A bit of history…
TGB is a Taiwanese manufacturer that has been operating since 1965. Manufacturer of components for other companies. Then, the manufacture of different vehicles. In its more than 50 years of existence, this manufacturer has manufactured scooters, ATVs and side-by-sides. For 1 year now, the vehicles have been available in Canada with a few dealerships that are setting up here and there. The parent company in Canada is located in Ontario and is owned by Demon Powersports. This name may be familiar to you since this company manufactures and distributes many parts. Cardans, seals, control arms and other aftermarket parts with heavy duty capabilities.
TGB is an acronym for Taiwan Golden Bee and North America is not so much a novelty for them. Indeed, TGB is behind the first wave of ARGO‘s ATV and we see a lot of similarity with this distributor. ARGO wanted to focus on its amphibious vehicles without abandoning the ATV niche. So he outsourced the production to another manufacturer. However, the latter has never been a leading player for ATVs.
What models are available?
There are 3 different ATVs that are currently offered by TGB on Canadian land and a utility UTV that should make its debut in 2024.
Blade 600 LTX EPS
First of all, we’ll start the tour of the manufacturer’s models with the Blade 600 LTX EPS. It is powered by a 561cc single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection (EFI). This modern powertrain seems to us to be greatly inspired by other manufacturers and develops a comparable power of 45 horsepower. This means that the performance will probably be there to measure up to other manufacturers. The other specs are also aligned to be up to the competition.
Available in one version only. That is, a 2-seater model. The Blade 600 comes with generous standard equipment. Adjustable power steering, mirrors, hand guards, winch, turn signals, … are part of the basic list of included equipment.
Target 600 EPS
The Target 600 EPS is an off-road vehicle with a sporty touch. Sharing the same engine as its brother the Blade 600, the 561cc engine delivers adequate power. A shorter wheelbase gives it increased handling and these suspensions are specially calibrated for a more rhythmic ride.
Blade 1000 LTX EPS
At the top of the TGB’s ATV family, the Blade 1000 LTX EPS offers an even more powerful chassis. Equipped with a 997cc twin-cylinder V-engine, power climbs to no less than 83 horsepower. This competes well with the leading manufacturers. Again, the only possible configuration is a 2-seater model and well equipped as standard.
Vehicle for work
There is also an UTV that is set to make its debut on Canadian market for 2024. This is the Landmax 1000 EPS. A utility vehicle for work and offering 3 seats. The engine will be the same as the big TGB ATV. This is a 997cc V-twin that develops 83 horsepower. A dump body that supports 1000lbs, a 4500lbs winch and a towing capacity of 1830lbs. That’s all you need to get the toughest work done.
Modus operandi
When you look at and compare TGB’s modus operandi, you notice a lot of similarities with another Asian brand. CFMOTO offers vehicles that are very equipped with turn signals, mirrors, a winch, etc. On the other hand, the Chinese manufacturer now has an enviable position that it has worked on for several years in North America. It will certainly take just as much work and time for TGB to reach the latter.
Conclusion
To conclude this article, we must admit that there are a wide range of players in the off-road vehicle market. Some are well established, such as Polaris or Can-Am. Others are growing, such as CFMOTO, and finally, others are still in the shadows. TGB is certainly in the latter category and time will tell if it succeeds in carving out a place for itself in this competitive market.
Photo sources: TGB website.
