ABOUT 20 journalists from around Australia recently had the opportunity to test-drive some of the latest quad bikes from Can Am.

The test ride, held on Moreton Island, off the coast from Brisbane, covered all kinds of ground, including forest, steep gullies, hills, coastal country and sand dunes.

The media contingent was divided into three groups and given a run-down on the latest improvements to Can Am's all-terrain vehicles, or quad bikes, including the new Dual-Mode Dynamic Power Steering or DPS.

Riders had two bike options - the Outlander XT 650 and the 800R, with the 800R carrying the DPS option.

The 650, the first bike ridden, held traction well through the forest, gullies and hills and throughout the tight turns.

When it came time to try the 800R with DPS, the difference was noticeable straight away in the way the 800 turned and could be navigated around the track.

The DPS technology enables the rider to move through the toughest course or terrain with a simple turn of the handlebars.

It makes driving the bike easy on the arms and hands and would be ideal for farm use.

The steering is also sensitive to vehicle speeds, with greater assistance to the rider now available as the speed drops.

At higher ground speeds, the steering assistance is reduced to offer greater rider feedback.

Another feature of the DPS is what is called the Minimum/Maximum Assist mode.

The Min/Max enables the rider to select a riding mode to match riding conditions.

Maximum is ideal for slower or tough terrain, while Minimum is better suited to high speed, as it allows optimal feedback.

Next year's Outlander models also show some aesthetic improvements, with a new front fascia and new centre skid plate, plus new graphics and colour choices.

Can Am also used the day to unveil the latest product developments in its three-wheeled Spyder motorcycle, Evinrude E-Tec throttle set-up and the Sea-Doo jet ski's braking and suspension systems.

• Brian Teplicanec is an HWT staff member based in Sydney.