Off-Road Driving Considerations - Honda BIG RED 2009 Owner's Manual

Driving Guidelines

Off-road Driving Considerations

Your Honda MUV can be driven both on and off pavement. However,
if you haven t driven off-road before, you should be aware that your
vehicle will handle somewhat differently than it does on pavement. You
should also be aware that while Honda MUV's controls are similar to
those in cars, driving on paved surfaces will also feel different.
Vehicle Design
The Honda MUV handles somewhat differently from on-highway
vehicles due in part to features that allow it to perform its role as an
off-highway utility vehicle. For example, Honda MUV has a higher
center of gravity than cars designed for use only on pavement. It is also
equipped with large low-pressure tires that allow good traction in sand,
loose dirt, wet grass and other low-traction surfaces.
These advantages come at some cost. Because your vehicle is taller
and rides higher off the ground, it can more easily tip or roll over if you
make abrupt turns or drive on sloped terrain.
Off-highway Environments
Driving on private property, or in approved off-highway areas, means
you leave a generally predictable and orderly world behind. You won t
find lane markers or traffic signals, and no one will be there to warn
you of trouble ahead. It s up to you to assess situations and drive
within limits. The terrain has limits (it may be too steep or bumpy, for
example). The vehicle has limits (e.g., traction, stability, and power).
And you may be limited by lack of experience.
58 Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines