Introduction to the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is a rugged and versatile utility ATV designed to tackle a wide range of tasks with ease. With its robust build and reliable performance, this ATV is tailored for farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a dependable workhorse that can also handle recreational adventures. For the 2020 model year, Honda has further refined the Pioneer 500 Base, enhancing its capabilities and overall user experience.
Equipped with a powerful transmission offering both manual and automatic clutch options, the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base boasts five speeds, a hi/low range, and reverse gear, ensuring smooth and precise control in varied terrains. Its shaft primary drive to both the front and rear wheels enhances traction and maneuverability, making it a standout choice for demanding outdoor tasks.
Additionally, the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base offers optional accessories such as a plow mount and windshield mounts, further enhancing its utility and adaptability for various work and recreational needs. With a track record of reliability and performance, the Pioneer 500 Base continues to uphold Honda’s reputation for delivering exceptional all-terrain vehicles that cater to the diverse requirements of outdoor enthusiasts.
Support our site! If you’re riding, make sure you’re protected.
⚠️ Essential Riding Gear: DOT-Certified Helmets → Check PricesModel Classification and Key Identifiers
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is a utility ATV designed and manufactured by Honda, a world-renowned company with a rich history in producing reliable and versatile all-terrain vehicles. This model holds a unique position within the Honda lineup as it caters to off-road enthusiasts seeking a compact yet capable vehicle for diverse outdoor activities such as farming, ranching, hunting, and recreational trail riding.
Distinctive characteristics of the Honda Pioneer 500 Base include its compact dimensions, versatile transmission system offering both manual and automatic clutch options, and the availability of optional accessories such as plow mounts and windshield mounts. These features set it apart from other ATVs in the same category, making it a standout choice for individuals in need of a nimble and adaptable off-road companion.
Advertisement
Price and Value of the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base comes with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $9,199 with an additional destination charge of $660. This brings the total cost to $9,859. It is important to note that the MSRP may vary based on different configurations or editions, but the standard price provides a baseline for comparison with other models in the market.
Model | Price |
---|---|
2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base | $9,199 + $660 (Destination Charge) = $9,859 |
Competitor 1 | $9,500 |
Competitor 2 | $9,800 |
Engine Specifications and Performance
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is equipped with a robust single-cylinder engine designed to deliver optimal performance and durability in off-road conditions. The engine boasts a displacement of 475cc, providing ample power for tackling challenging terrain while maintaining fuel efficiency. With a 4-stroke engine stroke and liquid cooling system, the Pioneer 500 Base’s engine is engineered to withstand prolonged use and extreme operating temperatures, making it an ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts seeking reliable power and endurance.
Furthermore, the engine features a 9.5:1 compression ratio, electric starter, and fuel injection system, enhancing its performance and responsiveness across varying terrains. The 4-valve configuration and fuel-injected carburetion type contribute to efficient power delivery, while the absence of a speed governor allows users to experience the engine’s full capabilities. These specifications underscore the Pioneer 500 Base’s suitability for off-road use, offering a compelling blend of power, durability, and versatility.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Engine Type | Single-Cylinder |
Engine Stroke | 4-Stroke |
Cooling | Liquid |
Valves | 4 |
Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 |
Starter | Electric |
Fuel Injector | Yes |
Displacement (cc/ci) | 475 / 29 |
Transmission System and Shifting Options
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base comes equipped with a versatile transmission system that caters to the demands of both utility work and off-road adventures. This model is fitted with a manual / automatic clutch type transmission, offering the flexibility of a 5-speed gearbox with the added advantage of a Hi / Low range and reverse gear. The transmission’s primary drive is facilitated through a shaft system, ensuring robust performance across various terrains.
The selectable 4X2 / 4X4 driveline modes further enhance the off-road capabilities of the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base. Additionally, the inclusion of a differential lock at the rear ensures optimal traction in challenging conditions. This transmission setup underscores the vehicle’s adaptability, making it well-suited for demanding tasks and adventurous pursuits alike.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Transmission | Standard |
Transmission Type | Manual / Automatic Clutch |
Number Of Speeds | 5 |
Hi / Low Range | Yes |
Reverse | Yes |
Primary Drive (Front Wheel/Rear Wheel) | Shaft / Shaft |
Driveline Configuration and 4×4 Capabilities
The Honda Pioneer 500 Base comes with a robust driveline configuration that includes the TraxLok™ system, offering selectable 4X2 and 4X4 options. This driveline is equipped with two driveline modes, providing the driver with the flexibility to adapt to different terrain conditions. The inclusion of a standard rear differential lock enhances the off-road capability, ensuring optimal traction when tackling challenging terrains.
Additionally, the driveline type allows the Pioneer 500 Base to navigate through varying landscapes with ease. The selectable 4X2 mode enables efficient fuel consumption and reduced wear on the driveline, while the 4X4 mode provides enhanced traction and stability in demanding off-road situations. With the differential lock located at the rear, the driveline ensures superior handling and control, making it well-suited for conquering different types of terrain.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Driveline Brand | TraxLok™ |
Driveline Type | Selectable 4X2 / 4X4 |
Number Of Driveline Modes | 2 |
Rear Solid Axle | No |
Differential Lock | Standard |
Differential Lock Location | Rear |
Dimensions and Technical Specifications
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Length (in/mm) | 102.6 / 2606 |
Width (in/mm) | 50 / 1270 |
Height (in/mm) | 71.3 / 1811 |
Wheelbase (in/mm) | 73 / 1854.2 |
Turning Radius (ft) | 12.8 |
Ground Clearance (in/mm) | 8.5 / 215.9 |
Wet Weight (lbs/kg) | 1025 / 464.9 |
Payload Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 450 / 204.1 |
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 1000 / 453.6 |
Fuel Capacity (gal/l) | 4.1 / 15.5 |
Fuel Capacity Reserve (gal/l) | 1.1 / 4.2 |
When it comes to the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base, its dimensions and weight specifications play a crucial role in determining its usability and performance across various scenarios. With a length of 102.6 inches, width of 50 inches, and height of 71.3 inches, the ATV offers compact dimensions suitable for navigating tight trails and confined spaces, enhancing its maneuverability. The 73-inch wheelbase and 12.8-foot turning radius further contribute to its agility, enabling sharp turns and precise handling in off-road environments. Additionally, the 8.5-inch ground clearance ensures ample space for traversing uneven terrain and obstacles, while the wet weight of 1025 lbs and payload capacity of 450 lbs establish a balanced ratio for carrying cargo without compromising stability.
Exterior Design and Visual Appeal
The Honda Pioneer 500 Base boasts a robust and purposeful exterior design, with a range of key elements contributing to both its functionality and visual appeal. The rugged steel frame provides a solid foundation, ensuring durability and reliability in demanding off-road conditions. Additionally, the use of high-quality plastic body material further enhances the ATV’s resilience while maintaining a lightweight construction.
Furthermore, the inclusion of functional exterior guards such as the brush guard, engine case guard, and radiator guard underscores the ATV’s readiness for challenging terrain. The availability of optional safety features like rearview mirrors and windshield adds versatility to the design, catering to varying user preferences and requirements. The exterior design of the Honda Pioneer 500 Base is not only purposeful but also visually striking, making it a standout option in its class.

Steering Features and Handling Performance
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is equipped with a rack & pinion type steering system, providing precise and responsive control in both utility and off-road settings. This steering system is designed to offer seamless maneuverability, allowing the driver to navigate through tight spots and challenging terrains with ease, whether it’s for work or recreational purposes.
Moreover, the standard tilt steering further enhances the practicality of the Pioneer 500 Base, enabling the driver to adjust the steering wheel to their preferred position for added comfort during extended use. The combination of the rack & pinion steering and tilt steering feature ensures that the vehicle delivers reliable and predictable handling, essential for both utility tasks and off-road adventures.
Suspension System and Ride Comfort
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is equipped with an independent double wishbone front suspension system, providing exceptional stability and control. This type of front suspension setup ensures that each wheel can move independently, allowing for better traction and handling on various terrains, from smooth roads to rugged off-road tracks.
In addition, the rear suspension system also features an independent double wishbone design, constructed with durable steel and equipped with a rear stabilizer bar. This configuration enhances the vehicle’s ability to absorb shocks and vibrations, resulting in improved comfort and reduced body roll, especially when navigating challenging terrains.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Front Suspension Type | Independent Double Wishbone |
Front Adjustable Fork Pre-Load | No |
Rear Suspension Type | Independent Double Wishbone |
Rear Suspension Material | Steel |
Rear Adjustable Shock / Spring Pre-Load | Yes |
Number Rear Shock Absorbers | 2 |
Rear Stabilizer Bar | Yes |
Air Adjustable | No |
Front Travel (in/mm) | 5.9 / 149.9 |
Rear Travel (in/mm) | 5.9 / 149.9 |
Wheels and Tires for Off-Road Performance
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Wheels | Standard |
Wheels Composition | Steel |
Tires | Standard |
Tire Brand | Maxxis® |
Front Tire Width | 8 |
Front Wheel Diameter | 12 |
Rear Tire Width | 10 |
Rear Wheel Diameter | 12 |
Front Tire Diameter (in) | 24 |
Rear Tire Diameter (in) | 24 |
Front Tire (Full Spec) | Maxxis® 24 x 8-12 |
Rear Tire (Full Spec) | Maxxis® 24 x 10-12 |
When it comes to the Honda Pioneer 500 Base, the standard wheels are composed of steel and come equipped with Maxxis® tires. The front tire width is 8 inches with a 12-inch wheel diameter, while the rear tire width is 10 inches with a 12-inch wheel diameter. Both front and rear tires have a diameter of 24 inches and are specified as Maxxis® 24 x 8-12 and Maxxis® 24 x 10-12, respectively. These tires are specifically designed and suited for off-road performance, providing the necessary traction, stability, and durability required for challenging terrains.
Braking System and Safety Features
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base features a robust braking system that includes dual hydraulic disc brakes at the front and a hydraulic disc brake at the rear. The front brake diameter measures 7.9 inches (200mm), while the rear brake diameter is 6.7 inches (170mm). This setup provides exceptional stopping power and precise control, crucial for off-road utility vehicles like the Pioneer 500 Base.
These braking components are complemented by standard engine braking, ensuring consistent deceleration on steep descents, enhancing user safety. The combination of hydraulic disc brakes and engine braking not only offers reliable stopping performance but also contributes to the overall control and stability of the Pioneer 500 Base, making it a dependable choice for challenging terrains.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Front Brake Type | Dual Hydraulic Disc |
Rear Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
Front Brake Diameter (in/mm) | 7.9 / 200 |
Rear Brake Diameter (in/mm) | 6.7 / 170 |
Towing and Cargo Capacity
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is a utility task powerhouse, boasting impressive towing and cargo capacities. With a towing capacity of 1000 lbs (453.6 kgs) and a payload capacity of 450 lbs (204.1 kgs), this model is designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. Additionally, the rear hitch type is a standard receiver, making it compatible with a variety of towing accessories.
Furthermore, the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base features a 2-inch (5.1 cm) rear hitch size, providing additional flexibility for utility applications. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it suitable for transporting heavy loads and equipment, while the standard receiver hitch ensures compatibility with a wide range of towing trailers and implements.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Towing Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 1000 / 453.6 |
Rear Hitch Type | Receiver |
Cargo Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 450 / 204.1 |
Rear Hitch Size (in/cm) | 2 / 5.1 |
Seating and Comfort Features
When it comes to the Honda Pioneer 500 Base, the seating and comfort features are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both the rider and passenger. The bucket seats are crafted with high-quality vinyl material, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. With the inclusion of headrests and standard grab rails, safety and comfort are prioritized for all occupants. Moreover, the seat height of 27.7 inches (703.6 mm) is optimally set to provide a commanding view while ensuring a comfortable riding position.
The Honda Pioneer 500 Base offers a range of comfort features that contribute to an enjoyable ride. The seats are designed with a focus on ergonomic support, allowing for extended periods of comfortable riding. Additionally, the availability of underseat storage, standard glove box/dash storage, and lockable storage ensures that essential items can be conveniently stowed, further enhancing the overall comfort and practicality of the vehicle. The presence of two cupholders and rear rack storage adds to the convenience factor, allowing occupants to carry refreshments and additional gear during their journeys.

Dashboard and Instrumentation
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is equipped with a comprehensive set of digital instrumentation and displays, providing the operator with essential information for monitoring and controlling the vehicle. The digital instrumentation on the Pioneer 500 Base plays a crucial role in enhancing the rider’s control and awareness during operation. Let’s delve into the display and instrumentation features to understand how they contribute to the overall functionality and performance of the vehicle.
- Digital Instrumentation: Standard
- Clock: Standard
- Speedometer: Standard
- Trip Odometer: Standard
- Hour Meter: Standard
- Fuel Level Warning: Standard
- Fuel Level Warning Type: Gauge
- Temperature Warning: Standard
- Temperature Warning Type: Gauge
- Service Reminder: Standard
Storage Options and Utility Features
When it comes to the 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base, the array of storage and utility features is designed to elevate its versatility for various tasks. The ATV offers a range of storage options, including standard features like glove box/dash storage, lockable storage, and a rear rack with the availability of optional underseat storage, front storage well, rear rack storage, and storage cover. Additionally, it comes equipped with cupholders and provisions for cargo bed, making it well-prepared for diverse functions.
Furthermore, the Honda Pioneer 500 Base presents a cargo bed as an optional storage feature, providing a substantial capacity of 450 lbs/204.1 kgs. This capacity enhances the ATV’s adaptability for heavy-duty tasks, making it suitable for hauling equipment, tools, and other essentials across various terrains. The combination of these storage and utility features equips the vehicle to excel in a multitude of applications, ensuring that it remains a reliable workhorse in different scenarios.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Underseat Storage | Optional |
Glove Box / Dash Storage | Standard |
Lockable Storage | Standard |
Front Storage Well | Optional |
Rear Rack | Standard |
Rear Rack Storage | Optional |
Cupholder | Standard |
Number Of Cupholders | 2 |
Storage Cover | Optional |
Cargo Bed | Optional |
Camouflage Trim | No |
Capacity (lbs/kgs) | 450 / 204.1 |
Lighting System and Visibility Enhancements
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is equipped with a comprehensive lighting system designed to ensure optimal visibility and safety, especially during low-light conditions. The headlight and taillight types and specifications play a crucial role in enhancing the overall visibility and ensuring the safety of the rider and other vehicles on the trail.
- Type: Halogen
- Work Light Front or Rear: Optional
- Other Lights: Optional
- Headlight(s): Standard
- Halogen Headlight(s): Standard
Convenience and Additional Features
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base comes equipped with a range of convenience features designed to enhance the user experience for both daily use and utility tasks. These features include a standard power outlet, seat belts, and the option for a reverse alarm and floor mats, among others. Each of these features serves to elevate the practicality and usability of the vehicle in various scenarios, catering to the diverse needs of its users.
- Digital controls for enhanced functionality
- USB charging ports for device connectivity
- Onboard tool storage for added convenience
Mounting Options and Custom Attachments
The 2020 Honda Pioneer 500 Base is a versatile all-terrain vehicle with a range of optional mounting options and custom attachments that can significantly expand its functionality and utility. From plow mounts to cargo carriers, there are various accessories available for this model, allowing owners to tailor the ATV to their specific needs and tasks.
- Plow Mount – Optional
- Windshield Mounts – Optional