Ridgeline IS HORRIBLE OFF ROAD!!

decided to go and buy a beach buggy permit to go on the beach with the ridgeline. I was very very very unimpressed with its performance.
The ridgeline barely moved through the sand with the rear locked and got stuck quite a few times needing to be rocked backa nd fourth out. I tried it with the VSA on and off. Tire pressure was also lowered. It seemed as if the truck would not rev up (computer not letting all the power go to the wheels???), the tires would just slip very slowly. The trans fluid actually heated up and the light came on in the dash. and if that wasnt enough the motor actually cut off at one time. Did anyone actually take there ridge out in some real off road terrain and test it's abilitys? I have had many 4x4's Jeep,Chevys,yotas etc. I love my ridge but the 4x4 is just JUNK if you ask me. Maybe Im doing something wrong? VTM was on, tire pressure lowered and tried it with the VSA on and off. :mad: ????????? Please share your experiences!

Your mistake was locking the rear.

Your mistake was locking the rear.
If you read the manual, it will tell you to lock the rear wheels only if your stuck or about to get stuck. And you should not go past 18 mph.

Beach buggy permit??? Is it me or is it that everytime I read on here about someone speaking about how poor the 4 x 4 system is, there name is something to with a another name of vehicle, dodge, toyota, etc... Why is everyone that posts a thread about how lousy the 4x4 is,is always trying to do something out of context, or beyond the vehicles ability. Like that guy on here the other day saying the 4x4 sucked because he couldnt fly up a 30+ degree climb???
PS Those are new jersey plates on the front, where do you go beach buggy-ing in New Jersey?

I doubt the stock tires can be very effective in sand.

My experience with the Ridgeline in the sand has been quite different. Once I turned the VSA off it worked great. (The VSA was preventing me from turning as quickly as I wanted to, otherwise I probably would have just left it on.)

I also own a Jeep Grand Cherokee (which has BFG Mud Terrain tires, 5" lift, lockers, engine performance mods, etc.) and in sand the RL is as just about as good as my Jeep. In some ways better because the tires are actually wider allowing it to float on top of the sand a little more.

When it comes to serious off-roading, where you need a lot of clearance, and more than one wheel is off the ground at any given time, obviously, the Ridgeline will pale in comparison. But for what it is intended to be I believe it more than holds its own.

Beach buggy permit??? Is it me or is it that everytime I read on here about someone speaking about how poor the 4 x 4 system is, there name is something to with a another name of vehicle, dodge, toyota, etc... Why is everyone that posts a thread about how lousy the 4x4 is,is always trying to do something out of context, or beyond the vehicles ability. Like that guy on here the other day saying the 4x4 sucked because he couldnt fly up a 30+ degree climb???
PS Those are new jersey plates on the front, where do you go beach buggy-ing in New Jersey?

Very good point.

This is almost identical to a number of BS post's regarding driving in sand on another RL forum on Edmunds. Very suspicious. :confused:

Hey guys, sorry if I came off on the wrong foot. im sure this post wasn't the best 1st post to make. I was just very fustrated . I did ask if it was soemthing I was doing wrong. Lets see here. Your saying to leave the rear unlocked and then when your stuck is the only time to lock the rear? Does the computer go into a mode that cuts down the power to the wheels when the rear is locked? I love my ridge, I just hope to get this 4x4 down . The only reason I locked the rear with the VTM was because I was thinking along the lines of an air locker ,etc. Where in 4 wheeling you would want all axles locked. I am assuming with the technologly today the story is different.

So no problems in sugar sand with the VTM off? I'm sure it will struggle a little but it does move through it?? Thanks for your help! :D

Hey guys, sorry if I came off on the wrong foot. im sure this post wasn't the best 1st post to make. I was just very fustrated . I did ask if it was soemthing I was doing wrong. Lets see here. Your saying to leave the rear unlocked and then when your stuck is the only time to lock the rear? Does the computer go into a mode that cuts down the power to the wheels when the rear is locked? I love my ridge, I just hope to get this 4x4 down . The only reason I locked the rear with the VTM was because I was thinking along the lines of an air locker ,etc. Where in 4 wheeling you would want all axles locked. I am assuming with the technologly today the story is different.

So no problems in sugar sand with the VTM off? I'm sure it will struggle a little but it does move through it?? Thanks for your help! :D
We all get frustrated and need to go somewhere to vent. That's why we at the ROC are who we are. We understand because we have ALL been there. No apologies necessary.
( ever consider 6BangerRidgeline or something to that affect for a log on? After all you do own a Ridgeline right? ) :D
Just a suggestion. ;) :p

#1 thing to remember is that we are all friends here - we have great fun poking at each other (color choice seems to be the #1 "issue" - which we all know is out of jealousy because we all picked the "right" color - btw: under all of those other colors - everyones Ridgeline is Silver!)

Not knowing something about your truck is nothing to be embarrased about - we've all learned a great deal from this site and the folks who've gone before us.

The big thing I've had to learn about this truck is that because of the computer control of the 4WD, I can't think that it operates like my Dodge Cummins or my wife's Subaru (subaru spelled backwards is U R A Bus - lol). It is a front wheel drive vehicle until the speed sensors on the wheels don't match, at which point the computer starts applying power to the rear.

The other thing is that the truck's 4WD is a Predictive (as opposed to Reactive) 4WD. It ALWAYS starts from a stop in 4WD, dropping off the rears when the 'puter thinks everything is ok.

Hope this helps - enjoy your Ridge, welcome to the ROC, and keep posting!

-ridgeln

I've had no problems in the sand. I've driven it on deep sandy BLM trails here in the south west with VSA on and off. I did not air down either, but there is as much different kinds of sand as there are snow flakes. If you do need to air down I wouldn't go any lower than 15 PSI. The RL will go any where off road that its ground clearance will permit. Most people will run out courage before the RL runs out of ability.

Why did you buy a Ridgeline over a Dodge? Just curious. What convinced you the RL was superior?

Your not losing power to the wheels, it's being transferred to ALL the wheels! That's why it's spinning SLOWLY. Once you start spinning you just look like one of those dumb monster trucks showing off your horsepower..the idea is to get TRACTION..NOT spin your tires. And I have to agree with another previous post..these tires AREN'T made for sand. How long do ya' think we'll have to wait for some knobby tires in this size? lol

I've had no problems in the sand. I've driven it on deep sandy BLM trails here in the south west with VSA on and off. I did not air down either, but there is as much different kinds of sand as there are snow flakes. If you do need to air down I wouldn't go any lower than 15 PSI. The RL will go any where off road that its ground clearance will permit. Most people will run out courage before the RL runs out of ability.

Why did you buy a Ridgeline over a Dodge? Just curious. What convinced you the RL was superior?

I agree, if you get stuck it is because of you not the truck. It goes anywhere.

I have been on the beach many times, pics posted in the off road section. passed many GMs stuck, yes I stopped to help. two occasions the 4WD wasn't even working. whats up with that GM. As long as your GM is new it will work. Dodge guy, don't hit the ridge with a hammer like you would the dodge to fix it. LOL the ridge will never break, just let it drive itself, it will get you home.

Also, learn how the 4WD system works, if used as it should, you can go anywhere any "real 4WD" can barring any clearance issues.

PS. I am a long time owner of "real 4WDs and this truck does it all!

JJ

I think the other thing to consider is even though the Ridgeline has the badge of 4WD, I personally don't consider it a 4WD and therefore don't treat it as such. To me 4WD means all four wheels are locked (and loaded;)) and being powered equally or nearly equally. In my mind the Ridgeline is more of an AWD (All Wheel Drive) that will put power where it is needed.

I think that if the Ridgeline was "bogging" down or not going anywhere, the computer was trying to react to the input from the driver and the input from the vehicle dynamics. Basically the truck was saying "Whoa this is some slippery, unstable stuff" and reducing the power to maintain control. Most 4WD vehicles respond to increased power to plow and slide through slippery, unstable surfaces, while an AWD vehicle will power down to crawl out of an unsuitable situation.

Basically most people's reactions to the Ridgeline's off road capabilities have been positive. But I think that depends on your point of view. Are you trying to get to your destination safely, reliably, with a touch of fun? :D Or are you trying to get to your destination by bounding across the terrain with the power on in order to keep the momentum up so you can get there? :eek: The Ridgeline is the former and most people's perception of a 4WD is the later.

I've had real good luck with my RL on Hatteras, NC beaches. The Outer Banks have some of the softest, tire swallowing sand around. I went with 15lbs on all tires, VTM on, and 1st gear. I just barely touched the gas pedal and the RL moved right along. Not fast, like I saw Tacomas, Jeeps, and other big 4wd trucks doing, but then I didn't want to move fast. Just slow and steady got me where I wanted to go without beating me and my truck to death. Here's the link to my write-up if you'd like to check it out.
http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1672

HEy guys/Gals .Well i just wrote a huge thing and I hit a button and it got deleted! :(
SO ill make it short. My user name is based off what i love doing. Restoring old muscle cars ,partial to Mopars.
Last night i tested the ridge in sugar sand with the vtm off. At a stand still i punched it to try and get it stuck and it would not get stuck,even on sugar sand up hills. Works great when you know how to use the truck! :D
Next week im going to try it on the beach one more time and see how it does. I am just trying to test the trucks capabilitys so I know what it can do If need i have to get somewhere. She gets washed asap the day it gets dirty! As far as why I bought the truck. Honda reliability, its roomy interior, trunk storage, and technology,and it just looks so different! Thanks for the help again!

BIGBLOCKDODGE where can you go on the beach with your ridge in jersey? Or is this an after hour affair?

many places. Long beach isalnd,island beach state park,etc. You need to purchase a permit, you can get them from the towns police station.

Glad you got the 4WD figured out.

I was going to suggest that maybe the perceived lack of power when the VTM was locked was because you had to put the gearshift in 2nd to lock the VTM. When the RL is in 2nd, it stays in 2nd. I would imagine that trying to pull out in 2nd would seem like you don't have a lot of power.

I think the other thing to consider is even though the Ridgeline has the badge of 4WD, I personally don't consider it a 4WD and therefore don't treat it as such. To me 4WD means all four wheels are locked (and loaded;)) and being powered equally or nearly equally. In my mind the Ridgeline is more of an AWD (All Wheel Drive) that will put power where it is needed.

I think that if the Ridgeline was "bogging" down or not going anywhere, the computer was trying to react to the input from the driver and the input from the vehicle dynamics. Basically the truck was saying "Whoa this is some slippery, unstable stuff" and reducing the power to maintain control. Most 4WD vehicles respond to increased power to plow and slide through slippery, unstable surfaces, while an AWD vehicle will power down to crawl out of an unsuitable situation.

Basically most people's reactions to the Ridgeline's off road capabilities have been positive. But I think that depends on your point of view. Are you trying to get to your destination safely, reliably, with a touch of fun? :D Or are you trying to get to your destination by bounding across the terrain with the power on in order to keep the momentum up so you can get there? :eek: The Ridgeline is the former and most people's perception of a 4WD is the later.

Just a note, I'm not an expert but even "real 4WDs only have power to 2 tires any one time, one in the front and one in the rear, they are both limited slip so the power is position to the one with best traction. the only time you have a "locked and loaded" differential is when you can lock it! many trucks are now equiped to lock up the rear diff, exterras/chevys are the two i know of.

Just a note, I'm not an expert but even "real 4WDs only have power to 2 tires any one time, one in the front and one in the rear, they are both limited slip so the power is position to the one with best traction. the only time you have a "locked and loaded" differential is when you can lock it! many trucks are now equiped to lock up the rear diff, exterras/chevys are the two i know of.

FYI
Limited slip means both wheels turn, not one as in a standard differential. It also means one wheel will slip during turning so the vehicle will operate in a high traction environment like pavement. 4 wheel drive vehicles like a Jeep Liberty have an option for a limited slip rear and when in 4WD mode the fronts are locked and thus this mode is not recommended for pavement for the same reason VTM4 lock on the Ridgeline is not recommended for pavement.

nevadagarth may not be aware of the VTM4 lock mode which puts torque to all 4 wheels as in 4WD. I think everyone if you have not already, should watch the Gary Flint off-road video linked on this site. This is what most off the lot 4WD vehicles are designed for.

I am sure some of you have watched extreme 4x4 on Spike TV and none of those are off the lot vehicles. Even when Stacey builds up a truck on the show "Trucks!" what does he do - he puts on a lift kit and big tires and why, because those stock vehciles are not suitable to go slopping through mud and rocks without it.

And why is auto 4WD drive a problem? Its even an option on Jeeps now and Subaru has been doing it forever and probably will be despite that Tribeca thing.

Thanks Doc, you said it!

I knew/know the VTM-4 Lock modes locks it in, hence the name VTM-4 Lock . I stated that I personally don't consider the Ridgeline a 4WD vehicle in my traditional sense. No pumpkins up front or in the rear and no 4Lo and no lever on the floor to "shift" into and no hubs to lock.

I am by no means an expert in this area, but what I was referring to was the times (albeit limited) I have driven a 4WD vehicle, I have switched the vehicle (by whatever means) in to a 4-Hi or 4-Lo depending on what I thought before I got into the fun stuff. The Ridgeline does not need that. It is always ready to go where ever you reasonably want to go. What I was trying to point out (sucessfully or not) was that with the Ridgeline you just point it and go. If you happen to get stuck, then you push the button on the dash that is labeled VTM-4 Lock and crawl your way out.

My intrepretation of the initial description was the driver put the Ridgeline in VTM-4 Lock mode right away and proceeded to drive the Ridgeline like an old technology 4WD, lock it and go and keep the momentum up so you don't sink in.

I believe the manual even states to only use the VTM-4 Lock when stuck or in situations where traction is near zero.

Of course I could be wrong. :o

Doc, are you knocking the Tribeca? Also, I couldn't quite tell by your post; are you for or against auto 4WD?

I believe that lowering tire pressure past a certain point makes it impossible to deactivate the VSA.

Very true, i run at 15psi on sand, and can't deactivate the vsa. I think I will pull the 2 fuses that run the VSA next time to see what happens.

Doc, are you knocking the Tribeca? Also, I couldn't quite tell by your post; are you for or against auto 4WD?

I think subaru makes good vehicles, however their commercials are a bit too bosting where the the Tribeca is concerned. I am sure they are nice or you would not have bought one.

I think subaru makes good vehicles, however their commercials are a bit too bosting where the the Tribeca is concerned. I am sure they are nice or you would not have bought one.
The Tribeca is for my wife. It was not the first choice I would have made (probably the third), but she just earned her doctorate and deserved to get what ever she wanted. It is her fourth Subaru and we love the entire line-up that Subaru has. Out here in the mountains, Subarus are the perfect vehicle.

I too think the "Dust In The Wind" Tribeca commercial is a little far fetched. It is a great vehicle, but it did not bring anything new to the segment like the Ridgeline did.

Did you notice the front of the Volvo truck pulling the car carrier in the Tribeca commercial?? they turned the Volvo stripe in to an X.


..ahh........Photoshop.

I too think the "Dust In The Wind" Tribeca commercial is a little far fetched. It is a great vehicle, but it did not bring anything new to the segment like the Ridgeline did.

We are on the same page.

I finally went and watched the video. I will download the larger version at home. I started to read some of the comments and came across KOKIAK's response. I have read some of his other comments regarding the Ridgeline on the Temple of V-TEC website. He seems extremely knowledgeable about the Ridgeline.

Here is one of his comments that I though might be relevant to this thread:

First of all, lets talk safety: When traveling a steep hill such as the maneuver demonstrated in the video, it is best to guarantee no one is following you. On this course, there were spotters to only allow one vehicle on this section of the course at a time. If you can’t make it up a hill, the key is to back straight down to prevent getting sideways on a hill and potentially cause a roll-over.

Secondly, the demonstration was done at the end of the day after the course had been chewed up by approximately 30 runs. The surface was extremely loose from all the traffic. Earlier in the day, the Ridgeline had no problem traveling up the hill with the VSA engaged. Generally, it is always best to leave the VSA system engaged to let it direct power to the appropriate wheel. If you are unable to traverse the course, you should then disengage the VSA. In certain conditions, such as deep snow or sand, a greater degree of wheel slip is necessary than is allowed by the VSA. In that situation, the VSA will restrict engine power to reduce slip which limits the forward motion due to the system limiting wheel slip. Because the surface on this hill at the time of the demonstration was so loose, the vehicle could not maintain the necessary forward momentum. This loose surface, combined with the steep grade is why the run was repeated with the VSA turned off. This is not an indication of the capability of the vehicle; just the function of the VSA system which was working correctly and intervened.

The attempt to disable the VSA on the fly was unsuccessful due to the rough terrain. The switch location is adjacent to the cruise main switch which was operated in error as indicated on the video. This was an extremely rough and steep surface that was at the limit of adhesion with the VSA. As indicated, once you loose momentum, it is extremely difficult to re-start on a steep grade with loose soil.

My intrepretation of the initial description was the driver put the Ridgeline in VTM-4 Lock mode right away and proceeded to drive the Ridgeline like an old technology 4WD, lock it and go and keep the momentum up so you don't sink in.


Thats EXACTLLY what i did.


I also watched the video and noticed when he climbed the big hill and hit the cruize, the 2nd time he climbed it I do not believe he made it up. 3/4's of the way he hit some loose stuff and didn't really move anywhere and they quick change the camera angle and then he was already at the top of the hill? Wonder if it made it up or not??? :confused:

Of course it's horrible off road, it is not an off road vehicle, even Honda says that. If you can't sleep in the bed with the tailgate up, doesn't have the ground clearance of an off road vehicle, no skid plates and most important no low range 4wd, then in my opinion it is not a 4wd off road truck. Its sort of an awd suv without the rear roof. Now when they make an extended cab with a 6' bed, add skid plates, low range, improve the clearance and keep all the great design features they have now, I would probably buy one. I think it is intended for wet, snowy roads, and not jeep roads. Off road I would put my T100 without a locker or limited slip up against it, great low range and mucho clearance.

Please don't feed the trolls; it only encourages them.

Someone alreay touched on this but when you air down, the TPMS system re-engages the VSA - reguardless of the disable switch. This is what was most likely cutting your power.

Of course it's horrible off road, it is not an off road vehicle, even Honda says that. If you can't sleep in the bed with the tailgate up, doesn't have the ground clearance of an off road vehicle, no skid plates and most important no low range 4wd, then in my opinion it is not a 4wd off road truck. Its sort of an awd suv without the rear roof. Now when they make an extended cab with a 6' bed, add skid plates, low range, improve the clearance and keep all the great design features they have now, I would probably buy one. I think it is intended for wet, snowy roads, and not jeep roads. Off road I would put my T100 without a locker or limited slip up against it, great low range and mucho clearance.
I find it amusing that people go out of their way to complain about a vehicle that they simply shouldn't buy. It would be like saying a Subaru Forester isn't a Hummer. Well no kidding. The Ridgeline is designed to handle a mid-level off-roading experience, it wasn't designed for heavy duty off-road usage and it shouldn't be used for that. It is a 4wd vehicle not an awd vehicle as these have specific meaning and as to low gear, I have used low gear in a truck once, and I would never want to go there again, it was a good fishing spot but the ride was not worth it.

By the way the T100 has a 7.7in ground clearance, the Ridgeline has a 8.2in clearance, the Ridgeline has more power (but that would be expected given the difference in model years), and didn't come in a crew cab model. I would guess that if put to the test a stock Ridgeline would compare well to a stock T100 in most normal off roading experiences.

As to the sleeping in the bed, if you have ever done this and considered doing it again more power to you, try it in the north some time and you will quickly learn why people don't care about that feature. You can heat up the ground with your body but you will never heat up the bed of a truck with your body.

So if you want a heavy duty off road vehicle buy something else, if you want a good truck with great utility features and an excellent ride, the Ridgeline is the best there is.

Please don't feed the trolls; it only encourages them.
Oh but I like to feed the trolls, it is so entertaining sometime.

Of course it's horrible off road, it is not an off road vehicle, even Honda says that. If you can't sleep in the bed with the tailgate up, doesn't have the ground clearance of an off road vehicle, no skid plates and most important no low range 4wd, then in my opinion it is not a 4wd off road truck. Its sort of an awd suv without the rear roof. Now when they make an extended cab with a 6' bed, add skid plates, low range, improve the clearance and keep all the great design features they have now, I would probably buy one. I think it is intended for wet, snowy roads, and not jeep roads. Off road I would put my T100 without a locker or limited slip up against it, great low range and mucho clearance.

Pretty good for your first post. Did you ever drive a ridgeline or are you here just bust it up?

I think the problem is with the color choice of your RL. Honda put all their performance in the red RL"s. Just ask anyone who owns a red one. :D
But seriously, I have pulled a horse trailer w/ horse ( see prior pic posts) through creeks,back dirt roads parked in mudd with the trailer on. I did nothing but drive out. NO switching or locking just plain old driving.
Sand I think is one of the hardest surfaces for any vehicle to drive on. Unless you are on the sand at Daytona beach Florida ( which is hard enuff to be a public road) Youre gonna have trouble. Heck, even Stormy ( my horse ) stumbles and has trouble in loose sand.

Pretty good for your first post. Did you ever drive a ridgeline or are you here just bust it up?

I wanted to say something witty and funny then I decided spritegeezer gave us some pretty sound advice my lowrider buddy.



Please don't feed the trolls; it only encourages them.

If you read the manual, it will tell you to lock the rear wheels only if your stuck or about to get stuck. And you should not go past 18 mph.

Under what sub-topic is the Ladyridge thread "How to say goodbye"? Can't find it.

Under what sub-topic is the Ladyridge thread "How to say goodbye"? Can't find it.

I did a keyword search on "goodbye" and found it under Miscellaneous. Should probably be in Club X though. ;)

Of course it's horrible off road, it is not an off road vehicle, even Honda says that. If you can't sleep in the bed with the tailgate up, doesn't have the ground clearance of an off road vehicle, no skid plates and most important no low range 4wd, then in my opinion it is not a 4wd off road truck. Its sort of an awd suv without the rear roof. Now when they make an extended cab with a 6' bed, add skid plates, low range, improve the clearance and keep all the great design features they have now, I would probably buy one. I think it is intended for wet, snowy roads, and not jeep roads. Off road I would put my T100 without a locker or limited slip up against it, great low range and mucho clearance.


If it's so f**cken obvious that it will be horrible off road why would anyone buy one and then complain about it? I'm so tired of these posts. I've done a bit of off roading with Jeep and Range Rovers clubs in Colorado. Anyone that buys a Ridgeline and then complains about off road capabilities never really under stood what it takes to go off roading. E.g. ground clearance, a transfer case with a real low gear etc. Sorry for the rant but these folks are obviously trolls without a real life. If you are truly a real off roader go buy a Defender or a hummer!

I have had my Baby off-roading several times and it is excellent.......... rocky steep and really bumpy was not a problem at 9,000 plus feet
nor was hard smooth and very steep........
we have a little of everything here in Colo and it has handled everything I have thrown at it without fuss or muss........... (no snow yet)
I have even got it to do a donut of sorts on the loose flat stuff....... all four wheels going like crazy...... too much fun
It handled some hills that my old 4Runner refused to go up (crawling no less)
A little momentum goes a long way with this truck......
ALL this and handles almost as GOOD as the Wife's BMW 325Xi

I love this TRUCK................Thanks Honda !!!!!!!
About Friggin Time

I have had my Baby off-roading several times and it is excellent.......... rocky steep and really bumpy was not a problem at 9,000 plus feet
nor was hard smooth and very steep........
we have a little of everything here in Colo and it has handled everything I have thrown at it without fuss or muss........... (no snow yet)
I have even got it to do a donut of sorts on the loose flat stuff....... all four wheels going like crazy...... too much fun
It handled some hills that my old 4Runner refused to go up (crawling no less)
A little momentum goes a long way with this truck......
ALL this and handles almost as GOOD as the Wife's BMW 325Xi

I love this TRUCK................Thanks Honda !!!!!!!
About Friggin Time

I agree JRAE4, I have done some pretty amazing things with mine in the mud and it has not let me down yet. Lst weekend I was following a buddy into camp and his Silverado 4X4 was sliding all over the place. I was hoping I wouldn't have to pull him out of any of the bogs as he would have been impossible to share a camp with after that. Having just sold a "built 88 Jeep Wrangler" and now running a couple ATV's, I think I have the best of all worlds for on and off road.

Doin it in a Ridgeline........with style! :cool:

It has been awhile since I have a post here. For that matter a chance to post. And please forgive, since I am just now catching up......been away on business for a month and now just getting the time.

Anyway, Jersey plates and sand 4 wheeling. If you go to Island beach state park, you can take your vehicle in the sand so long as you have a permit. Jersey isn't all built up yet. By 2050, yes but right now there is still a tree and a patch of grass and some sand.

I agree with cal.
http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2852

I have had my Baby off-roading several times and it is excellent.......... rocky steep and really bumpy was not a problem at 9,000 plus feet
nor was hard smooth and very steep........
we have a little of everything here in Colo and it has handled everything I have thrown at it without fuss or muss........... (no snow yet)
I have even got it to do a donut of sorts on the loose flat stuff....... all four wheels going like crazy...... too much fun
It handled some hills that my old 4Runner refused to go up (crawling no less)
A little momentum goes a long way with this truck......
ALL this and handles almost as GOOD as the Wife's BMW 325Xi

I love this TRUCK................Thanks Honda !!!!!!!
About Friggin Time


thats the kind of talk I like to hear!!!!!!!!

Of course it's horrible off road, it is not an off road vehicle, even Honda says that. If you can't sleep in the bed with the tailgate up, doesn't have the ground clearance of an off road vehicle, no skid plates and most important no low range 4wd, then in my opinion it is not a 4wd off road truck. Its sort of an awd suv without the rear roof. Now when they make an extended cab with a 6' bed, add skid plates, low range, improve the clearance and keep all the great design features they have now, I would probably buy one. I think it is intended for wet, snowy roads, and not jeep roads. Off road I would put my T100 without a locker or limited slip up against it, great low range and mucho clearance.

Wow! Someone that bought a T100 and admits it! You wanna talk about the utter and complete failure of a vehicle. T100? Isnt that about how many actuall sold? A hundred? Anyone that has a T100, doesnt have any room to talk about poor design??.
:D

On other boards I belong to, somone who comes in and starts complaining about something they don't even own is barred. Maybe we should look at this here. Keeps the whining bs down. Only legitimate complaints from actual owners.:)

And yes I own a wonderful Amazon Green 2006

I agree many of the problems I have seen on other boards come down to people that "A" don't have/belong/ have any stock in what the board is about (instigators just to be instigating) or "B" they "live" for trying to put people down and can "hide" behind the animosity of the internet (ignoring them is great, it is funny to see them try to argue with themselves).

Real discussions for real problems/issues/concerns/or information/or just to talk.
This is a great online forum for our Ridgelines, keep it up.

............. and can "hide" behind the animosity of the internet .

I think you met anonymity of the internet, but I like "the animosity of the internet" better. It's certainly more reflective of discussions going on in other forums about the Ridgeline. What a bunch of sad mean little people. How can they possibly even talk negatively of any product and not have any experience with it.

How can they possibly even talk negatively of any product and not have any experience with it.

Because this is the good ole US of A and blind loyalty to a marque, especially cars and even more so trucks, is as American as apple pie. There any other marque can't possibly compare on a favorable basis. Why do you think Gary Flint fought to put the HONDA nameplate on the tailgate?

I have had my rl off road on sand without a problem and long island has some of the losest sand around aired down with no problems, my buddy has a t100 and from a stand still race he couldnt touch my rl all that rear wheel drive did was spin on the dry pavement while i was already 3 truck lengths ahead

Does the Ridgeline VTM system manage throttle position? I ask because mine acts, in that mode, like it is powering down to prevent wheel spin in deep or heavy snow. I have an Oldsmobile that has a system called 'traction control' that, amongst other things, reduces throttle response on acceleration.
If that is the case, would it work to reduce available power in sand if it sensed slippage?
PS: the Powers That Be frown on beach running around here, but we do have some gravel pits. Back in the '70's I a driving instructor with RCEME (Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers attached to a Service Battalion) We would take the Jeeps, 3/4Ton's and deuces and try to climb the sides of the pits. If the sand particles are rounded they act like little ball bearings and cause slippage and the tires would spin and dig in. If the particles were irregular we'd get wheel hop but no digging in. In fact we would deliberately try to 'dig' holes to get the 4x4s stuck for wreak and recovery training and it seems with some sand you simply could not get stuck in and other sand, no problem at all.

Does the Ridgeline VTM system manage throttle position?
The VTM-4 system does not manage throttle position. It only manages front to rear torque split. However, VSA can control throttle position if all four wheels are slipping. In extreme cases it can stall the engine. VSA can be turned off in these cases.

Allright, last weekend I had the opportunity to drive my Ridgeline(RTL) at Glamis Sand Dunes. Now before all you naysayers start up about how the Ridgeline can't be a real offroad vehicle because of things like Tires or Ground clearance let me first tell you this. I've had my '05 Pilot to Glamis on several occasions. I run through all but the largest dunes with straight street tires without airing down and have never been stuck! When I start to slip I just hit the gas! My Ridgeline on the other hand has more ground clearance and far more aggressive tires than the Pilot and due to whatever vehicle management system it has, was obnoxiously bad! I was reading this thread weeks before my trip and thought the original poster must be crazy but I now know what he was talking about. I've owned almost every brand of Truck out there and can say that this really tripped me out. Unfortunately I didn't mess around with reading the manual to see what may have been the problem and didn't remember what the solution to the problem was after reading this thread. I hope disabling the VSA will be the solution! So far I've only had this problem with extremely loose sand because I've driven it on hard dirt trails and semi rocky terrain without a hitch.

My Ridgeline on the other hand has more ground clearance and far more aggressive tires than the Pilot and due to whatever vehicle management system it has, was obnoxiously bad! I was reading this thread weeks before my trip and thought the original poster must be crazy but I now know what he was talking about. I've owned almost every brand of Truck out there and can say that this really tripped me out. Unfortunately I didn't mess around with reading the manual to see what may have been the problem and didn't remember what the solution to the problem was after reading this thread. I hope disabling the VSA will be the solution! So far I've only had this problem with extremely loose sand because I've driven it on hard dirt trails and semi rocky terrain without a hitch.
It sounds like you ran into the same situation that was in the video that a lot of people on here have viewed. The VSA can actually stall you out if you don't turn it off in a situation where you want the wheels free to spin. In sand situations you want the wheels free to spin away as necessary. So I would say it is probably because you didn't properly prepare for your off-road drive, but maybe it has something to do with the truck as well. It is rather a bit longer and larger than a Pilot, and heavier too, this can make it sink into the sand more than the Pilot did and could be part of your problem as well. Good luck, hopefully the simple button push will fix you up.

locking the rear is a no-no if you exceed 18mph

locking the rear is a no-no if you exceed 18mph

VTM-4 will not engage above 18mph or if in Drive - its like the switch does not work. So you can't mess up.

Also, don't lock the rear unless you shift down to 1st or 2nd gear!

Also, don't lock the rear unless you shift down to 1st or 2nd gear!

It won't lock unless you are in 1st or 2nd.

It won't lock unless you are in 1st or 2nd.
Or reverse.

i think my ridge does fine off-roading. I have had it in some really thick mud and haven had a problem at all. I have even tried to get it stuck, but it just mows right through it. the only complant i have is when i'm climing an incline or driving horizontal to an incline(rocky terrain) the roof makes noises. this is do to the unibody construction, but other than that my rl rips it up even on stock tires. I have never needed to use VTM-4 lock. i have only tried it out to see if it helps. it does but there is really no reason to use it unless you are stuck or something. the key to off-roading and rl is to turn the VSA off before trying anything crazy.

i think my ridge does fine off-roading. I have had it in some really thick mud and haven had a problem at all. I have even tried to get it stuck, but it just mows right through it. the only complant i have is when i'm climing an incline or driving horizontal to an incline(rocky terrain) the roof makes noises. this is do to the unibody construction, but other than that my rl rips it up even on stock tires. I have never needed to use VTM-4 lock. i have only tried it out to see if it helps. it does but there is really no reason to use it unless you are stuck or something. the key to off-roading and rl is to turn the VSA off before trying anything crazy.

Ditto, on turning the VSA off and I also agree that the VTM-4 does not really need to be on unless you are in deep doo-doo.
I may get to play with mine in the mud this weekend out in the country, we finally have some rain in the forecast here in Texas!

The VSA is pretty obtrusive in the snow also. It basically kills the power especially when cornering hard and the front end plows straight through the corner.

The VSA is pretty obtrusive in the snow also. It basically kills the power especially when cornering hard and the front end plows straight through the corner.
Doesn't it have to be obtrusive to work?

The VSA is pretty obtrusive in the snow also. It basically kills the power especially when cornering hard and the front end plows straight through the corner.
It sounds like it's doing what it was intended to do, namely to keep your RL on the road with the shiny side up.

Some real HORRIBLE OFF ROAD pictures
Me too is very disappointed that I can't do all this with the Ridgeline.

"Com'on buddy,you can do it....oops.who the @#$% planted that boulder there"
http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/stinger/images/20.jpg (http://www.MyOnlineImages.com)
"don't you worry, we'll get you back on the boulder in a jiffy....BTW, how much did you pay for your Jeep?"
http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/stinger/images/52.jpg (http://www.MyOnlineImages.com)
"this won't take long...trust me"
http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/stinger/images/60.jpg (http://www.MyOnlineImages.com)
"OK, when I say THREE....one.....two.......
http://www.MyOnlineImages.com/Members/stinger/images/7.jpg (http://www.MyOnlineImages.com)

Oh yeah. Looks like a ton of fun.

Thats why I sold my Jeep and went with the HONDA ATV's, I loved it but my body parts didn't.
I also got tired of explaining myself to my better half when she would ask," You went (down,over,through,across...) there WHY?":rolleyes:

It's strange that having severe car problems in the middle of no where is fun to some people. I don't get it.

Who says the Ridgeline is horrible off road?

http://www.we-todd-did-racing.com/wetoddimage.wtdr/wOTk0NjUzNnM0MTNkZmQzMXk1NDE%3D.jpg

Tried the ridge on the beach again- just aint cut out for it. The pics you guys show of your ridges on the beach must be some very hard/puny sand. If you try stoping on a jersey beach , your history! The truck just wont go through it. It works great everywhere else off road but the sand it cannot handle. To give you an example once your stuck in the sand its like your in park giving it gas trying to go but going nowhere. I guess the computer senses all the wheels sliiping and just freaks out?? The VTM does absoultely nouthing. I would love to hear from some other jersey guys and there experiences on the beach. I dont think bigger wider tires would help b/c the computer will not let the truck get up to speed.
Did you turn off VSA and air down your tires? Doesn't sound like it based on your comment concerning the computer not letting the truck get up to speed.

Ground clearance isn't everything.

I have a Trailblazer 4wd with a G80 locking back end. Its ground clearance probably is similar to the Ridgeline (maybe a hair higher), but it has a shorter wheelbase, a true low range 4x4, and enough room in the wells for some BFGoodrich All Terrains. I have approched the limits of the Trailblazer's off roading a few times...and I think a Ridgline could do well in those situations with a little work.

Trailblazers are by no means a mountain goat, but I am trying to prove that it is considerably better than a Ridgeline while offering the similar ground clearance. It really wouldn't take much work on Honda's part to put out a decent off roader here. A different back end, maybe bigger tires...

The whole reason I like the ridgeline is that it will handle exactly what I need it to do- no overkill. If it doesn't...then I will have a cell phone to call for help and lockable storage for a shovel and chain...and decent tow hooks to pull me out (are you listening, GM?).

Well given that most trucks that are great of even decent off-road are horrible on road I'll take the Ridgeline 99 out of 100 times. I think that Honda had this in mind when the bought the truck. I'd probably guess that they knew that very few people needed those capabilities.

If i drive up North for the Winter I'm confident that I'll do far better in the snow than any 2 wheel drive or RWD truck.

On smooth open roads I'm happy having a truck that handles like a BMW.

If i drive up North for the Winter I'm confident that I'll do far better in the snow than any 2 wheel drive or RWD truck.




Or any part time 4WD truck for that matter.

FL_Ridge, I do drive in the winter in the snowbelt in the lee of the Great Lakes :eek:. I can honestly say that my 'ridge is the best vehicle I have ever driven in the snows up here (except for the '66 Walters, but that beast was no where near as comfortable :D ).

Well given that most trucks that are great of even decent off-road are horrible on road I'll take the Ridgeline 99 out of 100 times. I think that Honda had this in mind when the bought the truck. I'd probably guess that they knew that very few people needed those capabilities.



Exactly! The truck rides great. Only some GM trucks ride that well, but none handle like the Ridgeline. The tradeoff is off road capability.

Any truck maker: Toyota, Nissan, Isuzu, GM, Ford...they will all tell you that 4x4 actuators, switches, transfer cases, and low range hardware are very troublesome.
GM just extended warranties on those parts to 100,000 miles (which is comforting), but everyone knows that low range trucks tend to get jammed into 4low or sometimes don't even shift into 4wd.

Honda made an idiot proof system. All wheel drive tends to function properly for a longer period of time than any system with options.

[QUOTE=DoctorJ]FYI
I think everyone if you have not already, should watch the Gary Flint off-road video linked on this site. This is what most off the lot 4WD vehicles are designed for.


Can anyone tell me where the Gary Flint video link is.. I can't seem to find it.
Thx bunches!

FL_Ridge, I do drive in the winter in the snowbelt in the lee of the Great Lakes :eek:. I can honestly say that my 'ridge is the best vehicle I have ever driven in the snows up here (except for the '66 Walters, but that beast was no where near as comfortable :D ).

I agree %110 with flathead. I have owned/driven several other 4x4's and AWD vehicles in snowy/terrible road conditions and my RL is heads and shoulders above anything I have every driven on slippery roads.

Talking about off roading/towing and the like...A couple weeks ago I had a co-worker (Who owns a plus cab 4x4 Silverado) kinda giving me little bit of a hard time about my RL. He said something to the effect, "Yeah...I'd really like to see you take your RL out on some rocky 4x4 trail or try and haul a horse trailer with 7000 lbs. of animal in the back". I said, "Have you ever taken your Chevy out on a rock trail or pulled 7000 lbs. of anything around with it?" (I knew he hadn't because he babies truck...even more than I baby my RL) He said, "Well....no...but that's not my point...I have the ability to..and I could if I wanted to". I said, "EXACTLY my point....I don't EVER plan on 4x4ing, with my RL, or any other vehicle for that matter, and I don't own 7000 lbs. worth of horse flesh... so why would I buy a vehicle just so I could say I COULD do it if I WANTED to?!? That just doesn't make any sense. You use your vehicle just like I use mine...hauling the family around, driving back and forth to work, and making the occasional run to Home Depot or hauling yard waste away. Only differences: you pay for it more at the pump and my kidneys don't ache after the ride". He started to say something.....and then he just kinda shook his head in agreement and walked away.

I think some folks get a little caught up in how many foot lbs. of torque, how much ground clearance, or how many horses they have under the hood when they are talking about trucks. What gets lost in the conversation sometimes is how people actually use their trucks: ie, how many hours you spend on the highway/paved streets with them and how many hours you spend hauling stuff. For the most part there are lots of full-sized pickups out there without a scratch in their beds. And I bet alot of those haven't seen a dirt road, let alone a rock trail.

So, as far as I am concerned, those folks out there can keep their rock-climbing machines and their kidney-busting 3/4 tons. I have a vehicle that fits my lifestyle perfectly: It's called a Ridgeline.

So, as far as I am concerned, those folks out there can keep their rock-climbing machines and their kidney-busting 3/4 tons. I have a vehicle that fits my lifestyle perfectly: It's called a Ridgeline.

I couldn't agree more. I had a full size Bronco until it died last month and I bought my 2007 RTL and I find that this truck can satisfy everything that I will ever need from it, but with TONS more benefits than than the traditional truck.

Don't you get the feeling like Honda was following you around and designed this truck just for you sometimes?

Don't you get the feeling like Honda was following you around and designed this truck just for you sometimes?

Yep! Exactly!!! :D

I agree in that this truck was designed for MY lifestyle. I looked at getting an FJ Cruiser, but opted for the comfortable ridw and handling of the RL instead.
Most of my driving is to and from work . The functionality and handling of the RL was for me(even though I loved the FJ too).

CT,

Did you compare the RL to the Tacoma 4x4? Thats my big hangup..I can't go drive them right now or I will do something that I regret....buy too soon. I really like both trucks equally, but would select the RL on a tie.

:cool:

Spongecop:

Unless you are doing super heavy duty 4W stuff, there is no comparison... Then you need the FJ40 anyway. As much as I like Toyotas, and I've had more than a few, they don't currently make a ride like the Ridgeline.:D

Sponge,
Test drove a Tundra, Tacoma and even an Fj Cruiser 4x4.
While they were all good, made well ,they had a distinctive "Truck/off road"
feel to them. Since I use my truck as a weekend warrior, my main decision was comfort and ride for my commute. I also like the all wheel drive and stability assist which was standard. Throw in all the safety ratings and equipment and I bought the day after the test drive. I also checked out the Titan, which I liked but was too much truck for me to utilize. It really comes down to what you will mainly use it for. I have a '94 Nissan 2wd pickup with almost 200k still going. I bought the RL figuring I should spoil myself after 12 years.

Sounds good, I mainly commute and will need to haul dirt bikes and landscaping material. My son and I go hunting and fishing but not in extreme off road conditions. Really i am just waiting to pay off one more bill and I will go pick up an RTL in January.....can't wait and neither can my 92 Suburban w/180k.

Sounds good, I mainly commute...l. My son and I go hunting and fishing but not in extreme off road conditions.

Ditto here. I needed a vehicle for my daily commute, only light off-road requirements for my hunting needs and something to haul some mulch in a few times a year along with a few other occasional hauling needs.

The Ridgeline was SPECIFICALLY designed for such needs, not as a truck for the 2% (or whatever minuscule number) of the population that actually DOES any serious off-roading.

Few things more irritating than someone buying a product for which it was not designed and then complaining when it doesn't do well in that task. :mad:

When I read the first post I was going to just sit back and laugh. Then I read the continuing saga and now I just have to add one statement.

I used to race moto-x and hare scrambles. Each required a different setup as to the type of motorcycle that I rode in that event. Reading the whole thread makes me want to go get the FJ1200 Crotch-Rocket out of the garage and go run an enduro with it. Hell, if you can try to use a Ridgeline for a Swamp Buggy, then I should have no trouble in using the Crotch rocket for the swamp also.....
Point is either buy what you should or shut up!!!!!!!!!!!!!:mad:

My Ridge does what it is suppose to and that is why I bought it and am extremely impressed with it !!!:eek:

COME RIDE WITH ME, I'LL SHOW YOU OFF ROAD CAPABILITIES!

I've had my ridge in 10 inches of muck and the truck just stopped. I locked it in and backed up about 10' and then went forward 11'. After about 10 minutes of this I worked my way up an embankment and got out.
So just for giggles the next week I found myself stranded from civilization by a flash flooded dirt road. There was, I found out later or I wouldn't have tried it, about 25 inches of water and the dirt road came up dry about 100 yards away. I figured, what the heck, its a Honda. My wife was holding onto the door frame handle and the dashboard as I locked 'er in and went into the water. About 20' from the dry dirt the Ridge bogged a little so I just gassed it and out we came. The only problem I had was some dirt got in the brakes and they whined for a while.
The mud thing was a whole other problem though. I had to take off the front tires and dig stones out of the brakes and get under the truck with a hose to clean out the skid pans and frame.
Any truck that will do what I demand is O.K. in my book.
Oh, by the way, this was two trips to get to my new house in Wittman, Arizona. You know, that place where it doesn't rain......

I love going off roading when ever I can. It's exciting to drive on the lawn and the dirt roads......... I still can't get the VSA to kick on...... Maybe this winter I will try.....

People are hilarious.
I got mine to haul my bike and for all the cool features. My Honda CBR600RR sure travels in style. My old truck fit into what some people here have called "real" 4x4's had the 4hi and low on floor board and actually had to get out and "do the ugly" that is turn the lock on the wheels outside. The ridge has far surpassed the nissan in every aspect. Course I was already on the fringe for getting one of those "foreign cars" with nissan, but I looked at titans and frontiers and the fronteir didn't come close to my ridge. I'm glad it will do some "off road" stuff if need be, but like most of us I bought it for its features comfort and ride. I'll never go back to this...

My experiences off-road was with my 2006 Ridge LX in the bush area of Muskoka. I ventured off onto a steep grade of loose sand and was impressed with the way the LX dug in. Once at the top of the hill it was fun to 4 wheel around the rock and VW bug sized sand moles. The trick was to let the Honda decide when to transfer power to the rear. A real departure from my Yota experiences. The Ridgeline doesn't take well to falling maple trees though.
With no transfer case it's not as controllable on the steep descents

MAC


2007 Ridgeline LX

Really have enjoyed the thread and wanted to add a couple of elements. Agree that people need to select the vehicle that meets their needs and quit judging others but I am interested in understanding the differences and problems with the Ridgeline.

One thing that I learned as a teenager was the TV news magazine about the "roll over" problem with the Jeep. My dad laughed said of course they roll over easy what did the owners expect. He had driven jeeps and broncos for years and they have lots of ground clearance and small turning radius. They also have high center of gravity and short wheel base, great if that is what you need bad if you might roll over.

The Ridgeline may not have the best ground clearance but my ridgeline will spend 90% on city streets and highways and is safer with regard to rollover hazards.

My other point is vehicles are different and drive different. Pilots need to become checked out in each aircraft that they fly. Why do people think that they can jump from their 3500 ram to a Ridgeline and expect it to drive the exact same way? For me I will never drive the Ridgeline in sand but I do snow ski and will be using it in snow and want to know both how to drive the Ridgeline in snow and how to set and use the controls.

I'll be out their reading and learning.

i have gone to a place here that is extremly sandy (fine sugar type sand) and drove all around it without any trouble even spots that i thought i might get stuck. also that was all stock with tire presure at 36 psi vsa disengaged and engaged and vtm-4 locked and unlocked and never once got stuck or even close to it. i might go there this sunday and snap some photos of the really deep sand with the rl in it. i will bring a friend just in case i do get stuck,

I actually thought the Ridge did pretty good in the sand. I live here on Maui and we took two Ridgelines, a tundra and a Ram 3500 to this beach where the sand is so fine , it's like powder. The Ram did the worst. I think mainly due to it's weight and lousy stock tires. The Tundra did very well. And out of the two Ridgelines...My friend got stuck and I got out just fine. The funny part was that I was following him. I started with my VSA off. He did not. The same thing happened to him as well. The light came on and his engine died. We had to wait a while for it to cool down and rocked it back and fourth to get it out. I sell these things and I tell my customers that it is for medium duty off road. When i actually bought one myself and tested it out, I was very impressed.

My other point is vehicles are different and drive different. Pilots need to become checked out in each aircraft that they fly. Why do people think that they can jump from their 3500 ram to a Ridgeline and expect it to drive the exact same way? For me I will never drive the Ridgeline in sand but I do snow ski and will be using it in snow and want to know both how to drive the Ridgeline in snow and how to set and use the controls.

I'll be out their reading and learning.

bl....the best thing to do in the RL on snowy/icy roads is just let the RL do it's thing. Leave the VSA on and drive. It's a little disconcerting at first. Example: You are on slippery/snow roads..you come to a Stop sign, you put on your blinker to go left, you crank the wheel and step on it. You start taking the turn and...all of a sudden...you think there is something wrong with your truck. It "bogs down"...you step harder on the gas, but you don't speed up....if anything it feels like you have slowed down even more...but your tires aren't spinning and you make the turn in a very controled manner...and, as soon as you straighten out, your truck accelerates on the slippery roads very nicely, and you are on your way.

The above discription may be a little simplistic, but I think you get the idea. Long story short, the RL is very good in the snow. Oh, and if you want to spin the tires, maybe do some 4-wheel power slides, you can turn off the VSA and have some fun! :D

Thanks for the info. We are currently planning the winter ski trips and will be checking it out over the next few months :p . Will be really checking it out if we get snow and ice down here at Seattle (sea level). :D

Added point to CD....

I was turning right through a 3 foot snowdrift....

VSA was on and it bogged down to get grip... as in his description. To keep my momentum going I should have turned off the VSA in the turn to get through the snowdrift keeping the momentum going then switching the VSA back on after getting out of the snowdrift.

I can't wait for more snow this winter to do some more experimenting.
It is fun to drive in the snow, just a different feel than with a front wheel drive vehicle. As in the front wheel drive I used to pump the gas... spin grip spin grip spin grip pump pump pump keep momentum going... can't do that in the RL. The RL will have turn off VSA turn on VSA depending on the situation. For most Highway driving... VSA is ALWAYS on.

:)

Good points, CU. I guess my point being, like you said, for most slippery/snowy driving conditions, leave the VSA on. Unless you are traveling way too fast or are doing some severe manuvering, the VSA will keep you on the road/safe.

As I said before, the RL is the most solid-feeling vehicle, on snow/ice, that I have ever driven. With that being said, just don't get over-confident. No matter what vehicle you drive, and no matter which way you look at it, it's still rubber on ice. Use common sense.

Letting some air out of the tires is key for great sand performance.

RidgeLI

The previous posts are correct. When in sand you MUST air down the tires to 10-15 lbs. or less....I have seen AWD mini vans on the beach. The key is not to let the tire dig in.. A hard tire ( one that is fully inflated ) will dig in.. A soft tire will float on top of the sand...When you are on the beach you can tell who air's down their tires. The deep tire marks....RUTS... are people that do not air down and then you see tire marks that are only an inch or two deep These are the people that air down.
But, I always wondered if This would work on mud and snow ? I did air down once during a snow storm to about 20 lbs and the truck had no problems.... Plowed thru some drifts.... I just wondered if it worked in the mud ???

Check out my Ridge fresh off the lot! (http://www.sbcompserv.com/images/ridgeline/err.html)

Check out my Ridge fresh off the lot! (http://www.sbcompserv.com/images/ridgeline/err.html)
Nice Carlnunes !!!!! Very Nice !!! :cool:

Check out my Ridge fresh off the lot! (http://www.sbcompserv.com/images/ridgeline/err.html)

Damn, that's a nice truck. It looks like mine, except for the color! :D

Mine's going to see some logging roads over the holler-day weekend. I'll send some pics.

I haven't hit any sand. But the germans use pea gravel for everything. They have been doing some construction on post and where they built a new back gate- the dirt raod is all torn up. I help of course. I drive the ridge like a Duke boy. Tried it with the VSA on and off. Never had a problem. Actually with it off I was able to slide the A** end dirt track style. Real fun. Muddy as hell, and never got stuck. Could something be wrong with his Ridge?

I know the original auther has reversed his original opinion but I thout I'd offer my 2 cents.

I have a Jeep Grand Cherokee with Quadra Drive. My wife enjoys a 2006Pilot. Last week we had some run of the mill snow that iced up our driveway pretty well.

Since the Pilot was new, I thought I'd compare the Jeep and the Pilot on our very steep driveway. The ice was so slippery that walking down it was tough... almost went feet up like a cartoon taking out the trash.

I backed the Pilot down the drive and tried to work my way back up from a dead stop. No dice. I'm pretty good with off road and winter driving but there was no way the Pilot was going up - until I locked up the rear end. To my surprise I inched up a glare ice driveway with careful throttle modulation. The VSA on and off was not a factor... I tried both. Both worked.

Ok.. now time for the Jeep. Same conditions... but iced up even more because the Pilot wheelspin on the first try. I almost made it up but could not use throttle... too much torque. I tried low gear at idle and locked front and rear. I could not make it up the driveway. Surprised? I was.

I went back to the Pilot. With the rear locked and careful use of the throttle, I walked right up.

Went back to the Jeep. Still could not make it up from a dead stop... had to back down and make a running start.

I now this is not "off road" but it set my mind at ease about how well a Honda 4wd system might work in real world conditions. I can only guess that a Ridgeline would have a similar result.

The Jeep is still an amazing vehicle. Where horsepower and a tough drivetrain matters, it's probably better than a Pilot or RL. For just getting up a flat but slipperly surface, they were about the same.

Enjoy your RL's.

I have driven Chevy 1500 Z-71 4WD for many years before my daily use of the RL. Still have one. I regularly drive up embankments/sideslopes/ditches. On dirt/grass, the RL is an amazing climber! Definitely, it's strong suit. :D

I went to Glamis this past weekend without any problems. The Ridgleline was the one relible thing about this past weekend. After our visit to Glamis, I am planning on a lift, bigger tires, side steps, a Honda ATV, and Bull Bar.

Check out my Ridge fresh off the lot! (http://www.sbcompserv.com/images/ridgeline/err.html)

nice post :cool:

decided to go and buy a beach buggy permit to go on the beach with the ridgeline. I was very very very unimpressed with its performance.
The ridgeline barely moved through the sand with the rear locked and got stuck quite a few times needing to be rocked backa nd fourth out. I tried it with the VSA on and off. Tire pressure was also lowered. It seemed as if the truck would not rev up (computer not letting all the power go to the wheels???), the tires would just slip very slowly. The trans fluid actually heated up and the light came on in the dash. and if that wasnt enough the motor actually cut off at one time. Did anyone actually take there ridge out in some real off road terrain and test it's abilitys? I have had many 4x4's Jeep,Chevys,yotas etc. I love my ridge but the 4x4 is just JUNK if you ask me. Maybe Im doing something wrong? VTM was on, tire pressure lowered and tried it with the VSA on and off. :mad: ????????? Please share your experiences!You shouldn't have bought that cheaper ridgeline, They probably put the cheaper 4x4 in it to match the cheap wheels, and the cheap door handles and mirrors, Why do people even buy those things like that, They look so cheap.:D

Took the RL to Juno TX for several days in mid Nov (2006). The ranch I stayed at was 10 miles from the nearest paved road. The truck did great on the rocky hills and friends who drove it were impressed at how 'sure footed' it was. Left it in D w/VSA on the whole time. No problem.

Late December (2006) I was at our lease southeast of San Antonio and it rained pretty good. The dirt roads were very muddy and the other trucks (2 wheel drive, one Chev, one Ford) got stuck immediately. The Ridge had no problem and never got stuck during the 3-day stay.

The VSA light came on quite a bit initially and became a nuisance so I turned it off. Later I noticed with the VSM locked, there were thud noises coming from the wheel suspension area every so often. The truck seemed to work best with the VSA off, and VSM unlocked. The others and I were very impressed with the way the ridge performed off-road. My truck was drenched in mud from roof racks down. I'm one happy camper.

Only had the Ridge a couple of months, so I haven't had it to Vermont where me and some buddies do some fun off-roading, also, this is the LAMEST winter I ever remember in NY, where's the freakin' SNOW???--can't wait to actually drive the thing on something other than dry pavement--had a Jeep Grand Cherokee for years and really want to compare the drive to the Ridgeline's.--someday, I hope to let you know what fun it was....

I have done some serious beach driving deep sand hills and all. I have had no problems. I have the Michelin tires maybe thats the key I have never and I mean never aired down. I took vsa of vtm on and went through with no problems. In the snow it was killer.

To those that keep requesting where in New Jersey one would actually take their Ridgeline on the beach here is a link listing all of the locations it is possible as well as the locations that do not have access.

Compiled by the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association Protecting Beach Access Since 1954 (http://www.njbba.org/beachaccess.htm)

There are miles upon miles of beach access for four wheel drives in Jersey as well as Long Island in New York. Also , there is a gawd awful, crowded, short area of access, in Gateway National Park in Queens, New York. ALL of these areas require special permits and in some areas they will lock you up for being on the beach without the proper permit.

For those that don't realize it, the original use of four wheel drive vehicles on the East Coast was for beach access and surf fishing decades ago.

Compared to most vehicles I have owned, such as Tacomas and Froniters, both of which have better ground clearance, wider tires and true four wheel drive . . . the Ridgeline is without a doubt, not as capable as other trucks in it's size class for more demanding beach driving on a regular basis.

That's just the way it is . . .

The Ridgelines storage capacity is perfect for such uses, as well as for hauling around gear, but the ground clearance and All Wheel / 4 Wheel drive system are simply not as good in true off road scenerios.

If Honda had chose to improve those areas we would all be paying a great deal more money for the trucks now. Everyone would have them because they would then be "perfect". . .

I don't want to bring up an old thread, but I kind of knew it wasn't a "hard core" 4x4 before I bought it....don't most who purchase a Ridge understand its limitations and strengths?

I don't want to bring up an old thread, but I kind of knew it wasn't a "hard core" 4x4 before I bought it....don't most who purchase a Ridge understand its limitations and strengths?

Whoa... there's nothing in my sales contract that says I have to "understand" anything! Are you trying to make me think? ;) :p :cool: