approved ISO graphic symbols. • Standard tool kit includes a tire pressure gauge. • G.V.W.R. is 1102 pounds TRX450FE / 1089 pounds TRX450FM. • Assembled in Timmonsville, South Carolina. • Transferable six-month limited warranty.

Available Accessories • Flag kit. * Honda First--Represents the first use of a significant technology on a mass-production ATV. Specifications Model: TRX450FE (with ESP) / TRX450FM Engine Type: 433cc air-cooled OHV longitudinally mounted single-cylinder four-stroke Bore and Stroke: 90mm x 68mm Carburetion: 32mm CV Ignition: DC CD with electronic advance Starter: Electric with auxiliary recoil Clutch: Automatic Transmission: ESP five-speed with reverse / Five-speed with reverse Driveline: Direct front and rear drive-shafts with TraxLok and limited-slip front differential Suspension Front: Independent double-wishbone; 5.9 inches travel Suspension Rear: Swingarm with dual shocks; 5.9 inches travel Brakes Front: Dual sealed hydraulic drum Brakes Rear: Sealed drum Tires Front: 25 x 8-12 Tires Rear: 25 x 10-12 Length: 77.3 inches Width: 45.3 inches Height: 45.0 inches Seat Height: 33.6 inches Ground Clearance: 7.7 inches Wheelbase: 50.2 inches Turning Radius: 11.5 feet Dry Weight: 595 pounds / 582 pounds Fuel Capacity: 3.2 gallons, including 0.7-gallon reserve Colors: Olive, Yellow, Red

Recommended for riders 16 years of age and older.

Photo Gallery
 

Please submit any technical questions to the bulletin board.


Off-Road.com Newsletter
Join our Weekly Newsletter to get the latest off-road news, reviews, events, and alerts!