Test: TGB Blade 600 LTX 4 × 4 EPS (2021) // Four Wheeled Bee of Taiwanese Roots

The Taiwanese TGB, which means Taiwanese golden bee in English, is a recognizable player on the scene, so of course there should be no doubt about the quality of the product. However, it seems to me that it is mostly liked by users who want to get the most for their money. And there is nothing wrong with that, of course.

I can say without hesitation that the price and appearance are its strong points. In the latest version, this four-wheeler with the proven 561cc single-cylinder 38 horsepower engine boasts a redesigned radiator grille and LED headlights.... The mask can also be removed very quickly to facilitate access to the refrigerator and thoroughly clean it after driving through muddy puddles.

Dried dirt and engine cooler are not good friends. He likes it, there is nothing to add to the image, even at the price that in the basic version - 7.490 euros.... However, for a test bench that has been fitted with the maximum equipment including an approved towbar, winch and differential lock, 8.290 euro

But a closer look shows me that he is a little lame in detail. For this money and for this class of mid-range ATVs, I would like more engineering innovations and, above all, more modern solutions. Let me explain. When I looked at the frame, the brackets, how the contacts are made and what the drawings are on the plastic superstructure, I was just a little disappointed. Maybe because the TGB uses the same chassis to build the larger and more powerful Blade 1000 LTX.... The digital gauges are also nice to look at and rich in information, but what if all the data other than the speed display is barely readable while driving.

I was also worried that when shifting the gear lever, which could be softer and with less effort, I could choose to operate the CVT gearbox, unfortunately, I was just guessing what position it was in. The only information about this was shown on the digital gauge, but it is difficult to tell if it is in the H, L, R or P position (i.e. fast driving, downshifting, reverse or parking). But suppose that over time, each driver gets used to it and feels the sensations in which position he moved the lever.

The TGB 600 LTX has basically the drive is transferred to the rear wheelset, and by pressing buttons on the right side of the steering wheel, with another somewhat unique operating principle, the driver chooses to shift to all four wheels., the gearbox and, if desired, also activates the rear and front differential locks. In fact, it is a sequence of pressing two buttons and, thus, activating the desired function. I prefer systems that include one function at the touch of a button, so you know exactly what you have turned on.

On earth, the TGB is compelling and large enough to accommodate two adults. Let me emphasize that this is an enhanced version that also contributes to reliability and stability at a slightly higher speed. There is no problem overcoming more difficult obstacles that require all-wheel drive. The engine is powerful and responsive enough, and with the gearbox it goes very far, even when it is necessary to slowly climb a slope, and metering gas with millimeter precision is essential. However, I must admit that I really don't like the engineering idea that steering wheel rotation is no longer possible when the front differential is locked.

However, this prevents the possibility of damage to the differential and servo amplifier if used incorrectly. The steering wheel in this case is very hard and allows you to go only straight. This is a solution for shorter and very difficult ascents, otherwise I recommend using a winch if it involves more difficult climbs with a change in direction. Fortunately, the equipment includes a sturdy winch.

So there is enough comfort behind the wheel for two, and the navigator is also assisted by a large backrest and armrests. The passenger position is slightly unusually biased back towards the rear axle. Therefore, very large passengers will be most satisfied with the comfort in the back seat.

However, anyone who enjoys an adrenaline-charged and dynamic ride should be disappointed. As soon as I started pushing the TGB 600 Blade harder, it turned out that it could not follow the driving dynamics fast enough. In addition to the engine, which has its limits in maximum power and torque and is therefore slightly underpowered for this four-wheeled vehicle, there is also significant weight and a large turning radius. He prefers adventure and exploration riding to sports riding on curves.

But last but not least, it is a compromise, as it is a very efficient work machine or technical equipment for foresters or farmers. In the Czech Republic, for example, such ATVs are used by the mine rescue service.... Thanks to the robust design, towing a trailer weighing up to 200 kg on the ground is easy.

• Basic data

  Sales: SBA, doo

  Base model price: 7.490 €

  Test model cost: 8.490 €

• Technical information

  engine: 561 cm³, single-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled

  Energy transfer: CVT automatic transmission, rear and four-wheel drive, reverse gear, low gear, rear and front differential locks

  Frame: steel pipe

  brakes: front 2-fold disc, rear 2-fold disc

  Suspension: front and rear individual wheel stands, double A-shaped swing arms

  Tires: front 25 x 8-12, rear 25 x 10-12

  Growth: 530 mm

  Fuel tank: 18 l; slave in the test: 9,3 l / 100 km

We praise and reproach

appearance

type approval for category B

price

LCD screen

comfort for two

big seat

the passenger is very far from the driver

when the front differential lock is on, the steering wheel is completely rigid and does not allow left-right driving

display of the position of the gear lever

clumsiness

final grade

The exterior is beautiful, modern, with LED lights on the front and back, very attractive. He's a little disappointed with the details and that the driver demands agility from him as this is a long four-wheeled vehicle. It has a lot of space, which will also appeal to taller passengers and passengers.