The King Of The Hill: Honda ATC 185 HP

The Honda ATC 350X, a three-wheeled beast that left a lasting impact on the off-road motorcycle scene. Released in 1985, this powerful trike was the largest-displacement production three-wheeler available at the time, boasting an impressive 350cc engine.

The decision to use three wheels rather than four was likely driven by economic reasoning. The single wheel up front could be steered with a simple fork arrangement, eliminating the need for a more complex two-wheel steering system and its accompanying suspension requirements. This innovative design allowed Honda to mass-produce the ATC 350X at an affordable price.

In the early days of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), Honda was not alone in the market. Other major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers quickly followed suit, and by the 1980s, hundreds of thousands of three-wheelers were being sold each year in the US alone.

The ATC 350X was more than just a novelty; it was a formidable off-road machine. Its powerful engine and rugged design made it capable of reaching speeds of over 105 km/h (65 mph) on dirt trails. No wonder Honda dubbed it the 'King Of The Hill.'

Despite its impressive capabilities, three-wheelers soon developed a reputation for being dangerous. Many new riders struggled to handle these unusual vehicles, resulting in accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. In response, the US government implemented the 1988 Consent Decree, effectively ending sales of three-wheelers in the USA.

Today, surviving examples of the Honda ATC 350X are highly collectible, a testament to its place in off-road history. The trike's limited production run means that only two years of production separate it from obscurity, making it both the largest and rarest of the dominant Honda ATC three-wheelers.

In conclusion, the Honda ATC 350X was a pioneering vehicle that left an indelible mark on the off-road scene. Its impressive performance, innovative design, and limited availability make it a highly sought-after collector's item for enthusiasts of all-terrain vehicles.

Honda atc 185 hp