Two new feature-laden Deluxe models are added to the Pioneer 700 lineup, while the number-one-selling entry-level side-by-side Pioneer 500 gets a new automatic shifting mode and other changes:

2017 Honda Pioneer 700 & 500 Get New Goodies - ATVConnection.com

 

I like the new auto option on the 500, just like the bigger 1000 model. The 700 gets paddle shifters too on the deluxe model, a nice feature. The 700 engine should be an option for the 50" model though, I think that wouldn't have been too difficult. It still wouldn't be blazing fast but upping the top speed from 42 mph to maybe 55 would be a nice step up and maybe a bit more suspension travel too. And give it a real cargo box instead of that oversized rear rack while you're at it. I would guess most Pioneer 500 owners hate that it doesn't have a real cargo box and probably buy a toolbox or something to actually haul stuff.

 

I highly doubt the 38hp ohv 675cc Rincon motor will get a 1,261 lbs plus driver. SXS up to the 55 mph.
The much lighter Rincon ATV is lucky to hit 60.

They should not even make a sxs unless it 45hp and up. How the 28hp Pioneer 500 can even move the 1000lb SXS with two people and cargo is amazing enough.

 

I think the Pioneer 700 in its 60" class form does go about 50 mph. Though I'm sure it labors to get there. A 50" version would weigh a little less but yes 55 might be a bit optimistic. But I don't see them using the 1000 twin in anything smaller unless its the rumored sport side by side that might be coming out in 2017. So at this point, you either pay for the 1000 twin in the Pioneer 1000 or just settle for less performance in any of the the other models. That 999cc inline twin is capable of a lot more than the 77 hp that it has in the Pioneer 1000. Polaris detuned the prostar 900 a lot in the Ranger over what it had in the Rzr 900 XP. With proper tuning, the Honda 1000 could easily make over 100 hp. Maybe Honda will take off the training wheels with the new sport side by side when it does come out.

 

Nice to see Hondas newest SXS left the OHV obsession and moved to the DOHC . 77hp is plenty for a SXS.

Now if they just make a 4x4 ATV that can break through that 40hp barrier. How a 675cc can be under 40hp is a feat in itself.

 

The Pioneer 500 I've seen seems to have more pep than you would think. Its geared pretty low and it only weighs a little more than a 2 up quad. It just has no top end, can barely go 40 mph in 5th gear. Funny thing is, its just as fast as the Rhino was, even the 700 efi because Yamaha limited top speed and it was about 45 hp. If the Pioneer 500 had 45-50 hp with the 5 speed manual transmission, it would be pretty sporty. The 650 twin motorcycle engine makes around 55 hp, that would be ideal for the Pioneer 50" model. If Honda put something like that in it and basically doubled the power without adding much weight(and add a real cargo box) you'd have a game changer then. Give it diff-lock and definitely more than 5.9 inches of suspension travel and you'd have a true dual purpose machine.

 

Why Honda does not put their OHC 45hp XR650 single in it's ATV is strange, it still would not be a class leader but atleast the would be caught up with the rest of the group. http://www.powersportsnetwork.com/en...icleCode=21619 it's a really reliable motor as well with gobs of bottom end torque.

 

The engine in the 700xx would be another good choice. The Grizzly 700 engine originated in the manual clutch Raptor 700 so it seems that Honda could do the same with the 700xx engine. Its got a lot more power than the Rincon engine. The twin I was referring to is actually slightly larger in displacement than I thought, 670cc in the NC700X 2015 NC700X Overview - Honda Powersports. That would be plenty powerful enough to replace the 680cc engine that underperforms in the Rincon and Pioneer 700.