Montesa’s new 4RIDE
By Team TMX on 11th Nov 15
WHILE new Barcelona-based trials ventures Vertigo and TRS have dominated trials news recently, Montesa Honda has leapt back into the headlines with an all-new off-road model, the 4RIDE.
The new trail-type model comes at a time when Honda is showing impressive long-term commitment to its operations in Barcelona where it has invested a mighty 23 million Euros since 2008.
Its latest commitment is 3.3 million Euro in the Montesa factory at Mogoda which will see production rise from 1,930 units in 2015, through 3000 next year, rising to 5000 machines annually by 2018.
Currently, some 86 per cent of production is exported which is obviously good news for the local economy.
The 4RIDE has been designed and developed in the Barca factory and is of course based on the 4RT260 trials model.
But it isn't just a trials bike with a big seat added. The suspension features increased travel both front and back with quality Tech forks and R16V rear suspension retained.
The five-speed gearbox features wider ratios more suited to trail or adventure riding while the fuel tank now holds 4.4 litres – or a gallon in English money.
The 4RIDE will be largely constructed in the factory where the aluminium chassis and swinging arm are welded, the engines built-up and even the plastics are injection moulded using the on-site plant.
The 4RIDE will be built alongside the 4RT260 and 300RR dedicated trials models and Montesa has increased staffing levels.
The 4RIDE will make its public debut at the upcoming EICMA show in Milan and is expected to be on sale in February 2016.
Koji Sakamoto, President of Montesa, stated that the new model will widen the appeal of Montesa and introduce a new market while at the same time showing the commitment Honda is offering to Montesa which is celebrating 70 years of production
