Overview
Most utility UTVs in the $8,000 range serve as workhorses for farm chores, trail rides, and light hauling, and the Bennche Bighorn 500 fits squarely within this mold. It’s built for the weekend warrior who needs a reliable machine that can handle tough terrain and tasks without breaking the bank. With a modest yet punchy 471cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine and a fuel-injected system, this UTV delivers smooth power and decent efficiency, making it a practical choice for those who want more than just basic transportation.
The Bighorn 500’s character leans toward simple utility with a focus on function over flash. Its independent double A-arm suspension on both front and rear wheels promises a comfortable ride over rough ground, while dual hydraulic disc brakes on each corner provide solid stopping power. The CVT transmission with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive options offers the flexibility to switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive depending on the trail or workload, giving the driver control when negotiating obstacles or muddy paths.
Designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, farmers, and small business owners, the Bighorn 500 combines practical dimensions with a rugged stance. Its 73.7-inch wheelbase and 13-inch ground clearance allow it to clear rocks and uneven terrain with ease, while its 9.58-foot length and stable width offer both maneuverability and stability. The machine’s simple, no-nonsense build hints at durability, and its 7.6-gallon fuel tank means extended adventures without frequent stops. What sets this model apart within the segment is its balance of affordability and real off-road capability, making it a reliable companion for work and play alike.
Performance & Powertrain
Anyone running light agricultural chores, trail rides, or hauling gear will appreciate the 471cc single-cylinder engine that powers the Bennche Bighorn 500. This engine size is quite typical for a utility UTV in this price range, offering enough torque to handle moderate tasks without the weight and complexity of larger displacement machines. The liquid cooling system keeps engine temperatures stable during long hours of work or extended trail adventures, ensuring consistent performance when the workload heats up.
The fuel injection system provides smooth throttle response and reliable starting, even in challenging conditions. Unlike carbureted engines found in older or entry-level models, fuel injection delivers precise fuel delivery, making the Bighorn 500 more responsive and efficient under various loads. This translates into more predictable acceleration, especially when hauling or climbing over rough terrain, where a steady power delivery is essential for confidence and control.
The drivetrain consists of a CVT transmission paired with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive system, which blends simplicity with flexibility. The CVT allows for gradual acceleration without the need for shifting gears, making it easy to operate whether you’re navigating tight trails or working on a farm. The ability to switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive modes on the fly gives the rider control over traction, helping you conquer mud, loose dirt, or steep inclines without fuss. this setup provides a balanced mix of power and adaptability suited for both work and recreation.
Suspension & Handling
Pull up the throttle and the independent double A-arm suspension on the Bennche Bighorn 500 ensures a smoother ride across a variety of terrains. With front and rear suspension travel around 7 inches, this setup absorbs bumps and rocks on trail rides while maintaining stability over uneven ground. On hard-packed dirt and aggressive trail sections, that travel keeps the tires planted, reducing rider fatigue and helping the machine stay composed through sharp turns. When hauling gear or navigating rougher work sites, the suspension’s ability to soak up impacts prevents the chassis from pounding and offers predictable handling at speed.
The dual hydraulic disc brakes on both ends of the Bighorn 500 deliver confident stopping power across different riding conditions. They respond quickly and provide a firm feel, which is crucial when descending steep grades or approaching obstacles. The front 25 X 8-12 tires offer a good balance of grip and agility on loose surfaces, while the larger 25 X 10-12 rears help maintain traction when working in muddy or uneven terrain. These tires are wide enough to handle off-road trails but not so bulky that they compromise maneuverability on tighter sections or around trees, making them suited for both trail adventures and utility tasks.
Handling the terrain with this machine means trusting its suspension to absorb shocks and its brakes to stop reliably. The tire sizes complement this setup by offering grip and stability, whether you’re carving through dirt or hauling loads across rocky fields. The overall suspension and braking choices give the Bennche Bighorn 500 a confident edge that makes tackling outdoor challenges more engaging and less fatiguing, letting you focus on the fun rather than fighting the machine.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
With a length of 9.58 feet and a width of 8 feet, this utility UTV offers a balanced profile that fits comfortably within most truck beds and tight trail corridors. Its height of 73.5 inches keeps it manageable for a wide range of riders without feeling bulky or unwieldy. The wheelbase measures 73.7 inches, contributing to stability at higher speeds and over rough terrain, while ground clearance of 13 inches helps clear obstacles without excessive lift or awkwardness in tight spots.
- Dry weight of 1,146 pounds provides enough heft for stability without feeling heavy to maneuver.
- Seat height is designed to accommodate a broad spectrum of riders, providing comfort for both shorter and taller users.
- Fuel capacity of 7.6 gallons extends the range for longer outings without frequent refueling stops.
Handling the dimensions of the Bighorn 500 means it maintains a good mix of stability, agility, and rider comfort. Its height and ground clearance strike a balance between off-road capability and ease of getting on and off, while the overall size ensures it can handle cargo and gear for work or play. The seat height is optimized for rider confidence, fitting shorter riders without feeling cramped and giving taller riders room to stretch out. All of these factors come together to create a machine that’s as comfortable on a weekend trail ride as it is in a utility setting, with ergonomic considerations built into its core design.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the inclusion of a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 471cc single-cylinder engine, which provides a nice balance of power and efficiency for a utility UTV in this price range. Unlike many base models that stick to carbureted engines or simpler cooling systems, this setup helps improve throttle response and reliability during longer or more demanding rides.
Another highlight is the CVT transmission paired with a selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drivetrain. This combination offers smooth acceleration and easy handling, whether you’re cruising on open trails or tackling rougher terrain. The ability to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive gives riders the flexibility to optimize performance and conserve fuel depending on conditions, an advantage often missing on more stripped-down competitors.
While the Bighorn 500 doesn’t come loaded with a long list of extra accessories out of the box, it does provide basic convenience features like a functional cargo rack and a simple instrument cluster. These elements boost practicality without adding a hefty price tag. For riders seeking a machine that balances simple utility with a touch of advanced tech, this model hits the sweet spot without feeling overcomplicated or overpriced for its segment.
Pricing & Value
Among utility UTVs priced around $8,150, the Bennche Bighorn 500 positions itself as an accessible option for those seeking dependable performance without breaking the bank. Its price places it squarely in the entry to mid-level segment, targeting riders who want a practical machine for work tasks or trail adventures without the premium costs of higher-tier models.
At this price point, the Bighorn 500 delivers a package that feels fair for the features and build quality it offers. It doesn’t try to compete with the luxury or high-performance machines – instead, it focuses on delivering a simple, durable utility vehicle that can handle chores, hauling, and light off-road exploration. Compared to other machines in the same price range, it offers a competitive balance of power, comfort, and durability that appeals to budget-conscious buyers or those new to the side-by-side scene.
Within Bennche’s lineup, the Bighorn 500 slots in as an entry-level to mid-trim model. It provides a solid foundation with basic features, while the models above tend to add upgrades like enhanced suspension, larger capacities, or additional comfort features. Conversely, models below this price often cut back on power and durability. The $8,149 asking price feels justified given the overall package – it’s a machine that delivers more than just a low-cost entry, but it doesn’t carry the premium pricing that would suggest luxury or top-tier performance.
In my view, the Bighorn 500 is priced fairly and offers worthwhile value for its target audience. It’s a machine designed for reliable utility work and weekend trail fun, with enough features to satisfy those who aren’t looking for the latest bells and whistles but want a dependable ride. It’s not overpriced, especially considering the quality and reputation Bennche has built in the entry-level utility side-by-side market. For the price, it’s a competitive choice that balances affordability with practicality.
Final Thoughts
What stands out here is the Bennche Bighorn 500’s affordability and simple utility focus, making it an accessible choice for those looking to get into the UTV scene without breaking the bank. Its 470cc engine offers enough punch for trail riding, farm chores, or weekend adventures, but don’t expect it to excel in high-speed racing or heavy-duty hauling. Instead, it’s a machine that prioritizes simplicity and reliability in everyday tasks, delivering decent power with a no-frills approach.
The interesting choice Bennche made was to keep the design uncomplicated, emphasizing ease of maintenance and user-friendly controls. That makes it a good fit for newcomers or outdoor enthusiasts who want a machine that’s easy to learn and operate. The Bighorn 500’s basic suspension and feature set reflect its utilitarian nature, and while it doesn’t aim to compete with high-end models in comfort or refinement, it gets the job done without fuss. If you’re after a no-nonsense UTV that gets work and play done on a budget, it hits the mark.
The single most defining quality of this machine is its simplicity and value proposition. It’s built for people who want a basic, durable utility vehicle that doesn’t overreach in fancy features or high-speed thrills. If you’re seeking a smooth ride with premium amenities or top-tier performance, you should look elsewhere, perhaps toward bigger brands or models with more sophisticated setups. But if affordability, simple operation, and dependable function are what you need, the Bennche Bighorn 500 makes a compelling case for itself.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2018 Bennche Bighorn 500
Selected from this machine's own specification, not a generic list. Check any of it against the table above.
- ClassUtility UTV
- DriveSelectable 4X2 / 4X4
- Front tire25x8-12
- Dry weight1146 lb
- Winch and mountSynthetic and steel line kitsShop on Amazon
- Plow kitBlade, mount and push tube. Needs the four wheel drive on this machineShop on Amazon
- Tires25x8-12Front tire size fitted from the factoryShop on Amazon
- BatteryReplacement and AGM upgradesShop on Amazon
- Oil and filter kit471ccFull service kitsShop on Amazon
- Loading ramps2000 lbRated above the 1146 lb dry weightShop on Amazon
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