I bought a 520 and love it. The wife wishes it had power steering and an electric dump bed. It does steer a little heavy from a stop but is fine when you are moving. It does everything I need it to and will be taking it on some light trails in the future. It has performed great on the trails where we live. One final note my dogs love it they want to go for rides every day. LOL.
That's awesome, I always love to hear stuff like this so thank you for sharing! I'm still blown away that we're getting close to 10 years in on this machine and Honda still hasn't thrown power steering on there as an option. I know it's coming down the pipeline but they are really dragging their feet, same with the diff lock! Oh yeah, an electric dump bed would definitely spoil you real quick lol. The only downfall though is introducing even more electronics in the mix and then its complexity goes up if something were to go wrong in the mud etc and pricing would surely take a nice little bump too but with it all, it's give and take. lol you gotta love how dogs are drawn to these! I'm a big dog person too and there's nothing better than being able to load them up with ease and go have some fun!
This is my first side by side and I sold my king quad to move to Florida. I had several brand new ATVs over the years but got a side-by-side because I had nobody to ride with down here and least I could bring my wife or my friend who doesn't have his machine. I ride in the Ocala National Forest. I wanted the smallest side by side I could get and of course I wanted a Japanese model so that only left me one choice. I've had brand new Honda powersports several times so I knew I couldn't go wrong with the Pioneer 520. On the flip side some of the smaller details have been really disappointing and I wrote Honda in California a paper letter to let them know that as an adult I'm disappointed in their product for the first time. As I wrote that letter I have a Honda generator, power washer, and Honda Civic sitting right in my driveway next to my Pioneer lol. I've also had a new Honda Rancher and XR250L. Steering wheel cap cover came off, some of the rubber mounts on the bed were twisted and broken or missing, rubber bumper underneath the seat missing into the engine Never Never Land when it dropped, grinder marks on the rear diff, unexplained chattering in the driveline that reminds me of a 1984 Ford F-150 bad u-joint and a few other things. However it is very reliable and I do have complete trust in it at 1100 miles ana about 100 hours. There is no way I would have been happy with this machine in my old ATV World in Western New York with tree roots, rocks, up and down Hills in the woods and in the mud. The ride would have been horrible with the lousy clearance and very crappy suspension. It definitely rides a whole lot worse than any ATV I've ever owned. Luckily because of where I ride it's all sand and of course there's no rocks and large tree roots and stuff here in Florida on the trails in my area so it works out extremely well and also the non power steering is not an issue because of that. I did just put some 26-in radial tires on it and I know that'll help with the ride and the suspension but I shouldn't have had to go up two inches as I like staying with stock size tires on my machines typically. Machine is well cared for and doesn't get mudded or swamped unless I have to traverse one of those things to get to the other side but I did seal all the vent tube junctions and extended the lines much higher on the frame. When I've ridden with people that have the bigger more sporty machines I quite frankly get my butt kicked and the crap beat out of me by trying to keep up because this little machine can do it but boy you sure pay a penalty with getting kicked around and having the revs where I'm not comfortable lol. It's not made for that and I understand that but it really brings home how crappy the suspension is the minute you get into any kind of terrain that makes trail riding fun. Again I'm lucky I'm in the Ocala National Forest where it's all sand... I did not go to the 700 and will not because it won't fit on my trailer ramp and I'd have to get into a bigger towing vehicle and all that and I'm just not going to do that because I have lots of other hobbies and not enough money 👍. The 50-in machine is the way to go in my opinion.
A bigger motor in the 50" width is what they're missing. Improve the ground clearance and HP and cure a lot of the complaints around the 500/520. Here in central Idaho we have a ton of 50" restricted trails but more HP at elevation never hurts. I grew up in Ocoee btw lol
You hit the nail on the head bud! Offering a model in this class with more HP and better suspension / clearance with a diff lock and optional EPS would do wonders for what is already a good selling machine. lol small world man! I used to live in Cleveland and spent many days riding up in Ocoee and playing out on the lake with our family's boat back then and tubing down the river etc.
That is very informative. Thank you! I had to buy a 500, because in 2021 that was all that was available, however I installed a huge locking truck box on the 500 rack, which is really nice for secure storage on bouncy trails. It is easily removed if a full rack is needed to haul something out of the field. And with some cushioning, it makes a great bow and gun holder. Thanks again!
Several years ago the wife purchased a 2019 500, I installed an eps unit, windshield, roof and other options for her. After riding it around the property a few times she lost interest and now she says she bought it for me. I know people love these things, but this is my opinion. It’s ok riding around the fields and groomed trails but if you get into the rough you can do some serious damage underneath and that’s going slow and picking your way through. Ditto in the snow, I’ve had to pull it out with the tractor on several occasions. This thing is about 2 to 3 inches too low. If you go this route you better figure on raising it and putting on better skid plates. Now on farm work and hauling wood. A good 4x4 compact tractor is a much better option. The only thing I use this for is hauling wood from the wood shed to the house (with a cart) during the winter. The rest of the time it sits in the barn on a tender. One other thing, in the cold weather it is hard to start, you have to cycle it several times. I have been told ‘they all do that’.
Thanks for sharing! I always love hearing people's opinions and thoughts, whether it be good, bad or in between. lol the part where you said she says that she bought it for you cracked me up! Funny how that happens sometimes. You hit the nail on the head though, this machine is 100% not for the super rough stuff, unless you upgrade the suspension etc or just don't have a spine anymore and you just send it lol! If you don't mind me asking. When you say "hard to start", as in having to turn over a lot before it fires? Also, our cold weather might be different so what's considered cold where you're at?
@@HondaProKevin Don't get me wrong I am sure the Pioneer is a fun toy in the right circumstances, but I compare every atv, utv and trail/dirt bike to my Rokon, which probably isn't fair. She's slow but tough and will go just about anywhere you point it as long as you can hold on and if it falls off a hill into the rocks, all you have to do is climb down wherever it landed and start her back up. It did land on me once, but since it only weighs 200 pounds, it was somewhat easy to crawl out from underneath. I live about 15 clicks from the Canadian border, so it does get a bit chilly at times. This cold start problem only happens when the temp is about 30 degrees F or less. I broached the problem with the local dealer from whom I purchased it and was told it was a common problem (or he didn't want to deal with it). At first I thought there was a problem with the fuel pump check valve, but when spring came and it was warmer it started fine and still does when it is warmer. The symptoms are this, it will crank and crank when cold, no start, but if I cycle it 2 times (20-30 degrees), 3 times (10 to 20 degrees), or 4 times (5 degrees, the coldest I have used it) it starts right up. By cycle I mean turn the key on and let the fuel pump and display go through it's thing. I also thought it could possibly be the temp sensor (which I haven't tested), but what would that have to do with the cycling starting the thing? I've learned to live with it
@@harrisodell8081 i’ve heard of people saying to change the spark plug and get the newer iridium plug and it makes a difference for cold starts not sure if this will work but thought it might help
@@twig7105 Thanks for the advise Slick, I'll give the iridium plugs a shot and check the valves at the same time. I keep the 500 on a tender, but the crazy thing is if I just cycle it through the start process several times (2-4 times depending how cold), without trying to start it, it starts right up. If the plugs don't work I am thinking block heater.
I love the 520, especially with having the dump bed. Would be nice if they had a different lock. Have been waiting to hear from Southern Honda Powersports since March. Bad thing is they won’t take a deposit until they have the machine on their property. Probably looking like I’ll get anything until spring of next year.
Oh yeah, the dump bed is definitely a nice addition and I'm still blown away we haven't seen a diff lock on it yet but it's coming! In their defense, it's because of this mess that the rona has created. Taking deposits on units that aren't there creates a big big logistical mess when the manufacturer can't keep their promises on what's supposed to be coming and when you take somebody's money and then tell one thing but then a manufacturer changes shipment dates etc - it's a BIG headache and who does the customer get mad at? The dealer when they had no control over the situation at hand. My dealer used to take deposits on incoming units unlike most and I warned people about what could happen and everyone in the moment was like "oh yeah, that's fine - we understand" etc. Then they quickly changed their attitude after the first delay from the manufacturer and then I'm the bad guy that lied about when their unit would come in, even though I warned them about possible and very likely delays. It was a no win situation the majority of the time and those people ruin it for those that are understanding and willing to get in line with a deposit for a guaranteed unit that will eventually come in. I'm not speaking for Southern Honda though as I don't work there, just explaining my experiences throughout these crazy times and why I understand their reasoning behind not taking deposits for units coming in. I wish you the best of luck on snatching one up soon bud and hopefully we can get back to some normalcy soon ;)
Bought a blue 520 as soon as I seen them come out! I had my eye on the 500 but always wondered why they didn't do a dump bed? So once they did that made it an easy decision for me. I've added wheels from a Pioneer 700 Deluxe, half windshield full windshield, Honda roof which are the best in my opinion, 1 Inch spacers on the front and one-and-a-half on the rear to get the tires exact same width front and rear. Alot complain about the lack of a locking differential but I tell you what these things will go through just about anything! For the money you cannot buy a better 50-inch side-by-side for under 10,000!
I purchased mine in January when they first came out.I really enjoy it. It does have it flaws though. No cargo storage in the cab. Very rough ride. Ground clearance is bad. I bottom out constantly. But for the price. I would deb it again
A diff lock option without PS would be nice for it. I feel like a lot of people who buy it do so cause if it’s compact design and simplicity. PS is not needed in my opinion. Either is a big motor and big machine that now needs it. I would prob pull the trigger on one of these if it had a rear seat accessory that would plug in. I have been pondering going away from a quad and into a side by side but a big one takes up too much space and won’t fit in the box of the truck to go camping. If we get a new machine it needs to fit my family of 4 and be small enough for us. I have been watching and waiting for a while for it to come with a box. We are almost there. Lol.
None of it matters if you can't get either of these machines. Called every dealer in a 500 mile radius and not only are none in stock, but the one or two coming in over the next few months are already sold.
100%! We desperately need it on this unit. Honda filed patents a few years ago showing they were working on adding a diff lock to it but sadly nothing has come of it yet.
I bought my Pioneer 500 about 3 years ago and I love it. I've added so many mods to it the list would fill a book. I've not drilled one hole or cut anything and much of the stuff was bought on the cheap, like a golf cart windshield, car roof rack for the front, pickup truck tool boxes, or homemade stuff from bits and pieces of things I had or found. Use your imagination for what you want and go for it. The only thing that might be a little bit better is the top-end speed, but I see that the 520 should have helped with that. Get yourself a load of fun.
Great video. If honda would make the 700 pioneer in 50 inches I would buy it!!! I prefer riding on the 50 inch width trails. I can install the street legal kit myself. Look twice save a life. ☆
Appreciate it! I like your thinking! I think Honda should expand on the 50" platform with more model additions as more and more areas are locking things down for the larger units.
Thanks GR, as always I appreciate the support! Hopefully I can get my hands on some soon, this whole rona mess has made that a lot more difficult than I ever imagined lol! Can't wait until we get back to some normalcy around here...
I bought my fourwheeler from them in October, they were in a different location. I think they were in the process of setting that one up then but the new store is super nice
@@HondaProKevin once I find an excuse to buy another machine I’ll get to check it out! But I am a few hours away in Georgia, the prices locally can’t compete with taxes so me and other people I know make the drive. It’s worth it
Thank you, glad the info was of some help. Honda isn't the only 50" out there but they are definitely one of the smallest when it comes to overall package.
have the 520 but wish it had tru 4x4 in front diff. to make it a real 4x4s. had the 700-4 but had to trailer it. now we pull our truck behind the r v with the 520 in the bed of the truck
Oh yeah, she needs a diff lock desperately! Honda's been filing patents for years now with this chassis having a diff lock so it's coming, it just looks like they're dragging their feet lol. That's a good idea on being able to throw it in your truck while it's pulled behind your RV! Definitely opens up the door for more fun.
@@HondaProKevin we are leaving tomorrow for arizona for 3 months and last year with out the honda 700-4 it was a pain in the rear so got it handled this year with the 520
Hey Kevin. Great review as always. Are you at Southern Honda Now? Trying to get my in-laws to purchase a pioneer. I told them you were the only person to see. Hope you are well.
Holy smokes, look who it is haha! I can't say thank you enough for always remembering me over the years, your continued support means more than you know... No sir, I'm not working at Southern Honda. Long story short, as I don't want to bore you but I'm trying to take this HondaPro Kevin stuff and run with it and hopefully I can get lucky enough to make it work and support my family while still being involved with the industry I love so much, as this is my life. Plus my health issues have been getting worse so in a perfect world, being able to call my own shots if I'm having an "off day" will definitely help in the grand scheme of things so fingers crossed I can pull this off. Southern Honda has been kind enough to help my try to pull off this crazy idea with letting me come in and play with units for these videos and my blog etc since I don't have access to them after we closed our doors a few months back. Still crazy to think my home is gone, I put my everything into that place for 15 years and like a light switch, it's all gone. But, here's to bigger and better things! Technically, I can't help them directly but if your in-laws need help with a Pioneer, just shoot me an email at Kevin@HondaProKevin.com and we'll make sure they're taken care of bud ;) Thank you again for everything over the years and for stopping in to say a few kind words as well, I really appreciate it!
The 2021 Honda Trail 125 was announced for the US market on September 3, 2020. I am hoping to hear you breaking the news this week about the US version of the 2022 Honda Trail 125..
Needs actual suspension that wont hurt you when you ride it. Power steering and diff lock. And a easier way to change the oil. Sorry to sound negative I’m really not. I had the 500 pioneer and i liked it but it was just to rough to take on a long ride on any surface. Even with it’s need of improvements it’s still a good machine.
lol yessir, it could definitely stand to have some more upgrades thrown its way in the suspension department. For smooth stuff, it's just fine but if you're wanting to really get into some gnarly stuff, you better have a back of steel and love to just send it or spend some money on a few upgrades. It all depends on the person though as some people are fine with just putting around on the trails etc and if that's the case, this unit would be fine. The power steering and diff lock option is definitely down the road for it from Honda but I would've already expected it by now as we're going into the 7th year of production for it. Who knows though, we may see those upgrades when we start seeing more horsepower out of Honda and I'm not holding my breath there lol! Nah, you're sounding negative at all bud. I love hearing people's opinions and thoughts, no matter if they're good or bad. At the end of the day there isn't one machine that's perfect for everyone and we're all going to like or dislike different things and it doesn't mean this person or that person is right or wrong. As always, I appreciate you checking out the video and posting up too!
we hope this also available in the PHILIPPINES.good for adventure like mount mayon.or nice for business going to market.hope this honda brings to Philipines market or honda car philipines.👍👍👍☝💪
It's funny, some corners of the world get a longer factory warranty from Honda for the same unit compared to the one year we get here in the USA. Odd how that stuff works out sometimes!
It’s amazing to me what these machines cost. Seriously look at one and there is nothing to them. ATVs are even worse IMO. Some make side x sides look like bargains. 24k and I can’t drive it on the road? That’s pure lol. ps - I guess you no longer work for that dealer?
Is the 1st gear low enough for work like for spot spraying fence rows, where it doesn't slip the clutch when moving slowly? I wish it had a turf mode rear and a front locker that would be great.
To bad you can’t find these! The dealerships hardly have any product…unless you want a Chinese bike. Which I’ll never buy. I’d take the 520 over the 500 all day long for the extra money. Just need to find one to buy
lol you're the man! After reading a string of negative comments, I stumbled across yours and I can't say thank you enough for the kind words, it means more than you know bud... Appreciate ya watching to help support all of this too, so I can continue creating videos for your guys ;)
100%! We need some bumps in the horsepower department, our current numbers were fine 20 years ago but the times have changed... They don't have to have the highest in their segments but we need something!
I haven't gotten a chance to take the 520 off-road like I have the 500 but from driving around on pavement - the transmission tweaks are definitely noticeable and would make me want to go the 520 route, even if I didn't need the bed. Since I was on pavement, I didn't really get to see how much the suspension tweaks helped but everyone I've talked to that has owned both, said it was a noticeable improvement. Performance differences in acceleration are negligible but if I were in the market, I would 100% pay the extra money for the 520 over the 500.
I got a new 520 last week. When in automatic mode it shifts very hard into the next gear just like when you are learning to drive a standard for the first time. Is this normal for the new 520 that is in automatic . It rocks you in the seat.
That definitely doesn't sound right as the 520 has the smoothest shifts out of all prior generation 500s from my experience. Does it do it every gear change? Just on the 1-2 or is it pretty sporadic? Is it up to normal operating temps while doing this? Also, when in manual mode, does it feel the same way?
Yes sir, Honda makes an OEM accessory heater for their Pioneer 700 and 1000 model lineup. For the Pioneer 500 you'll have to go with an aftermarket accessory heater similar to this: amzn.to/3lKCsPo
Sadly, even being very optimistic I'd say we'll be deep into 2022 before we get back to any sort of normalcy with unit shortages. People told me I was crazy when I said in the summer of 2020 that things would only get worse and that we wouldn't be back to normal by the end of 2021 and look at where we are now - it's still a mess! Crazy times...
They're shipping some but it's very few at a time, very very few... Does your dealer have a confirmed ship date for your unit on their dealer order statement? The dealer order statement is updated weekly and if they're showing your unit and aren't just telling you "yeah, it's supposed to ship soon" then the odds are in your favor. But I've seen a lot of people get told something and then when they ask to be shown the statement that shows the estimated scheduled ship dates then they clam up and start to change their story. Most dealers are good people and will shoot you straight though, just be careful and pay close attention to how things are worded ;)
@@HondaProKevinI put a deposit on it in may and it was suppose to ship 7/30 and didn’t salesman says it has a star beside it on the computer now and will ship 9/30. Not sure if the star means it will for sure ship this time or what
My 2022 Pioneer 520 in Resin Gray arrived at the dealership yesterday (2/18/2022). I went and saw it getting assembled today. They said they received a huge shipment of ATVs, dirt bikes, SxS and other units this week. This is the biggest shipment they have seen since COVID product delays, so let's hope supply is catching up.
I love my 2020 foreman, the 518cc engine has been dead reliable but Honda shouldn't have a side by side below 700cc. Over 1000lbs is already a lot of strain on that motor
I'm not going to argue there bud! Honda needs to start bumping their horsepower numbers up some in all segments! It's almost 2022 now, not 1992 anymore lol! They don't have to be the highest in their class but we need more...
In stock form and most areas, no. However, some states will allow you to register it and put a tag on it after you add a "street legal kit" that includes turn signals, horn etc.
In Utah you can if you get a street legal kit put on it and get it registered. My Honda dealership got my new 2022 P520 in yesterday and will be putting the street legal kit on it this week.
Definitely! The TRX90X models are hard to come by right now though because of the whole rona situation. I've got one in the garage I could use but I doubt you guys want to see a used one in the video lol and would rather see the new colors etc. Which TRX250? Are we talking about the TRX250 Recon models or the TRX250X?
I had a 2016 Pioneer, it was a complete and total disappointment. Terrible ride quality, excessive frame rust and an oil consumption habit (after about 5000 km). Honda Pioneer 520, no thanks.
