Honda Pioneer 520 ONE YEAR REVIEW on the ranch with TIPS, TRICKS, and more!

[@jakegammill9917]

I bought a 2021 520 and I love it. Honda is always so reliable and well engineered

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Sounds like you’re enjoying yours as much as we do ours!

[@ih302]

My 2016 500 was a big disappointment, frame rust and oil consumption issues.

[@josephzanghi3036]

I gave my P500 to my son and bought a P520. My pioneer is used for deer hunting and very slow trail riding on narrow trails and sometimes no trails at all. That is why I prefer the narrow P520. I don't want a big machine for the woods. The new 1000 cc machines are nearly as large as my Jeep Rubicon. Most of the guys I know around here buy big machines and then just ride dirt roads. Hell, my rubicon can do that with power everything and heat and air conditioning. One more thing, don't let anyone tell you the cab is too small. I'm 6' 2" and weigh 283 and I at times take a passenger with me with no trouble.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Very nice! It’s crazy how much bigger the trails need to be for the 1000cc machines to get around with the same ease. And once you get down to small atv trails it’s game over. Haha yes, often I’ve thought, for the price why not buy a jeep! Of course it’s not 100% the same thing but still worth debating for some folks needs for sure! Second that, the fellas here are over 6’ and don’t have trouble with the 520 either. Thanks for watching 👍👍

[@Synic08]

The 500/520 are alone in the super narrow catagory.. maybe some of those 1 seaters, but thats not the same…. I despise honda, but find myself thinking i need a 520….

[@Withlovefrominterent]

Dude, between this video and your initial impressions video about the 520, I found this to be very insightful and also very helpful. I have been looking at 520s for awhile but they are always out of stock. I very nearly bought a Pioneer 700 but thankfully a 520 appeared on the dealer manifest the other day so I got my deposit on it for June delivery. I think these are the perfect machines for the size and price. I had a larger Can Am Commander a couple years ago and the size difference alone with the smaller one is totally worth it being a little slower and less exciting on flat ground. These 50 inch models can get onto trails and into spaces that the larger one can't at all, and for me that's a big deal

[@ranchroadhomestead]

They really do fit the bill for so many applications. Yes, the 50” is such an advantage in tight spots. The 520 really is tons of fun, rowing through the gears never gets old. So glad you found the videos helpful, and thanks for watching!

[@billmcdonald2436]

This is why I’m interested in the 520. Smaller size. We just want a side by side for small tasks on the farm. I don’t need power or big size. I need something that can carry a few sacks of grain and a bucket of water. Maybe a shovel or rake once in a while. I’d rather have it not take up so much garage space and get more hours per gallon of gas.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

It sure does all that perfectly for us. Sometime it would be nice to rig up a shovel/rake rack to make it a bit better for hauling awkward items like that, just to avoid the handle hanging out the side of the box etc… thanks for watching!

[@mattyMcLovinisbae]

i like how honda is direct drive and not belt driven

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Same here. Love having that control of the RPM’s!

[@janetyeoman1544]

We bought the same P520 to use on roads and Lake Simcoe. New roof, windshield , winch, bigger bumper,seat heaters and aux wiring connectors. Still needs a cabin and cargo light. Upgraded tires and wheels are planned also. Tracks are a big purchase so we studded the tires for the lakes. Overall we like it, small enough to handle easily . Thanks for your ideas and ownership experience.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

You’re not too far from us! It’s great to hear you’re liking the P520 overall. The upgrades you’ve done already sound pretty awesome. How do you rate the studded tire performance on snow and ice? Thanks for watching.

[@janetyeoman1544]

@@ranchroadhomestead The hardened studs are 7/16 size that screw gun into tread lugs. I’ve used the stud kit on Atvs, dirt bikes since 2005. On ice they are are essential but on snow I don’t think they help much. My area has windswept ice with drifts so straight line traction is needed. Sideways sliding into a snowdrift would be a tip over at speed.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Sideways sliding is no joke for sure. We use ‘Grip Studs’ brand on our tractors and leave them in all year. They’ve been great. Just thinking about studding the stock tires and putting a plow and small sander on the p520 for the very icy conditions we get on some very steep customers driveways, there’s a few times even the studded tractors need to skip a driveway or two.

[@bonesman7021]

Great video! I have a 2018 500 that has been bullet proof. We have bigger equipment on the ranch but the 500 is incredible for its price point, and used the most.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

They’re so great. The value really shines! I’m always laughing how much I use it to simply move stuff around, in which days before would be just putting the back to work. Thanks for watching and happy riding!! 👍

[@matthewcary1094]

Thanks, I’ve been thinking about one of these machines a lot. I appreciate the comprehensive reviews you share!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for watching! Happy to help 👍

[@normneufeld9688]

You are to be commended for a very useful review. And you don’t give us 10 minutes of what it’s like in the driver’s seat! I have a 2017 P500 and it has been a love hate relationship. I built a plywood box and painted it black, a bit bigger than the 520 box and it serves well carrying stuff but doesn’t dump of course…I’ve never seen much value in a dump box…if I carry firewood I have to stack it piece by piece anyway and have a small Kubota tractor loader to move rocks and soil. I also am in Canada and thought that tracks would eliminate the need for a snowmobile. After 2 winters I sold the tracks. 1. very hard to steer. 2. No longer 50 inches for narrow trails. 3. Physically, putting the tracks on and off is for young folks…they take muscle and grunt to move around. Though great in the snow, I use a narrow bush snowmobile for winter trails. Also, with the tracks on and off with the seasons, it’s not just a simple take the wheels off and put on the tracks…unless you want brackets hanging down, there are steering components to take off and install each time which will wear out bolts/nuts etc. 4. I felt that with tracks, the engine and drive was just too small. It moves them but I think running the engine at high rpm’s all the time is going to take its toll. It is a Honda and might be ok but the 475cc engine while great on wheels is close to maxed all the time with tracks. Your dad is correct, power steering would be nice. The 500/520 are really little mules that are tough and long lasting. I went from a Honda 350 fourtrax (Rancher) atv to the P500 and was shocked and dismayed at how loud the 500 is…with the factory plastic roof it is difficult to communicate with a rider. You are correct about the noise. Also, I thing a dash handle for the rider is a must as the driver can brace with the steering wheel but its really rough for the rider. My first addition was a full windshield that opens. Nice to have but it creates a vacuum from behind and if on a dusty road at any speed, the dust just gets sucked into the cab. Long enough…again, your content and production is tops!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for the kind words! You point out some very valid key info regarding the Pioneer 500/520. I rarely dump firewood as well. If we do, it's when we gather some blocked hardwood from downed trees in the bush that our tractors can't get to, so it's handy to be able to bring that wood out of the bush to the yard and dump it by the splitter, times like that I love the dumping box of course. Did you have the larger tracks or the smaller 'under 700cc' size tracks? We have the X4s which is meant for smaller machines, the 520 seems to do fine with them other than shifting isn't so nice when the machine wants to almost come to a stop before it gets in the next gear... About the power steering, we finally did that upgrade, as it was starting to get a bit cumbersome, especially with tracks and trail grooming. I like the idea you have about the dash handle as well. As for the sound levels, the plastic roof isn't great, for sure. The bimini top on Dad's is much quieter. I wonder if some sound absorbing panels could be added under the roof. Now you have me thinking...next mod maybe! -Thanks for watching and happy riding!!

[@proudpennsylvanian330]

Like that leaf blower set up. That is really handy! The wood canoe rack is good thinking too. Honda needs to pay attention to that.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

For driveways it’s such a transformation in the work/labour factor!

[@vernshein5430]

I made a roof from my traction boards, used U clamps to attach them to the roll cage.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Nice! That’s good use for sure. Thanks for watching 👍👍

[@gasNmudtv]

I always let my wildcat sport 700 fuel pump prime b4 starting it. The pioneers remind me of the wildcats, just a simple yet capable rig for a decent price point. Wish my wildcat had a dumping box

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Smart! I should have figured to do that from day one but assumed it wouldn’t be needed on a newer era machine, but I guess that tech hasn’t changed much in the P520. Gotta love the simplicity of a value machine!! Thanks for watching and happy riding!!

[@tommyus4]

The leaf blowing is brilliant.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you like the setup. It actually works so well and only takes a few minutes to mount up since I now leave the front bumper off. Thanks for watching!!

[@Navy_Snipe]

Even though it's 2 years old, your video is very informative and I appreciate all the effort you put into it this is going to help me make a decision on what I buy for my 40 acre Homestead. .. I have a Suzuki King Quad 300 that I basically wore out in 2 years and I need to replace it with something that's suitable but I don't want to make my Trails any wider than they already are

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for the comment! Our 2021 pioneer 520 is still going strong. Pleased daily on how it maneuvers in tight spaces. A new-ish issue we have found in dad’s 2022 pioneer 520 is that we are seeing an odd amount of rust around all of the welds on the rops etc. hopefully that was just a ‘covid’ era issue that isn’t present on current machines. Take care and thanks for watching!

[@capnal22]

This was a very informative review. Good job!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Awesome, glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!!

[@gasNmudtv]

The leaf blower setup is super smart thinking

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks, it’s made driveway maintenance a dream. Thanks for watching!!

[@ltaldoraine7305]

Thanks for the in-depth review! You've got a new subscriber here

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you could find it helpful, and thanks for subbing!!

[@ellobo1326]

I always keep my P500 in manual shift mode. I can make the engine purr at the perfect rpm for whatever speed I’m going. Will pick up my new ‘22 520 in a couple weeks.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Same here, manual mode is the best! The 520 bed is so handy. Thanks for watching and happy riding!

[@josephkeele8999]

Love your videos. I have the 500 and the following year the 520 came out. I have a few mods including a loading light. I do have a cab and heater a also.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you enjoy our videos, and thanks for watching! The 500 is such a great machine. How do you like your cab setup? Seriously thinking of going that way for the 520.

[@brucefrye2292]

I put 9"x 28 x 12" all around my 2019 500 with 2"" spacers , making my width 54" overall. Used an Amazon roof rack for a bed on back. Made my top speed 43mph.have 5,000 mi. on it so far, no rubbing issues. Even made a cab using 3/8 " plywood . Adjusted the cable on reverse gear , now just pull paddle for reverse. Can plow and pull 2,000 lbs of gravel in my cargo trailer. May get a 520 in another 5 yrs or so. If this one gives out!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

That sounds like a great setup you have there, and have logged some good miles on it! I like your list of mods. The 500/520 Are great rigs, always happy to do work. Thanks for watching!!

[@jjdenogean]

Just picked up a 520 yesterday!! Thanks for the tips

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Awesome! What colour did you go for?

[@georgekopsias9159]

Very nice detailed video. I like your honest opinion. Thank you.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for the comment, and glad you enjoyed the video!

[@sallutz]

I recently drove 85mi to a dealer that had the 520 in-stock in the color I wanted (camo). Hooked up a small trailer that my buddy had, to a Jeep Wrangler, and we were able to tow the 520 back to the property after completing the purchase. For our purposes, the 520 really fits the bill. I looked at the 1000’s, and they are too big and double the price, and for our purposes totally not necessary.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Awesome that you could get your hands on one. It’s crazy how big the 1000’s are really, they feel like you’re driving that jeep almost! Especially in tight confines, the 520 really shines. Happy riding, and thanks for watching 👍

[@WilliamStewart1]

@@ranchroadhomestead The 520 seems to be a very unique sxs, it's size, the transmission, and the reliability all come together. It's not a price thing really that's deterring me from the 1000 machines it's thier massive size. Trying to get a defender 1000 around the bush can be quite the pain and I've started the process of finding one of these little guys.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

You make a very good point about the uniqueness of the Pioneer 520, it’s in its own category in so many ways. The 1000’s feel so much bigger, it’s hard to believe until you drive one and then the other back to back! Last weekend we expanded a small part of our trail to get around a bad soft area, and we cut it for the 520 to get through smoothly, and then we had to go back and make it much bigger for the Nick’s Rmax 1000. He had to do a few forwards and backs to barely get through. Then we had to level it out so he wasn’t angling over and sliding the rops along a big tree! Good luck on your search 👍 and thanks for watching

[@Johnrider1234]

@@ranchroadhomesteadwe made all our trails in our fire wood bush 7 feet wide for the last six years

[@ranchroadhomestead]

What size machine do you use? 7’ is nice and wide. Thanks for watching!!

[@johntemple9875]

I appreciate the review. It was the most through one I've seen.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks very much, and glad we could help! Thanks for watching

[@jaythemusicman801]

I am a homesteader in ontario looking at a pioneer 520 or rubicon, after 23 dutiful years of service from our first honda. I'd love a quick update on how the pioneer 520s are holding up for y'all

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for tuning in! The 520's are holding up pretty well! Over 5000 kms on mine, much of that higher revs road running (tire treads are starting to show their age lol). I must point out some rust forming at the welds on Richy's 520, which is pretty odd since it has seen less rain/snow than my 520, hes not happy about that. I have since added a superATV power steering kit and torq locker front diff, which really have transformed the P520 to another level, at a bit of a steep cost albeit. This was to help make trail grooming more fun/manageable. The power steering is really nice when manoeuvring around the yard projects etc. We both agree that EPS should be standard, having said that, we do both run larger wheels and tires, which doesn't help the steering factor. Hope that helps. Thanks again for watching and happy homesteading!

[@stevencampbell1603]

Always wanted a SxS, a light utility some fun mini machine, was looking at a quad but for a little more, a mini SxS. 520 for the box, in all honesty, it will be barely driven but it would force me to get out more which I would like. The actual transmission is a big selling point for me. Id push the machine to its limits in some senses, I like utility over comfort and speed. With the kind of use I would have, it would be something I would run for 20yrs...

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for the comment. The pioneer 520 definitely ticks all of those boxes! I was planning on having the 500 for 20 years but the 520 with box came out which was an easy move at the time in 2021. Hopefully we have this one a long time. Just went over 4500 kms on the 520 and going strong. Thanks for watching!!

[@stevencampbell1603]

@ranchroadhomestead the problem will be finding one, might have to settle for a 500 and build my own box but a 520 would be prefered... Still have to wait for next year...

[@ranchroadhomestead]

@stevencampbell1603 didn’t know they were still so hard to get. Not sure where you are located, but our local dealer has a green one in stock currently FYI.

[@MOUSEBOWEN]

I just bought last week a 2019 Honda pioneer 500 white in perfect condition with glass windshield and honda Roof . 208 miles $7200 . Absolutely love it . I got got rear soft window and nice fancy sporty rear mirrors. I want to get 27”s tires maybe 26”s must people are putting 26”s I think 27”s would be better I’m just worry that would not work. Maybe 27”s are to big?? What do you think??? 28”s would be perfect but I don’t think the honda Pioneer 500 can handle it

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Sounds like it's practically new, awesome. We run 28's on both pioneer 520's and it works very well. The ground clearance is much better for the type of riding we do around here. There is a bit of rubbing, but doesn't bother me at all. I just know the limits and where the rubbing can occur, and try to avoid those situations. Of course the tire model can have a big effect, as not all tires are the same physical size from one model to the next. If you're very worried about any rubbing at all, I would check on some forums to see what other 500/520 owners are doing. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and happy riding!!

[@MOUSEBOWEN]

@@ranchroadhomestead brother thank you so much for taking your valuable time to reply back to me. You are awesome I’m probably go for 28” Tusk Terrabite maybe 27”s . Thank you so much for replying back to me

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Very happy to help, and thanks for the kind words. Something to point out since our last videos - After a few years now (since 2018) I've been running the same set of GBC kinati mongrel tires (28x10x14) on my 500 and then later the 520. Maybe it's because I'm getting older and more picky, but the mongrel 10 ply tire is now making me rethink what the 500/520 should have on it for some folks; it rides much harder than I like on trails around here. They don't flex under the weight of these lighter machines, so it gets pretty bouncy. 10 ply is nice for the protection it offers from rocks etc, and when there's a big load in the box, but costs a lot in the comfort category. Richy's 520 has Maxxis Bighorn 1's (also 28x10x14) and it rolls and rides much much smoother due to the fact that they are 6 ply instead of 10 ply, though those tires are much wider physically even though still listed at 10" and he does get considerably more rubbing up front when turning. Since the tusk your are looking at are 8 ply, you might be okay there, but I guess it's the 'wont know until you try it' situation. Just thought it was worth a mention since it's a more recent discovery on our part, and probably a good subject for another video! Personally I love the Tusk/Mongrel 'truck' tread style, but next time around I think I will consider looking for a tire with that style of tread but with a 6 ply rating so I don't feel so rattled after a few minutes in our rocky/root filled trails here... I have been debating suspension upgrades, but it's another expensive add on. Let us know how you like the tires you do go with, if you do end up going with aftermarket tires. Always good to hear what folks are doing! Not sure if any of this helps, but thought it was good information since you might be tire shopping.

[@sarahhuck]

Thanks for the info! Very informative as we travel to buy our own 520

[@ranchroadhomestead]

So glad you enjoyed, and congrats! Happy riding 👍

[@AZHighlandHomestead]

New family member here. Thanks for sharing this. We are moving from half and acre to over five acres and need something like the Pioneer 520 now. -Nick in the mountains of Arizona.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Congrats on gaining some more space to roam! I think most pioneer 500/520 owners agree that the value you get in these rigs is amazing! Personally, there’s no machine out there I would consider trading in on. Thanks for watching 👍👍

[@Synic08]

Finally a review that doesnt tout the “gear” transmission as more durable…. They ARE infact different… your mileage may vary, but belts dont just quit, and they are easy to replace… unlike gears… and they act differently… agian, depends on what your doing…. I DO like the idea of shifting though, especially while hauling and stuff

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Very true. There are pros and cons with both I suppose. Like you said though, it depends what you are doing with the machine, and everyone has different needs. Personally, I like when I’m putting around the yard, and able to keep the revs low and quiet with the gear transmission. Thanks for watching!!

[@tito1211]

What tires do you have on the machine? They look perfect for my needs. Thanks for the video!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

They are GBC kinati mongrels. 28x10x14. Thanks for watching!!

[@tremco123]

GREAT VIDEO!!! You do a great job!!!!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for watching!

[@AnthonyV82]

Very informative and thorough. Thanks!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching!!

[@Stan_L]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. I take delivery on a 2022 next week.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you enjoyed! Awesome news, they’re great rigs. We were just talking yesterday about how much time we spend putting them to work. Hard to imagine what we’d be doing without the help of the 520. Thanks for watching!!

[@sallutz]

Great real world honest review

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for watching!

[@MOUSEBOWEN]

Súper awesome video thank you so much for sharing

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for watching 👍👍

[@kentporter8981]

Great feedback on the 520! Can you please confirm if the tracks increase or decrease the overall height of the vehicle for fitting into an enclosed trailer? Thanks!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad to help! It raises the machine by about 3-4" over the stock 24" tires and depending on how you set the suspension. With the tracks on I measured last year 10-3/4" ground clearance under the rear part of the chassis. I'll see if I can confirm that tomorrow. Thanks for watching!

[@wallyosburn4482]

Electric trailer jack for the bed lift

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Would be neat to see that modification!

[@tylermacconnell217]

So, the only reason not to buy a Polaris is the CVT transmission? But the Subaru in your video also has a belt drive CVT!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Good point, and thanks for commenting. As of 2024, the Pioneer 520 is narrower (50" wide) than the ranger 570 at 56", which may be important to some buyers. The Ranger has some nice features like the added ground clearance and suspension travel above the Pioneer 520. In many ways the 570 could be considered a better rig. Having said all that, to this day, I still prefer shifting for the type of riding/work I do with the 520. I can see why many people would prefer the Ranger 570 though. Also I'm not someone that believes belt/CVT transmissions are a bad thing, there are pros and cons with both transmissions. I really like the ability to keep the rpm low when I'm just putting around on the flats or driving past cranky neighbours! If I lived somewhere that needed the tracks on all year, I would say a CVT option would be the winner since shifting with tracks on isn't ideal. As for the Subaru, you're correct that it is CVT, but it uses a all steel 'belt' that is built from a bunch of sandwiched steel plates. It is electronically controlled to have the engine running at low rpm for fuel economy, and then 'fake shifts' more like a 7 speed auto transmission when more power is required and so on. So far it has been a great transmission as a daily driver. If I were the sole driver of that car, I would have gone for something with a manual transmission, since I do almost no city driving. Thanks for watching!!

[@tylermacconnell217]

Yes, the higher RPMs of the belt drive CVT can be annoying but they are also much easier to repair vs the Honda gear transmission should anything happen. Polaris recently introduced a much more modern CVT with a steel belt and computer-controlled clutch pulley position to simulate gears just like your Subaru. However it’s only on the large and expensive machines for right now.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

@tylermacconnell217 I’m sure once that tech gets cheaper it will be on all the machines. By then Honda might make the switch. Although the new pioneer 1000 shifts like actual butter, seems like they have it down to a science on that machine.

[@martinlaflamme8221]

I really like your videos, very informative ! i'm in the exact same situation as your dad as i purchased a P1000-3 in 2019. Sell it because it was too wide for my needs. I really like the 520 size. I'm just i little hesitant on purchase one because of the suspension. I want to use it 30-40% on club trails and 60-70% on my wood lot... What do you guys think?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks, so glad you enjoy the vids! The 1000 feels much larger indeed. You have good reason to be unsure about the suspension on the 520, as it can be rough at times. Soft sidewall tires help and run a bit less PSI in the tires depending on your trails. Upgraded suspension would be very, very nice though. Hope that helps! Happy riding and thanks for watching!

[@stephendbartlett]

Are those atv tracks? I have camso t4s tracks already and I’m thinking about purchasing a SxS soon. I like the pioneer 500/520 size and being able use the tracks on it would be great. Great review by the way 👍

[@ranchroadhomestead]

They make the x4s in a utv version and a atv version. The t4s is listed as atv only so it’s likely that the frame/rolling components are lighter built and have a lower load capacity. I would check with camso to see if they have the bracket hardware that will work, and if the t4s would be strong enough for the pioneer 500/520. Thanks for watching and glad you enjoyed!

[@shannonmackenzie8830]

Fantastic review thank you

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching!

[@svennilsson9994]

Verry good info and good videos.keep on😊

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks, and thanks for watching!!

[@danielspencer5023]

What is Top Speed? And Is there enough Engine Heat Shielding to keep the seats and cab from getting hot like many other UTVs?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Rev limit is 38 ish mph or 62 kmph on the display. I definitely notice some heat at the seat where the buckles are, but not too bad in our climate at least. Thanks for watching!!

[@danielspencer5023]

@@ranchroadhomesteadThanks

[@UberRealty]

I'm thinking of buying a UTV instead of golf cart. Do you think the 500 or 520 would scoot me around the neighborhood and help with yard work and trail riding nothing to outrageous?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

It sure would! You just have to make very gentle turns on turfed/landscaped areas because there is no rear differential, so it can turn things up a bit. Thanks for watching 🤙🏼

[@SemiReTired]

Howdy, we just did a review on a 2021 pioneer 1000 on our channel after 10 days in maine, but im looking on getting a 520 for my boys, good video brother

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Awesome! Will check that out 👍 the 520 has been so great, and loads of fun! Glad you enjoyed and thanks for watching!!

[@SemiReTired]

You have a good channel. I look forward to more vids.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks very much. Been a busy summer, getting behind on videos!

[@chrisE815]

How are the stock tires in the mud and snow? I'm thinking my first upgrade (aside from a winch) would be 25-27" tires with more aggressive tread.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

The stock tires are just okay. Going to larger diameter gets you a lot more floatation which makes a big difference as well as an aggressive tread as you mentioned. Thanks for watching!!

[@ThinkSimply]

That was a REALLY good video on the Pioneer 500 vs 520. I also got a 500 and immediately they came out with this.... i was so pissed lol. So after a few years yea i want to sell the 500 for the 520. Is the engine actually different? or just upgraded. i wonder if the air intake/ exhaust would bolt right up? They are def updated and straightened out, less extra nonsense.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Glad you enjoyed the video! It was a move I didn’t see coming from Honda in the 500 size but pretty cool that they did. Would have been nice if Honda had done this from the beginning thought. I’m not sure about the engine mechanics other than that it is just slightly larger displacement, but it’s likely very similar. Thanks for watching!! Happy riding

[@dcee6670]

Ty for video. Dumping concrete while standing down grade...Be careful.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Yes that's very true. That was a tricky spot to be dumping. It was a small load, but still not ideal for sure. Thanks for watching!!

[@johnlanthier9047]

Can you tell me the wheel and tire package that you have? It looks great with those upgrades.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks! GBC kinati mongrel tires 28x10”. Wheels are 14” steel ITP. Added 1.5” wheel spacers. Doing it all again, leaning toward a tire with similar tread pattern, but less plys. The tires feel too stiff for a light rig like this, after riding the same machine with bighorn originals. Thanks for watching!!

[@duanehamdorf2228]

Hey, fyi i use a ammo box the newer plastic one instead of the old metal and it fits length ways right in between the seat belt brackets on the seat. I use a small bungee to hold in place.works great for phone and game cameras and of course ammo. works great for a armrest also.👍

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Good to know! Just installed a glovebox by crossroads3d and it’s such a handy spot for small items now.

[@duanehamdorf2228]

@@ranchroadhomestead nice, i installed the original choogbox glove box looks factory 👍

[@epidutti7541]

What oil do you use in the winter,

[@OceanBreeze2022.]

How do you find the non-power steering for normal trail riding

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Great question, a bit tricky to answer. I was never really bugged by the lack of power steering on trails with gentle turns and travelling at a decent speed. The slower you go and tighter the trails and turns, you start to feel it, but manageable much if the time. Of course you always have to watch out for bumping an object and having the wheel spin and jamb a thumb etc. especially when backing up. Hold that wheel tight. Frankly the more time you spend doing three point turns, backing up, chore/work type stuff, you quickly start to wish for power steering. We have since added power steering to the one 520 that does all the trail grooming with tracks on and it’s a dream now. So now our opinion is that Honda should just make it standard, but as viewers have stated this continues to drive the price of a ‘value’ rig up and up. Hope that super long winded answer helps you out! Happy riding and thanks for watching! -stay tuned for the torq locker vid coming up; we have it all recorded. We talk about the power steering kit a bit!!

[@OceanBreeze2022.]

@@ranchroadhomestead thanks for the reply. Where are the power steering kits purchased? Thanks

[@ranchroadhomestead]

@OceanBreeze2022. We got our SuperATV kit through our local Honda dealer here in Ontario, Canada. Here’s a link to the superATV site, they also sell direct I believe. www.superatv.com/honda-pioneer-520-power-steering-kit

[@aubreysamuelsen1336]

Is there a way to put a rear unlock on the 520? Also, how is the steering with tracks, do you need power steering with them?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Hi! There isn’t an unlocking rear differential that we are aware of. It would be so great if this could be engineered and made either as aftermarket mod or from the factory. The steering takes a bit of effort for sure with tracks. It would definitely be a nice upgrade to have power steering with the tracks, but we get by without power steering. Thanks for watching!

[@OutothehousewithPaul]

Greetings, We recently ordered a 520 c/w windshield, hard top, winch etc. We will be upgrading the tires as well. Would you possibly be able to share where you purchased the tires and wheel spacers? Great video, thanks for taking the time...

[@ranchroadhomestead]

That exciting news! No problem, we ordered the 14” wheels, tires and whee spacers through Muskoka Rent-All, and that’s also where we purchased our Honda rigs. Unfortunately, last time we checked a few months back, GBC lost it’s distributor in Canada (shouldn’t be a problem getting GBC if you’re in the US). Richy ended up getting Maxxis Bighorn ‘original’ and he loves them. 28x10r all four tires on 14” wheels too.

[@OutothehousewithPaul]

@@ranchroadhomestead Thank you so much!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Anytime. Thanks for watching!

[@Bowstringdotcom]

What about the leg room? Having your left leg at a 90 degree all the time and not being able to put it forward as far as your right leg seems to me that it would get really irritating. I love the size, torquey little motor, and everything else about these. And can "put up" with any of it, without much complaint, but test driving one makes me worry that your back and hips would feel it after not being able to put that left leg forward as much as the right over several hours of riding.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

This is a great question. I remember that feeling test driving it as well, thinking that the leg room could be a bit of an issue. It didn't take long for me to get used to it, which is hard to explain. Everyone's anatomy varies of course, which makes it basically impossible to say one way or another. I'm 5'10" and limber enough without any circulation issues. Richy is 6'3" and not as nimble, but still hasn't complained about the leg room as I would have thought. However he said he would be glad to take more leg room of course. I have spent days in this machine with the leaf blower mounted, and still not a bother. Maybe the closest way to be sure is a long test ride/spend as much seat time in the showroom as your dealer allows! Hope that helps. Thanks for watching !!

[@Bowstringdotcom]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@jacobbiltz6724]

with those 28" tires, do you get any rub on the frame or anything?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

I do get a very small amount of rubbing. Not enough to bother me at all thought! Thanks for watching!!

[@ronbowers9452]

Hi does it tear up the lawn? I have a Kubota RTV 500 and that doesn't tear things up. Just goes. I don't have to make a lot of tight turns. If I go mainly straight with slight turns should the lawn be ok?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Good question. The RTV 500 has a rear differential, so it operates as if it were in a ‘turf mode’. The RTV 500 has the ability to lock the rear differential, which would make it act similarly to the 520 with its full time locked rear end. You could try the RTV locked and see how it does with very gentle turns, and that would give you a good idea how the 520 would operate on your lawn. Your turns have to be very very gradual. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!

[@mikelortie7866]

What tires are you using on it. I like the tread design.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

They’re GBC Kinati Mongrel tires. The tread pattern is perfect for all around use, especially if you get on the roads much. Happy riding! 👍

[@mattfischer7835]

Do you notice any difference in fuel usage between 500 and 520?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Great question really. It’s not enough that I ever noticed. I’m sure it’s slightly better with the 500.

[@bruce9063]

For the money does your dad miss the having the 1000? Or does the 520 give him the thrill of riding? I’m in the same situation to where 18k for a base model 1000 pioneer def breaks the bank,

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Great question! Richy’s answer is basically that he sold the p1000 to get some income that was needed at the time and downsizing for our trails and the riding we do mostly made sense. He hasn’t looked back! So I would say no, he doesn’t miss the p1000, however he does wish that the 520 had some of the features the p1000 had (mainly 4 wheel locking 4wd, turf mode, and power steering). Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!!

[@bruce9063]

@@ranchroadhomestead thanks and thanks for the time and effort you put into your videos and thanks for your response. The 1000k has marketed themselves out of a reasonable man’s budget…. I’m 6’2 and I’m probably going to have to settle for a 700

[@ranchroadhomestead]

You're very welcome! Yes, the bigger machines get pretty expensive quickly indeed. The 700 is a great machine, sized nicely in the middle roughly. Happy riding.

[@fitzfarm8694]

Have you had any exhaust trouble? I have a 2022 p520 and have had the muffler replaced 3 times due to cracked welds. I use mine on the farm and sometimes ride on the road for awhile at a time (30mph). The muffler turns blue due to heat and the welds eventually fail.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Oh that’s annoying! It’s interesting you say that as recently I’ve noticed some change in the exhaust sounds… Will definitely have a close look! Thanks for watching

[@fitzfarm8694]

@@ranchroadhomestead the noise is coming from the welded heat shield on the exhaust in-between the header pipe and muffler. It's welded on one end and has a slip joint on the other.....it rattles something fierce.

[@dannyo957416]

If you GPS your top speed with those bigger tires, you’re actually going faster than 63 km

[@ranchroadhomestead]

I’ve been meaning to gps it. On the district road radar I never saw it go as fast as I thought it would. I think Honda displays slightly faster than it’s actually going with the stock 24” tires. The main thing is that on the 520, the suspension can be pretty harsh on our trails so I run low air pressure on the 28” tires. I suspect it would go much faster than 63 km/h like you said, if I pumped the tires to the rated psi. Thanks for watching! 👍👍

[@kurtcaramanidis5705]

Is the battery in the back on passenger side?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Apologies for the very late reply! Yes, the battery is in the back on the passenger side behind a black plastic panel with two 10mm bolts. Very easy to get to when you dump the box. Thanks for watching!!

[@Pawelek1987]

I have one more question, does the pioneer 500 have power steering?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Hello, it does not have power steering. Thanks for watching!

[@waynedickinson9489]

Can you run out a tank of fuel in one day or riding?

[@Tailwind1]

What wheels & tires are those? Tia.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Hi they are 28x14x10 GBC kinati mongrels on ITP Delta steel wheels. Thanks for watching!

[@kentuuri8272]

How's the leg room I am 6'1"

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Apologies for the late reply. Richy is 6'3" and only responds by saying that he hasn't had an issue with the leg room, but isn't in the machine for long duration at a time really. He said, it wouldn't hurt to have more room but it seems to work! Hope that helps. Thanks for watching!

[@waynedickinson9489]

Hey, can you run out a tank of fuel in one day?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Depends what type of riding. A tank definitely lasts a pretty long time considering it’s only 4.1 gal (includes 1.1 gal reserve). A rough guess would be 100-120 miles (170-200 kms) using the whole 4.1 gal tank! If you’re going far I recommend taking an extra tank just in case. Thanks for watching 👍

[@ArizonaKid]

I remember u , he helped me pick my pioneer and do my own channel . Looks like I never sub to , sorry I am now !!

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Hey, that's so cool! Just checked your channel, lots of great stuff on there, well done. Thanks for subbing!

[@MrZachalewel]

Dude what about putting a cargo basket on the roof? Seems like wasted space otherwise. Could even go crazy and add a cargo box on top.

[@ranchroadhomestead]

That’s a great idea especially for lighter items!

[@rogerthomas169]

Cant find one to buy Update: went to look at a p700, but dealer, 75 miles away had it fully loaded with honda accessories, so out of my price range. Before I left I had him put me on the waiting list for a 520. A week later he calls and just had one come in! I've had it two weeks now and love it even more than I thought I would! I had been looking for a year in two states with zero luck, funny how things work out

[@ranchroadhomestead]

The supply chain is totally messed up. Pretty much no matter what you’re after it seems. Thanks for watching 👍

[@JameelMohammed-z2x]

Can you give us cost on your video

[@Dylanmccutcheon747]

The 520s size is the deal breaker for me, the trails on my 60 acres and surrounding area are tight and narrow it’s the perfect little machine !

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Exactly! You can weave through like nothing after crawling around with a 1000cc rig!

[@44beebe]

Deal breaker? I do not think it means what you think it means.

[@raymonddurkin]

@@44beebe lol, I thought the same. Deal maker... maker.

[@drmarkintexas-400]

🏆🏆🏆👍🇺🇲🙏 Thank you for sharing

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Thanks for watching Dr Mark!

[@Johnrider1234]

We have a homestead in Ontario. We just bought the honda pioneer 1000 trail 5

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Oh, very nice! congrats. The 1000's are awesome!

[@trumpzilla4193]

Thanks.....

[@ED-es2qv]

I’m looking for one, but they advertise at 12k and when you get there it’s 25k. Nobody wants to tell me the true price until they’ve collected all my personal information and sold it. I think I’ll just wait.

[@chaddarbonne9263]

$9,500 in louisiana

[@qouavang3646]

Damn help guys the 700 or the 520???

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Oh we are pretty bias towards the 520 because of our trails etc. but as much as the 700 is a nice machine, not sure about 3 speed transmission!

[@tomastylecek7209]

they made it affordable, youre trying to make it more expensive for people that want stock one, itll last for ever, thats why theres aftermarket for someone like you, i would like the plane jane and not pay for stuff

[@ranchroadhomestead]

I agree. I only meant that it would be nice to have an optional ‘deluxe’ model for some of the people that would be okay to pay for some more features. Of course keep the base machine as it is as the main seller. Thanks for watching!

[@rickhall3578]

I have a 700 and they only a 3 speed. Makes no sense. Still good machine's tho

[@ranchroadhomestead]

It’s odd isn’t it! How do you find the 3 gears? Is 1st nice and low for towing/creeping along? Thanks for watching 👍👍

[@BMAN2552]

Sup

[@ansonstelmak9783]

I’ve waisted hours viewing Honda 700-4 and have yet to see 4 adults sitting in this machine…what is Hnda hiding?

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Good point, 4 adults would be a load for a 700cc single. Maybe someone out there with experience can comment on this. Thanks for watching!

[@Johnrider1234]

We are on manitoulin. Where are you guys

[@ranchroadhomestead]

Manitoulin is on our list to check out. We are in Muskoka. How is the homesteading going?

[@robertsimard735]

Great review. I have been curious about this machine. I agree with all your comment’s especially regarding low range, lock differential and storage. Honda needs to make a deluxe model . Thanks for sharing.