– Which ATV is Better? Compare 2017 TRX500 Rubicon vs Foreman 4×4 500 cc Four Wheeler Specs / HP & TQ / Towing + More! – Today, we’re going to do a 500 cc ATV comparison between the 2017 Honda Foreman & 2017 Honda Rubicon to see what the differences are between them. I get asked on a daily basis “ What is the difference between a TRX500 Foreman & Rubicon?” They technically share the same “ Foreman” name so they should be very similar, right?
Nope Honda does make it rather confusing though since you have the model “ Honda FourTrax Foreman 500” and then the “ Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 500” and then you have multiple variations of each with different transmission options, steering options etc. Follow me on: Honda did tackle the Foreman & Rubicon 500 model lineup for 2017 though and discontinued a few models to make the model lineup easier to understand and also hopefully make it easier for you to decide which model you want based on the features that are available. Here are the TRX500 Foreman and Rubicon models that Honda discontinued and will NOT be making a return for 2017:. Foreman ES 500 – TRX500FE1 (Electric Shift). Foreman 500 EPS – TRX500FM2 (Manual / Foot-Shift + Electric Power Steering). Rubicon 500 4×4 – TRX500FM5 (Manual / Foot-Shift).
Rubicon 500 Deluxe EPS 4×4 – TRX500FM7 (Manual / Foot-Shift + Electric Power Steering Deluxe) This will cover the main differences between the 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman and then I’ll do a separate comparison review for both models breaking down each of the variations for the Foreman and Rubicon separately. R ear Suspension Options / Differences: 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman This is one of, if not, the biggest difference between the 2017 Rubicon 500 and 2017 Foreman 500. The age-old question of which is better IRS versus straight-axle is still debated all over the internet and in all reality there isn’t one that is “better” per say than the next. It all depends on what you’re using the ATV to do. There is no denying that the IRS will offer a smoother ride but you have some drawbacks to going that route as well. Which is better?
Only you can answer that question The Rubicon and Foreman both have adjustable spring pre-load on all shocks which lets you fine-tune the suspension settings to match varying loads and riding conditions. Rubicon Independent Rear Suspension / IRS: This is a first for the Rubicon as of last year. The Rubicon now features Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) which returns two big benefits: First, it helps ensure constant tire contact with the ground for superior traction; second, it gives you an ultra-smooth ride over rough terrain, so you don’t get beat up on the trail.
New honda pilot 2018. Foreman Straight / Solid Rear Axle: The Foreman has a swingarm with it’s solid rear axle that provides superior capability for towing and hauling. Its long suspension stroke and plush seat let you tackle your favorite trail or the toughest chores in comfort all day long. Transmission Options / Differences: 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman This is the next big thing to compare between the 2017 Foreman vs 2017 Rubicon as they both offer very different transmission options and that can make or break which model will best suit your needs and or wants. Rubicon. Manual / Foot Shift: This is an option you never had on the Rubicon up until last year. Now, you can get the 2016 Rubicon with a true manual / foot shift transmission (semi-automatic clutch means no clutch lever). Honda is the only manufacturer to offer a true manual transmission with IRS.
– DCT / Automatic (Dual-Clutch Transmission): Honda originally brought this new DCT transmission out on the Rancher and has now added it to the Rubicon. It would take a 100-page essay to go over all the details and inner-workings about the DCT transmission. It’s light-years ahead of and better than the standard CVT belt-driven transmission that you find on Polaris, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Arctic Cat, etc.
2017 Honda Foreman 500 Review
Strong internals, fast shifts, excellent control, true compression-braking capability in steep terrain and an automatic program that upshifts and downshifts while you concentrate on riding- the Honda automatic dual-clutch transmission has it all, including a low range transmission. Say goodbye to the old days of the slow conventional automatic transmission that don’t know exactly when or whether to upshift or downshift etc. The Automatic DCT provides the compact size and strength of a manual transmission (no belts to slip, break or burn out) with the convenience of an automatic transmission, while giving the rider the option of push-button manual control via Honda’s Electric Shift Program (ESP). The 2016 Rubicon Automatic DCT features a new dual shift-mapping program that automatically selects between two transmission shifting modes – either Cruise or Sport mode – for optimum shift timing depending on the rider’s pattern of throttle operation. During aggressive use, the Sport mode kicks in and holds the transmission in gear longer before shifting to deliver more aggressive performance. During more casual operation, the Cruise mode allows the transmission to shift up sooner for more casual performance and enhanced fuel efficiency.
(. Only available with the DCT Rubicon) Dual Range Drive / Low Shifter: Like a full-sized four-wheel-drive truck, Rubicon DCT models feature a drive/low range in its gearbox, so you can choose the perfect gear for crawling over technical terrain, pulling heavy loads or cruising on smoother trails. Foreman. – Manual / Foot Shift: This is an option that has been available on the Foreman since day one. It is still as popular today as it was 10-15+ years ago as some people don’t want to deal with added electronics. The manual / foot shift transmission has a semi-automatic clutch which means no clutch lever. – ES / Electric Shift: The ESP (Electric Shift Program) has been around for well over a decade now and Honda has truly perfected it over the years.
Upshifting and downshifting has never been easier thanks to the ES system, you get the ease of an automatic with the strength of a conventional transmission. To shift up or down all you have to do is push one of two handlebar-mounted buttons. Since there’s no foot-shift lever, ES is also a bonus when riding in heavy or mud / snow-covered boots. The ES feature is also nice should you have any ankle or leg problems to where a standard manual / foot shift transmission would be difficult to operate. Headlights / Lighting: 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman The difference in lighting between the 2017 Foreman vs Rubicon are listed below. Both have three headlights and the two mounted on the fenders are the same between both models but that is where the similarities end.
Rubicon. The Rubicon has a lantern style 50 watt assist light that is mounted up on the handlebars.
The 50-watt handlebar light moves with the bar to illuminate the area you choose and runs independently of the fender-mounted headlights so you can turn it on when you need it, and off when you don’t. The other two headlights on the Rubicon mounted on the fenders are rated at 35 watts. All three use multi-reflector lenses for superior light distribution. Foreman. The Foreman has a 45-watt independent assist light that runs independently of the headlights so you can turn it on when you need it, and turn it off when you don’t as well. The other two headlights on the Foreman mounted on the fenders are rated at 35 watts. All three use multi-reflector lenses for superior light distribution.
Electric Power Steering (EPS): 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman Rubicon / Foreman. The Foreman and the Rubicon both have EPS as an option for 2017 and they both share the same EPS mechanism as well. Well, technically you don’t have EPS as an option if you go with the 2017 Rubicon TRX500FM6 (Manual / Foot Shift) as it only comes with EPS for 2017. Honda dropped the Rubicon with the Manual / Foot Shift (TRX500FM5) for 2017. You can find out more about the Honda ATV models that Honda discontinued. Honda’s EPS is both speed- and torque-sensitive, Honda’s Electric Power Steering (EPS) technology excels at reducing steering effort and kickback through the handlebar. It’s a big help when riding in ruts, over rocks or on long side hills.
A specially engineered mounting system for the EPS unit increases strength and rigidity. Honda first introduced EPS back in 2007 on the Foreman 500 and it’s been a huge hit ever since then! Since its introduction in 2007, Honda has spread it out to every model in the 4×4 ATV lineup except for the Rincon 680. The price has increased but it’s still very competitive when comparing to other ATV manufacturers. Electronic Differential Lock: 2017 Foreman vs Rubicon Rubicon / Foreman. The Foreman and the Rubicon share the same differential lock setup.
When you’re in 4WD mode, and you need to get the power to both front wheels, you can just flip the switch on the electronic differential lock to maximize available traction. The gauge / meter display will tell you when the diff lock is fully engaged.
Let’s go a little more in depth with how advanced the 4×4 modes are on the 2017 Foreman 500 & 2017 Rubicon 500. TraxLok utilizes a magnetic switching mechanism called an Electromagnetic Mechanical Clutch Unit (EMCU). This system actuates a mechanical roller clutch located on the driveshaft near the front differential. This two-way mechanical roller clutch incorporates a series of hardened-steel rollers that lock up in a mere six degrees of rotation, which makes for a smooth, virtually instantaneous response while either accelerating or decelerating on flat ground or on an incline. In addition, the system also operates when Reverse gear is engaged. To promote smooth operation, the TraxLok system engages only when the speed differential between the front and rear wheels is less than six mph.
Once engaged, the system remains engaged on downhills to deliver true 4WD braking. The new-generation FourTrax Foreman & Rubicon 4×4 ATVs feature a brand-new TraxLok system, one that incorporates the option of a fully locking front differential. As before, riders can enjoy the option of an easily selectable 2WD or 4WD mode.
However, the 2017 Foreman has the capability to operate in a third mode: a fully locked front differential when in 4WD that gets the power to both wheels for use in challenging terrain to maximize available traction, whether it’s swampy, rocky, sandy or uneven ground. This option is very easy for the rider to engage; after pressing the 4WD selector button on the right-side handlebar, just rotate the differential lock switch and it’s set to go. An indicator light on the instrument display shows when the differential lock is engaged.
In addition, the Foreman & Rubicon feature a Speed Override mode that can be engaged when the front differential is locked, which allows increased wheel speed under severe conditions such as deep mud. When riding in the front differential lock mode, speeds in normal usage are limited to 20 mph. However, when encountering conditions such as deep mud that slows the ATV while the wheels spin, pushing and holding the Speed Override button allows momentary higher wheel speeds for extra pulling power – quite a benefit when the going gets tough. Without a doubt, Honda’s TraxLok 2WD/4WD system adds a significant degree of versatility and utility to 4×4 Honda ATVs, qualities that continue to draw riders to the brand. And these new additions to TraxLok-mode operation in the FourTrax Foreman & Rubicon 4×4 reflect Honda’s commitment to developing ongoing advances in ATV technologies that benefit riders in real-world conditions. Seat Comfort: 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman Rubicon ( Winner) / Foreman.
This is one part of the comparison where there is a clear winner and one is leaps and bounds better than the other. The seat on the Rubicon is not only longer and wider compared to the Foreman but substantially more comfortable. Keep in mind though, this one is pure “opinion” based as you can’t go off a spec sheet as to which seat is better than the other. The 2017 Honda Rubicon’s seat features thicker foam and a seat cover with a “gripper” texture.
That gives a “gripper” texture seat cover that it one of the best seats Honda has ever put on any of their ATVs over the last 30+ years. Throw a leg over both the 2016 Foreman and Rubicon, I’m confident you’ll 100% agree and see where I’m coming from when comparing the two four wheelers. Tires: 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman Rubicon / Winner The Rubicon and Foreman both share the same tire sizes but that’s where the similarities end. The Rubicon comes stock with a more aggressive tread pattern Maxxis tire for added traction in all conditions whether it be mud, sand, rocky terrain, etc. Rubicon Tires / Sizes:. Maxxis MU25.
Front: 25×8-12. Rear: 25×10-12 Foreman Tires / Sizes:.
Maxxis M975. Front: 25×8-12. Rear: 25×10-12 On ATVs, tires actually work as part of the suspension system, as they absorb smaller trail impacts.
When designing the new Rubicons, Honda engineers worked closely with Maxxis tire technicians to develop a special tire that would be compliant without sacrificing handling or precise steering. “We experimented a lot with the actual plies of the tire to make it work well,” Stevens reveals. “We went through several different tire iterations before we got the right one.”. Wheels: 2017 Rubicon vs Foreman Rubicon / Foreman The Foreman and Rubicon for 2017 both share the same 12″ steel wheels in a black finish. The Rubicon used to have aluminum wheels versus steel but Honda pulled that option back in 2011.
2017 Honda Foreman 500 Price
However, you have the option of going with the Deluxe model Rubicon for 2017 that comes with the aluminum wheels pictured below. Hopefully one day we’ll see wheels like this as a standard across the ATV model lineup instead of the steel counterpart.
It would of course add to the price tag and not every customer cares about the way a wheel looks to be able to justify the added cost. Honda Foreman & Rubicon Tank Shelter / Plastics The Foreman and the Rubicon both also share the same maintenance schedule / intervals:. First service recommended at 20 hours / 100 miles / one month – Whichever comes first.
Normal service recommended at 100 hours / 600 miles / once a year – Whichever comes first. Another small but very nice addition to the Foreman and Rubicon both as well as all of the entire Honda ATV model lineup – an easier reverse! Not that the reverse was difficult to use prior to now but I have had countless customers state how much they despise the old reverse actuation process.
Gone are the days of the old school red button with an “R” on it and now all you have is the mini lever to pull pictured above. 2017 Honda Rubicon 500 Frame / Engine In 2016 you also have one more option when deciding on which Rubicon is right for you should you decide to buy the Rubicon over the Foreman. The available Deluxe models offer cast aluminum wheels with polished highlights, red-painted suspension components and decals. The wheels not only add a little more style versus the steel wheels, they also shave unsprung weight due to them being lighter. The Deluxe package on the Rubicon does come at an added cost but if it helps with the blow to the wallet, you also have a limited color scheme that you won’t see everywhere since they only come in white or black. Want a 500 cc Honda ATV with a Straight Axle? The Foreman 500 is your only option.
2017 Honda Foreman Reviews
Want a 500 cc Honda ATV with IRS? The Rubicon 500 is your only option. Want a 500 cc Honda ATV with a Fully Automatic DCT Transmission? The Rubicon 500 is your only option.
Want a 500 cc Honda ATV with a Manual / Foot Shift Transmission? The Foreman and Rubicon 500 both have this as an option.
Want a 500 cc Honda ATV with an Electric Shift / ES Transmission? The Foreman 500 is available with the ES transmission and the DCT Rubicon has the option to flip a button and use the Electric Shift mode or the Fully Automatic mode. Want a 500 cc Honda ATV with Electric Power Steering / EPS? The Foreman and Rubicon 500 both have EPS as an available option. Neither the 2017 Rubicon or 2017 Foreman is better than the other per say. Each of them have different specs that set them apart so that way you have plenty of options when shopping for the best ATV that’ll do the job you need it to do.
Whether you’re using the ATV as a work-horse on the farm or just recreational use to hit the trails and mud pits on the weekends with your friends, you’ll be able to get the job done with both but one may be better for you when compared to the next person. I hope this was helpful in explaining the differences between the Honda Foreman and Rubicon 500 ATVs. Which is your favorite Honda ATV for 2017 – the Foreman 500 or Rubicon 500? Did you find the information helpful? Please take a second and click “Like” and or Share below. It lets me know you guys liked the content, pictures, etc and so I know whether or not to continue informative posts concerning the 2017 ATV model lineup from Honda.
2017 Honda Foreman & Rubicon 500 ATV Pictures / Photo Gallery.
2014-2018 TRX500 Series (Foreman/Foreman Rubicon) Service Manual - Helm Incorporated Search by Item/Part # Service and Owner Information 2014-2018 TRX500 Series (Foreman/Foreman Rubicon) Service Manual Honda Genuine Service Manuals lead the industry with clear, comprehensive presentation of motorcycle service and repair procedures. Each Service Manual is model specific and contains easy to read text sections supported by top quality photography and illustrations. A comprehensive General Information section offers the experienced technician at-a-glance service data without the need to review each specific section for specifications and tolerances. Less experienced technicians will benefit from section information that begins with an exploded view of the system, continues with all relevant service data, special tools information and step-by-step repair instructions including: disassembly, inspection, testing/troubleshooting, repair, assembly and adjustment.
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