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Suzuki introduces
the all new rugged 2002 Eiger, in two hard-working
versions:
The
Eiger automatic 4x4 (LT-A400F), featuring an automatic
CVT transmission with high/low range and reverse,
and a limited-slip front differential and the Eiger
4x4 (LT-F400F), featuring a 5-speed-plus-reverse
manual transmission with high/low range and automatic
clutch, and a limited-slip front differential.
The Eiger
is the inspiration for a
tough new machine that
sets the standard for middleweight ATV excellence
and value. Delivering a strong combination of features
and performance, at a great price. Available with
the accessibility of a fully automatic CVT transmission
and the ability to easily select 4-wheel-drive or
2-wheel-drive on demand. Built to take on the
tough jobs that seem like
mountains in everyday life, and to deliver great
value.
The 2002
Suzuki Eiger is powered by an advanced single-cylinder,
overhead cam aluminum-alloy engine with four valves
and 376cc of torque-producing displacement, built
using the latest in high-performance, high-durability
technology. And for reliable slow-going in tight
quarters on hot days, the Eiger has Suzuki’s unique
air/oil cooling system, SACS (Suzuki Advanced Cooling
System). SACS flows a high volume of oil from a
large oil cooler through the cylinder head; the
oil cooler itself is equipped with a thermostat-controlled
electric fan. SACS is more efficient than air cooling
alone, and is lighter, simpler and less complicated
than water cooling.
For easier
maintenance, the Eiger has a wet sump instead of
a separate oil tank, a spin-on oil filter, and a
digital electronic ignition system. An electric
starter is standard, powered by a sealed, maintenance-free
battery. The high-mounted snorkel-type air intake
is positioned to foil water splashes, and the stainless
steel muffler incorporates a built-in spark arrester.
Both the
Eiger automatic 4x4 and automatic 2x4 models have
a QuadMatic automatic CVT (Continuously Variable
Transmission). Power is transferred by a belt running
on variable-diameter pulleys. As the front and rear
pulleys change relative diameter, the gear ratio
changes to automatically match optimum engine rpm
with ground speed. The Eiger CVT system automatically
produces engine braking on downhill's, instead of
freewheeling like the conventional automatic transmissions
used on some competing ATVs. A single, convenient
T-handle lever is used to select high and low range,
as well as reverse. The engine can be restarted
in gear, without first selecting neutral, when the
rear brake is applied.
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The
Eiger 4x4 and Eiger 2x4 models each feature a five-speed-plus-reverse
manual transmission, with an automatic clutch system.
Manual-transmission Eiger models move away from
a stop smoothly thanks to a centrifugal clutch.
A separate clutch disengages automatically when
the shift lever is moved, to allow smooth upshifts
and downshifts. A single, conveniently-located T-handle
selector lever is used to pick low range, high range
and reverse. The engine can be restarted in gear,
without selecting neutral first, as long as the
rear brake is applied.
Both Eiger
4x4 models can be easily switched in and out of
4x4 operation when stopped, using a simple lever.
When conditions call for 2x4 drive, the engine drives
the rear wheels only. In conditions calling for
4x4 drive, the engine drives all four wheels. Compared
to conventional limited-slip differentials, the
Eiger’s torque-sensing limited-slip front differential
is lighter and more compact, transfers power more
efficiently, and produces lighter steering in tight
spots.
Class-leading
suspension travel smooths the ride on the Eiger,
with a full 6.7 inches (170mm) of travel from both
the independent double wishbone front suspension
and the swingarm rear suspension. The largest dual
front disc brakes in the class measure 7.5 inches
(190mm) in diameter, with hydraulic calipers. The
single rear drum brake is water and mud resistant,
and incorporates the parking brake. Large, 25-inch
tires contribute to the Eiger’s 9.3 inches (235mm)
of ground clearance, with wide 12 x 8.0-inch front
rims and 12 x 10-inch rear rims.
All four
Eiger models share rugged good looks, with the fuel
tank cover and mud guards integrated into the plastic
bodywork and fenders, not bolted on as afterthoughts.
The Eiger comes complete with full-length floorboards
and standard carrying racks. A sealed utility box
is mounted underneath the rear rack and bodywork,
on the left side. Convenient front and rear racks
are standard equipment, along with a trailer hitch.
There’s room to mount a front winch, and the fuel
tank holds a full 3.96 gallons (15 liters).
The Eiger’s
dual halogen headlights are widely mounted, one
in each front fender, positioned to illuminate a
wide area. The single, wide taillight includes a
brake light. An auxiliary electrical outlet can
be used to power anything from a cell phone to a
radio. And the handlebar-mounted instrument cluster
includes an easy-to-read analog speedometer as well
as an odometer and a tripmeter.
See and
read more about Suzuki's
2002 Vinson (LT-A500F)
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