Hunting Washington Forum

Equipment & Gear => Power Equipment & RV => Topic started by: bigdub257 on December 05, 2020, 12:43:09 PM

Title: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bigdub257 on December 05, 2020, 12:43:09 PM: Checking these out along with the newer 520 model that is coming out in January. Anybody have one of these or know somebody that does and have any feedback? Also, any input on particular Honda dealers in WA, OR or ID that you have had good experiences with? Feedback/comparison on other brands/models that have the 50" width would also be appreciated. I'm leaning towards the Honda because of the drivetrain setup but am a little concerned it may be a bit under powered.
Thanks!
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bornhunter on December 05, 2020, 12:58:18 PM: Tagging along here as I have been researching the same type machine. I too like the honda 50 inch but not much power. Can Am has a 50 inch in 800 and 1000 but I dont know anything about Can Am. My buddy has a small ranch in MT and has thr Can Am and is real happy with it.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HUNTINCOUPLE on December 05, 2020, 01:14:56 PM: Honda =workhorse. CanAm =workhorse+Cadillac. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: turkey buster on December 05, 2020, 02:23:55 PM: I bought one this past spring, I like it a lot its a very capable machine, surprisingly roomy for a 50" machine, Im a big guy and my wife and I ride all over without being cramped, I like the manual/auto shift feature, yes it is a bit under powered but to be fair I put bigger tires on it for better clearance so that robbed a bit of power, it will still hit the 40mph rev limiter just lacks on the hills, also the drive train is noisy because it has a transmission, not enough negatives to be disappointed in it though,
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 05, 2020, 06:06:32 PM: Been pitchin nickles on buying one. I would like to put traxs on it but I wonder if it would have enough power to spin them.
I like the idea of the cvt transmission instead of a drive belt.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 07:20:57 PM: No front diff lock is a biggie

Power steering would be mandatory with tracks, and tracks really need a diff lock to work best

top speed pretty low, runs about 35 mph, or you bounce off the 40 mph governor

not sure you'd want tracks on that, needs more power (and diff lock to throw power at all 4 tracks)

I couldn't handle the slow - it would drive me nuts! :chuckle:

I'd rather chug along at 50+ than revved out at 40
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Emptyhanded on December 05, 2020, 08:26:04 PM: I bought a used 2016 early this fall and love it. It’s perfect for the wife and I to putt around logging roads during hunting season. Like was mentioned, it’s not going to win any races. For a hunting set up, getting from one spot to another (not at 45 mph), it’s perfect. The paddle shifters and gears are pretty handy for engine breaking on grades, but obviously not as smooth as the cvt set ups. We considered a 4 wheeler due to width, but ended up finding the pioneer and couldn’t be happier.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 05, 2020, 08:42:14 PM: I have seen the ads stating that this or that atv will do 65+. I not sure I want to go that fast on the roads up there. As I have become more mature I have lost some of my adventurous spirit.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 08:48:29 PM: Ya, but a 65mph rig will do 40 a lot better than a 40mph max vehicle is all I'm sayin.

Don't hafta do 65

You asked about tracks, I think diff lock is kinda mandatory for that, and power steering.

I think It'd be good if it stays on a person's property, or short jaunts. I think it would be good towing a small disk too., food plot stuff.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 05, 2020, 08:50:53 PM: Looking at the pioneer 1000 also but it is a little fatter.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:01:25 PM: I wonder why the pioneer 700 does 45, but the 1000 does 67mph

Big jump, considering the P500 does 40

Must be the chassis width and suspension. 1000 has a completly different chassis I bet.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:02:12 PM: I seen a lot of Honda P1000's in Idaho, very popular.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 05, 2020, 09:03:22 PM: The 500 is 50 inches wide and the 1000 is 63. So I'd guess it is a bit better for stability.

And I think I will be able to get out of it easier than some of the other manufacturers models.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 05, 2020, 09:06:45 PM: Having owned a 50" 60" and wider I can say 50" are very tipsy rough stuff or off camber. Ride is much rougher also. No way on the tracks. Even with gear reduction the low HP 500 with open diff it would be waste of $4500. tracks = mistake. Go Can am or RZR900 if ya want tracks, speed and comfort. Honda is tougher, rougher, slower and cheaper. Likely better built utv as well but not as capable, not even close. Great utility work utv. RZR also has much more aftermarket stuff, something Honda really sucks at. CF has a 50" but I know nada on them. EPS required for tracks as stated.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:10:11 PM: I been thinking about sxs too, wife wants one and she'd never go fast on it.

If I got her a 70mph hotrod, she might go 40-45

But if I got her a 40mph max sxs, she might go 25-30 on it, and that would drive me insane.

Engine noise and harshness being what it is

Aslo thought about the ACE, single seater.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:11:59 PM: Quote from: Mudman on December 05, 2020, 09:06:45 PM
Having owned a 50" 60" and wider I can say 50" are very tipsy rough stuff or off camber. Ride is much rougher also. No way on the tracks. Even with gear reduction the low HP 500 with open diff it would be waste of $4500. tracks = mistake. Go Can am or RZR900 if ya want tracks, speed and comfort. Honda is tougher, rougher, slower and cheaper. Likely better built utv as well but not as capable, not even close. Great utility work utv. RZR also has much more aftermarket stuff, something Honda really sucks at. CF has a 50" but I know nada on them. EPS required for tracks as stated.

I like the new rmax 1000 wolverines
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 05, 2020, 09:18:10 PM: First time I drove the ACE I rolled it in the field. Brand new, friends. Had to replace some plastic. I started with quads for years. Sport 450 to 4x4 850. Then sxs Kawa. Then rzr900 back to Kawa Teryx4 then Kawa KRX sport. Now I am moving on to Can Am Defender limited 6 seats heat AC Cab. RZR was 50" and I rolled it over many times at slow tech stuff. It also tried to start fire (wire to ignition switch arc) in shop all by itself. Very fun quick and capable but I not a fan of RZR. All 3 Kawa have been tough reliable capable great utvs. I abused em on occasion. No serious breaks. No burned belts etc. Loud and warm they are. Now I want some comfort for family and quiet please!
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:19:23 PM: Also thought ablut a good used rhino 700 with eps

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 05, 2020, 09:26:46 PM: IF new RMAX had a hard cab heater ac I would call it near perfect UTV! Dunno why some manufactures are slow to do this. Can am Polaris are killing it with theirs! So darn long though.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:32:42 PM: Naw, I'd want to track it so lightweight as possible is good, so no AC

Heat would be nice, they make aftermarket heaters

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:55:49 PM: Options pretty limited on 50"

Pretty much all RZR's I seen in Idaho that were 50", can't remember seeing a Honda P500

But most SXS weren't 50" that I seen, all the gates had a wider trail atound them, even the gates with poles concreted at 50" on dedignated usfs utv trails had a different trail through the bush that was wider going around it.

Not that I condone riding a too wide sxs on Idaho trails, just saying you'd be in rare company doing so.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 06, 2020, 08:56:35 AM: I had thought this would be handy for checking a few traps and hauling them. Especially when the county snow plow blocks the road. An enclosed utv I think is the perfect fit.

Or after the fresh snow out looking for the cougar track before they reach the 2 cat quota. :chuckle:

Mudman I not sure what a CF is.
Carbon fiber? Could freeze 😫 cold faces
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 09:19:53 AM: https://cfmotousa.com/side-x-sides

I don't know much about them either, I tend to shy away from off brands

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 09:41:07 AM: With the 500 and its low clearance and smaller tires I think anything deeper then 12-14" would likely be a problem so Tracks would be needed in snow. I would consider something larger in the 60" class with an 800cc engine or bigger lcoking front diff, power steer EPS and at mininum a soft cab enclosure and heater factory or aftermarket. Price points would be tough of course in comparison to Pioneer 520. The Yamaha 850 wolverine Cab model or Ranger Cab model or Defender(no lock front diff stock form). Maybe a RZR sport 900 with aftermarket soft cab heater? Depends what ya need n $. Pioneer 1000 is a good one too but not full front locker as it uses computer n brakes to do that.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mtnwalker on December 06, 2020, 09:45:24 AM: Our p500 has been great so far. It has been to CO and 3 trips to ID with us. Very capable little machine, does better than I expected in the snow. Goes dang near anywhere due to the small size. We still have the stock tires on it but 12-16" of snow this year was not an issue, I do plan on putting taller tires on it to gain a little clearance. We did get it stuck once but its so light I was able to push it out while the wife drove, no shoveling or winch necessary. We don't sport ride ours or anything, basically just use it for transport to trailheads etc when the weather gets too nasty for the pickup. I don't think they're under powered if you ride them how they're designed to be ridden, but where the power becomes an issue for me is I like to cruise it at lower rpms because it gets really loud when you start revving it out, and it doesn't have enough low end to cruise very fast on steep inclines or in deep snow. Seems like you're back and forth in the gears constantly. 25 is about max comfortable cruise speed on gravel roads etc before you start getting into the higher revs and lots more noise. If I were sport riding it that wouldn't be an issue. Ours is a 2 seater with soft cab and it doesn't leave much room for gear, heater etc in there with 2 people. Those hour-plus runs before daylight can get mighty cold when it's like 10 degrees out :chuckle: Eventually we plan on going bigger, I was really hung up on the 50" thing when we were shopping, but so far it has yet to benefit us on any of our trips. :twocents:
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 06, 2020, 10:04:24 AM: When I am looking at the Craigslist ads. I see that a lot of them have had what I think is major motor work. Either new top ends or the motor has been replaced. I had this summer the opportunity to push it on a trailer. The driver said that it sounded like it grenaded and he was done.

I am sure milage will vary but how many miles should you get out of one 🤔
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 10:14:08 AM: Quote from: Ridgeratt on December 06, 2020, 10:04:24 AM
When I am looking at the Craigslist ads. I see that a lot of them have had what I think is major motor work. Either new top ends or the motor has been replaced. I had this summer the opportunity to push it on a trailer. The driver said that it sounded like it grenaded and he was done.

I am sure milage will vary but how many miles should you get out of one 🤔
Are you talking about a particular brand or model you see on craigslist?

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 10:17:19 AM: https://lewiston.craigslist.org/snw/d/lapwai-2016-yamaha-wolverine/7221420534.html

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: jrebel on December 06, 2020, 10:26:39 AM: I have the pioneer 1000-5 and it is amazing. It is almost paid off and my next one will be the pioneer 500. It is basically a two sweeter 500 quad. It will fit in the back of your truck ad meet the 50 inch requirement for Idaho. It can be made street legal in washington (depending on where you live). Did I mention it it a HONDA!!!!! No belts to worry about and they should run forever. It is not a rip roaring hot rod machine.....if you want that go with the Honda talon. If you want to travel in deep snow, buy a snowmobile. I have yet to see a side by side or quad that likes much more than a foot of snow.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 11:12:40 AM: How do you Honda owners feel about the open non locking front diff.? Personally its a big deal No Go for me but I am in process of buying can am without front diff lock so Im hypocrit. I plan to add the locker soon though. I am big Honda fan, but this has always been a problem I have with Honda. UTV can handle snow. My Teryx had 2" lift and I was good with 16" snow. My KR1000 has 16" clearance, HP, and big tires. It could probably manage 18-20" snow well. They do better then quads in snow with proper tires, Bighorns are good snow tires imop.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 11:14:38 AM: If you get a P500 you should know of this, a front locker for the P500. It's similar to the Chevy G80 locker in that it's always on, but allows 1/4 wheel revolution before it engages. So you won't notice it until you start spinning, then a "clunk", a jerk on the steering wheel, and off you go.

https://www.torqmasters.com/torq_locker_tl_hp500_honda_pioneer

SKU: TL-HP500
$429.99
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mtnwalker on December 06, 2020, 11:36:07 AM: For me the locker has been a non issue, although it’s my first side by side so naturally I don’t know what I’m missing out on. If I rode for the sake of riding more I’m sure I’d want one, but I ride mine for the sake of getting to where I want to hunt. If the snow is too deep to get the machine through then I’d need to be snowshoeing in anyways, which I don’t do for big game. Cat hunters probably a different story
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: jrebel on December 06, 2020, 01:11:19 PM: The 1000-5 does have diff lock. The 500 does not. I have never needed to lock them up for what I do. Most people will never notice not having the ability to lock the diffs.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bigdub257 on December 06, 2020, 02:21:36 PM: Great information here. Seems like most things, it boils down to personal preference and the circumstances you plan to use it for. I'm definitely going to stick with something in the 50" class as a lot of the country I hunt it would be almost impossible to get around some of the gates and/or ride the trails with anything bigger. I also like the fact that it has a transmission that you can shift manually if necessary. It sounds to me like the Honda has enough power for my intended use at this time as I just need to get from point A to point B. And as Jrebel pointed out it's a Honda! I'm going to wait and check out the new 520 which I believe is due out in January. They have a little more power, a dump bed and a few other refinements and improvements that sound beneficial.
Thanks for all of the input so far and keep it comin!
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on December 06, 2020, 02:49:35 PM: That is also the reason I ended up not going with the Honda. Have money down on a defender limited with the visco lock front differential. Waiting on the tracks, plow, and a few other accessories to show up before I go pick it up.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 04:40:41 PM: Quote from: HillHound on December 06, 2020, 02:49:35 PM
That is also the reason I ended up not going with the Honda. Have money down on a defender limited with the visco lock front differential. Waiting on the tracks, plow, and a few other accessories to show up before I go pick it up.
Me too. 3 weeks waiting for it to show up. Covid delays. Are you aware of options to deal with crappy viskolok diff? They do really suck. Halo locker, Super atv pin locker and Factory Can am smart lok upgrade. I not decided which one yet but probably a Halo. I went with Blue, you?
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Russ McDonald on December 06, 2020, 04:49:11 PM: Honda 1000-3 LE and mine has locking dif. Haven't had it is the snow bu I have had the work Polaris Ranger 900 on tracks in 4' of powder. Pucker factor though because I had it pegged, 7000 rpm and 0 on the speedo but still creeping. The pucker factor was no trees or anything to winch to if we got stuck. I read through everything and I don't think that anything was mentioned but all Honda's are shaft driven no belts.

Sent from my SM-N976V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: predatorpro on December 06, 2020, 05:02:48 PM: I have a honda 1000-5 LE and it is absolutely awesome. They go anywhere and mine has a rear diff lock and an “I-4WD” and it will go anywhere. If you want a workhorse you cant go wrong with a honda. My 2 cents though is get a 1000 if you are going in the mountains, the 500 is for driving around the farm
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 06, 2020, 05:03:23 PM: I realize that I will give up maybe 30% with traxs and I might not be able to race around at 50+ but I am looking for a reasonable trade off.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 05:20:05 PM: Tracks are gear reduced aprox 30-35%. Low gear so speed isnt gonna happen regardless. So a 38hp 500 40mph top speed with gear reduction isnt going fast regardless. An open front diff will pretty much do ya in imop. Might as well put bigger tires on and go vs tracks for $4500.
30km hour max speed. Enclosed cab a must or covered in snow. EPS required too. Also remember it is no longer a legal 50" utv but 60"+ tracked. 57 seconds in vid ya can see why locking front diff is needed.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: jrebel on December 06, 2020, 06:18:46 PM: I also have a 2003 Honda quad 500cc that is all time 4x4. I’m not sure I agree that 500 is under powered for the mountains. That quad carried me and my son all over Idaho’s Steep mountains a couple years ago. It has a ton of power and does great.

If you are looking for a fast quad.....go buy a 1000 cc monster that will do 80mph. I can say that 40mph on a quad down a rock road with trees, cliffs, ditches, other cars, etc. is darn scary and a good way to end up dead or in a wheel chair.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on December 06, 2020, 06:20:41 PM: Quote from: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 04:40:41 PM
Quote from: HillHound on December 06, 2020, 02:49:35 PM
That is also the reason I ended up not going with the Honda. Have money down on a defender limited with the visco lock front differential. Waiting on the tracks, plow, and a few other accessories to show up before I go pick it up.
Me too. 3 weeks waiting for it to show up. Covid delays. Are you aware of options to deal with crappy viskolok diff? They do really suck. Halo locker, Super atv pin locker and Factory Can am smart lok upgrade. I not decided which one yet but probably a Halo. I went with Blue, you?
I went with camo. Yes I have heard some of the issues with the front locker but figure It seems like a quick fix with any of the above mentioned. Any reason you are leaning towards the halo? I was looking at the factory smart lock upgrade I guess just because I always figure they must do it right because it’s factory, but some of these aftermarket products are getting to be almost better than factory sometimes
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 06:49:55 PM: Halo n superatv are basically same. $900 upgrade. Smartlok from Canam requires axles (32 spline vs 30) diff and elect switch n modules and is closer to a $2500 upgrade. It is better n stronger. I am good with open limited slip visco most times but when its deep or steep n rough a front lock is needed. Safer as well. Now if I end up breaking stuff I will upgrade hopefully. $$. I will be ordering 30" Maxxis Carnivores immediately.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 06:54:44 PM: Quote from: jrebel on December 06, 2020, 06:18:46 PM
I also have a 2003 Honda quad 500cc that is all time 4x4. I’m not sure I agree that 500 is under powered for the mountains. That quad carried me and my son all over Idaho’s Steep mountains a couple years ago. It has a ton of power and does great.

If you are looking for a fast quad.....go buy a 1000 cc monster that will do 80mph. I can say that 40mph on a quad down a rock road with trees, cliffs, ditches, other cars, etc. is darn scary and a good way to end up dead or in a wheel chair.
Correct but pioneeer 500 is 2x's weight of your quad so half the power almost. Still think its enough power? In video I posted alot of it was wide open throttle. So imop no way. Too weak, slow and loud. Hard on machine wide open. Sucks gas like a pig I wager? If you get off road, deeper powder, hills it aint gonna cut it. Sorry but it just wont. Honestly I think a horse would win this battle.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: predatorpro on December 06, 2020, 07:04:02 PM: Quote from: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 06:54:44 PM
Quote from: jrebel on December 06, 2020, 06:18:46 PM
I also have a 2003 Honda quad 500cc that is all time 4x4. I’m not sure I agree that 500 is under powered for the mountains. That quad carried me and my son all over Idaho’s Steep mountains a couple years ago. It has a ton of power and does great.

If you are looking for a fast quad.....go buy a 1000 cc monster that will do 80mph. I can say that 40mph on a quad down a rock road with trees, cliffs, ditches, other cars, etc. is darn scary and a good way to end up dead or in a wheel chair.
Correct but pioneeer 500 is 2x's weight of your quad so half the power almost. Still think its enough power? In video I posted alot of it was wide open throttle. So imop no way. Too weak, slow and loud. Hard on machine wide open. Sucks gas like a pig I wager? If you get off road, deeper powder, hills it aint gonna cut it. Sorry but it just wont. Honestly I think a horse would win this battle.
Yep! I have been in side by sides that just have ran out of power going up hills and stop. A four wheeler weighs around 500 lbs? My side by side weighs around 1700 empty. Add a few people, gear an some dead animals and you will feel it! Lol
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: carpsniperg2 on December 06, 2020, 07:06:06 PM: Quote from: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 06:49:55 PM
Halo n superatv are basically same. $900 upgrade. Smartlok from Canam requires axles (32 spline vs 30) diff and elect switch n modules and is closer to a $2500 upgrade. It is better n stronger. I am good with open limited slip visco most times but when its deep or steep n rough a front lock is needed. Safer as well. Now if I end up breaking stuff I will upgrade hopefully. $$. I will be ordering 30" Maxxis Carnivores immediately.

have you asked if the halo will void the warrenty? I am thinking about upgrading to a 2 seater as my family has grown and need more space but was thining about the factory option as well.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 07:12:18 PM: I just wanted to post this pic of a load I seen in Idaho.

I went to his FB page, he makes these trailers. He was pulling with an ATV

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201207/57159510f1d0fd996f9f1bf9e1a7ab43.jpg)
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 07:16:36 PM: It will void it for the front diff n axles. But I doubt it would be covered under smart lok upgrade unless dealer installed which most wont do willingy around here. These machines do break diffs n axles on occasion thus the smart lok upgraded splines in the XMR model. They aint a Kawa so they will break. 6 seater? Or 2? Halo; remove and split front diff unit. Install Halo member. Needs shimmed for proper lash. Reinstall diff. Run wire from elect actuator to dash n switch to lock. Done. Operates as normal until you STOP n engage lock. Pins in diff lock gears. I am installing Halo likely or SUPERATV and 30" tires asap. And my sound bar! Reverse lights next. STreet legal kit a must around here and ins. so if it goes down mnt I dont cry too much. :yike: KF thats a POACHER!! :chuckle:
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mtnwalker on December 06, 2020, 07:20:54 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 07:12:18 PM
I just wanted to post this pic of a load I seen in Idaho.

I went to his FB page, he makes these trailers. He was pulling with an ATV

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201207/57159510f1d0fd996f9f1bf9e1a7ab43.jpg)

Do you remember what his page was? I’ve been considering a small off road trailer to tow behind the sxs
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: carpsniperg2 on December 06, 2020, 07:23:01 PM: :IBCOOL: thx I have the 800 single bench and its awesome! I just need the 6 seater now days and going to bump to the 1000. I am just dragging my feet cause I love the 800 so much hard to sell it.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 07:24:43 PM: Quote from: jrebel on December 06, 2020, 06:18:46 PM
I also have a 2003 Honda quad 500cc that is all time 4x4. I’m not sure I agree that 500 is under powered for the mountains. That quad carried me and my son all over Idaho’s Steep mountains a couple years ago. It has a ton of power and does great.

If you are looking for a fast quad.....go buy a 1000 cc monster that will do 80mph. I can say that 40mph on a quad down a rock road with trees, cliffs, ditches, other cars, etc. is darn scary and a good way to end up dead or in a wheel chair.

I just wanna say 40mph is 40 mph no matter what you're riding, but you could go 40mph down a rock road much safer in an 80mph machine, and not beat you or the machine to death doing it.

The same holds true doing 20 mph, an 80mph monster would make 20 seem tedious and slow, while the honda was beating you and wearing you out.

I been on a lot of machines and they all got their places, just need to figure what a person needs to do with it

IMO a 500cc Honda is for riding around the house, maybe wife zipping you out a glass of tea while your fencing the back 40, or goin back to the tool shed for a pair of pliers you forgot to grab.

Long rides its not.

Admittedly - I'm not a fan of Honda.

I find the "It's a Honda it'll run forever!" to not be true, but very clever marketing.

They do break down.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 07:32:13 PM: One thing I like to do before a new machine purchase is go to their specific online forums

https://www.hondapioneerforum.com/forum/honda-pioneer-500-forum/

then I poke around, these are where people go when they want to air everything bad about a machine. I look for issues that keep popping up over and over, like shifting issues keeps popping on this honda forum I put a link too.

Also common fixes, I just think it's a less biased inside look at what you're getting into. All machines have their quirks and issues, and all have these types of forums listed with them.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 07:37:10 PM: :yeah: I scour forums as well. Learn alot. On many things from tools to trucks to everything. Yes Hondas break. Honestly I have found Kawasaki to be the new Hondas. I agree a 500 pioneer is as basic as it gets and belongs on flat farms doing light duty. Maybe look at Kawasaki Mule pro??
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 07:47:52 PM: Quote from: Mtnwalker on December 06, 2020, 07:20:54 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 06, 2020, 07:12:18 PM
I just wanted to post this pic of a load I seen in Idaho.

I went to his FB page, he makes these trailers. He was pulling with an ATV

Do you remember what his page was? I’ve been considering a small off road trailer to tow behind the sxs

https://www.advancedoffroadtrailer.com/
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: dutchmanaz on December 07, 2020, 07:03:35 AM: I bought one last summer, and it's a nice machine. The only thing that really bothers me is the noise. It is LOUD compared to my dad's polaris. Lot's of drivetrain noise, to me anyway. We enjoy it, and it will go anywhere I'm dumb enough to try to go.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on December 08, 2020, 05:30:52 PM: Quote from: Mudman on December 06, 2020, 07:16:36 PM
It will void it for the front diff n axles. But I doubt it would be covered under smart lok upgrade unless dealer installed which most wont do willingy around here. These machines do break diffs n axles on occasion thus the smart lok upgraded splines in the XMR model. They aint a Kawa so they will break. 6 seater? Or 2? Halo; remove and split front diff unit. Install Halo member. Needs shimmed for proper lash. Reinstall diff. Run wire from elect actuator to dash n switch to lock. Done. Operates as normal until you STOP n engage lock. Pins in diff lock gears. I am installing Halo likely or SUPERATV and 30" tires asap. And my sound bar! Reverse lights next. STreet legal kit a must around here and ins. so if it goes down mnt I dont cry too much. :yike: KF thats a POACHER!! :chuckle:
Will the 30” tires fit with the stock height of the defender limited or are you lifting it?
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 08, 2020, 06:05:29 PM: Yes stock 2019 and up. Factory a-arms changed. Some are running 32" tire stock but its too tight imop and re-clutching would likely be needed. Aftermarket a-arms allow a 35" tire. No lifts. Its been shipped for me so good news.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on December 08, 2020, 06:13:38 PM: Nice. Im hoping to hear good news this week as well. Probably should start shuffling some vehicles around in the shop to make room
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 08, 2020, 07:40:18 PM: I called BRP today. If you get model # from dealer they can tell ya status of said machine. If dealer isnt telling ya as thats their job of course. I was fishing for info on covid delays. They do have delays due to parts shortages. 2-3 weeks behind.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 08, 2020, 07:52:41 PM: Want! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201209/f68b3f2d3f808642db20d17f1a23c741.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 08, 2020, 07:56:10 PM: Vey cool utv. Look at KRX1000 too. I am very impressed with it. Tough as concrete, well almost. :chuckle:
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: TommyH on December 08, 2020, 09:03:45 PM: Tagging for sxs info. Family and *I would love one, but dragging my feet...
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 08, 2020, 09:14:52 PM: Honestly it is a bad time to buy... Inventory is super low and "deals" arent to be had. However trade-ins are fetching great #'s as dealers need used to re-sell I guess.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bornhunter on December 08, 2020, 10:10:26 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on December 08, 2020, 07:52:41 PM
Want! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201209/f68b3f2d3f808642db20d17f1a23c741.jpg)

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

Which model is this one?
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 08, 2020, 10:12:46 PM: Yamaha Wolverine rmax 1000

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bornhunter on December 09, 2020, 10:09:08 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on December 08, 2020, 10:12:46 PM
Yamaha Wolverine rmax 1000

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

Have to go see that one before I pull the trigger on a honda.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Happy Gilmore on December 10, 2020, 09:59:18 AM: I have a 2016 1000 5. Its a great machine. The transmission is great. No belts to break. Pretty much everything you expect from Honda. It lives up to the name 100%.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM: Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: jrebel on December 10, 2020, 12:18:21 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

If I wasn’t buying a Honda, Yamaha would be my second choice. Have owned a grizzly 660 and loved it. I wouldn’t hesitate to by a Yamaha if the price was right and it was the machine that for my needs. I agree their belts last forever.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bigdub257 on December 10, 2020, 12:28:54 PM: Quote from: jrebel on December 10, 2020, 12:18:21 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

If I wasn’t buying a Honda, Yamaha would be my second choice. Have owned a grizzly 660 and loved it. I wouldn’t hesitate to by a Yamaha if the price was right and it was the machine that for my needs. I agree their belts last forever.

I totally agree. Yamaha is good stuff. Wish they made a sxs machine that was 50" as I really need that for my application.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: TommyH on December 10, 2020, 12:33:42 PM: That RMax 1000 looks pretty good, just watched a couple videos on it. :tup: I was kinda set on “eventually “ getting a rzr xp4 1000, looking into all options now.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 10, 2020, 12:53:57 PM: In researching this. It's just like the blue oval and bowtie debate.
Ask 10 different people and you will get a batch of opinions.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: deerlick on December 10, 2020, 01:29:45 PM: ive had a rhino for quitea while and absolutely beat it to death and it just keeps going with no problems, never wanted another machine for hunting til I saw that rmax1000, that thing is *censored* in person. will be my next sxs
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Fishmaker57 on December 10, 2020, 01:42:10 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on December 05, 2020, 09:19:23 PM
Also thought ablut a good used rhino 700 with eps

I have the Rhino 700, and it's been an amazing machine. Rarely have to use 4 wheel drive, and I have put it in a few tough spots. Nice thing about the rhino, at 50", I can squeeze through almost any of the 48" openings on Idaho gated roads.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bearhunter99 on December 10, 2020, 02:13:36 PM: Quote from: bigdub257 on December 10, 2020, 12:28:54 PM
Quote from: jrebel on December 10, 2020, 12:18:21 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

If I wasn’t buying a Honda, Yamaha would be my second choice. Have owned a grizzly 660 and loved it. I wouldn’t hesitate to by a Yamaha if the price was right and it was the machine that for my needs. I agree their belts last forever.

I totally agree. Yamaha is good stuff. Wish they made a sxs machine that was 50" as I really need that for my application.

We have a 2005 Yamaha Rhino that is 50". I think all of the Rhino's were 50" machines
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: kirkl on December 14, 2020, 08:36:46 AM: I had a Pioneer 500 for a couple years. It was a nice machine but pretty rough as they dont put good shocks on them and under powered. It was a billy goat but I decided I wanted something more comfortable and more power so went with the Yamaha wolverine X2 850. The wolverine is a great machine, plenty of power and comfortable to drive and love the bed. If I could afford to upgrade I would sell it and buy that Yamaha RMAX 1000, that is a sweet a$$ machine but there spendy, just like everything up in that size of a machine.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Onewhohikes on December 14, 2020, 09:26:33 AM: What kind of prices are we talking for the 1000?
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: jrebel on December 14, 2020, 09:31:09 AM: Quote from: Onewhohikes on December 14, 2020, 09:26:33 AM
What kind of prices are we talking for the 1000?

New you are looking at 15K for base models. Add a roof, windshield, heater, and a few other goodies and you are quick to hit 20K.

Used, they hold their values so you really don't get much of a deal unless you find a unicorn. 13K-18K is asking price for most used machine depending on add ons.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 14, 2020, 10:08:12 AM: We now have the Defender max 1000. 1 short ride so far. Quiet, comfy and long. Kids love it being dry and warm. 30" tires on the way.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on December 14, 2020, 10:35:45 AM: Still waiting on mine. Should be ready next week but I will be up on the mountain at the ski resort all week so it may be the week after Christmas. Just got the 3 seater though as we only have one kid and he would rather be on his dirt bike anyways. I will also be looking at getting the 30 inch tires sooner than later
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on December 14, 2020, 05:51:10 PM: You will like it... Quiet. Heater kicks but too. Good ride, tight turner. I have some led pods and bar to install now. Very hard to see in reverse at night. Reflections off back glass horrible. Plenty room for 3 if one i a small adult/child.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on January 02, 2021, 08:09:43 AM: Finally got my 2021 CanAm hd10 limited. I Still have to take it back in a week or two when the plow, fender flares, and a wiring harness for the extra light come in. Can’t wait to get some more snow on our property to see what it can do with the tracks on in 2 or 3 feet. Only had 6 inches but couldn’t find a hill we had trouble getting up. I love the control descending steep snowy hills. No butt puckering required like with tires waiting to slide off the side.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on January 02, 2021, 08:35:07 AM: Awesome set up. I like it. If ya feel like it you can wire up light yourself? Up front where radio coould go above windshield is plastic cover. Unbolt it. Behind there is a bus bar. I bought led and harness from tractor supply. Reverse lights bolt up at rear cab door hinge bracket and ya run wire through headliner to that busbar. Install rocker switch in switch cutout. Reverse lights are a MUST as you will discover soon!! Ya need em, trust me. 2 little pod leds and its really good. It is super easy to do this one. 10 screws for cover and headliner. Wire runs through top window seal. Also ya can install radio if you choose as I did. Also super easy using this busbar location. Radio doesnt store presets however as no HOT batttery wire in location. :tup: There are mods to do led headlight bulbs also. I installed a 14" led bar up front. Big help. Using winch busbar under hood makes it pretty easy but tricky. Thw white wires there run through firewall into cab behind switch panel. They are for you! Not hooked up to anything. Bullet connectors each end. I used em for my dash switch to light bar.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: HillHound on January 02, 2021, 09:10:43 AM: Thanks that’s great to know. I’ve installed a few tape decks and CD players in my rigs when I was younger as well as spending a couple quarters in a community college electronics course so definitely seems like something I could do. I will have to look into those backup lights at tractor supply, can’t go wrong with more lights
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bearpaw on January 02, 2021, 10:01:50 AM: Quote from: bearhunter99 on December 10, 2020, 02:13:36 PM
Quote from: bigdub257 on December 10, 2020, 12:28:54 PM
Quote from: jrebel on December 10, 2020, 12:18:21 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

If I wasn’t buying a Honda, Yamaha would be my second choice. Have owned a grizzly 660 and loved it. I wouldn’t hesitate to by a Yamaha if the price was right and it was the machine that for my needs. I agree their belts last forever.

I totally agree. Yamaha is good stuff. Wish they made a sxs machine that was 50" as I really need that for my application.

We have a 2005 Yamaha Rhino that is 50". I think all of the Rhino's were 50" machines

We have four Yamaha Viking 700 (two of them are the Viking IV and two are regular Vikings) and we have one 2007 Rhino 700. Get a 2007 or newer Rhino so that you get the fuel injected engine. There are applications where I prefer each machine better than the others, sometimes the narrow little rhino works better than the wider Vikings, depending what you are doing. We have run tracks on two of the Vikings, IMO the 700 engine is a minimum for tracks, I would not want to put tracks on a machine with only a 500 engine.

We have friends who upgraded from the Viking 700 to the Honda 1000, they say the extra power and the manual tranny are huge advantages. Unless Yamaha builds a 1000 sometime soon I'll probably end up with at least one Honda 1000.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on January 02, 2021, 11:03:44 AM: The Yamaha RMAX Wolverine is a 1000cc machine.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: bearpaw on January 02, 2021, 11:11:23 AM: Quote from: KFhunter on January 02, 2021, 11:03:44 AM
The Yamaha RMAX Wolverine is a 1000cc machine.

Yeah, I keep hoping they will put a 1000 in a viking!
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Happy Gilmore on January 05, 2021, 04:28:48 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

a 10 year warranty on a $100 part...lol.. belt life is 100% dependent upon how they are used. Has nothing to do with the CVT. They are low HP is why they'll last longer.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on January 05, 2021, 06:14:55 PM: Very true. But at same time ya have crap like polaris with many issues and recalls due to poor design and heat in clutches/belts. So many its ridiculous. Quality goes along way to durability but as some of us know Polaris uses public to test new designs while others test prototypes for years before release. I tell all wait 3-4 years to buy a new polaris model. Example the Ranger xp1000 has been out since 2019. 2021 has new improved drivelines, transmission, diff and eps I believe. Buddies 2019 had failures in all those and is currently needing another transmission.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on January 05, 2021, 06:26:07 PM: Quote from: Happy Gilmore on January 05, 2021, 04:28:48 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

a 10 year warranty on a $100 part...lol.. belt life is 100% dependent upon how they are used. Has nothing to do with the CVT. They are low HP is why they'll last longer.

like I said, it was a sales thing to counter Honda's sales pitch of no belts
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: predatorpro on January 05, 2021, 08:25:48 PM: Quote from: KFhunter on January 05, 2021, 06:26:07 PM
Quote from: Happy Gilmore on January 05, 2021, 04:28:48 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

a 10 year warranty on a $100 part...lol.. belt life is 100% dependent upon how they are used. Has nothing to do with the CVT. They are low HP is why they'll last longer.

like I said, it was a sales thing to counter Honda's sales pitch of no belts
Well honda can kind of back their sales pitch up....i dont think anyone can argue the dependability of honda...plus there isnt a belt driven machine that can crawl down a steep hill...correct me if im wrong but its pretty hard to push a button and select a gear on any of the belt driven machines. My honda even in high does an amazing job down shifting by itself into the gear i want going down hill or up hill.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: KFhunter on January 05, 2021, 08:29:20 PM: I need to get in one, they were very popular in Idaho

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: Mudman on January 05, 2021, 09:05:24 PM: Quote from: predatorpro on January 05, 2021, 08:25:48 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on January 05, 2021, 06:26:07 PM
Quote from: Happy Gilmore on January 05, 2021, 04:28:48 PM
Quote from: KFhunter on December 10, 2020, 10:18:00 AM
Yamaha has a 10 year warranty on the belt.

It's a sales pitch by Honda, the belts on yamaha do not break or fail, they're the best cvt in the business.

And one helluva lot smoother and more efficient than a clunky slushbox, and less maintenance as well.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

a 10 year warranty on a $100 part...lol.. belt life is 100% dependent upon how they are used. Has nothing to do with the CVT. They are low HP is why they'll last longer.

like I said, it was a sales thing to counter Honda's sales pitch of no belts
Well honda can kind of back their sales pitch up....i dont think anyone can argue the dependability of honda...plus there isnt a belt driven machine that can crawl down a steep hill...correct me if im wrong but its pretty hard to push a button and select a gear on any of the belt driven machines. My honda even in high does an amazing job down shifting by itself into the gear i want going down hill or up hill.
My old Kawasaki KRX1000 could. It would come to a stop on occasion. Excellent down hill.
Title: Re: Honda Pioneer 500
Post by: 2MANY on January 05, 2021, 09:06:30 PM: My 1000-5 does great on tires or tracks.