Well I tried to download my pics of the Commander ride today. Guess I am not computer literate so here is a link to Flicker. I hope that works :furious:
Anyway, they gave me an "original prototype" that had been used in the Canadian test drives. Now, that being said, it did have the "plugs" in the front roll cage corner supports which I thought were newer and which do not show up in their promotional brochures. As you can tell from the photos (hopefully) this 1000XT also had what appears to be the upgraded, Fox Racing Shox HPG on the front axles. The light rack also had a BP LED light bar.
The passenger seat does not adjust.
The transmission clunk that has been discussed was definitely present in this particular machine... it was very, very present as a matter of fact. The factory rep said that Can Am was aware of the issue and assured me that the issue had been addressed and fixed and that I have nothing to worry about with my new model which should arrive soon, maybe November at the latest
I had a small patch of asphalt to drive on so I really cannot come close to telling you how it performed. Easy to put in and out of 4wd while on the fly. Could not really get the feel of a difference between the "Sport" and non-sport mode as I was relegated to a relatively slow speed. I can tell you that the "Low" gear is definitely low and the engine does a fine job of braking.
I did several "jackrabbit" starts in 4wd, 2wd, "Sport" and in "Low" gear and the tourqe is indeed impressive.
The steering is very responsive but I gotta tell you, even though I was on an asphalt surface, backing it up and turning was not all that different from a 4-wheeler when it came to resistance. I found it interesting that the factory rep told me that while CanAm has the technology for power steering as per their Spyder motocycles, they believed their Quick ratio 10.2:1 steering allieviated the need for power steering. This will certainly be something left up to each individual driver.
One thing I have not really seen written about was the reverse override switch. Apparently this disengages the low range speed limiter and allows the Command to go much faster in reverse (apparently to give RZRs a sporting chance when racing them?).
The exaust is fairly tame and could use some souping up IMO.
Anyway, keep in mind that I am just and old autocross/time trials car race guy and certainly not as accomplished or experienced as everyone else here. I am probably just as excited as most of us to get mine now..especially after seeing and driving one in a limited fashion.
I hope you can get the pics but if not, let me know.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/1000xt/
