If you're drooling at the thought of owning a utility ATV, but the lofty pricing is stopping you cold, the new ETON Rover GT may offer hope. With an MSRP of just $2,799, and a few extra bucks for the optional racks, you can own a machine that is being marketed as the ideal tool for light-duty work around the home or farm.
The Rover GT is powered by an air-cooled, 88.4cc single-cylinder SOHC four-stroke engine. This small but torquey engine features convenient electric start and a delightfully simple SVR 22mm carburetor with manual choke. The engine is mounted to a CVT (V-belt) transmission that offers forward and reverse shift via a dash-mounted shift knob with indicator lights. Power is transferred to the rear axle via chaindrive.
A digital dash gauge is standard. The unit also has variable maximum speed that is controlled by two different ignition keys.
The Rover GT comes standard with foot-pedal-activated brakes utilizing dual 155mm hydraulic discs up front and a single 175mm disc in the rear. These help reign in the 18-inch knobby tires and the rig's 408-pound dry weight. Underneath the rig is a full-featured suspension that consists of a proven A-arm setup up front with adjustable shocks and a swing arm in the rear also with adjustable shocks.
When it comes time to work, the Rover GT seems to have the basics covered. It features a standard rear-cargo flat bed and a covered front storage compartment. Optional accessories that enhance its work capabilities include the aforementioned front cargo rack and rear cargo basket, accessory power outlet, and trailer hitch (a must-have in our opinion). While on the subject of options, the Rover GT can also be outfitted with a carpeted floor mat and a detachable spotlight.
Clearly, the low-buck Rover GT is a light-duty sibling to the far more expensive utility ATVs that are on the market. If you're looking for a nimble, compact, work-ready machine that won't cost you an arm and a leg, it may be just what you're looking for. Think of it as the Willys flattie of ATVs.
Specs
The rear driveline defines simplicity and consists of chaindrive and a solid axle.
General
Vehicle model: '07 ETON Rover GT
Base price: $2,799
Colors: Mountain Silver, Forest Green
Engine
Type: Single-cylinder, four-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled
Displacement (cc): 88.4
Bore x stroke (mm): 47x51
Compression ratio: 10.2:1
Fuel delivery system: SVR 22mm carburetor
Starter: Electric
Drivetrain
Transmission: CVT with V-belt
Final drive: No. 520 chain
Suspension/Axles
Front: A-arm with dual adjustable shocks
Rear: Swing arm with adjustable shock
Brakes
Front: 155mm dual hydraulic disc
Rear: 175mm hydraulic disc
Tires
Front: 18/7-10
Rear: 18/8-10
Dimensions/Capacities
Weight (lb): 407.9
Ground clearance (in): N/A
Length (in): 83.0
Width (in): 39.4
Height (in): 43.7
Seat height (in): 28.0
Wheelbase (in): 54.1
Fuel capacity (gal): 2.9