Overview
Most utility UTVs priced around $9,300 aim to blend practicality with a user-friendly experience, and this model fits that mold well. It is built primarily for work duties such as hauling, towing, or light construction tasks, while also serving recreational needs on trails or farmland. The design emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for both first-time buyers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts who want a machine that can handle a variety of chores without complex features or excessive cost.
With its 471 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine and fuel-injected system, this machine provides reliable power for its size. The CVT transmission paired with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes offers simple control, which appeals to users who prefer simple operation over high performance or advanced technology. Its suspension setup, with independent double A-arms at both ends, ensures a smoother ride over rough terrain, while dual hydraulic disc brakes enhance stopping confidence regardless of the load or conditions.
Designed with practical dimensions-just under 10 feet long and 8 feet wide-along with a ground clearance of 13 inches, the Bighorn 500 HD strikes a good balance between stability and access through tight spots. Its 7.6-gallon fuel tank supports extended sessions without frequent refueling, and a weight of just over a thousand pounds makes it manageable for transportation or storage. What makes this model stand out within its segment is its emphasis on reliability and simple features, positioning it as a dependable choice for users who want a workhorse that doesn’t compromise on basic comfort or utility.
Performance & Powertrain
Anyone running rural trails or engaging in work tasks will appreciate the 471cc single-cylinder engine that powers the Bennche Bighorn 500 HD. This engine, with its liquid cooling system, helps maintain consistent performance during extended use, whether you’re hauling supplies or navigating uneven terrain. Fuel injection ensures reliable throttle response and smoother power delivery compared to carbureted systems common in lower-end utility vehicles.
The engine’s displacement falls within the segment’s typical range for utility UTVs in this price bracket, providing enough torque for moderate towing and hauling tasks. Power feels linear rather than abrupt, making it suitable for operators who prefer predictable performance without the sudden surges found in larger, more aggressive engines. This setup favors work applications and trail riding where steady torque is more valuable than outright speed.
The drivetrain uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which offers smooth acceleration and simple operation suitable for users of varying experience levels. The selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drive modes enhance versatility, allowing the rider to switch between two-wheel drive for light-duty work or increased efficiency, and four-wheel drive when extra traction is needed on rough or muddy terrain. This combination of engine and transmission design makes the Bighorn 500 HD a practical choice for both work and recreational use without sacrificing ease of operation.
Suspension & Handling
If you’re planning to tackle a variety of terrains with the Bennche Bighorn 500 HD, you’ll want to know how its suspension system adapts to different conditions. Both the front and rear suspensions employ independent Double A-Arm setups, which help maintain wheel contact with uneven surfaces. This design provides a smoother ride over rocky trails and rough terrain, while also offering decent stability on hardpack and work sites. The suspension travel isn’t specified precisely, but the double A-Arm configuration generally allows for moderate articulation, making it suitable for light trail riding and farm chores alike.
The dual hydraulic disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels deliver strong stopping power, especially on loose or muddy ground. Hydraulic discs are a standard feature in this class, providing reliable braking with less fade under repeated use. The grip from these brakes will hold well across a range of terrains, including steep inclines or slippery surfaces, making it easier to control the machine in critical situations. The brake system’s design supports confident deceleration whether you’re navigating tight trails or stopping suddenly on work sites.
Matching the suspension and brake setup are tires sized at 25 X 8-12 in front and 25 X 10-12 in the rear. These tires offer a balance between traction and comfort, with the wider rear tires improving grip during acceleration and load-carrying tasks. The tread pattern and size are typical for utility UTVs in this price segment, built to handle dirt, gravel, and light mud without issue. The 12-inch wheels keep the profile manageable while providing enough clearance for the tires to perform well across different terrains, ensuring consistent traction whether you’re on trails, hard-packed ground, or working in the field.
Dimensions & Ergonomics
Most utility UTVs in this segment measure around 9.6 feet in length and roughly 8 feet wide, making them manageable for trail riding, work tasks, and fitting into a standard pickup truck bed. The Bennche Bighorn 500 HD’s length of 9.58 feet and width of 8 feet put it squarely within the typical size range, ensuring it doesn’t feel overly bulky while still providing enough stability on uneven terrain.
The vehicle’s height of 73.5 inches and wheelbase of 73.7 inches contribute to a balanced stance, offering a low center of gravity for stability without compromising ground clearance. With 13 inches of ground clearance, it can clear rough patches and obstacles common in off-road conditions, supporting its utility role without risking undercarriage damage.
Weighing in at 1,146 pounds, the Bighorn 500 HD is somewhat on the heavier side for a machine in this class, which can influence maneuverability and transport. The seat height of 32 inches caters to a wide range of rider sizes, making it accessible for shorter operators while still accommodating taller riders comfortably. The design supports ergonomic riding, helping reduce fatigue during long work days or extended trail rides.
Notable Features
What stands out here is the addition of a fuel-injected engine paired with liquid cooling, providing more consistent performance and easier starting compared to earlier models that relied on carbureted setups. This shift offers better throttle response and improved fuel efficiency, which is a tangible benefit for users who spend long hours in the field or on rugged trails. While this level of engine tech is common in mid-range UTVs, it’s a notable upgrade over basic models that stick with simpler air-cooled engines.
Another key feature is the inclusion of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which was already standard but now benefits from refined engineering that delivers smoother acceleration and better control. The drivetrain options-selectable 4X2 or 4X4-are essential for those needing adaptable traction without the complexity or expense of full locking differentials. Many competitors at this price point also offer similar drive modes, but the ease of switching between them here enhances usability during varied terrain conditions.
The design also incorporates convenient touches that improve user experience, such as a more ergonomic seating arrangement and accessible storage compartments. While accessories like upgraded lighting or premium audio systems are not typically included at this price, this model offers a no-frills layout that makes it easy to customize with aftermarket additions. these features demonstrate Bennche’s focus on balancing performance upgrades with practical usability, appealing to those who expect more from a utility UTV without entering high-end pricing tiers.
Pricing & Value
If you’re planning to tackle work tasks or outdoor chores with a budget in mind, you’ll want to know that the 2013 Bennche Bighorn 500 HD is priced at $9,299. This places it squarely in the entry to mid-range utility side of the market, where buyers generally expect a balance between affordability and useful features. Compared to other machines in its class, this price aligns with many competitors offering similar engine sizes and equipment but often with fewer standard features or less brand recognition.
The Bighorn 500 HD sits near the middle of Bennche’s lineup, positioned above the basic models that strip down to the essentials and below any premium trims that might include additional accessories or advanced features. Its price point reflects a machine that offers more than the most stripped-down options but doesn’t attempt to compete as a flagship with high-end upgrades or luxury features. This makes it appealing to budget-conscious buyers who want a true utility machine built to handle a variety of tasks without paying a premium for extras they may not need.
When evaluating value, it’s clear that the Bighorn 500 HD is fairly priced for what it provides. It benefits from Bennche’s reputation for durable, no-nonsense utility vehicles, and the cost includes features that are often optional add-ons on competitors’ models. For the average user looking for a dependable workhorse without breaking the bank, the $9,299 MSRP presents a reasonable proposition. It may not be priced as low as some entry-level models, but it offers a compelling package in its segment. Conversely, for buyers expecting extensive luxury or cutting-edge technology, this model may fall short. Still, for its target market, it delivers a worthwhile value proposition.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to tackle work around a farm or ranch, you’ll want to know that the Bennche Bighorn 500 HD offers a reasonable price point for entry-level utility needs. Its 470cc engine provides enough punch for hauling supplies or light terrain work, but it doesn’t aim to compete with higher-end models designed for heavy-duty tasks or prolonged use. This machine is built for those who want basic functionality without the added cost of premium features or advanced technology.
The single most defining quality of this UTV is its clear-cut approach to utility. It emphasizes practicality over bells and whistles, which means it’s best suited for owners who prioritize workhorse capability and affordability rather than high-performance riding or luxury touches. While it may lack some of the refinement or creature comforts found in more expensive competitors, it fulfills its role as a work-oriented machine that gets the job done without extra fuss.
Potential buyers should look elsewhere if they seek a machine with cutting-edge technology, refined handling, or high-speed recreational use. The Bennche Bighorn 500 HD is aimed at budget-conscious buyers who need reliable performance in the field rather than a machine that excels in trail riding or competitive environments. For those whose primary concern is a durable, simple utility vehicle that does not break the bank, this model makes a convincing case to stay within the brand’s portfolio.
Tech specs
Engine
Transmission
Suspension
Brakes
Tires
Dimensions
Tags and taxonomy
Compatible parts for the 2013 Bennche Bighorn 500 HD
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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