Fast forward to 2014 and Honda has made a lot more changes to the new TRX500 over the previous model than it did in 2011.
To name a few, the new manual-shift TRX500FM2 Foreman has a new chassis featuring longer-travel suspension; revised mapping for the EFI program that gives the liquid-cooled 475cc single-cylinder OHV four-stroke engine improved power delivery, throttle response and fuel efficiency; and a selectable locking front differential.
We handed the big 500 to a tame dairy farmer to put it through its paces on the farm. The diff lock came into its own here, pulling the Honda through muck in the bottom of a recently emptied effluent pond. Admittedly, that’s not an everyday farm scenario, but it was as severe a test of traction as you’ll get.
Our farmer also commented on the improved power delivery from the re-mapped engine, saying it pulled clean and strong from lower revs than the old model. And he preferred the manual gearbox over an automatic.
The list of changes to the new 500 is extensive. It includes new bodywork that improves mud protection, keeping most of the muck away from the rider.
Combined carrier capacity increases to 120kg – 40kg in front, 80kg for the rear, and the heavy-duty trailer hitch has a 384kg towing capacity.
The electric power steering has revised settings for lighter steering effort, improved damping and more linear steering traits.
While the drivetrain carries over from the previous model, albeit with reconfigured engine mapping, the Foreman has an all-new double-cradle steel frame that is lighter and 20% stiffer.
New front and rear suspension (independent double-wishbone up front and solid rear axle with single shock swingarm) has an increase in travel to 185mm at both ends plus new shocks for improved ride. All shocks now have adjustable spring preload, and the swingarm now has an enclosed axle and new rubber pivot bushings that contribute to the better ride.
Rider comfort has also been addressed by narrowing the tank so the feet aren’t so spread, making the ‘rider triangle’ a bit less cowboy. A 20mm increase in seat foam thickness and softer seat foam also help.
The Honda TraxLok 2WD/4WD system now offers three drive modes: 2WD; 4WD with TraxLok torque-sensing front differential; and now a new 4WD mode with locking front differential. This TraxLok system also has a speed override mode that can be engaged when the front differential is locked, allowing faster wheel speed under severe conditions such as deep mud.
There are other less obvious changes too, such as increased AC generator output of 481W and a new meter display with added functions like a ‘maintenance minder’ system that notifies when it is time for service. And the rear brake has been moved inside the right rear wheel, improving ground clearance.
Well considered details that contribute to a genuine move forward for the 500, not just an evolution.
The TRX500FM2 as tested retails for $14,257 (ex. GST).
