Honda TRX 500 (2000-2014): A Legacy of Rugged Dependability Reviewed

Introduction

The Honda TRX 500 series, sold under names like FourTrax Foreman and Rubicon, represents a golden era of ATV engineering. From 2000 to 2014, this workhorse dominated trails, farms, and backcountry adventures with its bulletproof reliability and no-nonsense design. Having spent a day thrashing a well-loved 2011 Foreman Rubicon through mud, rocky inclines, and open fields, I can confirm: this machine isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a trusty companion for those who value capability over flashiness.

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Design & Build: Built to Outlast the Apocalypse

The TRX 500’s design screams utilitarian toughness. With a wheelbase of 1,285–1,288 mm (50.6–50.7 inches) and a curb weight hovering around 280–290 kg (617–640 lbs), it’s no featherweight, but that heft translates to stability. The steel chassis feels like it could survive a meteor strike, while the 191 mm (7.5 inches) of ground clearance lets you glide over logs and ruts without a second thought.

Color options like Olive, Camo, and Red cater to both practicality and personality. The seating position is classic Honda: upright, with a seat height of 861 mm (33.9 inches) that accommodates riders of all sizes. Every control—from the handlebars to the footpegs—is positioned for intuitive use, even with gloves on.

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Engine & Performance: Torque Over Top Speed

Two engines defined this generation:
1. 475cc Single-Cylinder (28.98 cubic inches): Air-cooled in earlier models, later upgraded to liquid cooling. Outputs 27–30 PS (20–22 kW).
2. 499cc Single-Cylinder (30.45 cubic inches): Liquid-cooled, carbureted, and tuned for low-end grunt with 27 PS (20 kW).

Twist the throttle, and you’re greeted with a surge of torque rather than neck-snapping speed. The 499cc Rubicon I rode chugged up a 30-degree muddy slope like it was a sidewalk, its OHV engine growling contentedly. The 5-speed manual (Foreman) and automatic transmission (Rubicon) options cater to different riding styles. The Rubicon’s automatic gearbox is butter-smooth, while the Foreman’s manual setup appeals to purists who want total control.

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Drivetrain & Handling: Conquering the Unconquerable

Honda’s TraxLok® 2WD/4WD system is the star here. Flick a switch, and the front differential locks, transforming the TRX 500 into a mountain goat. Paired with independent double-wishbone front suspension and 170–185 mm (6.7–7.3 inches) of wheel travel, it soaks up washboard trails without spilling your coffee.

Braking is a mix of front hydraulic discs and rear drums—adequate for an ATV, though aggressive riders might crave more bite. The 25/8-12 front and 25/10-12 rear tires (or 24-inch on some trims) strike a balance between flotation and grip.

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Comfort & Features: No Frills, All Function

Honda prioritized durability over luxury, but creature comforts exist:
- LCD dashboard with gear position, fuel gauge, and oil-change reminders.
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) on higher trims reduces arm fatigue during long hauls.
- 20-watt carburetor heater ensures cold starts in -20°C (-4°F) conditions—a lifesaver for winter ranchers.

The suspension is firm but never punishing, and the seat, while not plush, avoids numbing your backside on multi-hour rides.

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Competition: How the TRX 500 Stacks Up

The TRX 500’s rivals included:

| Model | Pros | Cons |
|-----------------------|-----------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| Yamaha Grizzly 700| More power (686cc), smoother CVT | Higher maintenance costs, less durable |
| Can-Am Outlander | Class-leading horsepower, premium suspension | Pricey parts, reliability concerns |
| Polaris Sportsman | Versatile cargo system, comfortable ride | Complex electronics, heavier |

The Honda’s edge? Simplicity. While rivals offered more tech or power, the TRX 500’s carbureted engine and shaft drive required less fiddling. It’s the AK-47 of ATVs—overengineered to survive neglect.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your TRX 500 Alive

Owners swear by the TRX 500’s longevity, but neglect will kill even a Honda. Key tips:

1. Oil Changes: Use SAE 10W-40 every 100 hours or 1,600 km (1,000 miles). Capacity: 2.4–4.6L depending on model.
2. Valve Adjustments: Check every 800 km (500 miles). Intake/Exhaust clearance: 0.15 mm (0.006 in)/0.15–0.23 mm (0.006–0.009 in).
3. Tire Pressure: Keep 0.22–0.28 BAR (3.2–4.1 PSI) for optimal traction and wear.
4. Carburetor TLC: Clean jets annually if using ethanol-blended fuel.
5. Coolant: Replace every two years with ethylene glycol mix.

MOTOPARTS.store Recommendations:
- Upgrade to a high-flow air filter for dusty environments.
- Install aftermarket skid plates to protect the underbelly.
- Swap drum brakes for disc brake kits for better stopping power.

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Final Thoughts

The Honda TRX 500 isn’t glamorous, but it’s the ATV equivalent of a Swiss Army knife: ready for anything, anytime. Whether you’re towing logs, chasing game, or exploring remote trails, this machine earns its keep. While newer models boast fuel injection and touchscreens, the 2000–2014 TRX 500 remains a benchmark for durability—a testament to Honda’s “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy.

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Specifications sheet

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